What are people saying about our books?
Holy Orders
Ci Ci Soleil · Beach Reads Press
“Part historical fiction, part contemporary mystery, and part spooky thriller, Holy Orders is a powerful story about hard decisions… spiritual and moral convictions, and conspiracies…a thought-provoking, action-packed read from beginning to end.” --D. Donovan, Senior Reviewer, Midwest Book Review
I had such a great time reading this novel. It isn’t often that one comes along that is both a fun read and also thought-provoking at the same time. Two parallel stories are told across several centuries: one a 14th century crime thriller, and the other a 21st century archeological whodunit. “Holy Orders” evokes positive comparisons to other works, such as Katherine Neville’s “The Eight,” but stays thoroughly grounded without need to rely on the supernatural to complete the story. The plot is well thought out and clearly crafted with care. While this might suggest a pace that plods along, that is not at all the case. Although the novel clocks in at over 500 pages, both parallel stories move along nicely. Character development is lush, and in the case of the 1300’s narrative, carefully framed against the mores and practices of the time. As for the 2000’s narrative, the author does a splendid job of capturing many of the nuances of modern scientific field work, how senior scientists mentor younger professionals, and how those younger colleagues go about publicizing one’s work in the social media age. Readers have the option to think deeply about some of the character interactions, or just have fun and go along for the ride. This is a great beach read, but why wait for the summer? I suspect people will be talking about this one.
Victory!
Ci Ci Soleil · Beach Read Press
It’s not every day that one receives a second chance at life, especially during an end-of-life interview with the gates of Hell ready to open. Still, in Victory! Quila Williams is offered an uncommon chance at redemption and a new life...one in which she must consider difficult choices.
Readers won’t anticipate many of the social and political examinations that add to the story, from issues of poverty and black lives to addiction and the failing war on drugs, contrasted with Quila’s privileged white friend Victory Van Dyke.
Victory! is a story that lures magical realism and fantasy but then delivers a hard-hitting examination of real-world issues and individual choice.
The Other Side of the Coin
Ci Ci Soleil · Beach Reads Press
“The psychological depth exhibited in The Other Side of the Coin is tempered by surprising intrigue and mystery… Ci Ci Soleil is exceptional and creates a compelling story that will serve equally well as a beach read or a discussion point in book clubs and reader's circles” D. Donovan, Sr. Reviewer, Midwest Book Review
Taken by the Wind
Ci Ci Soleil · Beach Reads Press
Taken by the Wind is a novel steeped in inspections of new beginnings, endings, and Miranda Wright’s efforts to control what happens in her world. Her ability to remain flexible in adversity is apparent from the start, as she’s determined that no wind will alter her trajectory and plans.
But as she finds herself the author of a best-selling book, Taken by the Wind, Miranda begins to experience the blowback of fame, fortune, and fan fantasies about her influences and life. Suddenly, everything is out of control. And Miranda finds herself losing her edge on many levels.
How close to reality is the story she’s created, and how does it influence the course of her life?
Readers will find Taken by the Wind an exceptional story of change, transformation, and new opportunities. Life gets messy, sometimes. How various characters handle ongoing adversity and changes over time lends a realistic, thought-provoking atmosphere that will engross women interested in changing fortunes, love, and relationships.