Book Title: Coombe's Wood
Author: Lisa C Hinsley
Genre: Horror/Mystery
This book begins with a date, so you can watch the dates go by, and see the time span that all of the action is taking place. I'm not one to watch those sorts of things, but there was ONE instance when I had to re-trace my steps and start at the beginning of the chapter, to note... the date. I then realized, these are important.
The summary of the story, is a widowed/remarried/divorcee mom, Lizzy, after having left her abusive husband, and lived in a shelter for some time, a one room place where she needed to share the room with her 14 year old son named Connor. They were finally awarded housing, but the social worker, in passing tells them to stay away from the woods surrounding the apartment. She does not elaborate at all.
The story moves a long quickly, taking legends and folklore and what sounds like ghost-stories being told around a campfire, but the setting is more civilized at the local pub. The unit that she is put in, is surrounded by woods, and her next door neighbor is an interesting man names "Feathers". Feathers is the one who instigating the telling of the stories at the pub.
Feathers also teaches Connor basic survival skills if she ever gets lost in the woods. Connor and another young man, adore spending time with Feathers and he becomes a father figure.
I really like the way and the plausibility in which the story unfolded. A small town can welcome you with open arms, or can shun you immediately. This time they open their arms, but there's an alternative motive. Their arriving at this place at this time, with that apartment, in that building was well executed and planned.
As the months continue to pass, the characters become closer and you finally hear the story of how Izzy ended up in the shelter. Everyone in the town, will protect her and Connor.
No matter how many times she tells her mother not to tell anyone where she's at, her mother tells someone, who tells the abusive ex-husband. And from here... I will stop. This just shows the length to which the author went into planning, down to the fine minute details, the book regarding the woods, the apartments, and the homeopathy that Feathers prides himself on.
This fast paced, story has some elements of a movie made many years ago about a fatal attraction. It also speaks to how the justice system is broken regarding those who are the victims of domestic violence and how hard it is to get them to do anything to the person who is committing the violence.
This story touched my heart, gave me hope, and led me to believe in "miracles". No matter how they small they may bed.
4.5 out of 5 Bookmark
Sunday, March 31, 2013
Tuesday, March 26, 2013
Book Review: Synthetic Rise of the Siren By Shonna Wright
Book Title: Synthetic Rise of the Siren
Author: Shonna Wright
Genre: Sci-Fi
When I first started reading this, I really had a hard time understanding this futuristic, post-apocalyptic world that is the background for this story. There really is no explanations as to how or why it is the way it is. I think that's why I kept getting lost at times. I simply didn't get it. But I kept reading, hoping I would, and it all eventually explains itself.
The lead character is Kora. She's a very skilled, I'll call her geneticist/doctor, but it was never really explained what title she has, who has been kept a "prisoner" in a lab. When she tries to escape, they lock her in a closet. She's given only sweats to wear, and she's only given four sets at a time. She's only been given one lab coat the entire times she's been in this lab, so it's tattered and unkempt.
The only people she has contact with are "the face" of the lab. One is the owner and the second is the Doctor, in his crisp, clean, white lab coat, who, on her accolades, his reputation is made. He did win a Nobel Prize however for the very first Synthetically Made BUG. However, it's quickly pointed out that he wasn't the first to do it, implying that Kora was.
Kora gets her orders to make synthetic beings. Her side kick is a giant squid named Ishmael. He's the closest thing she has to actual human interaction with affection. He helps her clean up, do surgeries, hugs her when she needs it and gives her back bone. Her dream is to one day run away from the lab, and go north towards Washington State, where Ishmael can be free in the ocean and she can visit him on the beach. But she knows that will never happen because they'll never find a way out of the lab.
The only thing Kora CAN do is fulfill her orders to make synthetic or cloned beings. She can make anything from a dog, down to mythical creatures like mermaids, faeries, unicorns, etc. She'll make anything. Anything except VAMPIRES.
As she finishes an order, she's informed that she'll be making the delivery. The Doctor always makes the deliveries, so she's excited that she gets to go outside, let alone deliver one of the being that she's made. Ishmael is even put into a carrier of his own design, that allows him to be transferred with her.
Now the adventure begins. I still got lost a lot, because, again, the how's and why's of how the world ended up the way that it did just don't seem to be important enough to explain. So, you're kind of guiding yourself through. This is another one of those stories you shouldn't read when you're going to bed. You'll forget you read something and have to start over at the beginning of the chapter again.
The characters in this book are eclectic, both physically and mentally. They have issues living with the "lady of the house" who is having Kora deliver her newest work. Most of them have big hearts, but they're complex as well. Leading you to sometimes second guess yourself as to their humanity or synthetic being.
The mystery surrounding all the people that live in the mansion Kora is delivered makes her stay even more interesting.
The climactic ending was emotional, unexpected and for me, 'out of the box' which made it a very nice change indeed.
If you like Sci-Fi, with twists and turns, a little bit of horror and mystery to give you a psychological jolt you'll love this book. Let me know if you get lost with the time thing too though!
3.5 Out of 5 Bookmark
Author: Shonna Wright
Genre: Sci-Fi
When I first started reading this, I really had a hard time understanding this futuristic, post-apocalyptic world that is the background for this story. There really is no explanations as to how or why it is the way it is. I think that's why I kept getting lost at times. I simply didn't get it. But I kept reading, hoping I would, and it all eventually explains itself.
The lead character is Kora. She's a very skilled, I'll call her geneticist/doctor, but it was never really explained what title she has, who has been kept a "prisoner" in a lab. When she tries to escape, they lock her in a closet. She's given only sweats to wear, and she's only given four sets at a time. She's only been given one lab coat the entire times she's been in this lab, so it's tattered and unkempt.
The only people she has contact with are "the face" of the lab. One is the owner and the second is the Doctor, in his crisp, clean, white lab coat, who, on her accolades, his reputation is made. He did win a Nobel Prize however for the very first Synthetically Made BUG. However, it's quickly pointed out that he wasn't the first to do it, implying that Kora was.
Kora gets her orders to make synthetic beings. Her side kick is a giant squid named Ishmael. He's the closest thing she has to actual human interaction with affection. He helps her clean up, do surgeries, hugs her when she needs it and gives her back bone. Her dream is to one day run away from the lab, and go north towards Washington State, where Ishmael can be free in the ocean and she can visit him on the beach. But she knows that will never happen because they'll never find a way out of the lab.
The only thing Kora CAN do is fulfill her orders to make synthetic or cloned beings. She can make anything from a dog, down to mythical creatures like mermaids, faeries, unicorns, etc. She'll make anything. Anything except VAMPIRES.
As she finishes an order, she's informed that she'll be making the delivery. The Doctor always makes the deliveries, so she's excited that she gets to go outside, let alone deliver one of the being that she's made. Ishmael is even put into a carrier of his own design, that allows him to be transferred with her.
Now the adventure begins. I still got lost a lot, because, again, the how's and why's of how the world ended up the way that it did just don't seem to be important enough to explain. So, you're kind of guiding yourself through. This is another one of those stories you shouldn't read when you're going to bed. You'll forget you read something and have to start over at the beginning of the chapter again.
The characters in this book are eclectic, both physically and mentally. They have issues living with the "lady of the house" who is having Kora deliver her newest work. Most of them have big hearts, but they're complex as well. Leading you to sometimes second guess yourself as to their humanity or synthetic being.
The mystery surrounding all the people that live in the mansion Kora is delivered makes her stay even more interesting.
The climactic ending was emotional, unexpected and for me, 'out of the box' which made it a very nice change indeed.
If you like Sci-Fi, with twists and turns, a little bit of horror and mystery to give you a psychological jolt you'll love this book. Let me know if you get lost with the time thing too though!
3.5 Out of 5 Bookmark
Sunday, March 24, 2013
Book Review: Vampire Love Story by H.T. Knight
Book Title: Vampire Love Story
Author: H.T. Knight
Genre: Sci-Fi/Paranormal Romance
I read a couple blurb sentences in review of this book that made it sound really fantastic to read. I don't usually read other peoples reviews because they tend to re-write the book, in a manner of speaking. Specifically, they tell you what is basically the whole story, so then I feel no need to read it. So for all you authors asking for reviews there are pitfalls with them. But, I digress..
I also noted high "star" reviews as well. (On Amazon, you give a rating of 1 to 5 stars towards how well you liked the book.) I'm trying to get better at going in and putting my "stars" in there. So, since this book was highly rated in the "star" department I went with it.
There are several places in the book where a sentence made no sense. Literally, I think you could see that cartoon question mark over my head! The lead character is questioning his choice, then a random sentence saying "Listen to you. This is nuts." comes in. Like someone was talking to him, and he surely wasn't talking to himself, because if he was, those two sentences at that point would have made no sense. Which is exactly what they're doing...making no sense. In another place he had said a character named Yari had red hair, later on in the book he says she's got black hair. There are several other instances where I think it's a typo - "had" for "has" etc.
Now let's get to the story. Just a couple guys, roommates, who grew up together. Our lead character's sister was his best friend's girlfriend. When she, along with her parents, were killed in a car accident, it left both of them reeling and for Josiah, the lead character, with no family, except for his best friend, who starts teaching him how to fight. They're fighters with mixed marshal arts and are going to have to get ready for the their fights, when they find out they're fighting each other. Josiah is trying to make a name for himself in the league and his best friend is trying to get a shot at the title because he's been in it longer. So, the quandry is simple, one makes it to a title or is no longer a threat in the league, or one makes a name for himself and works up through the ranks, or simply falls to the wayside as a wannabe.
Enter the damsel in distress. Josiah has known her since high school, and while out on a run, hears someone screaming for help as he runs by a Frat House. He, for some reason, runs to her rescue. The guys who were trying to do the unthinkable to her, gang up on Josiah, and being the fighter that he is, he easily takes them on. But as he starts to lose, a van pulls up full of emo-dark and mysterious people, and all hell breaks lose. The damsel in distress, tells the people in the van not to hurt Josiah, he was helping her. The guy in charge seems impressed with the fact that Josiah took on a "group" of guys at one time. Then they all get into the van and the world in about to change dramatically for Josiah.
More background for Josiah is given and then we're told about the different names for different species, which is unique. The "Tandra" are the humans. There are different names for Vampires and Werewolves as well. All these names sound like Aliens though. This is explained as: your human writers over time have taken our truths, and warped them into what they wanted to believe.
Then Josiah learns there is a prophecy. His damsel in distress, Lena, knows all about the prophecy and the species. They're hanging out together a lot. Then Josiah's best friend is murdered.
This is a fast paced thrill ride, and right up until the end you're guessing. I got emotionally invested. I quickly read to find out what happened. I'm hoping there are more books because we've got a lot of unanswered questions... WHY was there a prophecy? WHERE did certain people run off too? Just too many. So I'm expecting another book, I mean we have a back story to fulfill here! ;)
3 out of 5 Bookmarks
Author: H.T. Knight
Genre: Sci-Fi/Paranormal Romance
I read a couple blurb sentences in review of this book that made it sound really fantastic to read. I don't usually read other peoples reviews because they tend to re-write the book, in a manner of speaking. Specifically, they tell you what is basically the whole story, so then I feel no need to read it. So for all you authors asking for reviews there are pitfalls with them. But, I digress..
I also noted high "star" reviews as well. (On Amazon, you give a rating of 1 to 5 stars towards how well you liked the book.) I'm trying to get better at going in and putting my "stars" in there. So, since this book was highly rated in the "star" department I went with it.
There are several places in the book where a sentence made no sense. Literally, I think you could see that cartoon question mark over my head! The lead character is questioning his choice, then a random sentence saying "Listen to you. This is nuts." comes in. Like someone was talking to him, and he surely wasn't talking to himself, because if he was, those two sentences at that point would have made no sense. Which is exactly what they're doing...making no sense. In another place he had said a character named Yari had red hair, later on in the book he says she's got black hair. There are several other instances where I think it's a typo - "had" for "has" etc.
Now let's get to the story. Just a couple guys, roommates, who grew up together. Our lead character's sister was his best friend's girlfriend. When she, along with her parents, were killed in a car accident, it left both of them reeling and for Josiah, the lead character, with no family, except for his best friend, who starts teaching him how to fight. They're fighters with mixed marshal arts and are going to have to get ready for the their fights, when they find out they're fighting each other. Josiah is trying to make a name for himself in the league and his best friend is trying to get a shot at the title because he's been in it longer. So, the quandry is simple, one makes it to a title or is no longer a threat in the league, or one makes a name for himself and works up through the ranks, or simply falls to the wayside as a wannabe.
Enter the damsel in distress. Josiah has known her since high school, and while out on a run, hears someone screaming for help as he runs by a Frat House. He, for some reason, runs to her rescue. The guys who were trying to do the unthinkable to her, gang up on Josiah, and being the fighter that he is, he easily takes them on. But as he starts to lose, a van pulls up full of emo-dark and mysterious people, and all hell breaks lose. The damsel in distress, tells the people in the van not to hurt Josiah, he was helping her. The guy in charge seems impressed with the fact that Josiah took on a "group" of guys at one time. Then they all get into the van and the world in about to change dramatically for Josiah.
More background for Josiah is given and then we're told about the different names for different species, which is unique. The "Tandra" are the humans. There are different names for Vampires and Werewolves as well. All these names sound like Aliens though. This is explained as: your human writers over time have taken our truths, and warped them into what they wanted to believe.
Then Josiah learns there is a prophecy. His damsel in distress, Lena, knows all about the prophecy and the species. They're hanging out together a lot. Then Josiah's best friend is murdered.
This is a fast paced thrill ride, and right up until the end you're guessing. I got emotionally invested. I quickly read to find out what happened. I'm hoping there are more books because we've got a lot of unanswered questions... WHY was there a prophecy? WHERE did certain people run off too? Just too many. So I'm expecting another book, I mean we have a back story to fulfill here! ;)
3 out of 5 Bookmarks
Book Review: the Vampire Princesses by Aiden James
Book Title: The Vampire Princesses (Dying of the Dark Vampires Series)
Author: Aiden James
Genre: Paranormal/Sci-fi/Mystery
We have our journal type entries beginning again, almost where the last book leaves off. Our heroine is bringing us up to speed on what's happened since her last "entry".
There are many more anxious moments in this book, as we are introduced to someone who is related to our heroine yet has been virtually been kept a prisoner, kept apart from the world, basically to keep her safe. Her twin sister was killed, and therefore her parents wanted to protect her. She is, however, a distant relative to our heroine, and therefore has the same enemy now.
Our characters are growing more, as the story becomes more intricate and fast paced. The antagonist is now using his growing "army" to over-come the few "civilized vampires" that remain loyal to their lifestyle so they do not become "Chupacabras". (In this series a Chupacabra is a Vampire who digresses to a more feral state in mentality and visually. Looking like a degraded human/vampire, with skin falling off, hair missing, etc. Almost zombie-ish.) The "Civilized Vampires" do not kill or feed in the usual way. They use our heroine and her blood line to stay looking the way they do, and therefore, they do not kill them. It is a symbiotic relationship.
We are meeting new and different vampires now, and we're also getting to know our antagonist and what he'll go through to kill the remainder of the people and vampires that are keeping him from ruling the world and from his physical degradation. People are now being used against our Heroine, and it's breaking her heart. People are also proving to her in so many ways that they are willing to die for her, to keep the bloodline safe.
As this series goes on, it's becoming more and more fast paced, thrilling and on the edge of your seat, FUN! It took me a while to get where I am with this series, but I'm so glad I stuck with it. I'm really loving it! I think you will too
4 out of 5 Bookmarks
Author: Aiden James
Genre: Paranormal/Sci-fi/Mystery
We have our journal type entries beginning again, almost where the last book leaves off. Our heroine is bringing us up to speed on what's happened since her last "entry".
There are many more anxious moments in this book, as we are introduced to someone who is related to our heroine yet has been virtually been kept a prisoner, kept apart from the world, basically to keep her safe. Her twin sister was killed, and therefore her parents wanted to protect her. She is, however, a distant relative to our heroine, and therefore has the same enemy now.
Our characters are growing more, as the story becomes more intricate and fast paced. The antagonist is now using his growing "army" to over-come the few "civilized vampires" that remain loyal to their lifestyle so they do not become "Chupacabras". (In this series a Chupacabra is a Vampire who digresses to a more feral state in mentality and visually. Looking like a degraded human/vampire, with skin falling off, hair missing, etc. Almost zombie-ish.) The "Civilized Vampires" do not kill or feed in the usual way. They use our heroine and her blood line to stay looking the way they do, and therefore, they do not kill them. It is a symbiotic relationship.
We are meeting new and different vampires now, and we're also getting to know our antagonist and what he'll go through to kill the remainder of the people and vampires that are keeping him from ruling the world and from his physical degradation. People are now being used against our Heroine, and it's breaking her heart. People are also proving to her in so many ways that they are willing to die for her, to keep the bloodline safe.
As this series goes on, it's becoming more and more fast paced, thrilling and on the edge of your seat, FUN! It took me a while to get where I am with this series, but I'm so glad I stuck with it. I'm really loving it! I think you will too
4 out of 5 Bookmarks
Book Review: The Vampire's Birthright by Aiden James
Book Title: The Vampire's Birthright (Dying of the Dark Vampires Series)
Author: Aiden James
Genre: Paranormal/Mystery
This book leaves off where the last ended, as journal entries, and answers some unanswered questions from the last book, but also gives you more questions that need answering. The "bad" vampires are multiplying quickly and they are trying desperately to win, which would leave humanity as a slave species and food source.
This time, the author is much more descriptive about the feelings that our heroine has, though I think her friend, "Tyreen" is a little "typecast" as the "sassy African-American" friend.
We also have more emotions shown and explained much better by the other characters in the book, though sometimes they aren't really what you would expect them to be, which is nice. We also learn that the world this author has perceived for his vampires is a little different, sometimes for the good, and sometimes for the bad.
The story moves along well, and the plot is interesting. I also find it interesting that the "bad" vampire can find our heroine at her college quite easily, and kills without regard, but her family in a different state as been left completely alone and not used against her. Leaves me to guess as to when or if that will happen, which engages the readers imagination. Aiden James' world of vampires and their survivability as "civilized" or not, is interesting.
3 out of 5 Bookmarks
Author: Aiden James
Genre: Paranormal/Mystery
This book leaves off where the last ended, as journal entries, and answers some unanswered questions from the last book, but also gives you more questions that need answering. The "bad" vampires are multiplying quickly and they are trying desperately to win, which would leave humanity as a slave species and food source.
This time, the author is much more descriptive about the feelings that our heroine has, though I think her friend, "Tyreen" is a little "typecast" as the "sassy African-American" friend.
We also have more emotions shown and explained much better by the other characters in the book, though sometimes they aren't really what you would expect them to be, which is nice. We also learn that the world this author has perceived for his vampires is a little different, sometimes for the good, and sometimes for the bad.
The story moves along well, and the plot is interesting. I also find it interesting that the "bad" vampire can find our heroine at her college quite easily, and kills without regard, but her family in a different state as been left completely alone and not used against her. Leaves me to guess as to when or if that will happen, which engages the readers imagination. Aiden James' world of vampires and their survivability as "civilized" or not, is interesting.
3 out of 5 Bookmarks
Just Realized....
I am a hypocrite... <smile> Here I am, on a review blog for books that I have read, and I read some of the past blogs. I'm thinking to myself, "Crap, I wrote that? The grammar sucks and.... OMG What the heck was I thinking?!?" So, evidently I too am human.
Another thing I noticed, is that when I'm really excited about a book, I mean REALLY excited, my fingers move much slower than my brain. I'm just so hyped up, that I am either leaving out words or repeating them. LOL The blond in my strawberry blond hair is showing I think.
So, I will take my own advice and start proofing myself a little better. Sheesh... how embarrassing. I will also go through and make sure things are not too badly screwed up, so my authors who would like to share my reviews aren't embarrassed to share it because I can't catch my own errors. :)
It's nice when you don't have a huge following yet... You're not as freaked out as if thousands were following you. Have a great Sunday folks! I'll be proofing and updating the latest books I've read!
Another thing I noticed, is that when I'm really excited about a book, I mean REALLY excited, my fingers move much slower than my brain. I'm just so hyped up, that I am either leaving out words or repeating them. LOL The blond in my strawberry blond hair is showing I think.
So, I will take my own advice and start proofing myself a little better. Sheesh... how embarrassing. I will also go through and make sure things are not too badly screwed up, so my authors who would like to share my reviews aren't embarrassed to share it because I can't catch my own errors. :)
It's nice when you don't have a huge following yet... You're not as freaked out as if thousands were following you. Have a great Sunday folks! I'll be proofing and updating the latest books I've read!
Wednesday, March 20, 2013
Book Review: The Vampire's Last Lover
Book Title: The Vampire's Last Lover (Dying of the Dark Vampire Series)
Author: Aiden James
Genre: Paranormal/Sci-Fi
Interesting Book. The setting is a college campus, the main character is a young woman with a strange birthmark on her neck.
We have "Chupacabras" and civilized vampires, who are vying for one person and her death, or life. The Vampire characters are a different take on the "vampire" however, there's still some cliche's like in coffins (really?). Who would have thought, that vampires would actually have someone to fear?
The author has written this book in the first person, as journal entries. But in this outing you can tell that the author is a male. There's just a lack of "knowledge" there as our female character, who is quite well-spoken otherwise, simply and vaguely, describes her feelings of sexual desire and the act of making love.
When describing men's behavior it's kinda cliche too.
The plot is interesting and a new spin I haven't read before. I think the target audience of the 20-something's will really like the way the story is told. Once you have read this book, you're set up for the other books in the series. This book's purpose is more or less introducing you to the characters, giving their back-stories, explaining their lives and the plot of the story itself. By the time you've finished that, you're done, and on to the second book in the series. This wasn't as great as it could have been, but stick with the series and I think you'll see it get a little better.
2.5 out of 5 Bookmarks
Author: Aiden James
Genre: Paranormal/Sci-Fi
Interesting Book. The setting is a college campus, the main character is a young woman with a strange birthmark on her neck.
We have "Chupacabras" and civilized vampires, who are vying for one person and her death, or life. The Vampire characters are a different take on the "vampire" however, there's still some cliche's like in coffins (really?). Who would have thought, that vampires would actually have someone to fear?
The author has written this book in the first person, as journal entries. But in this outing you can tell that the author is a male. There's just a lack of "knowledge" there as our female character, who is quite well-spoken otherwise, simply and vaguely, describes her feelings of sexual desire and the act of making love.
When describing men's behavior it's kinda cliche too.
The plot is interesting and a new spin I haven't read before. I think the target audience of the 20-something's will really like the way the story is told. Once you have read this book, you're set up for the other books in the series. This book's purpose is more or less introducing you to the characters, giving their back-stories, explaining their lives and the plot of the story itself. By the time you've finished that, you're done, and on to the second book in the series. This wasn't as great as it could have been, but stick with the series and I think you'll see it get a little better.
2.5 out of 5 Bookmarks
Book Review: To Evil Comes a Daughter
Book Title: To Evil Comes a Daughter
Author: Allen Caraway
Genre: Mystery/Paranormal
This wasn't as much paranormal as it was a murder mystery. The author is very descriptive about the surroundings, actually making them sound more like the real thing. (In fact, I'd believe if they were!)
The main character is a likeable car magazine writer from the UK. I have a feeling our author is also from the UK, as there are lots of sentences/words used that aren't used in America the way the author has used them. At times, concerning the main character, you'd expect him to order "a pint" at a local "pub" (AKA Dive Bar) but you wouldn't expect Montana cops to say "Okay. Right, you're free to go."
The chapters are written, for lack of a better description, "strangely". You'll start "Chapter 12" get two pages in and a large space, then a number "1". Then additional writing. It's obviously part of "Chapter 12" but why are we giving the chapter "sub-numbers"? It's like we're looking at acts in a play instead of a book.
We come to the "paranormal" part of the book... it seems we have a murdered spirit. Which in and of itself is fine, given this is a paranormal mystery. Nothing makes me lose faith in an author's ability to explain the "how's" or "why's" of paranormal activity or the ability of those who perceive it, then to mention by name a television show and the "ghost psychic" or "sensitive", or "wiccan" or whoever, by name, and the character that does this just seems to automatically befriend the main character. After a weekend of knowing him (that's just TWO days!), they're like best friends.
So, as the book starts = strong characters and good mystery. By the end, the characters, storyline and climax just left me feeling "eh". Not a great book, but not quite worth paying for it either. Glad it was a freebie.
2 out of 5 Bookmarks
Author: Allen Caraway
Genre: Mystery/Paranormal
This wasn't as much paranormal as it was a murder mystery. The author is very descriptive about the surroundings, actually making them sound more like the real thing. (In fact, I'd believe if they were!)
The main character is a likeable car magazine writer from the UK. I have a feeling our author is also from the UK, as there are lots of sentences/words used that aren't used in America the way the author has used them. At times, concerning the main character, you'd expect him to order "a pint" at a local "pub" (AKA Dive Bar) but you wouldn't expect Montana cops to say "Okay. Right, you're free to go."
The chapters are written, for lack of a better description, "strangely". You'll start "Chapter 12" get two pages in and a large space, then a number "1". Then additional writing. It's obviously part of "Chapter 12" but why are we giving the chapter "sub-numbers"? It's like we're looking at acts in a play instead of a book.
We come to the "paranormal" part of the book... it seems we have a murdered spirit. Which in and of itself is fine, given this is a paranormal mystery. Nothing makes me lose faith in an author's ability to explain the "how's" or "why's" of paranormal activity or the ability of those who perceive it, then to mention by name a television show and the "ghost psychic" or "sensitive", or "wiccan" or whoever, by name, and the character that does this just seems to automatically befriend the main character. After a weekend of knowing him (that's just TWO days!), they're like best friends.
So, as the book starts = strong characters and good mystery. By the end, the characters, storyline and climax just left me feeling "eh". Not a great book, but not quite worth paying for it either. Glad it was a freebie.
2 out of 5 Bookmarks
Book Review: The Earl's Inconvenient Wife
Book Title: The Earl's Inconvenient Wife (The Regency Collection)
Author: Ruth Ann Nordin
Genre: Historical Romance
The setting is the late 1800's in London during "Season" where eligible gentlemen and young women with dowry's and parents who would like to marry "up" socially, go from Ball to Ball trying to find a spouse.
After getting into the first few pages I thought this would be a fun, fast, time period read. I was wrong.
The author moves our characters and their story along at a snails pace. Then one day a character just up and decides he's been an idiot and he's going to change his ways.
There are other characters who seem quite superfluous. I understand this is a "collection" and to find out what happens to some characters you need to read MORE of the collection. However, at the rate this book moved, I'll fall asleep getting there!
The characters perplex me. It's almost as if they're Bipolar (and I can say that with a clear conscious as *I* am Bipolar!). The secondary characters start out fun and enticing, but nothing ever comes of them.
I've read much better period time pieces.
2 out of 5 Bookmarks
Author: Ruth Ann Nordin
Genre: Historical Romance
The setting is the late 1800's in London during "Season" where eligible gentlemen and young women with dowry's and parents who would like to marry "up" socially, go from Ball to Ball trying to find a spouse.
After getting into the first few pages I thought this would be a fun, fast, time period read. I was wrong.
The author moves our characters and their story along at a snails pace. Then one day a character just up and decides he's been an idiot and he's going to change his ways.
There are other characters who seem quite superfluous. I understand this is a "collection" and to find out what happens to some characters you need to read MORE of the collection. However, at the rate this book moved, I'll fall asleep getting there!
The characters perplex me. It's almost as if they're Bipolar (and I can say that with a clear conscious as *I* am Bipolar!). The secondary characters start out fun and enticing, but nothing ever comes of them.
I've read much better period time pieces.
2 out of 5 Bookmarks
Monday, March 4, 2013
Finally, all caught up... for now!
Well, now y'all know the reason I have no voice. I wouldn't change it though and I really enjoyed the last book I read. I'm already into a new one, but I'm also working on recipes. So, so I'll post my trials and errors from the kitchen, as well as what it's like to finally get into the WRITING aspect of something instead of the reading aspect of it.
Stay tuned for the next review.. or will it be a gripe? Night peeps! Thanks for reading!
Stay tuned for the next review.. or will it be a gripe? Night peeps! Thanks for reading!
Book Review: The Hidden Ones: Legacy of the Watchers, Book 1 by Nancy Madore
Book Title: The Hidden Ones
Author: Nancy Madore
Genre: Ancient History/Sci-Fi
WHAT A FANTASTIC READ!
I started this book while my husband was in training and I was coming down with a raging case of the flu. After the first few chapters, it was time for the very long drive home from Oklahoma to Kentucky. So to pass the time, I started to read the book aloud to my husband. (I will give you a heads up though... DON'T read out loud over an entire twelve hour road trip with the flu. Your throat will HATE you for it. But it was WORTH IT!)
I gave my hubby a quick synopsis of what had transpired so far as I had read, and then went from there. My husband loves audio books, and likes when I read books to him. So we share what we read, as it helps him get through long trips he has to make for his job. The drive home went so fast because we were both so into this book. We got to the cliffhanger end just as we pulled off the freeway for our home. So I stopped and we unpacked and ate dinner. He was so excited, as was I, to see what happened next! So, he helped in giving this review.
By the way, this was another freebie. I can't even remember when I got it or the description of it, but I'm so very glad I read it!
We have different viewpoints and time periods throughout the book. This helps to keep you riveted. The book starts with the discovery of hidden texts of Biblical worth in the caves of Qumran, when and where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered. We are being told the story, through a sixteen year old girl named Helene, whose father is with a group of friends on the quest to find a Book of the Dead. The story is also told through Helene's granddaughter, Nadia.
We learn of loves lost, deaths and historical events that many in today's society don't see as actual "history" anymore, yet claim they've read it every Sunday, at least.
Biblical History, myth, theological debates, terrorism - this book has a little of everything. But at it's core - we are trying to save the world, literally - but we don't know from what! So, we must hear ALL of Helene's story, as it was told to her daughter Gisele and passed down to her daughter, Nadia.
My husband would surprise me every now and then by really being into the story and ask a question like, "WAIT! What happened to..." which in turn made me more excited to read it to him.
I do hope there are more of these stories as the author left it open for more. My husband does too. Mostly because I want to know what happened to Lillith - yes... THAT Lillith!
Definite read my friends (don't get too offended by the random black guy used as comic relief. He's stereotypical, but at least he's funny!)!
5 out of 5 Bookmarks!
Author: Nancy Madore
Genre: Ancient History/Sci-Fi
WHAT A FANTASTIC READ!
I started this book while my husband was in training and I was coming down with a raging case of the flu. After the first few chapters, it was time for the very long drive home from Oklahoma to Kentucky. So to pass the time, I started to read the book aloud to my husband. (I will give you a heads up though... DON'T read out loud over an entire twelve hour road trip with the flu. Your throat will HATE you for it. But it was WORTH IT!)
I gave my hubby a quick synopsis of what had transpired so far as I had read, and then went from there. My husband loves audio books, and likes when I read books to him. So we share what we read, as it helps him get through long trips he has to make for his job. The drive home went so fast because we were both so into this book. We got to the cliffhanger end just as we pulled off the freeway for our home. So I stopped and we unpacked and ate dinner. He was so excited, as was I, to see what happened next! So, he helped in giving this review.
By the way, this was another freebie. I can't even remember when I got it or the description of it, but I'm so very glad I read it!
We have different viewpoints and time periods throughout the book. This helps to keep you riveted. The book starts with the discovery of hidden texts of Biblical worth in the caves of Qumran, when and where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered. We are being told the story, through a sixteen year old girl named Helene, whose father is with a group of friends on the quest to find a Book of the Dead. The story is also told through Helene's granddaughter, Nadia.
We learn of loves lost, deaths and historical events that many in today's society don't see as actual "history" anymore, yet claim they've read it every Sunday, at least.
Biblical History, myth, theological debates, terrorism - this book has a little of everything. But at it's core - we are trying to save the world, literally - but we don't know from what! So, we must hear ALL of Helene's story, as it was told to her daughter Gisele and passed down to her daughter, Nadia.
My husband would surprise me every now and then by really being into the story and ask a question like, "WAIT! What happened to..." which in turn made me more excited to read it to him.
I do hope there are more of these stories as the author left it open for more. My husband does too. Mostly because I want to know what happened to Lillith - yes... THAT Lillith!
Definite read my friends (don't get too offended by the random black guy used as comic relief. He's stereotypical, but at least he's funny!)!
5 out of 5 Bookmarks!
Book Review: Ahhh Ahhh Choooooo! By Sharlene Alexander
Book Title: Ahhh Ahhh Choooooo!
Author: Sharlene Alexander
Genre: Children's Book, ages 3 to 5
I downloaded this to read to my three year old granddaughter, Reba, while we had her for a few days.
She LOVED it, as did her older sister (age almost five). We learned different animals and in the back are interesting facts about sneezing. (Which Jessi, the almost five year old, loved!) It's a short, sweet and to the point book, with great illustrations and imagination stimulation for the kids in your life. Many times, I found Jessi "reading" it to her little sisters. If you can keep Jessi interested, you win!
4 out of 5 Bookmarks
Author: Sharlene Alexander
Genre: Children's Book, ages 3 to 5
I downloaded this to read to my three year old granddaughter, Reba, while we had her for a few days.
She LOVED it, as did her older sister (age almost five). We learned different animals and in the back are interesting facts about sneezing. (Which Jessi, the almost five year old, loved!) It's a short, sweet and to the point book, with great illustrations and imagination stimulation for the kids in your life. Many times, I found Jessi "reading" it to her little sisters. If you can keep Jessi interested, you win!
4 out of 5 Bookmarks
Book Review: Ghosts of Rosewood Asylum by Stephan Prosapio
Book Title: Ghosts of Rosewood Asylum
Author: Stephan Prosapio
Genre: Paranormal Mystery
DISAPPOINTMENT!!!
Obviously, most of the books I've reviewed thus far are of the paranormal fiction nature. Therefore, you are safe to further assume, if I read it, I also WATCH it on TV.
The characters in this book seem to be not so loosely based on people from paranormal TV shows on cable. Even going so far as to name one of the characters "Zach" which, if you watch "Ghost TV" as my four year granddaughter calls it, is the Lead Investigator of the "WHOA DUDE!" show, again as my four year old granddaughter calls it; He's muscular, got tattoos and he and his cohorts are, what they refer to as "locked down" at an investigative site, so they can make sure the area is free of contamination. (Or is it so they can't freak and run out like they've tried to in their early days?)
Given that information, the lack of inventiveness for character building and background gives the reader, at least this reader,the chance to confuse characters, given that the character of "Zach" already gives me a mental image of that person in the above paragraph, from personality and stature to cadence of speech patterns.
The lead character as a person, without even using his name, seems to be based upon another paranormal research team founded at a well known college and was also on TV. This founder went on to write an autobiography where he admits to being bi-sexual, whereas in this book, Ghosts of Rosewood Asylum, the lead character is described as being effeminate (Which is defined as an adjective of a man, having or showing characteristics regarded as typical of a woman or unmanly.) which goes as far as one can to get as close to the TV college ghost hunter without taking the book character's self proclaimed title of "Straight" away from him.
The next main character is called "Bryce". He's as close to the Lead Investigator of "WHOA DUDE!" "Ghost TV" as you can get. In fact, in this book this character indulges in smoking pot, which would explain a lot of the actual TV show in reality, if we didn't already know THAT lead investigator has severe respiratory issues. Even down to the ritual of "pounding fists" before a "ghost hunt" is used by "Bryce" and his team. REALLY!?
I could go on and on about the lack of originality in the characters, but let's look at the story now.
The story was intriguing, and the plot was a good one, however I was even reminded of movies I'd already seen when reading this. Does "I see ghosts" mean anything to you? There are burial grounds, fires and demons and ghosts, murders and spirits who want a physical body. Good story, bad characters.
I am not Catholic, however it is THOROUGHLY pointed out that the lead character is and through the book you learn he has an "affliction" that the Catholic Church refers to as "Stigmata". However, he also shares his body with his God-Father/Uncle's Spirit who shows him and tells him paranormal things and tries to keep him and his team safe. However, through the Stigmata along with those paranormal visions (which he calls an "episode" and the longer they last, the more blood and fluids he loses, taking him close to death at times.) he tries not use his "gift" too much, relying on his research and science.
The epilogue of the book was a nice way to wrap up some of the loose ends, but was obviously taken, yet again, from the TV Shows in the way it was written and portrayed.
2.5 out of 5 Bookmarks (the 2.5 is because the story itself was decent, but I just couldn't get past the crappy characters and TV show rip-offs. If the story was as bad as the characters it would be much lower!)
Author: Stephan Prosapio
Genre: Paranormal Mystery
DISAPPOINTMENT!!!
Obviously, most of the books I've reviewed thus far are of the paranormal fiction nature. Therefore, you are safe to further assume, if I read it, I also WATCH it on TV.
The characters in this book seem to be not so loosely based on people from paranormal TV shows on cable. Even going so far as to name one of the characters "Zach" which, if you watch "Ghost TV" as my four year granddaughter calls it, is the Lead Investigator of the "WHOA DUDE!" show, again as my four year old granddaughter calls it; He's muscular, got tattoos and he and his cohorts are, what they refer to as "locked down" at an investigative site, so they can make sure the area is free of contamination. (Or is it so they can't freak and run out like they've tried to in their early days?)
Given that information, the lack of inventiveness for character building and background gives the reader, at least this reader,the chance to confuse characters, given that the character of "Zach" already gives me a mental image of that person in the above paragraph, from personality and stature to cadence of speech patterns.
The lead character as a person, without even using his name, seems to be based upon another paranormal research team founded at a well known college and was also on TV. This founder went on to write an autobiography where he admits to being bi-sexual, whereas in this book, Ghosts of Rosewood Asylum, the lead character is described as being effeminate (Which is defined as an adjective of a man, having or showing characteristics regarded as typical of a woman or unmanly.) which goes as far as one can to get as close to the TV college ghost hunter without taking the book character's self proclaimed title of "Straight" away from him.
The next main character is called "Bryce". He's as close to the Lead Investigator of "WHOA DUDE!" "Ghost TV" as you can get. In fact, in this book this character indulges in smoking pot, which would explain a lot of the actual TV show in reality, if we didn't already know THAT lead investigator has severe respiratory issues. Even down to the ritual of "pounding fists" before a "ghost hunt" is used by "Bryce" and his team. REALLY!?
I could go on and on about the lack of originality in the characters, but let's look at the story now.
The story was intriguing, and the plot was a good one, however I was even reminded of movies I'd already seen when reading this. Does "I see ghosts" mean anything to you? There are burial grounds, fires and demons and ghosts, murders and spirits who want a physical body. Good story, bad characters.
I am not Catholic, however it is THOROUGHLY pointed out that the lead character is and through the book you learn he has an "affliction" that the Catholic Church refers to as "Stigmata". However, he also shares his body with his God-Father/Uncle's Spirit who shows him and tells him paranormal things and tries to keep him and his team safe. However, through the Stigmata along with those paranormal visions (which he calls an "episode" and the longer they last, the more blood and fluids he loses, taking him close to death at times.) he tries not use his "gift" too much, relying on his research and science.
The epilogue of the book was a nice way to wrap up some of the loose ends, but was obviously taken, yet again, from the TV Shows in the way it was written and portrayed.
2.5 out of 5 Bookmarks (the 2.5 is because the story itself was decent, but I just couldn't get past the crappy characters and TV show rip-offs. If the story was as bad as the characters it would be much lower!)
Book Review: Marked By Moonlight (Moon Chasers Book 1) By Sharie Kohler
Book Title: Marked By Moonlight (Moon Chasers Series Book 1)
Author: Sharie Kohler (AKA Sophie Jordan)
Genre: Paranormal Romance
I'm impressed by the characters in this book, and so far, the series. I've also recently found out that there are SIX books in this series and I've read them out of order. The good thing is, out of order isn't all that bad.
Gideon, at the age of sixteen, watches his parents die, and on this night his life is spared by a man named "Cooper". His mother had been turned into a Lycan and upon her turning has brutally fed upon his father. His sister, Kit, also witnesses the act, but is half Gideon's age.
Gideon devotes his entire life to destroying Lycan with Cooper. Until one night, in an alley, a young man begs him to help the woman he's just bitten, Miss Morgan, his English Teacher.
From there a story unique in nature as well as romance begins. I was impressed by how well it was written and layers of each character were explained as they go along this journey of saving her life. This is a new take on the Lycan and it's Hunter. There are emotional ups and down, but the vividness of detail helps in seeing the story fold out in your head. Also being the first book in this series, this book is setting the "tone" for the rest of series. We learn a lot of back-story to the Lycans as well as the Hunters that are all over the world. We learn how people become infected and other things about Lycans that are not only interesting but have something to do with something else down the road in the series.
Now that I realize I've read them out of order, this is indeed BOOK 1, however I need to get 2 through 4! I inadvertently read 5 and 6! So, I'll keep those reviews until later. This is one of those times though, where I would like to point out that having the number of the book in your series somewhere in the title helps the reader. I couldn't find what number I was on, and this is why I read them out of order. Had there been a clear "book 1", "book 2", in the descriptions when I was purchasing them, it would have made life much easier!
I highly recommend this book if you like Paranormal Romance. The sex scenes are definitely "R" rated, so this wouldn't be for your Y/A audience.
4 out of 5 Bookmarks
Book Review: Reunion by Jeff Bennington
Book Title: Reunion
Author: Jeff Bennington
Genre: Paranormal Thriller
This was a captivating read. At time I found the rhythm slowed down, but because there were sub-plots involved, we are taken back and forth through situations that I can only assume are happening at the same time.
The author starts his book with David Ray, an 18 year old high school senior of a small town, giving us an ongoing monolog of how he feels. Going through some of the circumstances he's had to live through and why he's made the decisions he's made in his life, thus far.
We are then taken to our next characters, building fondness for some and dislike for others, while the high school seniors discuss their impending graduation, Valedictorian announcement and end of year awards ceremony.
We see all the little "cliques" that most schools usually have from the "preppies" to the "jocks", the "nerds"... all the typical groups you'd expect at any average high school.We are then privy to a very violent, heart wrenching scenario.
We then get transported to the planning of the title of the book, Reunion. They're planning a 20th class reunion, but the paranormal after thoughts of tragedy gone by have plans for them.
At times the characters (2 of them) show signs of having some psychic abilities. Each character has PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) and this also plays heavily into the story being told.
This survivors story laced with the paranormal is believable to a point until the end, when a character from the beginning appears virtually from nowhere, and he come off rather preachy in spirituality and psychiatry.
The epilogue of each character was nice, but lacked a lot for a couple of the characters, almost like the author couldn't think of anything that sounded appropriate for them.
All in all I found this book fun to read, interesting, tragic and for the most part believable, which is difficult for some paranormal books to pull off.
3 out of 5 Bookmarks
Author: Jeff Bennington
Genre: Paranormal Thriller
This was a captivating read. At time I found the rhythm slowed down, but because there were sub-plots involved, we are taken back and forth through situations that I can only assume are happening at the same time.
The author starts his book with David Ray, an 18 year old high school senior of a small town, giving us an ongoing monolog of how he feels. Going through some of the circumstances he's had to live through and why he's made the decisions he's made in his life, thus far.
We are then taken to our next characters, building fondness for some and dislike for others, while the high school seniors discuss their impending graduation, Valedictorian announcement and end of year awards ceremony.
We see all the little "cliques" that most schools usually have from the "preppies" to the "jocks", the "nerds"... all the typical groups you'd expect at any average high school.We are then privy to a very violent, heart wrenching scenario.
We then get transported to the planning of the title of the book, Reunion. They're planning a 20th class reunion, but the paranormal after thoughts of tragedy gone by have plans for them.
At times the characters (2 of them) show signs of having some psychic abilities. Each character has PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) and this also plays heavily into the story being told.
This survivors story laced with the paranormal is believable to a point until the end, when a character from the beginning appears virtually from nowhere, and he come off rather preachy in spirituality and psychiatry.
The epilogue of each character was nice, but lacked a lot for a couple of the characters, almost like the author couldn't think of anything that sounded appropriate for them.
All in all I found this book fun to read, interesting, tragic and for the most part believable, which is difficult for some paranormal books to pull off.
3 out of 5 Bookmarks
Book Review: Skinwalkers - Bad Moon Rising Book 1
Book Title: Skinwalkers - Bad Moon Rising, Book 1 of 3
Author: Lorraine Kennedy
Genre: Mystery/Romance/Paranormal
A young woman named Mya is given a summer job by her uncle who is a Detective on a Navajo Reservation in Arizona, following her chosen career path of law enforcement.
The world of Navajo belief/superstition mixed with unexplainable homicides, leads to Mya meeting individuals whose belief in the stories, traditions and superstitions make her second guess her more "down to Earth and realistic" Wisconsin beliefs. That is until she falls in love with the one person she shouldn't.
Enter David Bray, with secrets and traditions of his own that are not only his but the life blood of his people who are dependent upon them and him.
We have all the workings of a great plot. The characters are interesting and engaging but the secondary characters leave you wishing a more in depth story had used them in a wiser manner, however I think the reason it's written the way it is, pertains to the upcoming volumes in this trilogy.
Lots of missing words, misspelled words and punctuation errors, effecting the story at times. I've come to the conclusion though that perhaps Ms. Kennedy means to make these errors. After all... how else to make sure someone is paying attention to the words you so lovingly spent hours of your life weaving a story into? But I stand by my guns on the missing words and misspelled words. After all the books I've read by Ms. Kennedy, we should be past those errors by now.
I liked this story so much, I started the second book already.. So...
3 out of 5 Bookmarks
Author: Lorraine Kennedy
Genre: Mystery/Romance/Paranormal
A young woman named Mya is given a summer job by her uncle who is a Detective on a Navajo Reservation in Arizona, following her chosen career path of law enforcement.
The world of Navajo belief/superstition mixed with unexplainable homicides, leads to Mya meeting individuals whose belief in the stories, traditions and superstitions make her second guess her more "down to Earth and realistic" Wisconsin beliefs. That is until she falls in love with the one person she shouldn't.
Enter David Bray, with secrets and traditions of his own that are not only his but the life blood of his people who are dependent upon them and him.
We have all the workings of a great plot. The characters are interesting and engaging but the secondary characters leave you wishing a more in depth story had used them in a wiser manner, however I think the reason it's written the way it is, pertains to the upcoming volumes in this trilogy.
Lots of missing words, misspelled words and punctuation errors, effecting the story at times. I've come to the conclusion though that perhaps Ms. Kennedy means to make these errors. After all... how else to make sure someone is paying attention to the words you so lovingly spent hours of your life weaving a story into? But I stand by my guns on the missing words and misspelled words. After all the books I've read by Ms. Kennedy, we should be past those errors by now.
I liked this story so much, I started the second book already.. So...
3 out of 5 Bookmarks
Sunday, March 3, 2013
BUSY DAY, HEY , HEY!
OK Peoples, I need some followers for my blog. It's book reviews, The steps I'm taking in writing my own cookbooks, including finding publishers, testing recipes, and venting when stuff doesn't come out the way I think it should...
I know there's a lot of Paranormal stuff I've read and reviewed, but if you'll check it out, that's not all there is. Please ask your friends to check me out at BLOGGER. My gmail account for this blog is melisa.rechenmacher@gmail.com I have a circle of friends and followers (that have NO ONE at the this time.) I share on TWITTER MissySue2U is my handle (I think!) And of course I share on Facebook. If you can PIN me, PIN ME! I haven't figured out how to do that yet.
Now that I have spent the afternoon and most of the evening updating my book reviews, and I still have a lot more to type in...but the light is a coming at the end of the tunnel, you'll really like the books I'm getting into now!
Join me, and you won't regret it! Share me... and I might like it! LOL
Melisa AKA Missy
Book Review: The Turning: UNLEASHED Book 2 By April M Reign
Book Title: The Turning: UNLEASHED Book 2
Author: April M Reign
Genre: YA/Paranormal
This second book in "The Turning" series begins where the first one left off, so if you haven't read that book, or it's review there may be some spoilers in here.
Apollo, feeling he's been denied any choices made in his life, has found and saved a young woman. He falls in love with her. They escape the mountain Apollo was raised on and take up residence in a sleepy little town. But because Apollo was raised so disconnected with society, he doesn't realize there's something wrong with this place.
Rotary phones, Bouffant hair-dos, and everyone is always making comments about having to ask permission of the mayor for everything. And it's quiet, because there is a true absence of children.
Apollo finds other things interesting, even alarming, but trying to fit in, he keeps to himself. His girlfriend Sophie, the young lady he saved on the mountain who is no doubt suffering from PTSD after watching vampires kill her entire family, finds it quaint though, and has made friends. Then one day Apollo's sister and her beau, Ori, arrive at the mortuary Apollo works at.
Amaya has been having visions since her turning. Usually they're of the future, but this one is of the past - now two things pull him back to the mountain. His father has been brutally attacked by werewolves and Amaya's visions.
To keep Sophie safe and happy in this strange town, now seems impossible. Apollo's been confronted by the mayor, he's found records dating back over years and years that are signed by the same hand. Which should be impossible. Apollo knows his questions and snooping are going to get them in trouble. But he needs to know MORE!
He BEGS Sophie to come with him to the mountain cabin, but she lost her entire family on that mountain. She refuses to go, she'll stay with a friend instead, insisting she'll be fine.
He goes to the mountain, to save his father. This trip now answers almost all his questions. But the werewolves come - they want the leader of the clan, Maximiliano, to end a centuries long fight. To this end Apollo learns even more about his family and his mother.
Returning for Sophie, no even admits she existed. No one knows her. The old strange lady he walks by every day then stops him. Says they took her and killed her along with the twins he didn't know she was pregnant with, leading us into book 3.
Now I in NO WAY gave you the whole story, but in order to understand what's going on, this synopsis had to be made. There's so much detail that you either spill a little or say nothing. And believe me... everything here, is a drop in the bucket!
The books are getting better, character development is getting more in depth and I'm excited to read the next one called Vampire Vengeance!
3.5 out of 5 Bookmarks RECOMMEND!
Author: April M Reign
Genre: YA/Paranormal
This second book in "The Turning" series begins where the first one left off, so if you haven't read that book, or it's review there may be some spoilers in here.
Apollo, feeling he's been denied any choices made in his life, has found and saved a young woman. He falls in love with her. They escape the mountain Apollo was raised on and take up residence in a sleepy little town. But because Apollo was raised so disconnected with society, he doesn't realize there's something wrong with this place.
Rotary phones, Bouffant hair-dos, and everyone is always making comments about having to ask permission of the mayor for everything. And it's quiet, because there is a true absence of children.
Apollo finds other things interesting, even alarming, but trying to fit in, he keeps to himself. His girlfriend Sophie, the young lady he saved on the mountain who is no doubt suffering from PTSD after watching vampires kill her entire family, finds it quaint though, and has made friends. Then one day Apollo's sister and her beau, Ori, arrive at the mortuary Apollo works at.
Amaya has been having visions since her turning. Usually they're of the future, but this one is of the past - now two things pull him back to the mountain. His father has been brutally attacked by werewolves and Amaya's visions.
To keep Sophie safe and happy in this strange town, now seems impossible. Apollo's been confronted by the mayor, he's found records dating back over years and years that are signed by the same hand. Which should be impossible. Apollo knows his questions and snooping are going to get them in trouble. But he needs to know MORE!
He BEGS Sophie to come with him to the mountain cabin, but she lost her entire family on that mountain. She refuses to go, she'll stay with a friend instead, insisting she'll be fine.
He goes to the mountain, to save his father. This trip now answers almost all his questions. But the werewolves come - they want the leader of the clan, Maximiliano, to end a centuries long fight. To this end Apollo learns even more about his family and his mother.
Returning for Sophie, no even admits she existed. No one knows her. The old strange lady he walks by every day then stops him. Says they took her and killed her along with the twins he didn't know she was pregnant with, leading us into book 3.
Now I in NO WAY gave you the whole story, but in order to understand what's going on, this synopsis had to be made. There's so much detail that you either spill a little or say nothing. And believe me... everything here, is a drop in the bucket!
The books are getting better, character development is getting more in depth and I'm excited to read the next one called Vampire Vengeance!
3.5 out of 5 Bookmarks RECOMMEND!
Book Review: Play Dead By Anne Fraiser
Book Title: Play Dead
Author: Anne Fraiser
Genre: Paranormal/Mystery/Thriller
Wow. Amazing how the books I picked lately are leading me to zombies - or in this case, drugs that mimic death!
GREAT READ! Great plot - Ex-FBI agent goes into local cop work after his wife kills their son - skeletons in the closet!
The reason I actually chose to read this book was it was a mystery set in Savannah, Georgia. I recently vacationed there and fell in love with it's history, and the author uses it to her advantage in this keep you guessing crime novel.
I'm looking forward to the squeal announced at the end of the book!
Our primary female player has her own interesting back story - abandoned as a baby in a cemetery, adopted by a nice family yet always felt she didn't fit in. She grows up and becomes a cop, who just happened to be partnered with the newbie in the office, the ex-agent, though no one knows he's an ex-agent yet.
The duo then get wrapped up in a case that seems to have bodies re-animating themselves after they've been pronounced dead. You've got Magic involved, spells, Hoo Doo and Voo Doo, and having visited the city, when they mention a specific place, I could picture it in my head, making the story more "real" for me.
A quick fact before I give you my "score" for this book. Savannah is known as the city ON the dead. Unlike New Orleans, the city OF the dead. You see, I learned when we were there, Savannah was the first "planned community" in the United States. But, there was one small cemetery. You had slaves there, and illnesses hit.. so once the ONE place was full, people started burying the dead in their backyards. When buildings burnt down or were replaced, they just built on top of it, including graves from prisoners of war, Indian burial grounds and the like. So the city is literally built ON TOP OF *MILLIONS* of the dead leading it to made named one of America's most Haunted Cities.
So when you read this story, allow that tidbit of history just float in your brain....
3.5 out of 5 Bookmarks
Author: Anne Fraiser
Genre: Paranormal/Mystery/Thriller
Wow. Amazing how the books I picked lately are leading me to zombies - or in this case, drugs that mimic death!
GREAT READ! Great plot - Ex-FBI agent goes into local cop work after his wife kills their son - skeletons in the closet!
The reason I actually chose to read this book was it was a mystery set in Savannah, Georgia. I recently vacationed there and fell in love with it's history, and the author uses it to her advantage in this keep you guessing crime novel.
I'm looking forward to the squeal announced at the end of the book!
Our primary female player has her own interesting back story - abandoned as a baby in a cemetery, adopted by a nice family yet always felt she didn't fit in. She grows up and becomes a cop, who just happened to be partnered with the newbie in the office, the ex-agent, though no one knows he's an ex-agent yet.
The duo then get wrapped up in a case that seems to have bodies re-animating themselves after they've been pronounced dead. You've got Magic involved, spells, Hoo Doo and Voo Doo, and having visited the city, when they mention a specific place, I could picture it in my head, making the story more "real" for me.
A quick fact before I give you my "score" for this book. Savannah is known as the city ON the dead. Unlike New Orleans, the city OF the dead. You see, I learned when we were there, Savannah was the first "planned community" in the United States. But, there was one small cemetery. You had slaves there, and illnesses hit.. so once the ONE place was full, people started burying the dead in their backyards. When buildings burnt down or were replaced, they just built on top of it, including graves from prisoners of war, Indian burial grounds and the like. So the city is literally built ON TOP OF *MILLIONS* of the dead leading it to made named one of America's most Haunted Cities.
So when you read this story, allow that tidbit of history just float in your brain....
3.5 out of 5 Bookmarks
Book Review: Broken by David H Burton
Book Title: Broken
Author: David H. Burton
Genre: Paranormal Romance
I have started asking myself, "Why'd I get this book?". This one was the cover art. Thank you Book Basset for sharing another great book.
I think it's simply human nature to want to disappear from our own lives for a short while, yet still have a sense that, maybe we could be doing what we wish we could. Such as in the way of reading a book. Finding new worlds, beings and visiting historical times. Finding a little of yourself in a character and there you are... in the land an author has created, seemingly just for you. I quickly found that in "Broken". If by anything, the Cover Art!
Katherine Gregory receives a certified letter from her mother, who has been dead for three months. In this letter she finds out she's adopted and the reason for it.
Her roommate's brother, Christopher, has always seemed out of her league, the "tom boy" who doesn't think she's pretty enough. Obviously he's very interested though and they begin a relationship. But this letter changes everything. It says she will die after her twenty third birthday - which is in three days. Her mother even gives her the proof, dating back generations...
She realizes she must see her father's aunt, because her father died when she was a baby, and besides her little brother, who doesn't believe her, the aunt could have the answers she's looking for, to hopefully save her life.
Christopher agrees and goes with her - off to the land of the Fey, Faeries, Nymphs, Changelings, Gnomes, Trolls.... IRELAND!
The plot kept me very interested as we meet many people, figure out the mythical beings and some of the folklore. Learning who to trust and why. Not to mention falling in love.
Great book to take a nice vacation from reality with, highly recommend it!
4 out of 5 Bookmarks!
Book Title: Cursed By Darkness by Anna Sanders
Book Title: Cursed By Darkness
Author: Anna Sanders
Genre: Paranormal/Mystery
The beginning of this book had me intrigued. It was quick moving and the names of characters weren't just interesting, but the "kinds" of characters they were took a spin from your everyday, run of the mill "succubus demon" and "werewolf/body changeling". Even the "Exalted Ones" looking over them carried different names and titles. It was fun!
That's about the end of the positivity from me. Senseless violence, nudity that was very detailed came at me fast paced, however it really had nothing to do with moving the story line along, therefore leaving it lacking in substance.
The premise of the plot is a daevor (winged demon vs. un-winged demon) is "Revenge Killing" the gang members who killed her older sister who was her best friend. In the paranormal community, the family is well respected yet no one can figure out how these people were able to murder someone with psychic abilities to stop humans. Since justice wasn't going to take place, little sister took care of it. The she's made an outcast and to live amongst humans. In come....Zombies.
I don't care for the whole "zombie" genre, so now I'm asking myself how the heck this book just went from a daevor with attitude to flesh eating zombies. Ugh. Really?
Enter the wolf. So "innocent" and "Polite" it's satorical! Seems the zombies have invaded his forest and the Alpha (a *female* with a *female lover*, therefore, not your run-of-the-mill werewolf pack to begin with... I'm very much for equal rights, but isn't the Alpha usually a male with a female counterpart? Nice change up, again!) has gotten word that the daevor living in the human world can help with their zombie infestation problem.
From there it's so predictable after reading the beginning and it's BDSM Side Effects.
The end... What end, I ask? NOTHING WAS RESOLVED! The bad things weren't fixed, there wasn't even a notation telling the reader to wait for the next book, since literally, hell has broken loose.
What we get is a back story of the daevor, Winx, and the gruesome way her sister was killed. THEN *nothing* except more Promos for different books. Really?
1.5 out of 5 Bookmarks
Author: Anna Sanders
Genre: Paranormal/Mystery
The beginning of this book had me intrigued. It was quick moving and the names of characters weren't just interesting, but the "kinds" of characters they were took a spin from your everyday, run of the mill "succubus demon" and "werewolf/body changeling". Even the "Exalted Ones" looking over them carried different names and titles. It was fun!
That's about the end of the positivity from me. Senseless violence, nudity that was very detailed came at me fast paced, however it really had nothing to do with moving the story line along, therefore leaving it lacking in substance.
The premise of the plot is a daevor (winged demon vs. un-winged demon) is "Revenge Killing" the gang members who killed her older sister who was her best friend. In the paranormal community, the family is well respected yet no one can figure out how these people were able to murder someone with psychic abilities to stop humans. Since justice wasn't going to take place, little sister took care of it. The she's made an outcast and to live amongst humans. In come....Zombies.
I don't care for the whole "zombie" genre, so now I'm asking myself how the heck this book just went from a daevor with attitude to flesh eating zombies. Ugh. Really?
Enter the wolf. So "innocent" and "Polite" it's satorical! Seems the zombies have invaded his forest and the Alpha (a *female* with a *female lover*, therefore, not your run-of-the-mill werewolf pack to begin with... I'm very much for equal rights, but isn't the Alpha usually a male with a female counterpart? Nice change up, again!) has gotten word that the daevor living in the human world can help with their zombie infestation problem.
From there it's so predictable after reading the beginning and it's BDSM Side Effects.
The end... What end, I ask? NOTHING WAS RESOLVED! The bad things weren't fixed, there wasn't even a notation telling the reader to wait for the next book, since literally, hell has broken loose.
What we get is a back story of the daevor, Winx, and the gruesome way her sister was killed. THEN *nothing* except more Promos for different books. Really?
1.5 out of 5 Bookmarks
Book Review: Mark of the Witch - Boston Witches Book 1 by Jessica Gibson
Book Title: Mark of the Witch - Boston Witches Book 1
Author: Jessica Gibson
Genre: Paranormal/Thriller
A set of twins, knowing that at a certain age they'll come into their witch powers. One excited, one doesn't want to acknowledge it. The excited one leaves the room with her mother while the other feigns sleeping the night they feel their powers coming in. Their sibling relationship is never the same.
Being the first book in the series, we get a lot of back stories for the major characters. There is some unique thoughts to a few of them.
The plot is interesting but I kept waiting for something more, that never seemed to come.
The ending was really quite anti-climactic as the evil person was built up, yet became a scared psychopath who ran away.
The love story was always a stop and go, slight tension, then gone. I hope the rest of the series gets better.
2.5 Out of 5 Bookmarks
Author: Jessica Gibson
Genre: Paranormal/Thriller
A set of twins, knowing that at a certain age they'll come into their witch powers. One excited, one doesn't want to acknowledge it. The excited one leaves the room with her mother while the other feigns sleeping the night they feel their powers coming in. Their sibling relationship is never the same.
Being the first book in the series, we get a lot of back stories for the major characters. There is some unique thoughts to a few of them.
The plot is interesting but I kept waiting for something more, that never seemed to come.
The ending was really quite anti-climactic as the evil person was built up, yet became a scared psychopath who ran away.
The love story was always a stop and go, slight tension, then gone. I hope the rest of the series gets better.
2.5 Out of 5 Bookmarks
Book Review: Sara's Game by Ernie Lindsey
Book Title: Sara's Game
Author: Ernie Lindsey
Genre: Mystery/Thriller
This book starts off with a small back-story of a "perfect marriage, perfect kids", and one day Sara's husband just drops off the face of the Earth.
A few years later, Sara's children disappear from school - DIFFERENT schools, at the SAME TIME! Now the game begins...
This story of a mother's love, police officers who give so much of their time to learn how to be good cops, the time THEIR family's sacrifice, and top notch thinking on everyone's behalf, is fast paced, mysterious and interesting.
This is a very unique story with quirky twists and outlandish acts that can only be shown as acts of unconditional love. The ending actually had me crying.
Looking forward to reading more of Mr. Lindsey's books!
3 out of 5 Bookmarks
Author: Ernie Lindsey
Genre: Mystery/Thriller
This book starts off with a small back-story of a "perfect marriage, perfect kids", and one day Sara's husband just drops off the face of the Earth.
A few years later, Sara's children disappear from school - DIFFERENT schools, at the SAME TIME! Now the game begins...
This story of a mother's love, police officers who give so much of their time to learn how to be good cops, the time THEIR family's sacrifice, and top notch thinking on everyone's behalf, is fast paced, mysterious and interesting.
This is a very unique story with quirky twists and outlandish acts that can only be shown as acts of unconditional love. The ending actually had me crying.
Looking forward to reading more of Mr. Lindsey's books!
3 out of 5 Bookmarks
Book Review: The Turning - Bound to Darkness Book 1 by April M Reign
Book Title: The Turning - Bound To Darkness Book 1
Author: April M Reign
Genre: Paranormal/YA
This was an interesting book, and not your normal vampire love story.
Twins raised alone in the mountains, away from civilization, living in a cabin with their nanny/tutor. Their father comes in at night, spends time with them, teaching them mountain skills. Their father's friends teach them tracking and hunting. Their mother isn't in the picture. Their father is an enigma to them, but they love and respect him. They are given rules to follow and if the rules are broken there are severe consequences.
Father explains he is a doctor working in a lab trying find the right genome string in DNA to cure a disease and they were given everything by the man employing him, from the cabin they live in, to the clothes on their backs and their education.
The twins are very close. Apollo and Amaya. They're getting ready to turn eighteen, but being raised away from civilization, this birthday is just like any other day, except it's not.
Very interesting how this story is so far but so close to other paranormal series. I'm forever amazed at how the imagination truly is endless. There are circumstances concerning the questioning of loyalties, acts of true love, mysterious undercurrents that need explanations and at the end of the book, you're ready to jump head first into the next one! GREAT read for the young adult in your house!
3.9 out of 5 Bookmarks
Author: April M Reign
Genre: Paranormal/YA
This was an interesting book, and not your normal vampire love story.
Twins raised alone in the mountains, away from civilization, living in a cabin with their nanny/tutor. Their father comes in at night, spends time with them, teaching them mountain skills. Their father's friends teach them tracking and hunting. Their mother isn't in the picture. Their father is an enigma to them, but they love and respect him. They are given rules to follow and if the rules are broken there are severe consequences.
Father explains he is a doctor working in a lab trying find the right genome string in DNA to cure a disease and they were given everything by the man employing him, from the cabin they live in, to the clothes on their backs and their education.
The twins are very close. Apollo and Amaya. They're getting ready to turn eighteen, but being raised away from civilization, this birthday is just like any other day, except it's not.
Very interesting how this story is so far but so close to other paranormal series. I'm forever amazed at how the imagination truly is endless. There are circumstances concerning the questioning of loyalties, acts of true love, mysterious undercurrents that need explanations and at the end of the book, you're ready to jump head first into the next one! GREAT read for the young adult in your house!
3.9 out of 5 Bookmarks
Book Review: Ancient Revenge by J F Lourens
Book Title: Ancient Revenge
Author: J F Lourens
Genre: Theological/Psychological/Thriller
We've got Templars, Ancient Celtic Sects, a Rastafarian little brother to a rich well-off business minded older sister, a CIA Agent in a secret office at the CIA, and of course bad guys galore, who have passed down information for generations and are now complete extreme fanatics. Because the Roman Catholic Church has committed so many "atrocities" there will be - An Ancient Revenge -.
GREAT storyline/plot! Believable and likeable characters that are well rounded and have enough depth to them that you feel the emotional attachments they make or sever. Lots of interesting twists and turns and because there are so many different "organizations", for lack of a better word, that encompasses the likes of Templars to Masonic Brotherhoods to the secret branches of the CIA you're in for a good read.
The only problem I had, which is petty, is the use of phonetic English (The author is Australian and living in Canada) which leaves grammatical and punctuation issues. There were a few inconsistencies, but not enough to ruin any part of the story. I think the author could use a good proofreader or Copy Editor though.
4 out of 5 Bookmarks
WOW Can you tell I'm catching up???
Just wanted to see if y'all were paying attention! I'm trying desperately to catch up so that I can work on my cookbooks and read and still play some games every now and then!
I wasn't kidding when I said I had a LOT of reviews to post. Thus far I'm still posting what I read over the summer! I haven't even gotten to the latest ones yet! And there are a couple children's books coming that I read to my grandkids when I saw them. So, hold on to your seats folks... there's more coming!
Book Review: The Templar Agenda by John Paul Davis
Book Title: The Templar Agenda
Author: John Paul Davis
Genre: Thriller/Mystery
This was not your typical Templar Mystery. This was murder for hire, kidnapping, infiltration of places that were thought to be impenetrable; It was intrigue, full of history and societies and fraternities both known and unknown. It was banking and Wall Street, presidents and diplomats and somewhere in all this - love! And that's just the first twenty pages!
Not your normal Holy Grail story at all. Sometimes the story lost it's pace and became slow for me. But I liked the book. It was a nice way to spend my day on the deck. A good book and a nice breeze. This was money well spent on a story very different than I expected it to be.
4 out of 5 Bookmarks
Author: John Paul Davis
Genre: Thriller/Mystery
This was not your typical Templar Mystery. This was murder for hire, kidnapping, infiltration of places that were thought to be impenetrable; It was intrigue, full of history and societies and fraternities both known and unknown. It was banking and Wall Street, presidents and diplomats and somewhere in all this - love! And that's just the first twenty pages!
Not your normal Holy Grail story at all. Sometimes the story lost it's pace and became slow for me. But I liked the book. It was a nice way to spend my day on the deck. A good book and a nice breeze. This was money well spent on a story very different than I expected it to be.
4 out of 5 Bookmarks
Book Review: The Rozabel Line by Ashwin Sanghi
Book Title: The Rozabal Line
Author: Ashwin Sanghi
Genre: Theological/Thriller/Mystery
After completing this book, first and foremost I must say "WOW!". The amount of research it took to make this book is mind boggling.
The book does get very detailed, so I wouldn't read this while you're going to sleep you'll end up re-reading from the night before because you really have to pay attention to EVERYTHING. We've got all kinds of clandestine groups in this book from Opus Dei to the Knights Templar and the predictions of Nostradamus!
I find the catalyst for the story, Vincent Sinclair, to be a weak character. All the other characters seem thought out and have more substance, whereas Vincent seems to start out strong and then flounders along without bite. The second character that completely confuses me is Swakilki, a female assassin. By the end of the book, she's not explained why she's completely done a 180 degree turn from where she started out.
The intrigue, the murdering, the terrorist attacks and the fact that it all boils down to one thing, is worth the read. If you loved Dan Brown's books that were recently made into movies then roll them into one and add a few twists (or a lot of twists!) and turns, and you'll be on a joy ride of reading!
4.8 out of 5 Bookmarks
Author: Ashwin Sanghi
Genre: Theological/Thriller/Mystery
After completing this book, first and foremost I must say "WOW!". The amount of research it took to make this book is mind boggling.
The book does get very detailed, so I wouldn't read this while you're going to sleep you'll end up re-reading from the night before because you really have to pay attention to EVERYTHING. We've got all kinds of clandestine groups in this book from Opus Dei to the Knights Templar and the predictions of Nostradamus!
I find the catalyst for the story, Vincent Sinclair, to be a weak character. All the other characters seem thought out and have more substance, whereas Vincent seems to start out strong and then flounders along without bite. The second character that completely confuses me is Swakilki, a female assassin. By the end of the book, she's not explained why she's completely done a 180 degree turn from where she started out.
The intrigue, the murdering, the terrorist attacks and the fact that it all boils down to one thing, is worth the read. If you loved Dan Brown's books that were recently made into movies then roll them into one and add a few twists (or a lot of twists!) and turns, and you'll be on a joy ride of reading!
4.8 out of 5 Bookmarks
Book Review: The Templar Concordat by Terrence O'Brien
Book Title: The Templar Concordat
Author: Terrence O'Brien
Genre: Psychological Thriller/Mystery/Theology
Were the Knights Templar really destroyed on that fateful Friday the 13th? Would they still be willing to do the Pope's bidding if they were?
This book takes historical truths and weaves a story into them making for a believable, Islam verses The World scenario.
Characters are visible as the author describes them and their mannerisms. From when, in history with "The Mad Pope" up to the modern era, you are introduced to different Knights, if they exist. ;)
Imagine a Concordat between the Pope and a group of supposedly non-existent, EXTINCT at the hands of a POPE, Knights Templar. Can you dream of the possibilities? This isn't a Dan Brown type novel, I think it's BETTER! Though I found several typos, this would make one helluva movie franchise!
This fast paced, theologically based page turner, keeps you guessing. And you are left wondering.. Are they still around?
5 out of 5 Bookmarks!
Author: Terrence O'Brien
Genre: Psychological Thriller/Mystery/Theology
Were the Knights Templar really destroyed on that fateful Friday the 13th? Would they still be willing to do the Pope's bidding if they were?
This book takes historical truths and weaves a story into them making for a believable, Islam verses The World scenario.
Characters are visible as the author describes them and their mannerisms. From when, in history with "The Mad Pope" up to the modern era, you are introduced to different Knights, if they exist. ;)
Imagine a Concordat between the Pope and a group of supposedly non-existent, EXTINCT at the hands of a POPE, Knights Templar. Can you dream of the possibilities? This isn't a Dan Brown type novel, I think it's BETTER! Though I found several typos, this would make one helluva movie franchise!
This fast paced, theologically based page turner, keeps you guessing. And you are left wondering.. Are they still around?
5 out of 5 Bookmarks!
Book Review: The Immortal Rules by Julie Kagawa
Book Title: The Immortal Rules
Author: Julie Kagawa
Genre: YA/Mystery/Paranormal
I enjoyed this book from the Young Adult Genre. It has everything in it to make for a good story. The characters are easy to visualize with Ms. Kagawa's descriptions. The emotions are quite palpable, giving us what we need to feel attached to the main character as well as the characters the main character, Allison, interacts with.
I also like that the main character is very apt at describing herself, giving us the very clear fact she's of Asian decent. This is only the second book I've read, EVER where the main character is Asian and isn't in the form of a comic book (or for those who are adamant about it, a "Graphic Novel".).
There is GREAT character interplay between good and evil and the cliffhanger was fantastic leaving the possibilities open for anything.
4 out of 5 Bookmarks
Author: Julie Kagawa
Genre: YA/Mystery/Paranormal
I enjoyed this book from the Young Adult Genre. It has everything in it to make for a good story. The characters are easy to visualize with Ms. Kagawa's descriptions. The emotions are quite palpable, giving us what we need to feel attached to the main character as well as the characters the main character, Allison, interacts with.
I also like that the main character is very apt at describing herself, giving us the very clear fact she's of Asian decent. This is only the second book I've read, EVER where the main character is Asian and isn't in the form of a comic book (or for those who are adamant about it, a "Graphic Novel".).
There is GREAT character interplay between good and evil and the cliffhanger was fantastic leaving the possibilities open for anything.
4 out of 5 Bookmarks
Book Review: The Trinity Game by Sean Chercover
Book Title: The Trinity Game
Author: Sean Chercover
Genre: Thriller/Mystery/Theology
Yet again, another one of those "FREEBIES" that I'm so glad I found! It popped up on my Kindle in an advertisement AND on my Facebook Account. I downloaded it and I can't wait to read more from this author!
This story is about a Revival Tent Preacher turned spot-on "prophet" and his estranged Catholic Priest nephew that he raised as his own son. It brings into the ever always present question of miracles and their believability. Is God actually working through someone who's duped the public-at-large out of their money? And just what would happen and how many people would want to kill to keep this miracle quiet?
Great story, mystery and cliffhanger! Sean Chercover is known for his P.I. series, however, THIS is what I now know him for and I'm glad I found him!
4.5 out of 5 Bookmarks
Author: Sean Chercover
Genre: Thriller/Mystery/Theology
Yet again, another one of those "FREEBIES" that I'm so glad I found! It popped up on my Kindle in an advertisement AND on my Facebook Account. I downloaded it and I can't wait to read more from this author!
This story is about a Revival Tent Preacher turned spot-on "prophet" and his estranged Catholic Priest nephew that he raised as his own son. It brings into the ever always present question of miracles and their believability. Is God actually working through someone who's duped the public-at-large out of their money? And just what would happen and how many people would want to kill to keep this miracle quiet?
Great story, mystery and cliffhanger! Sean Chercover is known for his P.I. series, however, THIS is what I now know him for and I'm glad I found him!
4.5 out of 5 Bookmarks
Book Review: Forget Me Not - Mystic Wolves Series Book 2
Book Title: Forget Me Not - Mystic Wolves Series Book 2
Author: Belinda Boring
Genre: Paranormal/Mystery/Romance
Again, Belinda Boring knocks it out of the park! Her characters are so well written, you actually feel their emotion. I honestly can't remember reading a simple "make out session" and having it sound so sexy and alluring!
I love the message of abstinence as well for this twenty-something demographic. It's a breath of fresh air, without being preachy.
The villain was a little too easy to figure out, but I loved the cliffhanger and am looking forward to the next installment!
4 out of 5 Bookmarks
Author: Belinda Boring
Genre: Paranormal/Mystery/Romance
Again, Belinda Boring knocks it out of the park! Her characters are so well written, you actually feel their emotion. I honestly can't remember reading a simple "make out session" and having it sound so sexy and alluring!
I love the message of abstinence as well for this twenty-something demographic. It's a breath of fresh air, without being preachy.
The villain was a little too easy to figure out, but I loved the cliffhanger and am looking forward to the next installment!
4 out of 5 Bookmarks
Book Review: The Mystic Wolves - The Mystic Wolves Series, Book 1
Book Title: The Mystic Wolves - The Mystic Wolves Series, Book 1
Author: Belinda Boring
Genre: Paranormal/Mystery/Romance
After spending much of the last few days in a different series and being very disappointed, (some of the pit falls of reading material from novice authors.) I found this book on Amazon.com.
Belinda Boring is a novice writer, as this is her FIRST book, but you couldn't tell it! How refreshing!
From the beginning of the story you are immediately brought in, as she introduces us to the Mystic Wolves Pack, Pack Law and brings you in by feeling emotionally invested right away!
This story is yet another "original" thought process on the world of "supernatural beings", from witches to the werewolves and vampires. This was enough to take me out of *my own world* and let me escape into another, where I could enjoy the rollercoaster ride of Ms. Boring's wonderful imagination! I'm looking forward to reading more from this author and this series!
4 out of 5 Bookmarks
Author: Belinda Boring
Genre: Paranormal/Mystery/Romance
After spending much of the last few days in a different series and being very disappointed, (some of the pit falls of reading material from novice authors.) I found this book on Amazon.com.
Belinda Boring is a novice writer, as this is her FIRST book, but you couldn't tell it! How refreshing!
From the beginning of the story you are immediately brought in, as she introduces us to the Mystic Wolves Pack, Pack Law and brings you in by feeling emotionally invested right away!
This story is yet another "original" thought process on the world of "supernatural beings", from witches to the werewolves and vampires. This was enough to take me out of *my own world* and let me escape into another, where I could enjoy the rollercoaster ride of Ms. Boring's wonderful imagination! I'm looking forward to reading more from this author and this series!
4 out of 5 Bookmarks
Book Review: Tears Of The Vampire - Book Four in the Immortal Destiny Series
Book Title: Tears of the Vampire - Book 4 in the Immortal Destiny Series
Author: Lorraine Kennedy
Genre: Paranormal/Mystery/Romance
We've met two sisters and a hybrid cousin turned vampire by a psychotic vampire bent on revenge, then says he's in love. Summer's hero, Anton, saves her, leaves his priesthood of the Zen Brotherhood in the werewolf clan of The Vilka to be with her. (Still with me?)
Now we meet the third sister, the youngest immortal sister of the prophecy, Kathrina.
This story has some sporadic writing, lack of proofreading that has plagued the WHOLE series, and gets REALLY confusing at times.
Ms. Kennedy's idea for a story is good, but she needs to work on getting her ideas to written form much better. She also needs to stop relying on grammar check and spell check and invest in a good Copy Editor or at least a good proofreader or two!
Descriptions are very watered-down as we get to the third and fourth books. The same words are used over and over again. (Thesaurus anyone?) The way people fall in love, same way, over and over again. Some characters are completely left out and then given an excuse as an afterthought that just happens to tie in to the rest of story...somewhere...to return. The sisters are to rely on each other and the first two showed a developing friendship while the youngest was left to flounder by herself until the author remembered the older sisters and the crux of the story that they were to rely on each other!
The original attack they supposedly were to get ready for only warranted about three pages. Another fight with someone worse lasts three paragraphs and now the world is all but saved and everyone ignores the youngest sister again. REALLY?!?!
Don't forget we have an eighteen year old who is supposedly half wolf half vampire and somewhere in there is a part angel who can wield the sword of the Archangel Michael and is supposedly immortal by birth, when the 18 year old asks the oldest vampire alive to turn her, so she can spend eternity with him (the "part" angel)?! SHE'S ALREADY IMMORTAL AND CRAVES BLOOD!!
Ms. Kennedy doesn't seem to know her characters... Perhaps a crib sheet next round?
This series, for me, is not something I'd recommend. After getting to the anti-climactic end and quite confusing characters, it's simply a waste of time and brain cells not to mention MONEY.
2 out of 5 Bookmarks The ENTIRE series warrants 2 out of 5 Bookmarks!
Author: Lorraine Kennedy
Genre: Paranormal/Mystery/Romance
We've met two sisters and a hybrid cousin turned vampire by a psychotic vampire bent on revenge, then says he's in love. Summer's hero, Anton, saves her, leaves his priesthood of the Zen Brotherhood in the werewolf clan of The Vilka to be with her. (Still with me?)
Now we meet the third sister, the youngest immortal sister of the prophecy, Kathrina.
This story has some sporadic writing, lack of proofreading that has plagued the WHOLE series, and gets REALLY confusing at times.
Ms. Kennedy's idea for a story is good, but she needs to work on getting her ideas to written form much better. She also needs to stop relying on grammar check and spell check and invest in a good Copy Editor or at least a good proofreader or two!
Descriptions are very watered-down as we get to the third and fourth books. The same words are used over and over again. (Thesaurus anyone?) The way people fall in love, same way, over and over again. Some characters are completely left out and then given an excuse as an afterthought that just happens to tie in to the rest of story...somewhere...to return. The sisters are to rely on each other and the first two showed a developing friendship while the youngest was left to flounder by herself until the author remembered the older sisters and the crux of the story that they were to rely on each other!
The original attack they supposedly were to get ready for only warranted about three pages. Another fight with someone worse lasts three paragraphs and now the world is all but saved and everyone ignores the youngest sister again. REALLY?!?!
Don't forget we have an eighteen year old who is supposedly half wolf half vampire and somewhere in there is a part angel who can wield the sword of the Archangel Michael and is supposedly immortal by birth, when the 18 year old asks the oldest vampire alive to turn her, so she can spend eternity with him (the "part" angel)?! SHE'S ALREADY IMMORTAL AND CRAVES BLOOD!!
Ms. Kennedy doesn't seem to know her characters... Perhaps a crib sheet next round?
This series, for me, is not something I'd recommend. After getting to the anti-climactic end and quite confusing characters, it's simply a waste of time and brain cells not to mention MONEY.
2 out of 5 Bookmarks The ENTIRE series warrants 2 out of 5 Bookmarks!
Book Review: Wolves And Black Roses Book Three in the Immortal Destiny Series
Book Title: Wolves and Black Roses
Author: Lorraine Kennedy
Genre: Paranormal/Mystery/Romance
In this book we meet Summer, a cousin to one of the immortal sisters of the prophecy. she is also a hybrid but of "shifter" breed (jaguar/werewolf) who has always been in love with a member of another "tribe". She's attending college when we first met her in book 2 with Sarah.
Unfortunately all the books in this series seem to have the flaw of bad grammar, misspelled words and awful punctuation.
The good thing is at least the story is good - so far. Of course the running pattern is falling in love with someone you can't possibly have. Then when feelings become mutual, the woman sends the man away and then inexplicably they end up together, happily ever after. Sex scenes are mild in this book compared to others.
2.5 out of 5 Bookmarks
Author: Lorraine Kennedy
Genre: Paranormal/Mystery/Romance
In this book we meet Summer, a cousin to one of the immortal sisters of the prophecy. she is also a hybrid but of "shifter" breed (jaguar/werewolf) who has always been in love with a member of another "tribe". She's attending college when we first met her in book 2 with Sarah.
Unfortunately all the books in this series seem to have the flaw of bad grammar, misspelled words and awful punctuation.
The good thing is at least the story is good - so far. Of course the running pattern is falling in love with someone you can't possibly have. Then when feelings become mutual, the woman sends the man away and then inexplicably they end up together, happily ever after. Sex scenes are mild in this book compared to others.
2.5 out of 5 Bookmarks
Book Review: Night Breed- Book Two in the Immortal Destiny Series
Book Title: Night Breed - Book Two in the Immortal Destiny Series
Author: Lorraine Kennedy
Genre: Paranormal/Romance
I have noted several punctual and grammatical errors throughout the book and it started effecting the way the story reads. You get quite frustrated. Towards the end of the book it improves a little though.
The story is truly what is keeping me interested in this series which helps a lot when there are so many errors. We definitely need to find Ms. Kennedy a good proofreader if not a Copy Editor.
The story's characters from the first book are back and we are now introduced to the second of the three sisters. It seems, so far, each woman whose story is told has a penchant for falling in love with a vampire. This second sister is different from the first, making the story much more interesting as the puzzle pieces fall into place.
I'm not going to say much more as I found the story riveting, but I don't see how I can talk more without giving the story away! YES the storyline is that good even though the errors take away from it a lot. Had the plot been uninteresting I would definitely give up on this series. So, it's the plot and storytelling, not the typos and grammatical errors that I'm trying to pay attention to, though it is getting harder at this point.
3 out of 5 Bookmarks
Author: Lorraine Kennedy
Genre: Paranormal/Romance
I have noted several punctual and grammatical errors throughout the book and it started effecting the way the story reads. You get quite frustrated. Towards the end of the book it improves a little though.
The story is truly what is keeping me interested in this series which helps a lot when there are so many errors. We definitely need to find Ms. Kennedy a good proofreader if not a Copy Editor.
The story's characters from the first book are back and we are now introduced to the second of the three sisters. It seems, so far, each woman whose story is told has a penchant for falling in love with a vampire. This second sister is different from the first, making the story much more interesting as the puzzle pieces fall into place.
I'm not going to say much more as I found the story riveting, but I don't see how I can talk more without giving the story away! YES the storyline is that good even though the errors take away from it a lot. Had the plot been uninteresting I would definitely give up on this series. So, it's the plot and storytelling, not the typos and grammatical errors that I'm trying to pay attention to, though it is getting harder at this point.
3 out of 5 Bookmarks
Book Review: Born to Darkness Book 1 in the Immortal Destiny Series
Book Title: Born to Darkness (Book 1 in the Immortal Destiny Series)
Author: Lorraine Kennedy
Genre: Paranormal/Romance
Honestly, I'm not out there looking for romances, they're just finding me lately! ;)
This is yet another "original spin" on the "Vampire/Human/Werewolf/Afterlife" theme.
The characters are relate-able and at times scary, as they should be! The premise is an ancient vampire mates with human women, three of them give birth to three daughters, who don't know their father is an ancient vampire.
The basis for this is the belief that vampires are actually a "species" who were expelled from the "place of light" and become night dwellers. The plan is a group of people called the "Light Seekers" are trying to find out how to get they're lives back into the light. Wonderful take on the vampire genre!
I had problems with grammatical and punctual errors in this book, which had me trying to guess what the author was intending to say or do. I was really shocked by just how many errors there were. Luckily it didn't take away from the story too much so that I didn't want to continue on with reading the next book in the series. I do hope it improves though, as it does start to get to you after a while.
Yes, I would recommend this book!
3 out of 5 Bookmarks
Author: Lorraine Kennedy
Genre: Paranormal/Romance
Honestly, I'm not out there looking for romances, they're just finding me lately! ;)
This is yet another "original spin" on the "Vampire/Human/Werewolf/Afterlife" theme.
The characters are relate-able and at times scary, as they should be! The premise is an ancient vampire mates with human women, three of them give birth to three daughters, who don't know their father is an ancient vampire.
The basis for this is the belief that vampires are actually a "species" who were expelled from the "place of light" and become night dwellers. The plan is a group of people called the "Light Seekers" are trying to find out how to get they're lives back into the light. Wonderful take on the vampire genre!
I had problems with grammatical and punctual errors in this book, which had me trying to guess what the author was intending to say or do. I was really shocked by just how many errors there were. Luckily it didn't take away from the story too much so that I didn't want to continue on with reading the next book in the series. I do hope it improves though, as it does start to get to you after a while.
Yes, I would recommend this book!
3 out of 5 Bookmarks
Book Review: Switch By Megan Hart
Book Title: Switch
Author: Megan Hart
Genre: ADULT!
Slow Beginning of a twenty-something, divorced woman, trying to better herself and rise above her upbringing.
This book was advertised as: "If you liked "Shades of Grey" you"ll love "Switch"". After reading a previous " book" by this author, I was rather skeptical as to whether or not I was going to have to purchase this book a chapter at a time, as seemed to be indicated by a previously reviewed "series" on my blog, however this wasn't the case.
I think after the underestimated, yet overwhelming success of E. L. James' " Fifty Shades of Grey" series, many have tried to write in the same BDSM vein hoping to achieve the same huge success. As much as I'd like to play "let's compare" I won't, and just simply give my review of this book.
This author has a penchant for writing about women who seem to be less than "innocent" and may have a chip on their shoulder. Our main character, Paige, is no exception. She is a well-formed character and our author has been very diligent, giving us an understanding to her and why she acts and does the things she does even though some acts may be in the realm of self-loathing/self-deprecation. She's got more than one side to her, though she's trying to truly rise above the "white trash" way she was raised with the rather over-used excuse of the mother who is either constantly working or going through a revolving door of boyfriends; Siblings from different fathers and only a nineteen year age difference between she and her mother.
One thing's for sure, she's a very sexually aware being and this shows in her narrative. She's always liked having sex in all ways, but her ex-husband is still perplexed as to whether or not "rough" is the way she likes it. In her own narrative, just like most women, it depends on her mood.
Paige begins trying to change her life by moving to a bigger town, but her small town follows her in the form of her ex-husband and high school sweetheart, and a "best friend" she couldn't really refer to as "best" anymore, because she was trying so hard to be more than she was. She could be anyone, even yourself.
Paige obviously wanted to be, and to a certain point already was, fiercely independent. Yet making and following lists start to become important to her. Though she felt her day already well planned, she found a sense of accomplishment after a list had been completed. She uses the lists to "gain control and completely lose it".
After finishing this book, I was truly unimpressed again by this author. She may have a wonderful following, however I do not find anything positive to take away from this book. As stated earlier, the females seem to have a reason for a chip on their shoulder, and not just in this book but others as well. Paige uses people without thinking of the consequences and really, almost all the sexual activity in the book was about masturbating, again selfish gratification. When she does have intercourse it's always anything but "making love" until the very end.
This was not as advertised, which is fine, but this was in no way even close to the same LEAGUE as "Fifty Shades of Grey". What an insult to E.L. James!
1.5 out of 5 Bookmarks
Author: Megan Hart
Genre: ADULT!
Slow Beginning of a twenty-something, divorced woman, trying to better herself and rise above her upbringing.
This book was advertised as: "If you liked "Shades of Grey" you"ll love "Switch"". After reading a previous " book" by this author, I was rather skeptical as to whether or not I was going to have to purchase this book a chapter at a time, as seemed to be indicated by a previously reviewed "series" on my blog, however this wasn't the case.
I think after the underestimated, yet overwhelming success of E. L. James' " Fifty Shades of Grey" series, many have tried to write in the same BDSM vein hoping to achieve the same huge success. As much as I'd like to play "let's compare" I won't, and just simply give my review of this book.
This author has a penchant for writing about women who seem to be less than "innocent" and may have a chip on their shoulder. Our main character, Paige, is no exception. She is a well-formed character and our author has been very diligent, giving us an understanding to her and why she acts and does the things she does even though some acts may be in the realm of self-loathing/self-deprecation. She's got more than one side to her, though she's trying to truly rise above the "white trash" way she was raised with the rather over-used excuse of the mother who is either constantly working or going through a revolving door of boyfriends; Siblings from different fathers and only a nineteen year age difference between she and her mother.
One thing's for sure, she's a very sexually aware being and this shows in her narrative. She's always liked having sex in all ways, but her ex-husband is still perplexed as to whether or not "rough" is the way she likes it. In her own narrative, just like most women, it depends on her mood.
Paige begins trying to change her life by moving to a bigger town, but her small town follows her in the form of her ex-husband and high school sweetheart, and a "best friend" she couldn't really refer to as "best" anymore, because she was trying so hard to be more than she was. She could be anyone, even yourself.
Paige obviously wanted to be, and to a certain point already was, fiercely independent. Yet making and following lists start to become important to her. Though she felt her day already well planned, she found a sense of accomplishment after a list had been completed. She uses the lists to "gain control and completely lose it".
After finishing this book, I was truly unimpressed again by this author. She may have a wonderful following, however I do not find anything positive to take away from this book. As stated earlier, the females seem to have a reason for a chip on their shoulder, and not just in this book but others as well. Paige uses people without thinking of the consequences and really, almost all the sexual activity in the book was about masturbating, again selfish gratification. When she does have intercourse it's always anything but "making love" until the very end.
This was not as advertised, which is fine, but this was in no way even close to the same LEAGUE as "Fifty Shades of Grey". What an insult to E.L. James!
1.5 out of 5 Bookmarks
Book Review - Resurrected Pt 1 By Megan Hart
Book Title: Resurrected Part One
Author: Megan Hart
Genre: CONFUSED
OK, I have to say I was VERY disappointed. THANK HEAVEN this was free. Though I wish I could return the other THREE volumes I purchased in anticipation of the series being DECENT. What a waste of TIME and MONEY! WHY?!
This book was probably twenty pages long, if I'm lucky! It was more like an essay. A weird, out of place, no character build-up, no storytelling or plot ESSAY!!
We get a character who is a self proclaimed drunk, whose been through severe trauma, enough that the alcohol has separated her from her family. Then we have what we can only assume is a cowboy/law-man, though it's never confirmed WHAT he is. They meet at a bar, get blotto drunk, walk across the street to a motel she's staying at, have casual sex. A TORNADO blows through, they try to drive to check on someone HE cares about, witness total destruction, and then a rapid growth of flowers, that suddenly appear, then release something like pollen, into the air and die. They go to the hospital to help out, a wigged out patient rants about the flowers in her hand and says they're in our bar fly woman and more are coming. That's the WHOLE story. SWEAR IT! (Kinda sounds like an invasion of the Body Snatchers type thing.. but really...how many times can THAT story be re-told?)
I hate re-telling an author's story, but really when it takes one paragraph to tell the ENTIRE first volume, why read or buy anymore when you didn't even understand the characters or story of the first!?
Evidently there are several "parts" to this "series". Why is it in a "series" instead of a cohesive novel? (other than to nickel and dime the reader?) There's NO character development and honestly I have no idea what the plot is, but it has something to do with the weird flowers, I'm sure. This just really isn't "my thing". Didn't interest me and the story left me saying, "HUH?". I really feel I wasted my time.
.5 out of 5 Bookmarks
Author: Megan Hart
Genre: CONFUSED
OK, I have to say I was VERY disappointed. THANK HEAVEN this was free. Though I wish I could return the other THREE volumes I purchased in anticipation of the series being DECENT. What a waste of TIME and MONEY! WHY?!
This book was probably twenty pages long, if I'm lucky! It was more like an essay. A weird, out of place, no character build-up, no storytelling or plot ESSAY!!
We get a character who is a self proclaimed drunk, whose been through severe trauma, enough that the alcohol has separated her from her family. Then we have what we can only assume is a cowboy/law-man, though it's never confirmed WHAT he is. They meet at a bar, get blotto drunk, walk across the street to a motel she's staying at, have casual sex. A TORNADO blows through, they try to drive to check on someone HE cares about, witness total destruction, and then a rapid growth of flowers, that suddenly appear, then release something like pollen, into the air and die. They go to the hospital to help out, a wigged out patient rants about the flowers in her hand and says they're in our bar fly woman and more are coming. That's the WHOLE story. SWEAR IT! (Kinda sounds like an invasion of the Body Snatchers type thing.. but really...how many times can THAT story be re-told?)
I hate re-telling an author's story, but really when it takes one paragraph to tell the ENTIRE first volume, why read or buy anymore when you didn't even understand the characters or story of the first!?
Evidently there are several "parts" to this "series". Why is it in a "series" instead of a cohesive novel? (other than to nickel and dime the reader?) There's NO character development and honestly I have no idea what the plot is, but it has something to do with the weird flowers, I'm sure. This just really isn't "my thing". Didn't interest me and the story left me saying, "HUH?". I really feel I wasted my time.
.5 out of 5 Bookmarks
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