My Favorite Fiction of 2019

What were your favorite fiction books this year?

Back in December 2011, I started a series, Authors, Alcohol & Accolades, which asked some of my favorite authors about their preferred drinks, both alcoholic and nonalcoholic. There have been 11 editions of this column so far, with more coming in the future. The inspiration for this series is that I am a voracious reader, of both fiction and nonfiction, and I wanted to combine that interest with my love of food & drink. The series has proven popular and it has been fascinating to explore what authors enjoy drinking.

Each year, as an addendum to that series, I've been posting a list of my Favorite Fiction Books, including books of Science Fiction/Fantasy/Horror and Mystery/Crime/Thriller. During the past twelve months, I've read over 250 books, both fiction and non-fiction, which provides a large pool for my choices. Most of the books on these lists were published in 2019, though there are some exceptions which were published in prior years but which I didn't read until this past year.

Onto my Book Recommendations...

First, let me provide my Top Three Reads Of The Year, those three (or actually four) books which thoroughly impressed and engaged me, compelling and creative works which I'm sure to read again in the future. These exceptional books have my highest, and unqualified, recommendation. They are not listed in any specific order of preference.

For the Killing of Kings (Ring-Sworn Trilogy Book 1) and Upon The Flight of the Queen (Ring-Sworn Trilogy Book 2) by Howard Andrew Jones
Both of these books, the first two in a trilogy, were published in 2019, and were absolutely riveting, the kind of book you starting reading and later look up, not realizing hours had passed. In some respects, there is a retro-feel to these novels, with roots in Zelazny's Amber series, but there is plenty of a modern edge to these fantasy books as well. There is a rich cast of characters, nonstop action, a fascinating magic system, great battle scenes, and so much more. They are well written novels, and based on my love of the author's prior novels, definitely not unexpected. Jones weaves a compelling tale and I can't wait to see how this trilogy ends.

Smoke and Stone (City of Sacrifice Book 1) by Michael Fletcher
Fletcher is another author whose prior books I've very much enjoyed. This novel though may be his best work to date, being both innovative and riveting. It's a dark tale with creative world building and a fascinating magic system relying on the use of drugs. There is quirky edge to the tale, which seems to be a signature of Fletcher, and it works so well. It is very much an original fantasy tale, with inspiration from Mesoamerican mythology, and should excite even the most jaded fantasy reader. There are plenty of plot twists, lots of blood, and at times, pure craziness. This is another book where you'll be wishing the sequel was already available.

Gideon the Ninth (The Locked Tomb Trilogy Book 1) by Tamsyn Muir
This is another dark and innovative book, a science fantasy novel immersed in necromancy, great mysteries, and humor. Yes, despite the grim material, there is also a pleasing humorous element. The characters are fascinating, the world building is intriguing, and the fantasy and science fiction elements blend well together. The plot centers around a grand and deadly contest, and each faction has their own secrets and agendas. Excellent swordplay scenes and dark necromantic elements. A more unique novel, unlike anything else I've read in quite some time. Bring on the next book in this trilogy.

Second, let me provide some of my other Favorite SF/Fantasy/Horror Novels of 2019. Please note that these books are not in any specific order of preference.

Where Oblivion Lives (Los Nefilim Book 1) by Teresa Frohock
The Grand Dark by Richard Kadrey
The Dragon Republic (The Poppy War Book 2) by R.F. Kuang (Book #1 was one of my last year's Top 3)
Holy Sister (Book of the Ancestor 3) by Mark Lawrence 
Jade War (The Green Bone Sage Book 2) by Fonda Lee
The Ruin of Kings (A Chorus of Dragons, Book 1) and The Name of All Things (A Chorus of Dragons, Book 2) by Jenn Lyons
The Iron Codex (Dark Arts Book 2) by David Mack (Book #1 was one of my last year's Top 3)
A Memory Called Empire (Teixcalaan Book 1) by Arkady Martine
Blood of Empire (Gods of Blood & Poweder Book 3) by Brian McClellan
Priest of Lies (War for the Rose Throne Book 2) by Peter McLean 
The Cabin at the End of the World by Paul Tremblay
Ship of Smoke and Steel (The Wells of Sorcery Book 1) by Django Wexler

And this book deserves some recognition for simply being fun, an excellent popcorn-novel.
Blood Island by Tim Waggoner

Third, here are my Favorite Mystery/Crime/Thriller Novels of 2019. From gritty noir to more high-tech thrillers, this books are exciting and riveting, sure to get your blood pumping and your heart racing. Again, these books are not in any specific order of preference.

The Shameless (Quinn Colson Book 9) by Ace Atkins
One Small Sacrifice (Shadows of New York Book 1) by Hilary Davidson
Feast of Sorrow by Crystal King
Rage by Jonathan Maberry
Glimpse by Jonathan Maberry
What You Did by Claire McGowan
The Chain by Adrian McKinty
Like Lions by Brian Panowich
This Side of Night by J. Todd Scott
The Border (Power of the Dog Book 3) by Don Winslow

Fourth, here are my Favorite Anthologies, Novellas & Short Stories of 2019. These often seem to get ignored on many other "Best Of" lists but I believe they are definitely worthy of attention.

Uncanny Collateral (Valkyrie Collections Book 1) by Brian McClellan (Novella)
The Broken King by Brian Panowich (Short story)
A Lush And Seething Hell by John Hornor Jacobs (Two novellas, one which was one of my last year's Top 3) 
Weird Tales #363 (Magazine with great stories by Victor Lavelle, Hank Schwaeble, Jonathan Maberry, Stephanie Wytovich)
The Abyssal Plain: The R'lyeh Cycle (4 horrifying novellas by Brett Talley, William Holloway, Rich Hawkins, and Michelle Garza & Melissa Lason)
Year's Best Aotearoa New Zealand Science Fiction and Fantasy: Volume I (Fascinating anthology of SFF tales by New Zealand authors)

All of the books on this list garner my earnest recommendations and you should check them out. They would make great holiday gifts for others, or even yourself. Please support an author, a small, independent business person, and buy more books. And if you read and enjoy a book, please leave a review of that book online and tell all your friends about it. The author would greatly appreciate your efforts.

What were some of your favorite books this year?

The Lion's Diamonds: A New Noirish-Crime Novella

Although I primarily write about food and drink, I've also penned the Tipsy Sensei series, supernatural thrillers centered on a Boston-based Sake expert who learns that the creatures from Japanese folklore are real. I've always enjoyed writing fiction and am pleased to announce that I'm published a new story today.

The Lion's Diamonds is a crime novella, a noirish tale about a diamond heist set in Massachusetts. Recently released from prison, Leonidas "the Lion" Blackwood is already looking for his next score when a perfect opportunity drops into his lap. To appease his parole officer, Leonidas works at a local church doing general cleaning maintenance. He learns that five million dollars in diamonds will be stored into a safe at the church. Leonidas isn't a safecracker but he knows the combination to the safe. The heist should be simple.

However, complications ensue, and Leonidas is soon on the run, trying to elude Russian gangsters, including a psychotic enforcer. Can Leonidas trust the sultry woman he met in a bar? Can he trust an old friend with whom he shared time in prison? Can he trust anyone? Is there any way that Leonidas can escape with the diamonds to a tropical island?

The Lion's Diamonds is available on Amazon as an e-book for only 99 cents. I hope you enjoy reading this new story and I would appreciate any feedback. And if you enjoy it, please also leave a review on Amazon. My new story has already garnered its first Five-Star review!

My Favorite Fiction of 2018: Lots Of Book Recommendations

What were your favorite fiction books this year?

Back in December 2011, I started a series, Authors, Alcohol & Accolades, which asked some of my favorite authors about their preferred drinks, both alcoholic and nonalcoholic. There have been 11 editions of this column so far, with more coming in the future. The inspiration for this series is that I am a voracious reader, of both fiction and nonfiction, and I wanted to combine that interest with my love of food & drink. The series has proven popular and it has been fascinating to explore what authors enjoy drinking.

Each year, as an addendum to that series, I've been posting a list of my Favorite Fiction Books, including books of Science Fiction/Fantasy/Horror and Mystery/Crime/Thriller. During the past twelve months, I've read over 200 books, both fiction and non-fiction, which provides a large pool for my choices. Most of the books on these lists were published in 2018, though there are some exceptions which were published in prior years but which I didn't read until this past year.

Onto my Book Recommendations...

First, let me provide my Top Three Reads Of The Year, those three books which thoroughly impressed and engaged me, compelling works which I've already read at least twice this year, and which I'll read again in the future. These exceptional books have my highest, and unqualified, recommendation.

The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang
A compelling fantasy, based in part on Chinese history, this is a grim and riveting novel, depicting the horrors of war, including the moral decisions that may be made. In part, it is also a coming of age novel, detailing how a determined, young peasant girl is able to enter an elite military academy and become a potent force against those seeking to destroy her country. The history of China is well integrated into this tale, the characters are interesting, and the magic system is intriguing. And the ending has a powerful and shocking impact! Such an impressive debut novel from R.F. Kuang and I eagerly await the sequel.

The Sea Dreams It Is the Sky by John Hornor Jacobs
I've long enjoyed the work of John Hornor Jacobs and this could be the best thing he's ever written. It is a superb novella on several different levels. It is very well-written, evoking such powerful emotions with poetic & beautiful language. On the surface, the book is about an odd friendship, fueled in part by a shared origin in a repressive South American regime. Then, the story becomes about so much more, such as cosmic horror and mundane evil, love and hope. It is absolutely riveting from start to finish, and on a reread, you will find more of the nuances that you might have missed from a first read.

The Midnight Front by David Mack
I was hooked on this book from the very beginning and I remained so until the very end. An impressive and riveting supernatural thriller, this book focuses on a magical war during WWII. The magic system, where wielders derive their powers from demons, is intriguing and well developed. The magical battles are intense, complex and fascinating. The various characters are interesting and their moral dilemmas helped to elevate the novel. WWII was well integrated into the narrative and you experience a number of the most important aspects of the war. The novel can be dark at times, as expected, but overall there is a thread of hope pervading through the text. Plus, alcohol, from wine to spirits, plays a role which especially pleased me. This is another book where I highly anticipate the sequel.

Second, let me provide some of my other Favorite SF/Fantasy/Horror Novels of 2018. Please note that these books are not in any specific order of preference.

Starless by Jacqueline Carey
Priest of Bones by Peter McLean
Iron Gold by Pierce Brown 
Blood of the Four by Christopher Golden and Tim Lebbon
Grey Sister by Mark Lawrence 
The Point by John Dixon
Foundryside by Robert Jackson Bennett
Shadowblack and Charmcaster by Sebastien de Castell 
The Moons of Barsk by Lawrence Schoen
Wrath of Empire by Brian McClellan
A Veil of Spears by Bradley Beaulieu 
Mecha Samurai Empire by Peter Tieryas

And these two books deserve some recognition for simply being fun, popcorn-novels.
Chicken Dinner: A Novel of Battle Royale by Timothy Long
Kill Hill Carnage by Tim Meyer

Third, here are my Top 10 Favorite Mystery/Crime/Thriller Novels of 2018. From gritty noir to more high-tech thrillers, this books are exciting and riveting, sure to get your blood pumping and your heart racing.

Into The Black Nowhere by Meg Gardiner
Super Con by James Swain
The Far Empty and High White Sun by J. Todd Scott
Hellbent by Gregg Hurwitz 
Raven's Sword by Adam Baker
Blood Standard by Laird Barron
Deep Silence by Jonathan Maberry
She Rides Shotgun by Jordan Harper
Jar of Hearts by Jennifer Hillier

Fourth, here are My Favorite Novellas of 2018. Novellas often seem to get ignored on many other "Best Of" lists but I believe they are definitely worthy of attention, especially considering the high quality novellas that are appearing more frequently.

War Cry by Brian McClellan
Invasion, Scorched Earth, and Bitter Harvest (Seeds of War #trilogy) by Jonathan Brazee and Lawrence Schoen

All of the books on this list garner my earnest recommendation and you should check them out. They would make great holiday gifts for others, or even yourself. Please support an author, a small, independent business person, and buy more books. And if you read and enjoy a book, please leave a review of that book online and also tell your friends about it. The author would greatly appreciate your efforts.

What were some of your favorite books this year?

My Favorite Fiction of 2017, From Novels to Anthologies

Back in December 2011, I started a blog column, Authors, Alcohol & Accolades, which asked some of my favorite authors about their preferred drinks, both alcoholic and nonalcoholic. There have been 11 editions of this column so far, with more coming in the near future. The inspiration for this series is that I am a voracious reader, of both fiction and nonfiction, and I wanted to combine that interest with my love of food & drink. The series has proven popular and it has been fascinating to explore what authors enjoy drinking.

As a special year-end addendum to that series, I'm posting a list of my Favorite Fiction Books of 2017. This list will include books of Science Fiction, Fantasy, Horror and Mystery/Crime/Thriller. During the past twelve months, I've read approximately 250+ books, both fiction and non-fiction, which provides a large pool for my choices. Most of the books on these lists were published in 2017, though there are some exceptions which were published in prior years but which I didn't read until this past year. Please also note that these books are not in any specific order of preference.

However, before we get into the lists, let me provide some suggestions for drinks to accompany your reading. Sure, you can drink anything you want while you read, from milk to tequila, as ultimately it comes down to preference. However, and especially if you will be reading for an hour or more, I'd suggest something which can be slowly sipped and enjoyed throughout your reading period, a drink of quality which is best savored over time.

If you're reading Science-Fiction, Fantasy and Horror books, I'd recommend an aged Port wine, like a 20 Year Old. They are complex and hedonistic, perfect for luxuriating with a glass over a course of of time. And if you're reading Mystery, Crime and Thriller books, I'd recommend a fine sipping Whiskey, which could be Bourbon, Rye, Scotch, or some other whiskey type. Drink it neat or with a single, large ice cube, and enjoy its myriad flavors as you turn the pages.

And now onto my Book Recommendations...  

My Top 10 Favorite SF/Fantasy/Horror Novels of 2017

--Norse Mythology by Neil Gaiman
--Red Sister by Mark Lawrence (Book 1 of The Ancestor)
--Tyrant's Throne by Sebastien de Castell (Book 4 of The Greatcoats)
--Certain Dark Things by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
--Winter Tide by Ruthanna Emrys (Book 1 of the Innsmouth Legacy)
--Blackthorne by Stina Leicht (Book 2 of The Malorum Gates)
--The Realms of God by Michael Livingston (Book 3 of The Shards of Heaven)
--City of Miracles by Robert Jackson Bennett (Book 3 of The Divine Cities)
--Swarm and Steel by Michael Fletcher (A Manifest Delusions novel)
--Sins of Empire by Brian McClellan (Book 1 of Gods of Blood & Powder)

To winnow my list down to only ten novels was very difficult and tough cuts had to be made. However, there are still novels which didn't make my Top Ten but which are more than worthy of my hearty recommendation. To give them some well-deserved recognition, I am awarding ten of those novels Honorable Mention status. In essence, this makes my list into a Top Twenty list. These are all books which should please most readers and you need to check them out too.

My Top 10 Honorable-Mention Novels Of 2017

--With Blood Upon The Sand by Bradley Beaulieu (A Song of Shattered Sands novel)

--The Girl With All The Gifts by M.R. Carey

--Spellslinger by Sebastien de Castell (Book 1 of the Spellslinger)

--The Queen of Swords by R.S. Belcher (A Golgotha novel)

--Before by Paul Kane

--The Devil's Revolver by V.S. McGrath (Book 1 of The Devil's Revolver)

--Black Goat Blues by Levi Black (Book 2 of The Mythos War)

--Only The Dead Know Burbank by Bradford Tatum

--Haven by Tom Deady

--Akiri: The Scepter of Xarbaal by Brian Anderson and Steven Savile (Book 1 of the Akiri series)

My Top 10 Favorite Mystery/Crime/Thriller Novels of 2017

    From gritty noir to more high-tech thrillers, this books are exciting and riveting, sure to get your blood pumping and your heart racing. 

--Parallel Lines by Steven Saville
--Bad Boy Boogie by Thomas Pluck (Jay Desmarteaux series)
--Silent Approach by Bobby Cole
--Dogs of War by Jonathan Maberry (Joe Ledger series)
--The Nowhere Man by Gregg Hurwitz (Orphan X series)
--The Spy Across The Table by Barry Lancet (Jim Brodie series)
--The Force by Don Winslow
--The Blinds by Adam Sternbergh
--UNSUB by Meg Gardiner
--Say Nothing by Brad Parks

My Favorite Anthologies Of 2017

     Anthologies often don't get enough credit but they can be quite compelling books, with an interesting mix of stories, often based around a specific theme.

--Planet of the Apes: Tales From The Forbidden Zone edited by Rich Handley & Jim Beard
--Swords Against Cthulhu edited by Gavin Chappell
--Aliens: Bug Hunt edited by Jonathan Maberry
--Nights of the Living Dead edited by Jonathan Maberry and George Romero
--Nyumbani Tales by Charles Saunders
--Predator: If It Bleeds edited by Bryan Thomas Schmidt
--Joe Ledger: Unstoppable edited by Jonathan Maberry and Bryan Thomas Schmidt

My Favorite Novellas Of 2017

    Novellas often seem to get ignored on many other "Best Of" lists but I believe they are definitely worthy of attention, especially considering the high quality novellas that are appearing more frequently.

--Infernal Parade by Clive Barker
--The Mad Lancers by Brian McClellan
--The Doors At Dusk & Dawn by Bradley Beaulieu

All of the books on this list garner my highest recommendation and you should check them out. They would make great holiday gifts for others, or even yourself. Please support an author, a small, independent business person, and buy more books. And if you read and enjoy a book, please leave a review of that book online and also tell your friends about it. The author would greatly appreciate your efforts.

What were some of your favorite books this year?

The Tipsy Sensei Returns!

Nate Randall, the Tipsy Sensei, is back and facing terrible Kaiju, gigantic monsters that bear some resemblance to beasts like Godzilla and Ghidorah.

The Tipsy Sensei is the name of my fictional series of supernatural thrillers which feature Sake-expert Nate Randall who faces off against a variety of supernatural creatures from Japanese folklore. At his side is his friend, Hato, an immortal Samurai and a master of the katana, bow and other weapons. Currently, the Tipsy Sensei series consists of four short stories and three novels, with more forthcoming. And the Tipsy Sensei has now expanded from fiction to the gaming world.

A new role-playing game has just been released, Tiny Frontiers: Mecha and Monsters, which was created by game-designer Alan Bahr. With a minimalistic set of rules, you can pit giant robots against mighty monsters. As an example, think of the movie Pacific Rim. It is a fun game that is easy to learn, and is appropriate for all ages. A number of other writers were invited to contribute to this role-playing game, to create a variety of settings for the game. I was fortunate to have been chosen for inclusion, and one of my contributions is a setting that includes the Tipsy Sensei!

In my last novel, Halloween Nightmare At Fenway, Nate and Hato faced off against Doctor Toshio Yagi and Major Zannin Iwafuku, who were onryō, vengeful ghosts that wanted to replay World War II. As an alternate future history, I used these same villains and their goals to create a setting, Hyakki Yagyō, for the Tiny Frontiers game. Out of the mists of Japanese mythology, Doctor Yagi and Major Iwafuku were able to use potent magic to summon a myriad of Kaiju to the Earth, trying to destroy those countries which defeated Japan during WWII. In response, the U.S. and its allies created the Steelnecks, powerful Mecha which they hope to counter the Kaiju. And Nate Randall might be the turning point in this epic battle.

What will happen next? That is up to you as you can role-play many different scenarios and endings. In addition, you'll find eighteen other settings for the Mecha and Monsters game, providing a wealth of diversity. Plus, I wrote a second setting for this game called Mecha Chef.  Consider Iron Chef but where giant robots must first hunt down their ingredients, huge Kaiju, and then create a special dish from their flesh.

Check out Tiny Frontiers: Mecha and Monsters and experience the Tipsy Sensei's new adventures.

My Favorite Fiction of 2015 (With Drink Pairings)

What were some of my favorite fiction books of the past year? 

Back in December 2011, I started a blog column, Authors, Alcohol & Accolades, which asked some of my favorite authors about their preferred drinks, both alcoholic and nonalcoholic. There have been 11 editions of this column so far, with more to come in the future. The inspiration for this series is that I am a voracious reader, of both fiction and nonfiction, and I wanted to combine that interest with my love of food & drink. The series has proven popular and it has been fascinating to explore what authors enjoy drinking.

As a special year-end addendum to that series, I'm posting a list of my Favorite Fiction Books of 2015. This list will include books of Science Fiction, Fantasy, Horror and Mystery/Crime/Thriller. During the past twelve months, I've read approximately 270 books, both fiction and non-fiction, which provides a large pool for my choices. Most of the books on these lists were published in 2015, though there are some exceptions which were published in prior years but which I didn't read until this past year.

The books are not listed in any specific order of preference, simply by alphabetical order by the author's last name, except for the anthologies which are just listed in a random order. As a special addition, I'm also offering some suggested drink pairings for each work, selections which I think are fitting for various reasons. Hope you enjoy.

My Top 10 Favorite SF/Fantasy/Horror Novels of 2015

1) Twelve Kings in Sharakhai: The Song of Shattered Sands, Book One by Bradley Beaulieu
An exciting start to a new, epic fantasy trilogy with gladiators, immortal kings & strange creatures.
(Read with a cup of Arabic spiced coffee.)
2) Nightwise by R.S. Belcher
The start of a dark urban fantasy series that has plenty of edge & attitude.
(Read with a shot glass of Jack Daniels.)
3) Golden Son: The Red Rising Trilogy, Book Two by Pierce Brown
Intense & action packed SF which will keep you on the edge of your seat.
(Read with a flute of fine Champagne.)
4) Knight's Shadow: The Greatcoats, Book Two by Sebastien de Castell
Swashbuckling swordplay, witty repartee, revenge, betrayal & heroics.
(Read with a large glass of earthy Burgundy.)
5) Time Salvager by Wesley Chu
A fascinating action tale with a cool & compelling take on time travel.
(Read with a glass of VORS Palo Cortado Sherry.)
6) Lords of the Sith by Paul Kemp
The Emperor & Darth Vader take central stage in this intense, action-packed SF adventure.
(Read with a glass of inky-dark, bold Petite Sirah.)
7) Cold Iron: The Malorum Gates, Book One by Stina Leicht
A rollicking flintlock fantasy, in a well developed realm, which will make you eager for the sequel.
(Read with a frosty mug of Ale.)
8) The Grace of Kings: The Dandelion Dynasty, Book One by Ken Liu
A mesmerizing epic fantasy that kept me riveted through the final page. A must read.
(Read with a glass of elegant Junmai Daiginjo Sake.)
9) The Autumn Republic: Powder Mage, Book Threec by Brian McClellan
A stunning & satisfying conclusion to this flintlock fantasy trilogy.
(Read with a glass of aged Madeira.)
10) The Providence of Fire: Chronicle of the Unhewn Throne, Book Two by Brian Staveley
An action-packed and thrilling follow-up of this epic fantasy.
(Read with a glass of Argentine Malbec.)

When analyzing my list, you'll see that 4 spots were taken by the 2nd or 3rd books in a series (including #3, #4, #9 & #10), and a couple of those books were even better than the first books in the series. Some of the books will have sequels released in 2016 so it will be interesting to see how they fare on my lists next year. All of the books on this list garner my highest recommendation and you should check them out. .

To winnow my list down to only ten novels was very difficult, and tough cuts had to be made. However, there are still novels which didn't make my Top Ten but which are more than worthy of my hearty recommendation. To give them some well-deserved recognition, I am awarding ten of those novels Honorable Mention status. In essence, this makes my list into a Top Twenty list. These are all books which should please most readers and you need to check them out too.

My Top 10 Honorable-Mention Novels Of 2015

1) The Awesome by Eva Darrows
(Read with a glass of youthful Zinfandel.)
2) The Conformity by John Hornor Jacobs
(Read with a glass of powerful Barolo.)
3) The Liar's Key by Mark Lawrence
(Read with a glass of expensive Bordeaux or a strong, dark Lager.)
4) Predator One by Jonathan Maberry
(Read with a glass of two fingers of a peaty Scotch.)
5) Clownfellas: Tales of the Bozo Family by Carlton Mellick
(Read with a glass of cold Milk spiked with Rum.)
6) Wolf By Wolf by Ryan Graudin
(Read with a glass of German Spätburgunder.)
7) On Her Majesty's Service by Joseph Nassise
(Read with a glass of aged German Riesling.)
8) Clash of Eagles by Alan Smale
(Read with a glass of dry Hard Cider.)
9) He Who Walks in Shadow by Brett Talley
(Read with a glass of savory Mead.)
10) The Price of Valor by Django Wexler
(Read with a glass of finely aged Burgundy.)

As I've read a significant number of mystery, crime and thriller novels this year, I thought they deserved their own Top Ten list, to reward all of the compelling novels in this genre I have enjoyed these past twelve months.

My Top 10 Favorite Mystery/Crime/Thriller Novels of 2015

1) The Backlist by Eric Beetner & Frank Zafiro
(Read with a glass of traditional Chianti Classico.)
2) One Kick by Chelsea Cain
(Read with a glass of warm Mulled Wine.)
3) Wonderland by Jennifer Hillier
(Read with a glass of Washington Merlot.)
4) The Killing Kind by Chris Holm
(Read with a Glencairn glass of smoky Laphroaig 15 Year Old.)
5) Tussinland by Mike Monson
(Read with a glass of cheap American Bourbon.)
6) Uncle Dust by Rob Pierce
(Read with a glass of Blanton's Bourbon.)
7) Take Down by James Swain

(Read with a shot of American Rye Whiskey.)
8) Deal Gone Bad by Tony Wiley
(Read with a glass of Pappy Van Winkle Bourbon.)
9) The Power of the Dog by Don Winslow
(Read with a shot of Reposado Tequila.)
10) The Cartel by Don Winslow
(Read with a shot of Anejo Tequila.)

I've read several Advance Reader Copy (ARC) novels this year and wanted to give recognition to a couple which I think were exceptionally worthy and which hopefully will be published in the near future.

                                     My Favorite ARCS

1) Chains of the Heretic by Jeff Salyards
(Read with a glass of a powerful Australian Shiraz.)
2) The Angel of the Abyss by Hank Schwaeble
(Read with a glass of an Absinthe cocktail.)

I also want to give some raves to my favorite short story collections of the past year, Anthologies often don't get enough credit but they can be quite compelling books, with an interesting mix of stories, often based around a specific theme.

My Top 10 Favorite Anthologies Of 2015

1) Sharkpunk edited by Jonathan Green
(Read with a big Mai Tai, or any other Tiki cocktail.)
2) Operation Arcana edited by John Joseph Adams 
(Read with a small glass of an ethereal Sauternes.)
3) Limbus Inc. Book 2 edited by Brett Talley 
(Read with a glass of aged Amontillado Sherry.)
4) Blackguards: Tales of Assassins, Mercenaries & Rogues edited by J.M. Martin 
(Read with a cold glass of an intriguing Craft Beer.)
5) A Grimoire of Eldritch Inquests edited by Josh Reynolds & Miles Boothe
(Read with a shot of smoky Mezcal.)
6) Midian Unmade: Tales of Clive Barker's Nightbreed edited by Joseph Nassise & Del Howison
(Read with a bottle of Canadian Beer.)
7) With Sword & Pistol by Edward Erdelac
(Read with a shot of Rum Punch.)
8) The Madness of Cthulhu, Vol.2 edited by S.T.Joshi
(Read with a glass of old Absinthe.)
9) Thuglit Presents Cruel Yule edited by Todd Robinson
(Read with a big glass of Spiked Eggnog.)
10) SNAFU: Survival of the Fittest edited be Geoff Brown
(Read with a shot of high-proof Whiskey.)

Finally, I want to give some recommendations for some of my favorite novellas of the past year, those long form stories which just don't reach the length of a novel though the line between short novel and novella is very ambiguous. Novellas often seem to get ignored on many other "Best Of" lists but I believe they are definitely worthy of attention, especially considering the high quality novellas that are appearing more frequently.

                               My Top 10 Favorite Novellas Of 2015

1) Tortured Souls: The Legend of Primordium by Clive Barker
(Read with a glass of sweet, herbal Vermouth.)
2) Nine Toes in the Grave by Eric Beetner 
(Read with a glass filled with a Manhattan cocktail.)
3) In Midnight's Silence: Los Nefilim, Part 1 by T. Frohock
(Read with a glass of elegant Fino Sherry.)
4) Without Light or Guide: Los Nefilim, Part 2 by T. Frohock
(Read with a glass of aged Amontillado Sherry.)
5) Gator Bait by Adam Howe
(Read with a glass of cheap Bourbon.)
6) Prisoner 489 by Joe Lansdale
(Read with a glass of brash White Whiskey.)
7) Return To Honor by Brian McClellan
(Read with a glass of Light Rum.)
8) The Builders by Daniel Polansky
(Read with a glass of Japanese Whiskey.)
9) Theok the Indomitable by James Tuck
(Read with a glass of a dark Lager.)
10) The Shadow of Elysium by Django Wexler
(Read with a glass of Dark Rum.)

What do you think of the Drink pairings? Would you choose a different Drink for any of these books?

All of the books on these lists would make great holiday gifts for others, or even yourself. Please support an author, a small, independent business person, and buy more books. And if you read and enjoy a book, please leave a review of that book online and also tell your friends about it. The author would greatly appreciate your efforts.

What were some of your favorite books this year?

Tipsy Sensei: Halloween Book Signing Event On 10/22

Next Thursday, October 22, from 6pm-8pm, please come see me talk about my new Tipsy Sensei novel, Halloween Nightmare At Fenway, and purchase a signed copy for yourself or as a gift. It is a perfect book to read as Halloween nears. It is a supernatural thriller, based in Boston and steeped in Japanese folklore. It reaches back to some of the darkest aspects of World War II and now threatens Boston, the Red Sox, Fenway Park and the World Series. Can a local Sake expert, an immortal samurai and a Boston homicide detective stop this threat?

The New England Authors Expo is holding a special Halloween edition of their Thursday Night Author’s Lecture Series at the The Buttonwoods Museum/Haverhill Historical Society , which is located at 240 Water Street, Haverhill. There will be up to ten local authors at this event discussing, signing and selling their horror novels. This will be a great event to meet some interesting authors and learn more about some chilling horror novels and tales.

I will be signing and selling all four of my Tipsy Sensei books, including The Tipsy Sensei & Others, Demons, Gods & Sake, and Hand Fed Tigers. Remember, the holidays will soon be here so this would be an excellent time to purchase gifts for the book lovers on your list.

I hope to see you at this event!

Kanpai, It's Sake Day

Raise an ochoko today and celebrate Nihonshu no Hi, or as known in English, Sake Day.

Saké Day originated over 35 years ago, in 1978, by a declaration of the Japan Sake Brewers Association and is now celebrated worldwide. Why was October 1 chosen? Interestingly, the Chinese character for Sake (酒) is very similar to the Chinese zodiac sign for the Rooster (酉), the tenth sign. Thus, the first day of the tenth month, October, became Sake Day. It is probably also due, in part, to the fact that October is generally considered to be the official start of the Sake brewing season.

What are you doing to celebrate Sake Day? Let me provide some additional ways to learn about, experience and support Sake.

1) Today, and today only, you can get a FREE copy of the e-book of my first Tipsy Sensei novel, Demons, Gods & Sake, This exciting, supernatural thriller pits Nate Randall, a Boston-based Sake expert, against an Oni, a terrible Japanese creature, which seeks an ancient artifact of great power. In his quest to thwart this evil, Nate encounters other adversaries, including a ruthless Yakuza clan. However, he also acquires a mysterious ally, a sword-wielding man with his own secrets. The action spans the globe, from Boston to Japan, and the stakes have never been higher for Nate. Grab a copy of this novel tomorrow, which has ten 5-Star reviews on Amazon, while it is FREE.

2) You might also like to buy my newest Tipsy Sensei novel, Halloween Nightmare At Fenway, which was just published a month ago.  Nate Randall faces a new threat, an evil spawned from the darkest aspects of World War II. His samurai companion, Hato, will also face a personal challenge, a deadly swordsman who may be even more skilled than he. Can they stop the evil from putting into place their diabolical plans during the World Series at Fenway Park? The Tipsy Sensei will be challenged like never before.

3) If you want to learn more about Sake, check out my numerous educational posts at All About Sake. You'll learn about the basics of Sake, pairing Sake & food, Sake customs and legends, and much more. There are links to over 105 posts, so there is plenty to explore and learn. In addition, if you want some Sake recommendations, then please check out my Collected Sake Reviews, which has over 100 reviews of a diverse range of Sake. This is all an excellent starting point for your exploration of the wonderful world of Sake.

What has been the most popular Sake post on my blog? The clear choice is The Science of Sake & Food Pairings, an exploration for some of the scientific reasons why Sake pairs so well with many foods. Not only is it my top Sake post, it is also in the top ten most popular posts of all time on my blog. Another Sake-related post on this top ten list is the Health Benefits of Sake.

More recently, one of my most popular new Sake post has been Blue Current Brewery: Making Sake In Maine, which is about the first Sake brewery to open in New England. Though still relatively new, they are spreading across Maine, including to many non-Asian restaurants, and their Junmai Ginjo is delicious. Another of my most popular Sake posts this year has unquestionably been An Expanded History Of Sake Brewing in the U.S. I did lots of research for that article, combing numerous old newspapers and other sources to put together the most comprehensive history of the earliest Sake breweries in the U.S.

4) I've created the Sake menus for two local restaurants and you can go to either spot to enjoy delicious cuisine with some interesting Sakes. At Thelonious Monkfish in Central Square, Cambridge, you can enjoy their Asian fusion cuisine and Sushi with Sake. And at Tasting Counter in Somerville, near Union Square, you can order ten Sakes with your nine-course dinner, making it the the non-Asian restaurant with the largest Sake menu in the Boston area. The cuisine is phenomenal and pairs very well with the diverse selection of Sake.

5) Please know that I am available for hire for all your Sake related matters. I can work with restaurants, wine shops, distributors, schools, and other businesses as well as private individuals. I provide a diverse selection of services, including: Educational seminars, from basic classes to more advanced; Sake tastings, from small private affairs to larger groups; Sake and food pairings, from appetizers to dinners; Consultations on Sake recommendations for stocking in wine stores or restaurants; and other Sake events and activities.

If you are looking to hold a different event, something beyond the usual wine tasting, why not try a Sake event instead. Sake pairs with all types of cuisines so a Sake dinner could be held at any restaurant, from Italian to French, Spanish to a Burger joint. If you are interested in any of these services, just email me and we can discuss the possibilities.

Have a great Sake Day! And I hope to see you at a Sake event in the near future.

Halloween Nightmare At Fenway: The Tipsy Sensei Returns

Will the Boston Red Sox defeat the St. Louis Cardinals and win the World Series or will a supernatural terrorist act bring death and chaos instead?

For four months, since the brutal murder of his beloved wife and son, Nate Randall, the Tipsy Sensei, has been in mourning at a lake house in New Hampshire. Hato, an immortal samurai and Nate's friend, convinces him to return to Boston, to investigate a new supernatural threat, one with its origins in the darker aspects of World War II. Soon enough, Nate and Hato find themselves facing a terrible threat which is connected to the dead and has no compunction at torturing and murdering innocents.

As they struggle to unravel the mystery behind a series of horrific crimes, Nate and Hato face some of their most dangerous foes ever, including a master swordsman who could even be more skilled than Hato. Due to these perils, Nate and Hato recruit Detective Jessica Mayer to assist in their investigations.

Eventually, their investigation leads them to the historic Fenway Park, during the World Series, which may be the target of the threat. Can Nate, Hato and Jessica prevent their supernatural enemies from launching what could be greatest terrorist act on American soil? And even if Nate, Hato and Jessica can succeed, what will be the cost?

The Tipsy Sensei series continues in a new novel, Halloween Nightmare At Fenway, that is now available as an e-book on Amazon and it will be available as a trade paperback later this month. Prior to reading Halloween Nightmare At Fenway, you might want to read the prior two Tipsy Sensei novels: Demons, Gods & Sake and Hand Fed Tigers.

I'll also note some of the restaurants mentioned in this new novel, including Bergamot, Dumpling Café, JM Curley, Oishii, Painted Burro, Posto, South End Buttery,  Taberna de Haro, Taranta, and Tasting Counter. 

Kanpai and I hope you enjoy my new novel, Halloween Nightmare At Fenway.

My Favorite Fiction Books of 2015 (So Far)

Back in December 2011, I started a blog column, Authors, Alcohol & Accolades, which asked some of my favorite authors about their preferred drinks, both alcoholic and nonalcoholic. There have been 11 editions of this column so far, with more coming in the near future. The inspiration for this series is that I am a voracious reader, of both fiction and nonfiction, and I wanted to combine that interest with my love of food & drink. The series has proven popular and it has been fascinating to explore what authors enjoy drinking.

As a special addendum to that series, I've previously posted lists of my Favorite Fiction Books of the Year, such as last years Favorite Fiction Books of 2014. I am going to post a similar list, of some of my favorite fiction books of the first six months of 2015. During this time period, I have read over 130 books. Though there are still a few more days in June, I won't be reading any more fiction as I am immersed in a couple non-fiction books which will take me to the end of the month, As I mentioned, I am a voracious reader, and expect to read about the same amount during the rest of the year.

The following lists of favorites will include books of Science Fiction, Fantasy, Horror and Mystery/Thrillers. Though nearly all of these books were published in 2015, there might be a few that weren't, but I first read them in 2015. The books are also not in any specific order of preference. It was hard enough to break the list down as I did without trying to rank it from #1 to #10.

As a special addition this time, I'm also offering some drink pairings for each work, selections which I think are fitting for various reasons. Hope you enjoy.

My Top Ten Favorite Novels of the first six months of 2015:
--The Grace of Kings by Ken Liu
(Read with a glass of elegant Junmai Daiginjo Sake.)
--Golden Son by Pierce Brown
(Read with a flute of fine Champagne.)
--Knight's Shadow by Sebastien de Castell
(Read with a large glass of earthy Burgundy.)
--The Awesome by Eva Barrows
(Read with a glass of youthful Zinfandel.)
--The Autumn Republic by Brian McClellan
(Read with a glass of aged Madeira.)
--He Who Walks in Shadow by Brett Talley
(Read with a glass of savory Mead.)
--The Providence of Fire by Brian Staveley
(Read with a glass of Argentine Malbec.)
--Take Down by James Swain
(Read with a shot of American Rye Whiskey.)
--Lords of the Sith by Paul Kemp
(Read with a glass of inky-dark, bold Petite Sirah.)
--The Cartel by Don Winslow
(Read with a shot of Anejo Tequila.)

My Five Honorable Mention Novels of the first six months of 2015:
There five books almost made the above list, but I had to make some tough cuts. However, they are still more than worthy of my recommendation.
--The Conformity by John Hornor Jacobs
(Read with a glass of powerful Barolo.)
--One Kick by Chelsea Cain
(Read with a glass of warm Mulled Wine.)
--The Liar's Key by Mark Lawrence
(Read with a glass of expensive Bordeaux or a strong, dark Lager.)
--Predator One by Jonathan Maberry
(Read with a glass of two fingers of a peaty Scotch.)
--Clash of Eagles by Alan Smale
(Read with a glass of dry Hard Cider.)

My Top Five Favorite Novellas of the first six months of 2015:
--In Midnight's Silence: Los Nefilim by T. Frohock
(Read with a glass of elegant Fino Sherry.)
--Prisoner 489 by Joe Lansdale
(Read with a glass of brash White Whiskey.)
--Tortured Souls: The Legend of Primordium by Clive Barker
(Read with a glass of sweet, herbal Vermouth.)
--The Shadow of Elysium by Django Wexler
(Read with a glass of Dark Rum.)
--Return To Honor by Brian McClellan
(Read with a glass of Light Rum.)

My Top Five Favorite Anthologies of the first six months of 2015:
--Sharkpunk edited by Jonathan Green
(Read with a big Mai Tai, or any other Tiki cocktail.)
--Operation Arcana edited by John Joseph Adams 
(Read with a small glass of an ethereal Sauternes.)
--Limbus Inc. Book 2 edited by Brett Talley 
(Read with a glass of aged Amontillado Sherry.)
--Blackguards: Tales of Assassins, Mercenaries & Rogues edited by J.M. Martin 
(Read with a cold glass of an intriguing Craft Beer.)
--A Grimoire of Eldritch Inquests edited by Josh Reynolds & Miles Boothe
(Read with a shot of smoky Mezcal.)

What do you think of the Drink pairings? Would you choose a different Drink for any of these books?

I am very interested to see which of these books will still be in my Top Ten at the end of the year. I already know there are some potentially excellent books due out during the next six months so there will be serious challengers to those currently on these lists. All of these books would make great summer reading and a number of these authors have also written other worthy books. Please support an author, a small, independent business person, and buy more books.

What are some of your favorite books so far this year?