Book Review - It's In The Eyes by Charles Toftoy

There is a serial rapist/murderer on the loose in our nation’s capital. The Chief of Police is way out of his league and thinks that by bullying his subordinates, they will solve the case faster and make him look good. Unfortunately there is more to this case than meets the eye, but luckily for the citizens of Washington, DC, Deputy Chief Cory is on the case and he’s working with an outside team who knows how to catch and deal with killers like this. University professor Dr. Lars Neilsen, ace reporter Brenda, former FBI profiler Doris and former military Nate investigate the murders of the four blonde blue-eyed coeds, along side the police but without the restrictions the officer’s have. Is it the work of one man or is there more than one psychotic killer on the loose.

In It’s in the Eyes, Charles Toftoy has created an interesting cast of characters and he does an excellent job of keeping the reader from guessing the conclusion. There are times, however, when the story falls flat and extraneous bits of information and chapters slow the momentum of the plot. There are also one or two characters that just don’t ring true and their moments are distracting. However, even with those flaws, the story keeps you interested and is overall an enjoyable read. 3.5 out of five yellow scarves.




This book was provided by the author and will be given to one lucky commenter.

Book Review - Through the Triangle by C. P. Stewart

C.P. Stewart takes readers on a day trip that will turn into a life changing experience. We’ve all heard of the mysteries of the Bermuda Triangle. In Through The Triangle, Stewart gives us his interpretation of what happens to those who have disappeared over the years.

When Stewart brings together a group of five men, who board a charter for a day of deep sea fishing, the Gilligan’s Island tune pops into my head. Understand, I grew up watching shows like Gilligan’s Island and also the original Star Trek, Land of the Lost, Wild Wild West, etc. On top of being a huge sci-fi fan, I also love a good mystery. Stewart’s book brings all the best elements of old sci0fi and suspense classics together. Now despite the silly TV show tune that entered my mind, there is nothing silly about this book. Through the Triangle is a nail-biting, edge of your seat thrill ride. Even before the mysterious storm overtakes the Oblique View fishing boat, Stewart begins building the suspense with an escaped murderer on the loose, who rounds out the five men on board. Also on board are the Captain - Mason, his 15 year old first mate - Juan, and an estranged father and teenage son. When a sudden storm and thick fog descends on their boat and seeing that they can’t out run it while keeping pace with another disabled charter boat, the men decide to wait it out. As the fog lifts, the other charter has vanished and communications are not working, so they head back to land….. a land that they no longer recognize. They will soon learn they are nearly three-hundred years in the future. Although the Florida coast seems deserted, they will soon discover they are not alone and the world that they knew has become a place were one must fight to survive.

Like all great sci-fi writers, Stewart gives you just enough about the characters to engage you without going overboard with details that would stagnate the action. He works his satellite characters into the story in a way that enhances the action without becoming a distraction. In addition, Stewart's writing allows the reader to visualize the world of the future as if we were walking along side the charcaters. Being an avid reader there are many books and authors that grab me. Being an artist and former film maker, I rarely have trouble visualizing the stories I read. I have to say, this is the first book I have read in a long time that I can see being a hit movie. It makes me wish I were a producer so that I could make it. It’s that good! I can't wait to read his next book. Definitely five out of five wormholes.

This book was provided by the author. Check back in January for an interview with this wonderful author.

This review will be part of Cym Lowell's Wednesday Review Blog Party on Dec. 9th.