Five stars for FitzDuncan

★★★★★

In John J Spearman's enthralling mystery novel, FitzDuncan, the illegitimate son of an Earl sets out to solve a perplexing mystery that could cost him his life. Unlike other members of the nobility in the kingdom of Aquileia, Casimir "Caz" FitzDuncan has to fend for himself. After serving in the army for seven years, he returns to the kingdom's capital. Freddy, a friend from school, requests his help in exposing a swindler and winning back his ring which Freddy had lost in a game of cards. After he successfully gains it back, Freddy refers other people who need similar help to Caz. A young woman approaches him to help her flee from a forced marriage. Soon after, she is abducted and Caz is held responsible for her disappearance. Caz and Freddy follow her trail, hoping to find the real kidnapper and clear Caz of the crime.

FitzDuncan by John J Spearman features original, interesting characters with fascinating stories. Despite Caz's lower social status in being an illegitimate son, Freddy, who belongs to the aristocracy, befriends him. The two become close friends together with Lucy, Freddy's eccentric cousin. Some romance is included in the plot which adds emotional depth and suspense to the story. Amidst his investigation of the kidnapping, Caz falls for Lucy who practices magic. Lucy's abilities add other fascinating elements to the novel. The investigation is also thrilling as it is not straightforward. Caz, Lucy, and Freddy unravel more revelations in their quest to find the abducted woman. FitzDuncan by John J Spearman is a mystery novel with unexpected twists and engaging characters. It is a treat for fans of mystery stories set in the medieval period.

Reviewed By Edith Wairimu for Readers' Favorite

Something different--Just released

 Hi folks--I don't know how many people read this, but wanted to let you know I released a new book on amazon that is completely unrelated to anything else I've done.  The easiest way to describe it is as a medieval mystery/thriller.  It was fun to write and, if people like it, I'll be happy to pen some more of FitzDuncan's adventures.

If any of you do read these posts, please know that I welcome constructive criticism.  Hope your summer is going as well as mine!

JS

Coming soon--Pike's Passage

 Dear Readers,

First, let me thank you for your support.  The first book of the new series, Pike's Potential, has been well-received.  I appreciate the many positive comments and also the constructive criticism.

The second book of the new series is now with an editor.  I will be working with him to make the story sharper and easier to read.  Cover design for the book is also underway.  I anticipate a publication date sometime in August.

Writing the Halberd stories began as a hobby.  Buoyed by positive feedback from my readers, it has become something more.  One thing I am toying with is whether to create audiobooks.  I would love to hear from anyone who thinks this is a good or bad idea.

When we get closer to publication, I will post another update.  Thank you for your readership.

JJS

Pike's Potential

 Dear Readers: the first book of a new series just went 'live' on amazon yesterday.  I apologize for the delay in releasing it.  I had been trying to get an agent and a publisher but in this crazy covid world, no one was interested.  I didn't want to wait any further, so it's published now.

You'll notice different graphics on the cover of the new book.  A dear friend who is an accomplished artist created Jonah Halberd.  I used her artwork and tried to create my own covers.  This time, I turned it over to professionals.  I am thinking I may engage them to develop new covers for the Halberd books as well, using the original drawing of Jonah.

The good news is that I am well underway on the second book of the new series.  As far as Halberd goes, I might possibly write a short prequel but think I wrapped up Jonah's life pretty well (and they lived happily ever after).  The only way I can imagine extending it would be to introduce aliens and I am not keen on the idea.  

As always, I appreciate your support.  If you have liked any of my books, I'd be most grateful if you would take an extra minute and leave a review on amazon or goodreads.  Thank you!

Update 5/6/20

Dear Readers,
For those of you who have followed me, I thank you.  I want to let you know that I am working on a variety of different projects.  Two are 'prequels' to the Jonah Halberd stories.  In one I explain how the Commonwealth came to be.  In the other, I review Halberd's earlier career.  There is another book I am working on that is unlike the Halberd stories.  It's early days but seems promising.

For those who have not only read my books but taken the time to leave a positive review, I want you to know how much I appreciate it.  Similarly, I was disappointed by a recent review where the reader took things out of context and seemed to lack any sense of humor.  Oh well, can't please everyone.

During this very strange time of Covid-19, lockdowns, social distancing and isolation, I wish you all well.  I hope better times are soon to come for all of us.  In the meantime, please stay safe and well.
JS

Thanks Dale Evanoff

Dale--I don't know who you are but you made my 60th birthday special by posting such a kind review.  Thank you! 

Thanks to Robin B from the UK

The first review of Surrender Demand is in, from Robin B. of the UK.  He calls it, "A bloody good book."

Many thanks, Robin.  Thank you for reading and thank you for your kind comment (and your insight about my antagonists). 
JS