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Hope Unites: Book Two of the Hope Trilogy

Division. Bloodshed. Unity.

Paperback - 356 pages

Keywords: Dystopian, Action/Adventure, Thriller, New Adult Fiction, Crime
Released: November 2024
Available at: Amazon, The Cozy Fox (Selkirk), Gaynor Family Regional Library (Selkirk)
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In the year 2071, a murder spree is terrorizing the citizens of the futuristic city of Prosperity Way.

The city is already dealing with social turmoil resulting from the opening of the wall that separated the upper-class Royalton community from the poorer Zone B. After the collapse of the Kane Administration—a rigid authoritarian regime—citizens are living in a new world.

Hope Mulder, a one-armed Elite Front guard, is one of those charged with capturing the murderer, and quelling the rampant fear in Prosperity Way. But Hope is too independent and can't follow rules.

Hope Unites is a story of determination and perseverance, and a young woman’s race to catch a killer and stop a community from spiralling into anarchy.

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Hope Unites Reviews

"Hope Unites: Book Two of the Hope Trilogy" by Ryan Souter masterfully continues the gripping narrative set in the dystopian future of 2071 Prosperity Way. This sequel not only escalates the thrilling elements of a murder spree but also delves deep into the societal aftermath of a crumbled authoritarian regime. Readers will find themselves on the edge of their seats as Hope Mulder, a defiant one-armed Elite Front guard, navigates the complexities of a society on the brink of chaos.

Souter crafts a vivid and intricate world where the newly dissolved barriers between social classes stir both hope and unrest, setting a perfect backdrop for a suspense-filled chase against time. Hope’s character shines as a beacon of resilience and defiance, making her a compelling protagonist whose struggles against conformity and injustice resonate deeply.

This novel is a must-read for those who appreciate a blend of suspense, social commentary, and strong, unconventional heroines. Its blend of tension and exploration of new societal norms makes "Hope Unites" a standout continuation of an enthralling trilogy. Highly recommended for lovers of dystopian thrillers seeking both excitement and depth.

For review on Instagram click HERE

-Reads.Scarlett (Instagram Book Reviewer)

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Hope Rises: Book One of the Hope Trilogy

To change her future, she’ll have to face her past.

Paperback - 356 pages

Genre keywords: Dystopian, Action/Adventure, Thriller, Mystery, New Adult Fiction
Released: February 2022
Available at: Amazon, The Cozy Fox (Selkirk), Gaynor Family Regional Library (Selkirk), Friesen Press Online Bookstore, Google Play Books, Apple Books, Barnes & Noble Nook, Kobo

1st Edition released February 2022
2nd Edition released November 2023
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It’s 2070, and climate change has ravaged the planet and destroyed national government, leaving cities to their own rule. Born with one arm and left for dead as an infant, Hope Mulder has struggled to find her place in life in the city of Prosperity Way. Hope’s greatest desire is to be part of the Elite Front, a group of highly trained soldiers who protect the city, keep order, and carry out the wishes of the Supreme Valor—the ruler of Prosperity Way—but she faces the doubt and derision of those who see only her disability.

At the age of twenty-one, Hope’s dream is realized—she is accepted into the Elite Front training program. As she throws herself into her training, her loving adoptive parents try to warn her about the choices she is making and how they may set her on a path of no return. When Hope is ordered to carry out an agonizing duty, she is forced to question her faith in the Elite Front’s mission. To redefine her existence, however, she must first face the consequences of her actions and confront the painful truth of her past.

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Hope Rises Reviews

Souter Delivers Another Page-turner!
Hope Rises the latest novel by author Ryan Souter is a fast-paced and exciting read. From the opening chapter, the reader is emerged in a futuristic, dystopian society that has been created in reaction to the ravages of Mother Nature in the form of tsunamis, wildfires, tornados and other natural disasters that have decimated much of the planet. Political systems have collapsed, civil wars have broken out, and hunger and misery are widespread. Into this atmosphere of turmoil and fear, a ruthless and opportunistic leader has seized control with the aid of his two sons (one who is really evil!) and the Elite Front, the brutal enforcers of the new Rule of Law. Into this cesspool of strife, the novel’s main character, Hope, is born.

She is an orphan of a callously murdered, young woman. A decent man happens to find the abandoned infant, who has been left to die. He and his wife decide to adopt the baby and to raise her as their own. As Hope matures, she totally buys into the oppressive message promoted by the government and its leader, and her dream is to become a member of the Elite Front. Hope has a significant deformity since birth which makes her acceptance into the force a huge challenge for her physically, as she must compete with able-bodied candidates for a coveted spot on this law enforcement team.
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Many attributes of former societies’ repressive measures familiar to the reader are mirrored in the book. A guarded, large fence (supposedly built to create law and order and to protect, “our way of life,” sounds a lot like the Berlin Wall or the proposed Mexican/United States wall). Public executions. Gun violence. An elite wealthy segment of the population (here the citizens living in Royalton) feeling entitled and superior to the poorer masses (those who live in Zone B). Brainwashing. Control. Terror. Greed. The list goes on and on. The fascinating part is how these repressive measures are justified and even glorified by many citizens throughout the book.

There are several interesting characters in the novel. The author keeps the suspense and tension growing as they interact, often with catastrophic results. The main villain, Paulix, otherwise known as the Supreme Valour, states, “You know what Adolph Hitler’s brilliance was…the power of words and persona.” He has learned this particular history lesson all too well. And so, has one of his sons. And what about Hope? Souter has portrayed a young person who, like many, initially see the world in rigid black or white terms. But life experience and maturity can be great teachers. The author keeps the reader racing through the book to see if Hope’s mentor Mason’s pronouncement that, “You tell people something enough times, and they’ll start to believe it, no matter what it is,” will be the novel’s resounding and final message. On this question, Souter cleverly toys with the reader to the end. Is this broken society simply too far gone ever to be redeemed? Or will, indeed, hope prevail?

-Sally Walker (Author of 101)

Inspiring, enjoyable read about maintaining hope in a brutal world.
Winnipeg novelist Ryan Souter returns with another dramatic tale – this time of the gritty, persevering Hope Mulder and her driving desire to help her community of Prosperity Way. Set in a post-Apocalyptic type of future where rules are set and enforced by the Supreme Valor, Hope aims to be a force of good in the world by joining the Elite Front: a highly trained law-enforcement group that protects Prosperity Way from perceived threats. Souter does a fantastic job of setting the scene for this dystopian world and its rag-tag set of characters, who the reader comes to love, empathize with, or strongly dislike as they navigate their new, strange world. Like the classic novels, Anthem by Ayn Rand (published in 1938) or 1984 by George Orwell (published in 1949), reality is uncertain in this odd society, as information is so tightly controlled (or manipulated) by its leaders. Despite all obstacles, Hope tries to maintain her sense of self and composure throughout Souter’s novel, always letting her determination, inner drive and conscience guide her. Never letting any physical or emotional barriers get in her way, we come to love reading about the heart-wrenching and arduous journey of the powerful, deeply thoughtful Hope Mulder.

-Lisa S.

"Hope Rises is an intense thriller in which a headstrong woman discovers the truth about her seemingly idyllic home. 4 out of 5 stars!"

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-Foreword Clarion

"A bracingly tough female protagonist enhances a so-so SF tale."

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-Kirkus Reviews

"Another welcomed novel by this rather fine writer. Hope Rises projects the reader into the not so distant future and a plausible yet uncomfortable social environment. Our heroine, Hope, is a strong determined young woman who does not allow her physical deformity to limit her choices. In this book, that means her dream of becoming one of the Elite Front. Souter takes us to a pivotal time in Hope's journey in which split second decisions bring life altering reactions and the distinct possibility of death, not only for her, but for her family and friends. The reader gladly tags along, enjoying the well-detailed descriptions of training sessions, combat, weapons use. These scenes add to the forward motion of the plot and character growth. Souter knows how to tell a story! There are no difficult lulls to get through in the middle, and there are plenty of twists and turns until a satisfying ending is reached. Worth reading for sure. 4 stars."

-Ishbel Moore (Author of Cupid's Song)

"I enjoyed this book. Appreciated the significance of the title. Well done!"

-Diane VW

"I thoroughly enjoyed reading Hope Rises. I thought the author did a great job of developing the characters...their histories...their motivations and their emotions. I found myself able to picture the story vividly in my mind as I read. An enjoyable read and hope there is a sequel in the works! Would definitely recommend!"

-Celeste

"I really enjoyed reading this book. A super unique and eerie world that was fun to read about. If you like a book that keeps you guessing and continually dying to know what happens next, then Hope Rises is for you!"

-R.E.

"Ryan Souter has created a unique dystopian world that feels both fantastical, and grounded in reality at the same time. The characters who populate the page are well thought out with their own motivations and the protagonist, Hope Mulder is a driving force throughout the story. I highly recommend this as your next read."

-Riley M.

"I was unable to put this book down! When I wasn’t reading, the characters had a way of staying with me. Souter really makes you feel for the characters in this book. I love a book that tugs at your emotions, makes you feel angry and makes you cheer all in one great read. I highly recommend Hope Rises!"

-Debbie L.

"Hope Rises features an efficient narrative that grabs the reader's attention and pulls them in. The pacing of the story reminds me much of Dan Brown novels like The Da Vinci Code. Once the setting & circumstances are established, it's go, go, go. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel."

-Mike A.

"Ryan Souter's ability to draw readers creatively and intelligently into the journeys of his characters never fails to disappoint, and Hope Rises is certainly no exception. I was captured by the dark setting for which Hope ultimately travails, and with the challenges she faces, Souter does a remarkable job showcasing them as a tacit strength in her character that empowers her, and all those around her. A definite page-turner worthy of a sequel."

-Rob W.

"I picked this book up on vacation and could not put it down. While relaxing in this world I was transported to a futuristic dystopian world. The story and the character's draw you into their world making you want to keep reading to find out what happens next. I can't wait for a sequel."

-Katie F.

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Missing Maria

Trust means everything.

Paperback - 356 pages

Genre keywords: Psychological, Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, Adult Fiction, Crime
Released: May 2023
Available at: Amazon, The Cozy Fox (Selkirk), Gaynor Family Regional Library (Selkirk)
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Aspiring novelist Dalia Comb lives a luxurious life complete with a loving family and professional husband until the fateful night their teenage daughter, Maria, doesn't return.

Thrust into more drama she could ever produce on the page, Dalia turns detective and, aided by her detective brother, investigates a shadowy world of mental trauma, mean streets, and people close to her who are not always what they seem.

The search uncovers twists and trysts, and leads her down rabbit holes into worlds she has never known before. Her fight to bring Maria home ultimately tests her sanity and her marriage.
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In MISSING MARIA, Ryan Souter has penned a psychological thriller of a mother’s desperate search for her only child, and how one’s painful past can come back to haunt.

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Missing Maria Reviews

Well done, Mr. Souter!
"A struggling, teenage daughter. An over-protective father. An anxious mother. A dicey boyfriend. A doting uncle. A couple of flaky friends. A nosy neighbour. Sounds like a family you know, or perhaps your own? But then, author Ryan Souter throws in a serious accident, a dark family secret, a murder or two, and a major twist, and suddenly you have a very good story that hooks you at the top and pulls you through this fast-paced, intriguing novel. In this, Souter's third book, he again demonstrates many admirable writing skills. In particular, he has mastered structure and pacing. The plot clips along, and you really get quite obsessed about finding out the truth behind Maria's disappearance. For this reason, I found I devoured it. The author also develops his characters well, especially what makes them tick psychologically. I empathized with his fictional cast. I cared what happened to them, something which I find all too lacking in many modern novels and movies. If you are a reader who savours a mystery, appreciates a strong story-line, and desires interesting, multi-faceted characters, you will appreciate this read. A surprising tie-in to Souter's first book, "Little Devil Inside," was an added bonus."

-Sally Walker (Author of 101)

A Gem of a Book!
"Missing Maria has all the ingredients of superb writing; the structure is fashioned from an intricate plot, well-developed characters, ubiquitous emotions, pacing that gallops, and twists that keep you reading longer than you meant to get to the next page and the page after that. Author Ryan Souter gets into the heads of multigenerational characters, making this mystery believable and thought-provoking. He has the courage to address hidden issues in our society and bring light to the psyche of being human in all its best and most deviant forms. I would recommend this book with great enthusiasm, and I look forward to other readings from this author."

-Irene W.

"This was a well written book and the first fiction I have picked up in many years. The story flowed very well and I found myself pulled into the characters’ lives, becoming a part of the suspense which was unfolding. It came to the point where I read for four hours straight just so I could find out what happens and once the book was done I was already missing it. Looking forward to more books by this author and more mysteries to be a part of! I really liked the expertise the author took the time to research, from the detective and how he worked to the 'accident' and the recovery. As they say, 'The Devil is in the details' and this book read very smoothly because of it!"

-Tamara D.

"With his modern style, Ryan Souter takes his readers on a heck of a ride in this novel, using interesting 'real' characters and keeping up the level of tension. His use of sign-posting is excellent, that is when the reader employs hindsight, because as the chapters fly by the clues are subtle and could be missed, in a good way. Dalia has a good life and wants for little other than a strong writing muse to push her along in her desired career as a novelist. When her daughter, Maria goes missing, the reader is provided with some logical choices for what has happened, and who the 'bad guy' might be. With masterful skill, Souter makes use of psychology and the traumas of the past, to lead the reader to an unusual but understandable conclusion. I would definitely read more books written by this Manitoba author. Watch for his name in the future. 4 stars."

-Ishbel Moore (Author of Cupid's Song)

"My heart strings were tugged immediately when I looked at the cover of this book, thinking it was about a missing child, and indeed it was. This book is a page turner as the family struggles to find their teenage daughter, Maria. I recommend it!"

-Diane VW

"Missing Maria is a fantastic mystery thriller that kept me guessing until the last pages. Throughout the investigation that makes up the majority of the book, Souter keeps the tale tightly paced and littered with twists and turns I didn’t see coming, making it very hard to put down! The characters are all unique and engaging, but still people who live in our reality. People you could bump into on the street, but put into extreme situations. I highly recommend Missing Maria for your next summer read!"

-Riley M.

"Missing Maria delves into key human emotions of fear and suspicion. The novel makes you wonder how far you would go faced with a similar situation, questioning your own values. Building steadily, the ending is full of unexpected twists and turns."

-Tanya M.

"SINISTER! Souter sets a mood and draws the reader in. Everything appears fine at surface glance, but your intuition naggingly insists that something is just not right. Keep reading, and you witness a parent's journey from easy living into their worst nightmare. Strong characters. Relentless race against time. In a tradition reminiscent of Stephen King and H.P. Lovecraft, this novel expands the universe where other Souter books live. MISSING MARIA will keep you turning pages and up late at night. Enjoy!"

-Mike A.

"Missing Maria is a thriller with twists and turns you don’t see coming. The characters draw you in to their world. You find yourself empathizing for them, only to find out that they are not all who they appear to be! A great read!"

-Roseann R.

"Missing Maria is an entertaining, quickly paced read showing the lengths parents will go for their children. It delves into the dark sides of humanity, and how you don't always truly know others, even those closest to you. Inspired by some real events and linking briefly back to another of Souter's earlier works, the book will be enjoyed by anyone into thrillers and mysteries."

-Katie F.

"I really liked this book. The plot grabbed me in the first chapter and kept me turning pages until the end. A well developed cast of characters with ‘good guys’ that — despite some failings — are indeed more good than not and ‘bad guys’ that — notwithstanding perhaps some reasons to be bad/flawed — were truly unpleasant. As the book says “trust is everything”… trust me, this is worth a read."

-BooDad

"In "Missing Maria," Ryan Souter masterfully crafts a psychological thriller that delves into the intricate layers of a mother's desperate quest for her vanished daughter. Protagonist Dalia Comb, an aspiring novelist accustomed to a life of opulence, is thrust into a nightmarish reality when her teenage daughter, Maria, mysteriously disappears. What begins as a heart-wrenching tale swiftly transforms into a relentless journey through the shadows of mental trauma, urban decay, and the unsettling revelation that those closest to Dalia may be harboring hidden secrets.
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Souter skillfully navigates the complexities of Dalia's transformation from a sheltered novelist to a determined detective, compelled to unravel the mysteries surrounding Maria's disappearance. The narrative takes an unexpected turn as Dalia enlists the help of her detective brother, propelling readers into a suspenseful exploration of mean streets and hidden truths.
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"Missing Maria" is a compelling exploration of the human psyche, expertly weaving together a tapestry of twists and trysts that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. As Dalia peels back the layers of her daughter's life, the story unfolds like a carefully constructed puzzle, revealing unexpected connections and painful truths that challenge the protagonist's sanity and the stability of her marriage.
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Ryan Souter's prose is both evocative and atmospheric, creating a vivid backdrop for the emotionally charged narrative. "Missing Maria" stands as a testament to the enduring power of maternal love in the face of harrowing circumstances, while also serving as a chilling reminder that the past, no matter how carefully concealed, has a haunting tendency to resurface. Souter's masterful storytelling ensures that this psychological thriller lingers in the reader's mind, long after the final page is turned.

For review on Instagram click HERE

-Reads.Grace (Instagram Book Reviewer)

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Little Devil Inside

Everyone needs someone.

Paperback - 356 pages

Genre keywords: Psychological, Suspense, Thriller, Adult Fiction, Crime
Released: October 2020
Available at: Amazon, The Cozy Fox (Selkirk), Gaynor Family Regional Library (Selkirk)
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John Marvin walks the high school hallways and streets of Island Cove mostly unnoticed. A Grade 12, socially awkward outcast, his world is turned upside down when a new girl arrives in town.

After sudden tragedy hits John’s life, he is forced to find a heartfelt, human connection. Wanting another life, he focuses on the new girl who has shown him care and affection. The two build a friendship, but John finds himself needing more.

With an unflinching, human desire for acceptance, John finds his life spinning out of control, taking others with him and leaving the quiet town of Island Cove shattered forever.

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Little Devil Inside Reviews

Captivating and Gripping! You won't want to put this book down!
Little Devil Inside is a gripping story of how environmental factors can shape and influence a person's development, leading them to a life path one would never imagine. Completly in line with the Nature vs Nurture theory, many characters in this book are portrayed so you may see how their life experiences made them who they are today. While the main character is, of course, the main focus, the other characters have their own stories and backgrounds and suffer their own personal hells.This book is one you will not want to put down and while it is horrific at times, it is totally on point with how the inner-workings of psychopath are and come to be. While many psycopaths live amongst us, many do not turn out to be killers and often, live relatively normal lives. It is only when a chain of events build and lead up to a trigger point, a point of no return, the killer is born. Unleashing in himself a new focus, a new desire and a complete change from the life he once had.Little Devil Inside is very well written and will keep you turning page after page, until you have read it all, and then, you will want to read more!

-Tamara D.

"LITTLE DEVIL INSIDE brought me back to my high school days and the terrors of teenage social dynamics. Despite the rather dark subject matter, I found the story very engaging. The characters have life, and their interactions are genuine. The plot builds in intensity, and I found it difficult to put down the more I read."

-Mike A,

"Great read.. once I started I couldn't stop until it was finished! Lived the development of characters...could feel their pain and what drove John to do what he did."

-Kindle Customer

"This book drew me in immediately after reading the author’s notes on how the idea of this book started in his head. I love my true crime podcasts. Often while listening to them, I wonder “How and why can someone do something so terrible to another person?” Read this book to find out! I also have to add that this book has a great ending. How many times have you read a book that you could not put down only to be disappointed at the last few pages? I have MANY times before. Trust me…this book does NOT disappoint!"

-Debbie L.

"Little Devil Inside kept my heart racing and my fingers eagerly turning the pages! This isn't my usual genre of book, but I decided to take a chance, and although horrified by many parts of the story, I was hooked and managed to finish this book in record time for the slow reader that I normally am! I grew attached to the characters right from the start, and felt their pain and frustration with each chapter. Just when I thought I knew what was about to happen, things always took a turn, and left me in a new state of appallment! The story is written so well that it even seeped in to my subconscious, leading to a couple nightmares. Aside from keeping me on my toes, it also ignited some deep consideration of where dark motives stem from and what could lead to someone snapping. A captivating read, filled with plenty of excitement!!"

-Lesley

"This is a coming-of-age story that addresses the many issues affecting young people today. Blended families, bullying, peer pressure, and body image are just some of the situations presented. This is a character-driven story, with all the qualities of a page-turner. It’s the kind of book I could not put down. It may appeal to all ages. I am a senior citizen and for me, it was a real eye-opener to see what my grandchildren may be dealing with. Valuable lessons for parents and teens run throughout the story. I would highly recommend it as a must-read."

-Irene W.

"It's a damn good book. You start to feel sympathy for the main character. Anyway you'll enjoy it."

-Patti

"A well written story that tears at the heart strings. The characters were relatable and believable. The storyline drew me in and I didn't want to put it down."

-Tanya C.

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Hope Unites Reviews

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Hope Rises Reviews

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Missing Maria Reviews

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Little Devil Inside Reviews

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