Joyce's
Books
THE ZAHARA SERIES
Book 1 Zahara and the Lost Books of Light
"Zahara and the Lost Books of Light is a historical thriller painted along the edges with evocative magic realism. The writing is lushly descriptive, evoking the places and times the narrative explores, and it also weaves in mystery, politics, history, religious philosophy, and romance. There’s something to watch on nearly every page." Independent Book Review
"A bibliophile mystery filled with magical realism that surprises the reader by transforming into a suspenseful international thriller."
Ellery Queen Magazine
"A delightful and thoughtful book."
Teofilo Ruiz, Nat'l Medal
of the Humanities recipient
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When Seattle journalist Alienor Crespo travels to Granada to apply for citizenship as a descendant of Jews expelled from Spain in 1492, she uncovers her own family story, along with a hidden treasure trove of medieval Hebrew and Arabic books, saved from the fires of the Inquisition.
Chosen by the Washington State Library as one of the "best reads from your local authors as selected by Library Journal."
"Atmospheric, emotional, and historically compelling.
Libraries will want to recommend Stolen Lives to readers looking for a successful marriage between history and intrigue. Its ability to bring both to life against the backdrop of Spanish culture makes the tale compelling, educational, and hard to put down."
D. Donovan, Sr. Reviewer
Book 2 Stolen Lives
Alienor Crespo, a tenacious journalist with a rare psychic gift, delves into a forgotten chapter of history: the mysterious shipment of gold to the Soviet Union during the Spanish Civil War and the perilous journey of children torn from their homeland.
As Alienor unravels a tapestry woven with secrets, betrayal, and the unyielding quest for justice, her investigation draws her into a vortex of danger. Her unique ability to "visit" the minds of her female ancestors provides not only insight but also the unbreakable will of women who fought against the tides of their times. This connection across generations fortifies her as she faces political adversaries and nefarious forces lurking in the shadows.
"Stolen Lives" masterfully intertwines the gritty determination of a young woman challenging the legacy of historical injustices with a suspense-filled narrative of intrigue, danger, and love. Alienor's journey is a testament to the power of reconnecting with one's heritage to illuminate the present and reshape the future.
Prepare to be captivated by a meticulously researched saga that spans decades, a story that not only entertains but also enlightens, revealing the enduring strength of the human spirit. "Stolen Lives" is a poignant, thrilling read that promises to stay with you long after the last page is turned.
First Place
International Suspense
Sandstorm
A Novel
A coming-of-age story of a young grifter trying to find her way to legitimacy.
“Readers seeking solid urban fiction settings and the spunky but struggling character of a young adult who changes immensely through her experiences and choices will find SANDSTORM worthy and intriguing..." Midwest Book Review
“Sandstorm is entertaining every step of the way. Yarrow places her reader right in the center of quippy, fast-paced, and oftentimes dark action, making this novel a must-read…”
Independent Book Review
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Rivers Run Back (2016)
This suspenseful, masterfully-told story takes the reader on a thrilling journey with fascinating, unforgettable characters. Spanning two generations and two continents, Rivers Run Back is a riveting, deeply involving tale of international intrigue. ~ Kevin O’Brien, New York Times Bestselling Author
This cross-cultural narrative sweeps across Asia and America, taking in worlds as far-flung as art and Indian philosophy, drug-dealing, antique-smuggling and hardcore trans-continental crime, in the process addressing the binaries of inner growth and outer action. In every sense a confluence of styles, Rivers Run Back is an attractive jugalbandi of authorial voices. ~ Neelum Saran Gour Novelist and Academician
An engaging, highly cinematic, multi-layered story that would make a great film. ~ Parvin Dabas Bollywood Actor and Producer
Russian Reckoning
Roped into helping her émigré stepfather, Nikolai, escape the clutches of a ruthless blackmailer, Jo Epstein must enter a world where criminals enforce a 19th century code of honor, threats arrive inside traditional Matryoshka (nesting) dolls, and fashion models adorn themselves with lewd prison tattoos. And even as she helps Nikolai—who claims to have been framed—to evade the police, Jo can’t help wondering if her musically gifted but socially inept stepfather is as innocent as he claims.
From Vladimir Central Prison to the brooding Russian forest, Jo Epstein investigates the world of the vory—a criminal sub-culture as brutal as it is romanticized—while racing against the clock to solve crimes committed on two continents.
