BookTrib’s latest roundup features four diverse titles that examine secrets, legacies, and the possibility of redemption, offering readers a range of genres from crime thriller to fantasy and literary fiction.
In “Day of Wrath” by Otho Eskin, Washington, D.C. homicide detective Marko Zorn investigates the murder of a cardinal archbishop found dead in the city’s cathedral with a tarot card clutched in his hand. The case quickly expands into a conspiracy involving an ancient cult devoted to Holy Death, a trail reaching back to Mexico, and a threat to the Vatican itself. With the pope dying and a conclave approaching, Zorn has only days to uncover the truth. His new partner, Saoirse Richmond, distrusts his methods, adding tension to the investigation. The novel is described as fast and sly, steeped in history, where faith can be weaponized and the past holds the key to a modern threat. The book is available at https://tinyurl.com/day-of-wrath.
Corey E. King’s “Marek of the Mists: The Sword of the Moon Maiden” introduces readers to Marek, a gifted swordsman raised by the Wolfe Gypsies in the mist-shrouded kingdom of Storm’s End. When a monstrous attack reveals darker forces, Marek is drawn into a quest involving a shattered celestial blade, a moon goddess, and the demon Vuoto. Joined by loyal friends, a wolf-husky, and the woman he loves, Marek must decide whether he is merely an orphan or the champion Storm’s End has been waiting for. The fantasy saga is fast-paced, illustrated, and rich with banter, battles, and found-family bonds. It is available at https://tinyurl.com/marek-of-the-mists.
Jack Martin Haley’s “Allegory” follows Fred, a Korean War veteran and once-respected Gwich’in elder, whose life has been diminished by illness, alcohol, and public shame. Once known as Sarge, he was a master fish wheel builder and a proud descendant of Shahnyaatii. Now, facing a cancer diagnosis, Fred turns back to the Yukon River and the old fish wheel that once gave him purpose. With the help of Jere, a young man preparing for the ministry, Fred begins a final act of restoration and redemption. Rooted in Gwich’in tradition and Christian faith, the story explores one man’s last chance to be remembered rightly. The book is available at https://tinyurl.com/allegory-epiphany.
Innton Tagger’s “My Hip-Hop Wiz: A Journey Through Rhythm, Resilience, and Self-Discovery” offers a bold reinvention of “The Wizard of Oz” set in hip-hop culture. Dorothy Jones is a self-made real estate mogul whose life is upended when a supernatural storm sweeps her and her Rottweiler, Governor, into a strange new world. Along the way, she meets a sharp-tongued Scarecrow, a bionically rebuilt Tinman, and a powerful Lion learning to master his fear. The story emphasizes recognizing the strength, wisdom, and courage already within. An accompanying soundtrack on Apple and Spotify extends the experience. The book is available at https://a.co/d/08r160GZ.
