Before I get started with this review, which I am terribly excited about, I wanted to state that I was gifted a copy of the book to review and be part of this amazing tour.
Description
Johnny Lupul is riding high. He’s got a PI license, a concealed carry permit, his first big payday and a monster of a secret. After rescuing a bookie’s daughter from Russian mobsters, the newbie PI catches the attention of a rich, mysterious client.
At first, it’s easy money. After all, magic isn’t real and those “occult” objects have to be fakes. But while chasing an ancient relic, an obsessed enemy from his past emerges. Johnny learns that the world is much stranger—and more dangerous—than he ever suspected.
Malignant forces dwell in Egyptian artifacts, Romani superstition is fact, and being a werewolf may be the most normal thing he has to face on this case.
Purchase Links
Amazon (US): https://www.amazon.com
Indiebound (US): https://www.indiebound.org/book/9781684335763
What I Liked
One of the stand out things about this novel are the characters and the setting. I felt that while this is a fantasy novel, the way the characters carried themselves and how the settings were described felt like this was taking place in Chicago. The characters felt like actual people and the setting felt grounded, even with all of the fantasy elements. It managed a great balance between these two elements making this a wonderful example of urban fantasy. I normally don’t do well with urban fantasy, I am more of a high fantasy reader, but this really pulled me in.
Also, it is important to note Wayne Turmel writing is another high point of this novel. Everything in this novel was fast paced, but also very much to the point. I never felt like anything was pointless while reading this, which happens even to the best of writers. This just felt very cleanly written even with all of the adventures of our werewolf main character, Johnny. As I said earlier, urban fantasy isn’t really my thing, but this really pulled me in. The authors talent when it came to blending a modern urban setting with myths, legions and beliefs really set it apart.
What I Didn’t Like
Some things I would have enjoyed leaning more about, diving more into, but that just shows I just want more from the author. Which, I guess in a weird way is a compliment to this book. If you are left wanting more, it shows it is a thrilling fantasy.
Overall Thoughts
Overall, this was a wonderfully written urban fantasy mixed with a bit of PI work. The plot is constantly moving, but does not leave behind the characters or the readers. It was a wild ride and adventure that was an enjoyable to read. Not only did I enjoy the novel, I am curious to do a bit more research into the myths mentioned in this novel. I feel like if any of the things I mentioned or a part of the description interests you, you should give it a try.
About the Author: Wayne Turmel
Wayne Turmel has been a stand-up comic, car salesman, business owner and now writes fiction to save what’s left of his sanity. Originally from a small town in Canada, Wayne now lives in Las Vegas.
After a career as a touring comedian, Wayne went into the corporate training world, eventually co-founding The Remote Work Institute. He’s the author of 7 non-fiction books including The Long-Distance Leader-Rules for Remarkable Remote Leadership, and The Long-Distance Teammate – Stay Engaged and Connected Working Anywhere.
Wayne’s short fiction has appeared in multiple outlets including Storgy, Twist in Time and e-Fiction. His pride and joy are his four novels. The first were prize-winning historical fiction, including The Count of the Sahara and the 2-part Lucca Le Pou stories, Acre’s Bastard, and Acre’s Orphans. His latest urban fantasy/ detective thriller, Johnny Lycan & the Anubis Disk is out in November of 2020.
He can be found on Twitter @Wturmel and online at his website, WayneTurmel.com
Online Links
Website: http://www.wayneturmel.com
Twitter: @Wturmel
Book Information
Publication Date: November 19, 2020
Publisher: Black Rose Writing
List Price: $18.95
ISBN: 978-1684335763
Pages: 227 pages
Genre: Action/Adventure, Fantasy, Paranormal, Urban Fantasy
Bookish Luna 