NEW 2020 REVIEWS:  COLLECTION DONE AND POSTED ON GOODREADS WEBSITE:
Review # 1
A Bitter Wind – a supernatural fantasy written by Anita Merrick tells the mystical journey of Alexander Smith and his life-changing psychic experiences into the rich-cultured domain of Egypt.
Merrick’s debut fantasy novel traces the wonders and mysteries in the world of hieroglyphics and archeology.
The novel’s plot and characters were deep; there are always more to them than meets the eye. Merrick successfully wrote her first installment for her fantasy book in a compelling manner as she created page-turner scenarios and truth using classic Egyptian culture.
Get your logic tested and determine the voices of reality and fantasy as you read “A Bitter Wind.”
 
Review # 2
“A book is a magical thing that lets you travel to places without ever leaving your chair.”
This supernatural fantasy by Anita Merrick justifies this famous quote. A Bitter Wind is magical, and it took me to Egypt through the author's descriptive writing. Any reader would see, feel, and smell the city as if they were there as they read and follow the journey of Alexander Smith.
Kudos to the wonderful author for fulfilling one of the main goals of a writer – to take its readers to places.
Reading this book felt like an actual adventure for me, and I guarantee you would feel the same!
 
Review # 3
If you’re a fan of book series like the classic Harry Potter, Percy Jackson, and Magnus Chase, then you should not miss this!
A Bitter Wind: Time Entanglement is the first book of the series by Anita Merrick, and upon reading it, the story is an apparent creation of metaphysical, fantasy fiction – but on a different level than your usual.
In a nutshell, Alexander, the main character, awakened his inherent clairvoyance when he accidentally released spirits and Egyptian demons while on his archaeological assignment.
A meta-fiction that has well-disseminated suspense and tension and will consistently tinkle your imaginative mind.
 
Review # 4
I have read Greek and Roman mythology books, but this is the first time I have read something that tackles Egyptian myth, and I am surprised that it is THIS fun and interesting to read.
Egyptian mythology may be underrated, but this novel raised its standards.
Anita Merrick proved how knowledgeable she is of the ancient history of Egypt and its mythologies through the 1st book of A Bitter Wind series.
Writing a story with the historical or supernatural genre is not as easy as one may think, but Anita Merrick made it seem so easy, even combining both.
I suggest you flip through this book’s pages and discover how Anita Merrick did that!
 
Review # 5
This is not your typical fantasy, mythology story because it doesn’t revolve around mainstream Greek and Norse; instead, the entire book is Ancient Egypt mythology, which is uniquely interesting.
Written by Anita Merrick, The Bitter Wind envelopes the life of Alexander, an archaeologist, and a pursuing Ph.D. professional who has a strange upbringing with his grandmother.
Through her, Alex mustered a supernatural ability and psychic vision that he disdained while growing up. Albeit, it wasn’t the end when he soon faced his past and awakened his clairvoyance while in Temple of Khnum studying incoherent hieroglyphics. He disengaged out to reality, hearing ghastly ghostly voices, and releasing an ancient demon, Afrets.
A simple life that drastically shifted to a fantastical ride of bizarre creatures, paradox, and parallelism, wrestling identity, hidden desire, and revelations.
Read it to believe it!
 
Review # 6
The challenge to determine fantasy between reality and holding the responsibility of knowing the secrets unknown to many – these scenarios depict the life of Alexander Smith transcribed in the pages of the debut novel “A Bitter wind,” penned by Anita Merrick.
The story’s plot was full of mystery, secrets, and untold truths that successfully resonate the feeling of thrill and adventure.
The beauty of the mystical world of psychics was narrated through her characters. The depth of archaeology and its hidden secrets were highlighted in the story.
Merrick reveals the extraordinary world of hearing, sensing, and seeing things that a normal person cannot.
This book will make you wonder into the metaphysical world the moment you open its pages!
 
Review # 7
Supernatural genre is honestly not my cup of tea, but something about A Bitter Wind kept me flipping the pages, and I couldn't help it! 
Anita Merrick is an amazing author who turned the knowledge of Egypt and the psyche into an awesome fantasy book full of mystery, discovery, and adventure.
A Bitter Wind: Time Entanglement, as the title of the 1st book of the series, suggests, this opened a gateway to time and brought its readers to the ancient period in Egypt.
The mystical traditions and beliefs of Egyptians were written creatively and descriptively, attached to intensive research, which made it seem so realistic despite its supernatural aspect.
Read this book and find out what got a non-fan of supernatural stories so hooked into it.
 
Review # 8
A Bitter Wind: Time Entanglement is the first novel of a Psychic Intuitive, Tarot Reader, and author, Anita Merrick.
This book tells the story of young Alexander Smith, an archaeologist and Ph.D. candidate, who was sent to Egypt to decode some hieroglyphics.
As Lex journeys on, the readers are taken on an adventure into getting to know more of the city’s ruins, history, and ancient beliefs. As Lex discovers more of Egypt and the deep secrets of the stone ruins, he gets to know more of himself and the psychic abilities he possesses and tries to shut down when he was younger.
Follow Lex’s quest in understanding and recognizing reality from imagination in this inevitable encounter that destiny opened for him.
 
Review # 9
A Bitter Wind authored by Anita Merrick is a fantasy novel that reveals the world of the paranormal and psychic set with the historic culture of Egypt.
This book is a gift to the literature of archaeology, history, and psychology. It tells the adventures of Alexander Smith, who was sent to Egypt to decode and understand the meaning of certain hieroglyphics.
As the story goes on and Alexander delves himself in the wonders of Egypt, he realized that he must “assess not with the eyes, but from the souls.” This thought made the story deeper and meaningful. It echoes the truth that seeing, or hearing are not enough to fully understand something.
The story will make you question what is true or not.
Read the book and see the connection between reality, sanity, and fantasy.
 
Review # 10
Books have an innate power of transporting a reader to various surreal dimensions that reality could never fathom, and this 1st book from Anita Merrick’s series outplayed realism and portals its readers to a fantastical adventure!
The book opens at a slow pace – Alex as an archaeologist living his normal life in pursuit of his doctorate. But this normal life shattered when he was sent to decipher ancient Egypt hieroglyphics, causing him to instigate his abilities he thought he had already shut down.
I love how the story is established and gradually builds tension as you read further.
I applaud! This is a contribution to the few amazing mythological books in literary novels. ‘
I cannot contain my reading experience, so I insist you read this too to experience what I mean.
 
Review # 11
A debut novel from Anita Merrick.
A Bitter Wind: Time Entanglement is the inception of her prosperous career as an author, and this is a highly anticipated book anthology – I proclaim!
Artfully and masterfully written in third person perspective with eloquent writing, your entire read feels like you’ve gone along with Alexander as you both dive in and meet supernatural experiences with demons and spirits. How’s that for a joy read?
Merrick is prolific and cohesive in her writing despite the paradoxical demand of the story. Few writers can do that while not bringing confusion to their readers.
The fact that this is her first novel in her writing career, I am amazed and instantly became a fan.
I can’t wait for the next book!
 
Review # 12
Superb writing! Anita Merrick is one you should watch out for!
History, Psychology, Mythology, and the Supernatural spectrum – all these compressed so beautifully and perfectly into an amazing story, A Bitter Wind: Time Entanglement.
Combining genres and tackling different issues is no easy task for any writer.
Anita Merrick, author of A Bitter Wind was able to perfectly convert her personal experiences as a Tarot Reader and Psychic into a language that the general would understand. Because of that, Merrick opened a new perspective on magic and the supernatural universe that only a few could fully grasp and experience.
I recommend this book to anyone who wants to wander into the metaphysical world for a moment.
If you enjoy mystery and magic, this is a good read for you.
 
Review # 13
What surprised me about this book, aside from how well-written it is, is the author.
A Bitter Wind: Time Entanglement is the FIRST book that Anita Merrick debuted for the series. She was a 3rd generation psychic of her prime, now retired, she magnificently ventures on the magic of writing to transport readers to the universe of Egyptian mythology and liberate from reality.
This book reflects the author's fascination with Egyptian mystics and her profound career as auspice visionary that led to the birth of this literary gem.
Merrick has foreseen tomorrow and made history. Her psychic energy permeates every word she has written, ink by ink is a compelling moment – her craftsmanship continues in a different form.
I am enamored and connected to her, and I predict there will be more from her.
 
Review # 14
Metaphysical truths entangled in the physical world – this is the wonder of the literary piece – A Bitter Wind written by Anita Merrick.
This is a novel that narrates the story of Alexander Smith and the adventure of his psychic abilities to distinguish the thin line between reality and fantasy as he was sent to Egypt to dig deeper into archaeology and understand Egyptian mysteries.
Anita Merrick, being a psychic intuitive, tarot reader, and a priestess, wrote the novel colorfully with hues of mystery, codes, and paranormal experiences. She gave detailed information about the richness and mystified culture of Egypt.
Read, journey on, and be mystified!
 
Review # 15
Logic and Science challenged by mental sense and instinct – this contradicting idea represents the novel “A Bitter Wind” by Anita Merrick.
It is a fantasy novel that tracks the supernatural experiences and ability of Alexander Smith, set in the domain of an Egyptian temple that holds archeological treasures and mysteries.
Merrick interestingly wrote the plot and mystically created the characters from her imagination. The narration of the story gives off a feeling of suspense and mystery. The dilemma of Alexander in distinguishing what is real and untrue tested his founded scientific perspectives, transpiring thrilling adventure to this book’s chapters.
Let yourself indulge in the world of psychics and decipher the mysteries of the past that keep coming back in and through this story.
 
Review # 16
There is more to life than meets the eye – this belief was made more real than before by the novel, A Bitter Wind authored by Anita Merrick.
The story took place in a mystical and mysterious Egyptian culture, unfolding the story of Alexander Smith, whose psychic abilities were awakened as he entered the temple of historical and archeological mystery.
Merrick brilliantly wrote the story with thrills, creeps, and bizarre feelings. The plot of the book became more interesting as the relics of the past made their presence be felt in the present.
Experience the maze of this novel and allow yourself to be lost in history.
 
Review # 17
Traces of the past living in the present – an ironic phrase that transpires in the book, A Bitter Wind, by Anita Merrick.
This book narrates the story of Alexander Smith after he was sent to Egypt to discover the archaeologies of the Egyptian culture.
Merrick wrote the story with unending mysteries. The narration hides a message hiding in each thought and scene in the book. As the story continues, you get to experience an adventure of breaking codes of reality and illusions represented by the character’s mind.
This book is interesting because of its twists and the paranormal experiences of Lex, which makes the story suspenseful.
A mysterious line from the book expressing how time is the key and that its memories are closer is a figurative idea that expresses the existence of time’s memories.
 Let time be your echo to read this and grasp things far beyond your perspective.
 
Review # 18
The way I see it, the story of A Bitter Wind, and the character of Alexander Smith reflects the personal experiences of the author.
Being a psychic intuitive herself, Anita Merrick reveals to her readers the struggle and responsibilities of people like her, who have the unique ability to see and sense things a lot of people can’t.
Alexander’s ability to hear voices and sense bizarre things made the chapters of this book full of thrill and unexpected revelations, and each character and chapter is a puzzle piece to the secrets and mystery of this story.
Journey with Alexander and solve the puzzle yourself as you read through A Bitter Wind series.
 
Review # 19
“Enter not with arrogance or greed, for that is the nectar upon which the Afret freed.”
This line from chapter 7: Acceptance, caught my attention the most.
In the book, it was on reverse text glued on Alex’s chest using a collage of letters, and then he got the actual message by mirroring it in his bathroom. Even though it is something intended for Alexander in the story, it has its share of implication to us. The quote is an allegory or mortality.
“Arrogance” is an overbearing attitude, and “greed” is synonymous to selfishness and often regarded with money – both have negative connotations susceptible to human acquisition.
It’s a cautionary note that if we let these characteristics define us and enable our life, we feed and unfetter a superior evil within us. We become the Afret. And soon, the reality isn’t much different than the fantasies we read in books.
 
Review # 20
A Bitter Wind: Time Entanglement by Anita Merrick is the first installment of the series, and you better subscribe to it now!
A book with 16 chapters of nothing but a cryptic and puzzling journey of Alexander that will keep you with your eyes-wide, reading, and asking yourself what's next.
Alexander’s life turned around when an archeological assignment caused him to release supernatural phenomena, thus triggering the appearance of spirits and Egyptian demons, and Lex’s forgotten psychic past.
Anita Merrick is a wonderful writer!
I include this to the list of books you must read before you die. A work of art!
 
Review #  21
A normal life – with a clandestine past – of Alexander "Ramses" Smith is soon to embark on a journey of mystery and the supernatural.
An archaeologist in candidacy for his doctorate, Alex is on duty to study and decipher what appears to be incoherent hieroglyphics of Temple Khnum.
Things then turned and juxtaposed versus reality when he started to resurface his intrinsic clairvoyance. He instantaneously experienced the paranormal.  Spirits and demons plague his atmosphere.
This is a book that will kill your boredom. I rate this book five-stars!
 
Review # 22
The story reveals the realities and challenges of being able to see, sense, and know what others cannot and having the responsibility to balance truth between the character’s mind and his physical world.
This book oozes with the author's passion and extreme amusement for the metaphysical and the world of the paranormal.
Referenced on Egyptian mythology, the story’s bloodline is the fertile culture and beliefs of northeastern civilization divulging nuances with its accentuation of modernity.
It's unlike any other, and I couldn't help myself from being awed and culturally educated.
Marvelous!
Best for all ages, only restricted within the reader's imagination.
 
Review # 23
Anita Merrick’s book, A Bitter Wind: Time Entanglement, is a story about a young archaeologist who was sent to Egypt by his professors to study the confusing hieroglyphics found in the Temple of Khnum. It was there where he discovered mysterious things about the temple.
Alexander “Ramses” Smith, also known as Lex, has psychic powers and was taught by his clairvoyant grandmother. So, when he entered the temple, he sensed mysterious energy inside the temple.  Lex, then, found other people trapped inside the temple by a time loop.
Soon, Lex finds himself in a dangerous situation wherein he has no choice but to obey the voices in his head.
With his abilities, Lex must discover the truth between imagination and reality or else be lost in the darkness created by sorcery and a destiny he never expected.
 
Review # 24
A Bitter Wind by Anita Merrick is a captivating read filled with knowledge about Egyptian heritage and culture! It’s indescribable and amazingly well-written! 
The pacing of the story and feelings of the characters were well-planned out, and it was clear that the author had done her research to write an amazing story with Egyptian elements into it.
It might be a bit hard to understand with the Egyptian terms and such, but the book is a worthy read and entertaining!
The concept of the story is new and refreshing! An amazing blend of suspense and fantasy! It was hard to put the book down! This is a book that I would recommend to fellow book lovers!
 
Review # 25
It's always difficult to find a good book to read. Some books don't capture your attention for long. However, A Bitter Wind is a book worth reading! The story is exciting, and with many twists and turns, that is hard for a reader to predict or expect.
The book is filled with suspense, and you could sympathize with the protagonist's dilemma. You could also relate to his desire for a normal life after experiencing something terrible and trying to hide a part of himself that is different from others. The book tells us that there are some things we can't control in our lives and that we shouldn't hide.
The book was exciting, and the plot is unique! A worthy read for all!
 
Review # 26
A Bitter Wind by Anita Merrick is set in Egypt. This is no surprise because the majority of the story has a lot to do with Egyptian culture and mythology. When I was reading the book, I became interested because the author integrated Egyptian words, phrases, and concepts well without making the book boring.
The plot is interesting because it deals with a man with unique powers and a difficult past trying to study and translate Egyptian hieroglyphics and ended up stumbling into something mysterious and dangerous.
The events that followed the protagonist were intriguing and fascinating because I couldn't predict what happens next.   
The book would be great for people who love a great story and wouldn’t mind learning more about Egyptian culture. It was an amazing read!
 
Review # 27
Sometimes things happen that we do not expect. An expedition to study ancient Egyptian writings could turn into a dangerous adventure into a paranormal world. Lex was a character that people could relate to with a good sense of humor.
When weird things started happening, he didn’t take it in stride but acted like a normal person would when weird things happen. The development of his character was well-done by the author and realistic in a way that people could understand.
The book would capture your attention, and it felt like you had to read until the end, even if it meant doing an all-nighter!
A wonderful read!
 
 
 
Review # 28
Is there anyone out there that would like to read a book filled with suspense and mystery? What about a protagonist with psychic abilities? Or a story with a unique element like Egyptian culture and mythology integrated into it? I would!
The good news is, there is a book like that, and it's called A Bitter Wind by Anita Merrick. The book is filled with suspense and mystery about Esna and the temple Lex had to study the ancient writings in. And due to his psychic abilities and his clairvoyant grandmother’s teachings, Lex detected something strange about the temple and discovered many things about it.
Also, the author incorporated Egyptian mythology and culture into the book splendidly. You could tell the amount of research and understanding the author had about Egyptian culture and history. Worth the read!
 
Review # 29
Curiosity is something all people have, and because of this curiosity, they find themselves in trouble. Like the curiosity and the desire to understand things and writings in ancient temples that are best left unknown and untouched.
Lex, however, is an archaeologist sent by his professors to the Temple of Khnum to try and understand the hieroglyphics found in the temple.  Therefore, it's his job to go inside dangerous temples, and thus, finds himself in trouble. It's a fascinating tale filled with suspense and fantasy with a side dish of humor.
The author wrote a wonderful and captivating tale about human curiosity, and its consequences. It's was marvelous! It is an amazing read, and I can't wait for book two!
 
Review # 30
Fascinating! This story is captivating! My pounding heart is filled with awe at the story I read! It’s was amazing with the right amount of suspense and mystery! I couldn’t believe some of the events that took place in the story. It’s was unexpected! It would be amazing if this would be made into a movie!
From the start of Lex's trip to Egypt to the ending where he went inside a shop, it was enthralling! It was well-written, and the emotions shown by the characters were described clearly. I can’t wait for the second book of A Bitter Wind.
This is an amazing book that I would highly recommend to other readers! Fascinating and unique! It’s a worthy read!
 
Review # 31
What a captivating story! The plot, the characters, the writing style, and the dialogue were well-written! The struggles and dilemma of the characters were exciting and filled with suspense. I was worried and scared for Lex and the others many times.
The emotions I felt were real. I couldn’t wait to turn the page and find out what happens next. It was hard to put the book down!
I had a lot of fun reading this, and the story is great! Kudos to the author for this one! I would really recommend readers everywhere to read this masterpiece!
 
Review # 32
This is an amazing and captivating fantasy story! A Bitter Wind by Anita Merrick is an awesome book, that tells the tale of an archaeologist with psychic powers (although, he tries not to use it) who travels to Egypt to study the confusing hieroglyphics found in the Temple of Khnum.  While he is there, he stumbles upon a dangerous mystery about the temple.
Lex is a great character and protagonist because he has a good sense of humor, and his reactions to what was happening were understandable. I enjoyed reading about his character development and how he tried to overcome the challenges thrown at him.
An amazing suspense and fantasy novel that captures your attention the whole time! It's wonderfully written, and the writing style of the author is descriptive. It was a great joy to read it! Can't wait for more!
 
Review # 33  
From the poetry introduced alone, I knew that the story was going to be epic. Then, I read the first chapter, and I knew I was going to love this book!  The story was incredibly well-planned out, and the character development was great! The suspense was thrilling! I couldn’t predict what was going to happen next, and the ending wasn’t a cliffhanger, but there was a promise for more.
From Lex's past and way of thinking to the high presence of Egyptian culture and history, the author planned out her story, and I got to say, it turned out extremely well! The story is captivating and a joy to read! I would recommend this book to other readers!
 
Review # 34
Amazing! Great character development! Epic Story!
This is a fantastic book to read! The book is written well, and it’s obvious that the author did her research. The characters and the events that took place in the book were described well. I especially love how she integrated Egyptian words and phrases into the story well.  It was a thrill to read! The author’s writing style was easy to follow and understand!
I liked the part where Lex was mentioned to have psychic powers and his past with his clairvoyant grandmother. I liked it when a protagonist has a certain ability that sets them apart from the other characters. It made me more excited to read the book. So, this is a definite recommendation!
 
Review # 35
Fantasy is one of my favorite genres because of the magical elements of a fantasy story. A Bitter Wind by Anita Merrick is unique. It was thrilling and full of suspense. I enjoyed reading about the book and how Lex will overcome his challenges in the sorry.
Lex is a character that has flaws, which makes him relatable to readers. As the story continues, his character grows into a strong and confident person, which I found amazing. Hardships in our lives shape us, and that's exactly how the author developed Lex's character.
The story was amazing, and I would love to share it with fellow readers for them to enjoy it too! It’s worth the time! An amazing story indeed!
 
Review # 36
Do you love a good fantasy story? I know I do! A Bitter Wind by Anita Merrick is an amazing story about a man traveling to Egypt to study the ancient writings found in the Temple of Khnum. However, instead of a normal expedition, the temple turned out to be more than it seemed. Mysteries about the temple and his past take Lex into a different adventure. The story is filled with suspense, as Lex tried to discover who he truly was.
The book is well-planned and intriguing due to the presence of Egyptian culture and lore. The author knew what she was doing.
This was an exciting read and highly recommended to other readers!
 
Review # 37
A Bitter Wind by Anita Merrick is an amazing tale of suspense and mystery. It tells the tale of a man who travels to Egypt to study the ancient Egyptian writings found in the Temple of Khnum. However, due to his psychic abilities, he noticed something strange about the temple and discovered many things, not only about the temple but about himself too.
It is a fascinating tale and so well-written that a reader is unable to put the book down! The author weaved a tale of finding one's self and the dangers of the paranormal.
It is a worthy read, and I'm sure other readers would enjoy this tale! Unique and marvelous!
 
Review # 38
A Bitter Wind by Anita Merrick was a captivating and fascinating book to read! The characters, the storyline and the dialogue were incredible and well-planned out. It was amazing, and I couldn’t believe how well-written the book is!
The author did her research on Egyptian mythology and culture. It was integrated without making the story boring. Some parts were a bit difficult to understand because of the Egyptian words and phrases; the story itself was understandable and amazing to read.
I would be delighted if there would be a movie about this! It certainly has the potential.
This is one story I would like to recommend to other readers! It was a joy to read!
 
Review # 39
Wow!
Such a wonderful story! It was interesting and captures one's attention! The story was amazing and written well! My emotions were all over the place! The concept was unique, and Lex was an interesting character too!
With parents like his, it’s understandable for him to try and hide his psychic abilities, especially since it was only his grandmother who could relate to him. However, nothing good happens when you try to hide such a huge part of yourself. It will show itself one way or another. And I guess for Lex, it was when he went to Egypt for an expedition in an ancient temple.
This is amazing! A definite recommendation for all readers!
 
Review # 40
The title, “A Bitter Wind”, is interesting and deep. It’s one of those books where you can’t guess what the story is about. It adds to the story’s sense of mystery and suspense.
I think it’s a suitable title given how the book is filled with suspense and unpredictable twists and turns. Also, it’s title is appropriate since the setting is in Egypt.
I only truly understood the title at the end of the story. As expected, it was well-planned out by the author, in my opinion. It is incredible how she could write and story this amazing! It was worth the read!
I would love for other readers to read this book, and I'm so sure they would appreciate the story, and it's title wholeheartedly!
 
Review # 41
One of the things I like about the story is how well it portrayed human curiosity, and its consequences. Lex isn’t the only one who discovered the mysteries of the Temple of Khnum. Others before him had traveled and studied the temple and suffered. The saying, “Curiosity killed the cat”, also applies to humans. In our case, our curiosity is more dangerous since we have a higher thinking capacity than other animals. Curiosity is good, but in Lex's case, it could be dangerous too. This made the story more amazing and realistic!
It was enjoyable to read, and as always, there are lessons in the story the author wrote. I would recommend this to other readers! A fascinating read!
 
Review # 42
Awesome!
What a fascinating story! A Bitter Wind by Anita Merrick is a captivating story about the paranormal and a man's journey to find out more about himself. It was like I was in a whole new world, and it had it's scary parts as well. The book was written well, and obviously, the author did her research about Egyptian culture and mythology. It made the book more fascinating and realistic. Lex was a character that I like and understood. The struggles he had to face were hard and scary. He was a strong character, and his character development was great too!
It was enjoyable and an experience! I can’t wait for more! Readers everywhere should read this book! It might be the next best thing!
 
Review # 43
This book narrated the story of Lex. His real name is Alexander "Ramses" Smith. Lex was taught by his mysterious and clairvoyant grandmother to harness his psychic powers.
While on a project, Lex entered a temple, and he sensed mysterious energy inside it. Lex found other people trapped inside the temple by a time loop.
This is one of the best books I have read. I enjoyed how the author developed the character of Lex. Apart from the use of simple words, the author also describes Lex's experience so vividly.
I would recommend this book to fantasy and mystery book lovers. This book deserves five stars!
 
Review # 44
 
Engrossing to read as you witness character development – there were no takeaways – each was created for a significant purpose in the story.
It didn’t digress on side dramas or love interests and was laser-focused on the plot.
The inclusion of Egyptology and fantasy makes this book a worthy read!
The narrative is rich in figurative language, and the characters add to the mystery and suspense of the book.
You will be amazed at how the author simplified the scenes of this book too!
If you are unsure of the genre of this book, it's a good combination of Indiana Jones, Jumanji, and Harry Potter!
What a thrilling and fantastic read!
 
Review # 45
A Bitter wind by Anita Merrick is personally a refreshing read for me. It feels new to me to read stories of the supernatural genre, and I enjoyed this reading experience!
The author herself has psychic inclinations, and you could sense that the experiences posited in this book may be partly true.
Apart from its rich character development, this book's unending scare moments will cheer your boring day!
I had fun while reading this book. It is a refreshing take on a fantasy book! I bet Percy Jackson and Jumanji Fans will be delighted to read this book.
I am recommending this to my friends for sure!
 
Review # 46
This is a great book for fans of fantasy and Egyptology!
I would recommend bibliophiles everywhere to read this masterpiece!
The writing style is extraordinary, and the lines and scenes of this book are all well-researched. It is also impressive that this fantasy book was truly well-written as it depicts the main character as a person of courage and light.
The author has shown Lex’s growth throughout the book- from a clueless and common man to a courageous and responsible person.
The evolution of the story and the vivid description of the paranormal scenes got me hooked in this book.  It is not an ordinary fantasy story; it is about facing fears and living a life under your control.
I would love to read this book all over again!
 
Review # 47
A Bitter Wind: Time Entanglement is the first book of the series written by Anita Merrick.
The thrill of finishing this book is overwhelming! The ultimate quest of Lex in the Temple of Khnum is a combination of fantasy and paranormal.  The book is filled with suspense and thrilling twists and turns that you can’t predict.
Not only that, what makes this book special is the story's characters can create suspense and bring the readers into anticipation of what the next chapter might reveal.
And don’t forget the great Egyptian paranormal experience!
This book is truly entertaining and worth your time. Five stars for the author!
 
Review # 48
Merrick creatively wrote a novel that was set in the undying culture, beliefs, and traditions of Egypt.
Indeed, a phenomenal and thrilling fantasy book with a twist of history, Egyptology, and the paranormal!
It narrates the story of Alexander, who, upon his journey to a temple in Egypt, finds himself repossessing his supernatural powers.
At first, Alexander was afraid and wary of his psychic notions.
Along the way, Alexander’s character showed resilience, bravery, and confidence.
Alexander’s point of view tells the readers that understanding is not merely composed of seeing and hearing but of feeling and sensing.
This is not only a fantasy book but a story of the strength of will and character.
And yes, Alex was funny too!
 
Review # 49
This book tells the journey of Alex. While he is on duty to study the confusing and incoherent hieroglyphics of Temple Khnum, he realized that his intrinsic clairvoyance resurfaced.
His thrilling journey and experience of the paranormal are a bit realistic!!! You may say it's a product of imagination, but the author is a clairvoyant herself! So, you’d guess the stories are based on her real experiences too.
The author's brilliance is impressive because of her experiences; she crafted a book that offers the real thrill of the paranormal!
I loved to read about the character's development throughout his journey. He was a confused person until he taught himself to be strong and positive.
 
Review # 50
Do you enjoy a good fantasy book?
Then, I would recommend A Bitter Wind by Anita Merrick. It’s an amazing book about life and the paranormal.
 It tells the story of an archaeologist who traveled to Egypt to study the confusing hieroglyphics found in the Temple of Khnum. It was there that he found out that the temple is more than it seemed.
Lex is a great protagonist and relatable except his psychic abilities, of course. But I love to read about his character development and how he overcomes the struggles thrown his way.
The book is well-written, and it shows through the author’s research about Egyptian culture and history. It was truly a joy to read! A definite must-read for other readers!
 

KIRKUS REVIEW
In this debut fantasy, a young archaeologist struggles to decipher a temple’s puzzling hieroglyphics and his own paranormal talents.
The University of Chicago dispatches Alexander “Ramses” Smith—aka Lex—to study a temple in Egypt. Lex arrives via the Nile River in Esna, hoping to perform research valuable enough to secure his doctorate. The Temple of Khnum, however, has proved difficult for archaeologists to study because it’s filled with confusing, supposedly incoherent hieroglyphics. In the bare-bones apartment procured by the university, Lex wonders if professor Orridge has sent him on a fool’s errand. When Lex enters the temple, he acknowledges and explores a curious energy within. Lex’s teenage years were spent under the tutelage of a clairvoyant grandmother, who realized he had gifts worth nurturing, but he doesn’t want to rely on them here. Then, after touching the bas relief of a priest, he starts hearing disembodied voices, including one that says, “Time here looped, curving in upon itself.” Back at the apartment, he remembers the journal of Dr. Broderick Gillwood, which had been slated for destruction until he pilfered it from the university. In a shocking feat of synchronicity, Gillwood also studied the Temple of Khnum, which Lex soon discovers is inhabited by ancient demons called afrets. Merrick conjures a narrative reminiscent of H.P. Lovecraft—not thanks to hideous creatures, but because Lex’s story travels inward, through his own paranoia and terror, as much as it moves forward. Esna and the temple itself, described in lavish detail, persist as characters more memorable than some of the people (like the grocer Malik) Lex meets; at one point, the temple “mesmerized with teeming dust particles that sparkled as flecks of tinfoil.” Merrick also displays immense knowledge of Egypt, comparing temples to spiritual batteries and telling readers that they “consisted of multiple structures built over a long period of time, which reflected the evolution of culture and beliefs.” Her greatest success, however, is in isolating the reader alongside her protagonist and toying with both psychologically.
A supernatural fantasy impressive for its subtlety and Egyptian research. 
Pub Date: March 16th, 2015
ISBN: 978-1-4602-6094-4
Page count: 368pp
Publisher: FriesenPress
Program: Kirkus Indie
Review Posted Online: Aug. 16th, 2016

A Bitter Wind – Review:  from Tina Gallippi, Toronto, Canada (Written 5/25/17) . . .  
"The writing flows with descriptive words that awaken the senses. Right from the start, I am there in Egypt and I can see, feel and smell just as the main character does in the story. I enjoy the attention to detail and all the wonder of Egypt as the main character is experiencing it. I love that it is a different time and place, nothing like the modern day, big city life where I live. In fact, there is an air of mystery, paranormal and supernatural throughout which makes it hard to put the book down."

Robert Moyer, Reverend and Certified Tarot Master (February, 2016) of Reading, PA wrote:
     Ms. Merrick has found a unique way to convey the mysteries, the stories and the culture of Ancient Egypt as she unfolds the story of the fictional archeologist, Alexander "Ramses" Smith.
Mr. Smith researches the temple of Khnum in Esna on the western bank of the Nile to find more than he anticipated.  Combining his scientific methods as well as his metaphysical roots he uncovers a mystery even greater than the stones themselves.  His dilemma is our dilemma in facing our psychic gifts and trying to understand how they work in a scientific world.
    Don't be discouraged to read such a story as Anita is a careful story teller.  The bewilderment and excitement as well as the danger unfolds as the lead character discovers more than his scientific knowledge unfolds.
   A truly delightful and beautifully constructed story that will keep you wanting more.  I can't wait till the 2nd part is published. 
   Join Alexander... Lex... as he uncovers the truths both real and metaphysical about the ruins and himself.  Perhaps it will help you uncover your truths, both real and metaphysical.
   It is obvious that the writer, Anita Merrick, enjoys (Loves) Egypt by her description of the mystical land of Egypt and the temple at Esna.  Her verbal descriptions of the Nile, the sunsets and sun rise are as mesmerizing as the descriptions of the metaphysical realms of Mr. Smith's journey.
   Enjoy being entangled by the tale of a man, tho fictional, unearths the demons and the angels with in us all.
   Thank You.  Respectfully submitted,   Robert Moyer, Rev. 

    Tammy McInnis, St. Catharine's, Ontario, (July 28 at 8:19 am) wrote:
Anita your writing skills and story telling; not to even mention your channeling, is wowing me !!! I can't put this book down ....thank you, thank you for dedicating yourself to writing it because I'm certainly reaping the benefits now that it's finally in my hands to enjoy!!!! 󾬐󾭩󾬐󾭩󾬐
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Amanda of Tennessee (November 19, 2015) wrote: 
Anita's book is an interesting and enjoyable read. Her very descriptive writing sent my thoughts on the adventure with the character Lex as he struggled with the discovery of his being much more than just a student of archaeology. The temple, names, gods and scenes described thoughout the story drew me into a place I knew little about--Egypt and the mystical-myth of it all. Just the book cover alone draws one to discover what the pages hold. I anxiously await Lex's continued journey into alternate time, spirits and discoveries in book two. A recommended read from this new author.
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