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Dear Readers:
October is one of my favorite times in the publishing world as I come across books that are just waiting for my Halloween readers. Today's BOOK OF THE DAY, "The Devil Pulls the Strings," by J.W. Zarek is very compelling and a must-read. The reviews on this book are incredible and I can understand why after reading the book. The author brings you along in his created world with flair and a vivid imagination that he captures in his descriptions, his character's dialogue, and much much more. You won't be sorry buying this book now available on Amazon. Take a look and enjoy.
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Product Details
- Publisher : J.W. Zarek (September 15, 2021)
- Language : English
- Paperback : 252 pages
- ISBN-10 : 1736401335
- ISBN-13 : 978-1736401330
- Item Weight : 15.7 ounces
- Dimensions : 6 x 0.63 x 9 inches
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Biography
When he worked at the FBI, his thesis on Red Flag Behaviors Found in Relationships, earned him an invitation to present a paper at the First Annual Forensics Congress in China, which led him to write his award-winning book Naughty or Nice - Whose List Are You On? available as a handout during lectures. He co-authored the bestselling book, The Happiness Code with Ray Brehm, and other authors, who all share their personal happiness hacks you can use too. And His latest book, The Devil Pulls the Strings received the Literary Titan Award, and 5-Star Book Reviews from Book Viral, Chanticleer Reviews, Literary Titan, and Readers on Good Reads.com.
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Top reviews from the United States
Reviewed in the United States on October 3, 2021
Verified Purchase
Some dialogue at a Rennaisance pleasure faire:
"Im not surprised Michael's is dead. His antics finally caught up with him." His fresh I'm still on a pub crawl breath perfumes the air.
"I killed Flynn. Not his antics." My voice cracks, all the weight of my pain and guilt sink into my words.
So many characters, so much imagination. Zarek's creativity knows no bounds. Found myself going back to read a section again, then just gave up and continued the roller-coaster ride for this tale of fantasy. Classical music lover here so that dragged me into giving it a go. Some of the mystical aspects were OK.
"Im not surprised Michael's is dead. His antics finally caught up with him." His fresh I'm still on a pub crawl breath perfumes the air.
"I killed Flynn. Not his antics." My voice cracks, all the weight of my pain and guilt sink into my words.
So many characters, so much imagination. Zarek's creativity knows no bounds. Found myself going back to read a section again, then just gave up and continued the roller-coaster ride for this tale of fantasy. Classical music lover here so that dragged me into giving it a go. Some of the mystical aspects were OK.
Reviewed in the United States on September 27, 2021
Verified Purchase
Hands down…one of the most complex yet well-developed adventures I’ve read. If the multiple plot twists and simultaneous story lines don’t throw you for an exciting loop, then the combination of vampires, murder, and imminent apocalypse will make you strap in for more. You will find yourself immediately endeared to Boone, the quiet underestimated musician, who musters up all his courage and talent to battle it out against a cannibal ogress and ancient vampires.
J.W Zarek is a masterful writer, who injects the perfect synergy of humor, terror, and entertainment into his highly engaging writing style. I read the entire book in two days because I just couldn’t put it down. Now that I’ve read the first in this series, I will be coming back for more! I highly recommend this incredible, thrilling novel.
J.W Zarek is a masterful writer, who injects the perfect synergy of humor, terror, and entertainment into his highly engaging writing style. I read the entire book in two days because I just couldn’t put it down. Now that I’ve read the first in this series, I will be coming back for more! I highly recommend this incredible, thrilling novel.
Reviewed in the United States on October 2, 2021
Verified Purchase
I really enjoyed this book. It was one of those adventures that, like Harry Potter, mixes the modern day with folkloric elements. The Slavic influences here were refreshing for me, since I don't often read books or authors from that area of the world. This book is fast-paced, and full of creative ideas. A great read! (And also, it's written in present tense, which works wonderfully and IMHO is not done enough!)
Reviewed in the United States on September 29, 2021
Verified Purchase
This is a fun, well-written collision of all kinds of genres, moods, timelines, wild beings, and strange happenings. With humor and ingenuity, the author has pulled them all together to create a really great story. Watch that wendigo! And everyone else, too, for that matter.
Reviewed in the United States on September 17, 2021
Verified Purchase
If you enjoy folklore/mythology inter-twined with present day, and good versus evil, you will love The Devil Pulls the Strings. This book explores many interesting subjects that leave the reader wanting to know and learn more. The events unravel within a short time frame, yet extend over centuries, being carefully inter-woven into the story. The book is a fast read, which will leave you wanting more, but don’t fear, it left me with the impression more books will follow
Reviewed in the United States on September 22, 2021
Verified Purchase
Lots of fresh types of characters and also descriptive devices. Time traveling? Yes please.
More or less my exact cup of tea and Zarek delivers.
More or less my exact cup of tea and Zarek delivers.
Reviewed in the United States on September 16, 2021
"I enjoyed reading "The Devil Pulls the Strings” by J. W. Zarek, who in my opinion is an exceptionally creative writer and has written a very enjoyable five-act epic fantasy adventure that is entertaining to read. I felt the author was highly innovative in writing this imaginative, and entertaining tale.
I was drawn in by the first few chapters of this adventure and the professional style of writing by this author. Here is a brief excerpt to show you what I mean,
“Twenty-two hours after riding on a cramped Greyhound with no A/C and the backed-up bathroom smell, I’ve arrived outside the Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City, thankful I only had one panic attack and one weird dream. I rub the knot swirling in my stomach. The urge to turn around and go home hits me hard.
“Inside the terminal, tourists chatter, beggars beg, buses brake. Everyone is on a cell phone. I wish I’d bought one before the trip. There wasn’t a need for one in Wentzville. Not allowed at Ren faires. I use a walkie-talkie for my handyman job at the trailer park. And who would I call here? I don’t know anyone in New York City, except the contact Flynn gave me, a Professor Stone.
I inhale, and whiskey-flavored words barrel over my shoulder…”
I liked the way the story continued to take me on an amazing adventure filled with humorous, clever, surprising, and ingeniously unexpected events. I also liked the organization of the story and the excellent Glossary provided by the writer.
As I read, I thought of the often-quoted words of Albert Einstein who said, “Creativity is seeing what everyone else has seen, and thinking what no one else has thought.” As the story expanded, I liked the imagination of this remarkably interesting writer, the characters, exceptional events, and much more.
I also liked the way the author writes interesting and fast-moving dialogue. For example, here is just one brief excerpt,
“That’s quite the setup you have,” I say.
“Are there one or two more sheets of music to collect?” Sapphire asks.
“One. The music Professor Stone had,” Wickhamby says.
“But there were two more empty cases behind the wall,” I say.
“You are perceptive. Three cases will house the music, the fourth case is for the blank parchment and blue rose ink once it’s in our possession. All the necessary components for the ritual.”
“What’s the blue rose ink used for?” Sapphire asks.
“It’s the catalyst that triggers the music and draws the Devil’s attention.
But the blue rose doesn’t grow in nature, or on this earthly plane of existence, but it does reappear once every one hundred years.”
“But you have the ink in your hand,” I say.
Wickhamby holds the vial up and shakes his head. “This is just a poor substitute solution able to glow. A result of ink scraped for many years, off many sheets of music. It holds neither the power nor the strength we require for the ritual.”
In my opinion, the story is unique, ingenious, thrilling, distinctive, and just plain fun to read. I also felt the story was all told at a good pace that kept my interest. I also enjoyed the unexpected and warmly written ending very much.
Finally, I found at the end of the story I wanted to read more from this exceptional and entertaining writer. All in all, I think it is very well done and highly recommended!
It was my pleasure to receive a free copy of this book but that does not in any way affect my opinions in this review of this exceptional book."
I was drawn in by the first few chapters of this adventure and the professional style of writing by this author. Here is a brief excerpt to show you what I mean,
“Twenty-two hours after riding on a cramped Greyhound with no A/C and the backed-up bathroom smell, I’ve arrived outside the Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City, thankful I only had one panic attack and one weird dream. I rub the knot swirling in my stomach. The urge to turn around and go home hits me hard.
“Inside the terminal, tourists chatter, beggars beg, buses brake. Everyone is on a cell phone. I wish I’d bought one before the trip. There wasn’t a need for one in Wentzville. Not allowed at Ren faires. I use a walkie-talkie for my handyman job at the trailer park. And who would I call here? I don’t know anyone in New York City, except the contact Flynn gave me, a Professor Stone.
I inhale, and whiskey-flavored words barrel over my shoulder…”
I liked the way the story continued to take me on an amazing adventure filled with humorous, clever, surprising, and ingeniously unexpected events. I also liked the organization of the story and the excellent Glossary provided by the writer.
As I read, I thought of the often-quoted words of Albert Einstein who said, “Creativity is seeing what everyone else has seen, and thinking what no one else has thought.” As the story expanded, I liked the imagination of this remarkably interesting writer, the characters, exceptional events, and much more.
I also liked the way the author writes interesting and fast-moving dialogue. For example, here is just one brief excerpt,
“That’s quite the setup you have,” I say.
“Are there one or two more sheets of music to collect?” Sapphire asks.
“One. The music Professor Stone had,” Wickhamby says.
“But there were two more empty cases behind the wall,” I say.
“You are perceptive. Three cases will house the music, the fourth case is for the blank parchment and blue rose ink once it’s in our possession. All the necessary components for the ritual.”
“What’s the blue rose ink used for?” Sapphire asks.
“It’s the catalyst that triggers the music and draws the Devil’s attention.
But the blue rose doesn’t grow in nature, or on this earthly plane of existence, but it does reappear once every one hundred years.”
“But you have the ink in your hand,” I say.
Wickhamby holds the vial up and shakes his head. “This is just a poor substitute solution able to glow. A result of ink scraped for many years, off many sheets of music. It holds neither the power nor the strength we require for the ritual.”
In my opinion, the story is unique, ingenious, thrilling, distinctive, and just plain fun to read. I also felt the story was all told at a good pace that kept my interest. I also enjoyed the unexpected and warmly written ending very much.
Finally, I found at the end of the story I wanted to read more from this exceptional and entertaining writer. All in all, I think it is very well done and highly recommended!
It was my pleasure to receive a free copy of this book but that does not in any way affect my opinions in this review of this exceptional book."
Reviewed in the United States on September 27, 2021
I enjoyed reading "The Devil Pulls the Strings” by J. W. Zurek, who in my opinion is an exceptionally creative writer and has written a very enjoyable five-act epic fantasy adventure that is entertaining to read. I felt the author was highly innovative in writing this imaginative, and entertaining tale. I was drawn in by the first few chapters of this adventure and the professional style of writing by this author.
Reviewed in the United States on September 27, 2021
Hands down…one of the most complex yet well-developed adventures I’ve read. If the multiple plot twists and simultaneous story lines don’t throw you for an exciting loop, then the combination of vampires, murder, and imminent apocalypse will make you strap in for more. You will find yourself immediately endeared to Boone, the quiet underestimated musician, who musters up all his courage and talent to battle it out against a cannibal ogress and ancient vampires.
J.W Zarek is a masterful writer, who injects the perfect synergy of humor, terror, and entertainment into his highly engaging writing style. I read the entire book in two days because I just couldn’t put it down. Now that I’ve read the first in this series, I will be coming back for more! I highly recommend this incredible, thrilling novel.
J.W Zarek is a masterful writer, who injects the perfect synergy of humor, terror, and entertainment into his highly engaging writing style. I read the entire book in two days because I just couldn’t put it down. Now that I’ve read the first in this series, I will be coming back for more! I highly recommend this incredible, thrilling novel.
Reviewed in the United States on October 2, 2021
I really enjoyed this book. It was one of those adventures that, like Harry Potter, mixes the modern day with folkloric elements. The Slavic influences here were refreshing for me, since I don't often read books or authors from that area of the world. This book is fast-paced, and full of creative ideas. A great read! (And also, it's written in present tense, which works wonderfully and IMHO is not done enough!)
Reviewed in the United States on September 29, 2021
This is a fun, well-written collision of all kinds of genres, moods, timelines, wild beings, and strange happenings. With humor and ingenuity, the author has pulled them all together to create a really great story. Watch that wendigo! And everyone else, too, for that matter.
Reviewed in the United States on September 17, 2021
If you enjoy folklore/mythology inter-twined with present day, and good versus evil, you will love The Devil Pulls the Strings. This book explores many interesting subjects that leave the reader wanting to know and learn more. The events unravel within a short time frame, yet extend over centuries, being carefully inter-woven into the story. The book is a fast read, which will leave you wanting more, but don’t fear, it left me with the impression more books will follow
Reviewed in the United States on September 22, 2021
Lots of fresh types of characters and also descriptive devices. Time traveling? Yes please.
More or less my exact cup of tea and Zarek delivers.
More or less my exact cup of tea and Zarek delivers.
Reviewed in the United States on September 16, 2021
"I enjoyed reading "The Devil Pulls the Strings” by J. W. Zarek, who in my opinion is an exceptionally creative writer and has written a very enjoyable five-act epic fantasy adventure that is entertaining to read. I felt the author was highly innovative in writing this imaginative, and entertaining tale.
I was drawn in by the first few chapters of this adventure and the professional style of writing by this author. Here is a brief excerpt to show you what I mean,
“Twenty-two hours after riding on a cramped Greyhound with no A/C and the backed-up bathroom smell, I’ve arrived outside the Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City, thankful I only had one panic attack and one weird dream. I rub the knot swirling in my stomach. The urge to turn around and go home hits me hard.
“Inside the terminal, tourists chatter, beggars beg, buses brake. Everyone is on a cell phone. I wish I’d bought one before the trip. There wasn’t a need for one in Wentzville. Not allowed at Ren faires. I use a walkie-talkie for my handyman job at the trailer park. And who would I call here? I don’t know anyone in New York City, except the contact Flynn gave me, a Professor Stone.
I inhale, and whiskey-flavored words barrel over my shoulder…”
I liked the way the story continued to take me on an amazing adventure filled with humorous, clever, surprising, and ingeniously unexpected events. I also liked the organization of the story and the excellent Glossary provided by the writer.
As I read, I thought of the often-quoted words of Albert Einstein who said, “Creativity is seeing what everyone else has seen, and thinking what no one else has thought.” As the story expanded, I liked the imagination of this remarkably interesting writer, the characters, exceptional events, and much more.
I also liked the way the author writes interesting and fast-moving dialogue. For example, here is just one brief excerpt,
“That’s quite the setup you have,” I say.
“Are there one or two more sheets of music to collect?” Sapphire asks.
“One. The music Professor Stone had,” Wickhamby says.
“But there were two more empty cases behind the wall,” I say.
“You are perceptive. Three cases will house the music, the fourth case is for the blank parchment and blue rose ink once it’s in our possession. All the necessary components for the ritual.”
“What’s the blue rose ink used for?” Sapphire asks.
“It’s the catalyst that triggers the music and draws the Devil’s attention.
But the blue rose doesn’t grow in nature, or on this earthly plane of existence, but it does reappear once every one hundred years.”
“But you have the ink in your hand,” I say.
Wickhamby holds the vial up and shakes his head. “This is just a poor substitute solution able to glow. A result of ink scraped for many years, off many sheets of music. It holds neither the power nor the strength we require for the ritual.”
In my opinion, the story is unique, ingenious, thrilling, distinctive, and just plain fun to read. I also felt the story was all told at a good pace that kept my interest. I also enjoyed the unexpected and warmly written ending very much.
Finally, I found at the end of the story I wanted to read more from this exceptional and entertaining writer. All in all, I think it is very well done and highly recommended!
It was my pleasure to receive a free copy of this book but that does not in any way affect my opinions in this review of this exceptional book."
I was drawn in by the first few chapters of this adventure and the professional style of writing by this author. Here is a brief excerpt to show you what I mean,
“Twenty-two hours after riding on a cramped Greyhound with no A/C and the backed-up bathroom smell, I’ve arrived outside the Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City, thankful I only had one panic attack and one weird dream. I rub the knot swirling in my stomach. The urge to turn around and go home hits me hard.
“Inside the terminal, tourists chatter, beggars beg, buses brake. Everyone is on a cell phone. I wish I’d bought one before the trip. There wasn’t a need for one in Wentzville. Not allowed at Ren faires. I use a walkie-talkie for my handyman job at the trailer park. And who would I call here? I don’t know anyone in New York City, except the contact Flynn gave me, a Professor Stone.
I inhale, and whiskey-flavored words barrel over my shoulder…”
I liked the way the story continued to take me on an amazing adventure filled with humorous, clever, surprising, and ingeniously unexpected events. I also liked the organization of the story and the excellent Glossary provided by the writer.
As I read, I thought of the often-quoted words of Albert Einstein who said, “Creativity is seeing what everyone else has seen, and thinking what no one else has thought.” As the story expanded, I liked the imagination of this remarkably interesting writer, the characters, exceptional events, and much more.
I also liked the way the author writes interesting and fast-moving dialogue. For example, here is just one brief excerpt,
“That’s quite the setup you have,” I say.
“Are there one or two more sheets of music to collect?” Sapphire asks.
“One. The music Professor Stone had,” Wickhamby says.
“But there were two more empty cases behind the wall,” I say.
“You are perceptive. Three cases will house the music, the fourth case is for the blank parchment and blue rose ink once it’s in our possession. All the necessary components for the ritual.”
“What’s the blue rose ink used for?” Sapphire asks.
“It’s the catalyst that triggers the music and draws the Devil’s attention.
But the blue rose doesn’t grow in nature, or on this earthly plane of existence, but it does reappear once every one hundred years.”
“But you have the ink in your hand,” I say.
Wickhamby holds the vial up and shakes his head. “This is just a poor substitute solution able to glow. A result of ink scraped for many years, off many sheets of music. It holds neither the power nor the strength we require for the ritual.”
In my opinion, the story is unique, ingenious, thrilling, distinctive, and just plain fun to read. I also felt the story was all told at a good pace that kept my interest. I also enjoyed the unexpected and warmly written ending very much.
Finally, I found at the end of the story I wanted to read more from this exceptional and entertaining writer. All in all, I think it is very well done and highly recommended!
It was my pleasure to receive a free copy of this book but that does not in any way affect my opinions in this review of this exceptional book."
Reviewed in the United States on September 27, 2021
I enjoyed reading "The Devil Pulls the Strings” by J. W. Zurek, who in my opinion is an exceptionally creative writer and has written a very enjoyable five-act epic fantasy adventure that is entertaining to read. I felt the author was highly innovative in writing this imaginative, and entertaining tale.I was drawn in by the first few chapters of this adventure and the professional style of writing by this author.
Reviewed in the United States on October 1, 2021
This novel was fast-paced and well written. I enjoyed the incorporation of Paganini and various other inspirations which the author pulls from. Some of the characters and mystical elements fell flat for me but overall a solid read
Reviewed in the United States on September 16, 2021
It's described as an epic fantasy adventure and I as a boomer felt better in not being able to follow the myriad strings when I saw the reading age being 12-18. Mr. Zarek tells us upfront and in backloaded bio of himself and what a blitzkrieg of experiences he has had, including work as a graphologist and a stint in the FBI curiously (imaginatively probably and playfully) and other what I take to be red-herring pomo riffs. The writing is crisp and clear and just about as fresh as a dew covered patch of clover ... zig-zagged with a lawnmower pushed by an incredible range of characters in so many directions that I felt much relieved to find listed at the end in a glossary that came at me, alas, arse-backwards. Point being, the glossary should have been front loaded. Moreover, as I read I kept a list of characters but gave up, instead digging on this talented writers' time-traveling boundless imagination. There are lyrical moments that had me rereading them, as in "The song ... is forever Paganinni's ... but it forever evolves ... as each person ... gives a piece of their soul to the song ..." Wowzer! The heck with a through-line when you can write keepers like that and there are many! While I am given to reading in my comfort zone it's good to be challenged by stepping out of it and into "When time travel, twisted history and secret societies collide" as the author tells us up front. I urge Mr. Zarek to keep humping the muse in whichever way it takes him and then us along for the wildest of literary rides. Fine work by a gifted writer.
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