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I’ve been meaning to get my hands on a good murder-mystery novel for some time, as I haven’t read one in ages, and thanks to Adam’s Witness by Joanne Paulson, I’ve found one!

As per usual, I won’t delve into the story itself, as there are plenty of reviewers out there who will do it much more justice than I can.

I can, however, say that I’m thoroughly impressed by Paulson’s debut, the first of five in the Adam and Grace series.

As a former journalist myself, I was most intrigued by the dilemma facing the protagonists, Adam and Grace – their hearts pounding against the wall of professionalism. It’s not always easy to separate one’s emotions from a news story, and I’m sure police officers often face that same predicament with cases too. And when it comes to romance, the line between one’s work life and private life can get blurred real fast.

Not only did I enjoy being taken on a rollercoaster ride of love, lust and suspense, but I also appreciated the author broaching the subject of unbridled hatred by people towards those different from them – something I see every day but still cannot wrap my head around. In short, Adam and Grace is a true joy to read, and I suspect (excuse the pun) that Paulson will again find herself on my TBR list in the foreseeable future.

I have some good news and some bad news.

As per the prevailing belief that bad news should always be delivered first, the bad news is this: humour has died.

However, before you start weeping uncontrollably while tearing at your clothes and wailing “Why?! Whyyyyy?!!!” to the heavens above, it might be prudent to wait for the good news, and the good news is this: humour has moved to the city of Gloomwood.

Now, if you aren’t familiar with the city of Gloomwood, all you need to know is that it’s, well, a city, and that it’s situated in the afterlife. Which is why humour must have died to go there, right? Well, maybe. Whatever the case may be, though, you don’t have to worry, because humour is alive and well, despite its change of address.

DEAD HEADS, the debut novel by Ross Young, is the first to introduce our universe to Gloomwood, and what an introduction! As per usual, I won’t go into the specifics of the story, as there are many book reviewers out there more qualified than me to do this. So, again, I’d rather share my personal experience of the book overall.

Firstly, I cannot believe this is a debut novel! While the witty, well-written narrative had me chuckling at times, it certainly had me smiling from start to finish. And that, for me, is worth gold. Although not exactly like the late Sir Terry Pratchett – and neither should it be, because it’s unique in its own right – it felt cosy and familiar, like lounging in a comfy chair in front of a fireplace while having a whiskey with a dear old friend, reminiscing over good old times.

In fact, it made me feel so at home that I’m ready to move to Gloomwood. And, no, I don’t have a death wish, but I’ll be sure to visit Gloomwood again with my next book haul.

If you’re reading this, it means you’re either a fan of science-fiction, or humour, or both. The latter is preferable, otherwise your time might be better spent watering your garden or cleaning that cupboard you’ve been meaning to clean for years now. Or you’re reading this because you know me, in which case I’d like to convey my heartfelt sympathies.

I’ll keep my first message short and sweet, not because I’m (completely) lazy, but because I still have lots to do before launching my science-fiction comedy, A Life Spectacular, in September 2018.

If you’d like to see what the novel is about, just head on over to the Books page on this site. Or you can use your imagination and be pleasantly (or unpleasantly) surprised when it’s released. Speaking of which, if you want to be notified of the release on launch day, simply click here to join my mailing list.

I’d love to stay and chat some more, but I’ve got work to do and you’ve got a cupboard to clean, so see you in a bit!