Julie Elizabeth Powell's Blog, page 89
June 3, 2015
New Audiobook for A Murderer's Heart
It's been a steep learning curve, but I think the finished product has made it worth it!
Thanks to Melanie Fraser at ACX, A Murderer's Heart is now available in audio format.
http://www.audible.com/search/ref=a_h...
I do have a limited number of promo codes at Audible for UK and USA readers: maybe they won't last long?
I've posted an event for it too: https://www.goodreads.com/event/show/...
If you miss out on the codes, then it is on special at Audible for only $3.99.
Or Amazon Prime for free.
Or Amazon for only £3.47 if you purchase the Kindle edition (now only .99p).
http://www.amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_sb_n...
It doesn't seem to be showing on the Amazon USA site but that may be because I live in England. I was assured that the USA codes would work. If it's not available on there, then I'm sorry, but you can get it on Audible for a great price.
Well, I love the way it sounds (thanks, Melanie)I hope you do too.
Oh yes, I hope you'll review it everywhere you can and of course on Audible.
Thank you.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/9...
UK - Audible - http://www.audible.co.uk/pd/Crime-Thr...
USA - Audible - http://www.audible.com/pd/Mysteries-T...
UK - Amazon - http://www.amazon.co.uk/A-Murderers-H...
USA - Amazon - http://www.amazon.com/A-Murderers-Hea...
Thanks to Melanie Fraser at ACX, A Murderer's Heart is now available in audio format.
http://www.audible.com/search/ref=a_h...
I do have a limited number of promo codes at Audible for UK and USA readers: maybe they won't last long?
I've posted an event for it too: https://www.goodreads.com/event/show/...
If you miss out on the codes, then it is on special at Audible for only $3.99.
Or Amazon Prime for free.
Or Amazon for only £3.47 if you purchase the Kindle edition (now only .99p).
http://www.amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_sb_n...
It doesn't seem to be showing on the Amazon USA site but that may be because I live in England. I was assured that the USA codes would work. If it's not available on there, then I'm sorry, but you can get it on Audible for a great price.
Well, I love the way it sounds (thanks, Melanie)I hope you do too.
Oh yes, I hope you'll review it everywhere you can and of course on Audible.
Thank you.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/9...
UK - Audible - http://www.audible.co.uk/pd/Crime-Thr...
USA - Audible - http://www.audible.com/pd/Mysteries-T...
UK - Amazon - http://www.amazon.co.uk/A-Murderers-H...
USA - Amazon - http://www.amazon.com/A-Murderers-Hea...
April 9, 2015
Fun Interview
An interview with a difference!
What fun with Misadventures Of Fatwoman
http://feelingnosey.blogspot.co.uk/
This was a interview like no other...please take a wander and see what you think.
Thanks, I.B. Nosey!
What fun with Misadventures Of Fatwoman
http://feelingnosey.blogspot.co.uk/
This was a interview like no other...please take a wander and see what you think.
Thanks, I.B. Nosey!
March 18, 2015
Triptychs is released!
Congratulations to those who snagged this collection for 99c /99p but even the full price is worth it...
Yes, I'm part of this new collection, Triptychs, and I'm honoured to be amongst such wonderful writers.
Here's the talent!
(I copied this list from Darcia Helle's blog...sneaky me).
https://www.goodreads.com/author_blog...
TRIPTYCH I
Photo by Helle Gade
Stories:
We Came From The Ocean by Jason McIntyre
A Storm Is Coming by J. Michael Radcliffe
The Easygoing Widower by Geoffrey David West
TRIPTYCH II
Photo by Martin David Porter
Stories:
#666 by Julie Elizabeth Powell
All Questions Answered by Jay Finn
A Kiss At Sunset by J. Michael Radcliffe
TRIPTYCH III
Photo by Helle Gade
Stories/Poem:
Last Call by Eden Baylee
Think Green by Ben Ditmars
Pointless Story by Darcia Helle
TRIPTYCH IV
Photo by Martin David Porter
Stories/Poem:
May Twenty-Fourth by Lisette Brodey
Destiny by Helle Gade
Getting Away From It All by Geoffrey David West
TRIPTYCH V
Photo by Helle Gade
Stories:
Cloud Animals by Marc Nash
I Wish… by Lisette Brodey
The Last Dawn by Jay Finn
TRIPTYCH VI
Photo by Martin David Porter
Stories:
Swans by Eden Baylee
Water Fugue In C-Minor by Marc Nash
All Things Being Equal by Jason McIntyre
TRIPTYCH VII
Photo by Helle Gade
Stories:
Glimmer Siluridae by Maria Savva
Beyond The Eyes by Julie Elizabeth Powell
Fairies Wear Boots by Darcia Helle
TRIPTYCH VIII
Photo by Martin David Porter
Story/Poems:
Dry Dock by Ben Ditmars
Lost In You by Maria Savva
Meetings in the Night by Helle Gade
This is the third book in the Mind’s Eye Series. Each is a separate and distinct collection of stories and poems inspired by photographs. This collection is a little different than the first two. Rather than each photo inspiring one author and one story, this time we gave the same photo to three authors for three unique stories or poems. I was fascinated to read the various viewpoints. There are indeed three sides to every story, and three stories for every image.
Take a look at the photograph before each set of three stories. What do you see?
***
Triptychs was released March 16th, on Kindle! The print book will be available soon.
Thanks to everyone for making so much effort - writers, photographers, poets and editors.
It was fun.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Triptychs-Min...
USA - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Triptychs-Min...
It is available throughout the world, for the full list please see Maria Savva's blog:
https://www.goodreads.com/author_blog...
Thanks especially to you readers! I hope you enjoy it and please think about leaving a review.
Yes, I'm part of this new collection, Triptychs, and I'm honoured to be amongst such wonderful writers.
Here's the talent!
(I copied this list from Darcia Helle's blog...sneaky me).
https://www.goodreads.com/author_blog...
TRIPTYCH I
Photo by Helle Gade
Stories:
We Came From The Ocean by Jason McIntyre
A Storm Is Coming by J. Michael Radcliffe
The Easygoing Widower by Geoffrey David West
TRIPTYCH II
Photo by Martin David Porter
Stories:
#666 by Julie Elizabeth Powell
All Questions Answered by Jay Finn
A Kiss At Sunset by J. Michael Radcliffe
TRIPTYCH III
Photo by Helle Gade
Stories/Poem:
Last Call by Eden Baylee
Think Green by Ben Ditmars
Pointless Story by Darcia Helle
TRIPTYCH IV
Photo by Martin David Porter
Stories/Poem:
May Twenty-Fourth by Lisette Brodey
Destiny by Helle Gade
Getting Away From It All by Geoffrey David West
TRIPTYCH V
Photo by Helle Gade
Stories:
Cloud Animals by Marc Nash
I Wish… by Lisette Brodey
The Last Dawn by Jay Finn
TRIPTYCH VI
Photo by Martin David Porter
Stories:
Swans by Eden Baylee
Water Fugue In C-Minor by Marc Nash
All Things Being Equal by Jason McIntyre
TRIPTYCH VII
Photo by Helle Gade
Stories:
Glimmer Siluridae by Maria Savva
Beyond The Eyes by Julie Elizabeth Powell
Fairies Wear Boots by Darcia Helle
TRIPTYCH VIII
Photo by Martin David Porter
Story/Poems:
Dry Dock by Ben Ditmars
Lost In You by Maria Savva
Meetings in the Night by Helle Gade
This is the third book in the Mind’s Eye Series. Each is a separate and distinct collection of stories and poems inspired by photographs. This collection is a little different than the first two. Rather than each photo inspiring one author and one story, this time we gave the same photo to three authors for three unique stories or poems. I was fascinated to read the various viewpoints. There are indeed three sides to every story, and three stories for every image.
Take a look at the photograph before each set of three stories. What do you see?
***
Triptychs was released March 16th, on Kindle! The print book will be available soon.
Thanks to everyone for making so much effort - writers, photographers, poets and editors.
It was fun.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Triptychs-Min...
USA - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Triptychs-Min...
It is available throughout the world, for the full list please see Maria Savva's blog:
https://www.goodreads.com/author_blog...
Thanks especially to you readers! I hope you enjoy it and please think about leaving a review.
February 23, 2015
Welcoming in the Spring
To welcome in the spring, I'm offering bargain prices on some of my books -
Gone, Misadventures Of Fatwoman, Of Sound Mind, A Murderer's Heart, Weird: A Henry Ian Darling Oddity Missive One, The Star Realm #1 Avalon Trilogy and Knowing Jack.
Here is the link to the event:
https://www.goodreads.com/event/show/...
Thanks!
Gone, Misadventures Of Fatwoman, Of Sound Mind, A Murderer's Heart, Weird: A Henry Ian Darling Oddity Missive One, The Star Realm #1 Avalon Trilogy and Knowing Jack.
Here is the link to the event:
https://www.goodreads.com/event/show/...
Thanks!
February 15, 2015
Talent Spotting
Some of you may already know of the Mind's Eye Series, where a group of authors create stories from amazing photographs - there have been two collections so far - Reflections and Perspectives.
Photographs from Helle Gade and Martin David Porter - such excellence.
This time, for set three, I have been lucky enough to be included in the mix. And this time, it is three authors creating three stories or poems about the same photograph, hence the tile, Triptychs.
Triptychs is an anthology of very different stories and poems from, in my opinion, a group of very talented authors (okay, I am one of them)! Each author has many book titles to their name already, and it is a privilege to be amongst them.
I never know where my imagination will take me, so it was exciting to be prompted by a photograph - in this instance two of them.
Mine are called #666 (inspired by a night shot of a fairground ride at night) and Beyond The Eyes (created from a reflection of light on a water).
#666 is a darker take on reality (loosely), while Beyond The Eyes has a fantasy /science-fiction element.
I'm delighted in where the photographs took me, and it's incredible how different my efforts are from the others, in that each of us has our own style and that each photo can spark such varied and fabulous outcomes.
As it says on the cover: Take a mental image, divide it three ways, you'll read all the angles in Triptychs.
This is about the cover reveal, but as I still cannot get a grip on how to post a photograph on Goodreads (oops, sorry), I will instead give a link to Eden Baylee's blog so you can see for yourself (and you can read about Eden's input too).
http://edenbaylee.com/
Isn't the cover marvellous?
If you wish to learn more about the Mind's Eye Series, please visit Darcia Helle's website.
http://quietfurybooks.com/mindseyeser...
Thank you for inviting me to take part in this venture and I know I've spotted a bunch of talent within the written words from:
Maria Savva
http://www.mariasavva.com/site/
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Darcia Helle
http://quietfurybooks.com/index.html
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Michael J Radcliffe
http://www.theguardiansapprentice.com/
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Jason Mcintyre
http://www.thefarthestreaches.com/
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Eden Baylee
http://edenbaylee.com/
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Lisette Brodey
http://lisettebrodey.com/
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Ben Ditmars
https://benjaminditmars.wordpress.com/
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Helle Gade
https://hellegade.wordpress.com/about/
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Jay Finn
https://jayfinnauthor.wordpress.com/
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Marc Nash
http://sulcicollective.blogspot.co.uk/
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Geoffery West
http://www.geoffreydavidwest.com/
Martin David Porter
https://www.facebook.com/MartsArtsPho...
Oh yes, and there's me:
Julie Elizabeth Powell
http://www.freewebs.com/julizpow
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Editor: Bob Helle
http://www.quietfurybooks.com/editing...
The book will be released soon - I'll come back and post the links!
Available for pre-order now! Only 99p/99c...usual price $3.99 from March 16, 2015
http://www.amazon.com/Triptychs-Minds...
I'm sure you'll enjoy this wonderful collection - and if you do, please think about posting a review.
Photographs from Helle Gade and Martin David Porter - such excellence.
This time, for set three, I have been lucky enough to be included in the mix. And this time, it is three authors creating three stories or poems about the same photograph, hence the tile, Triptychs.
Triptychs is an anthology of very different stories and poems from, in my opinion, a group of very talented authors (okay, I am one of them)! Each author has many book titles to their name already, and it is a privilege to be amongst them.
I never know where my imagination will take me, so it was exciting to be prompted by a photograph - in this instance two of them.
Mine are called #666 (inspired by a night shot of a fairground ride at night) and Beyond The Eyes (created from a reflection of light on a water).
#666 is a darker take on reality (loosely), while Beyond The Eyes has a fantasy /science-fiction element.
I'm delighted in where the photographs took me, and it's incredible how different my efforts are from the others, in that each of us has our own style and that each photo can spark such varied and fabulous outcomes.
As it says on the cover: Take a mental image, divide it three ways, you'll read all the angles in Triptychs.
This is about the cover reveal, but as I still cannot get a grip on how to post a photograph on Goodreads (oops, sorry), I will instead give a link to Eden Baylee's blog so you can see for yourself (and you can read about Eden's input too).
http://edenbaylee.com/
Isn't the cover marvellous?
If you wish to learn more about the Mind's Eye Series, please visit Darcia Helle's website.
http://quietfurybooks.com/mindseyeser...
Thank you for inviting me to take part in this venture and I know I've spotted a bunch of talent within the written words from:
Maria Savva
http://www.mariasavva.com/site/
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Darcia Helle
http://quietfurybooks.com/index.html
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Michael J Radcliffe
http://www.theguardiansapprentice.com/
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Jason Mcintyre
http://www.thefarthestreaches.com/
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Eden Baylee
http://edenbaylee.com/
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Lisette Brodey
http://lisettebrodey.com/
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Ben Ditmars
https://benjaminditmars.wordpress.com/
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Helle Gade
https://hellegade.wordpress.com/about/
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Jay Finn
https://jayfinnauthor.wordpress.com/
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Marc Nash
http://sulcicollective.blogspot.co.uk/
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Geoffery West
http://www.geoffreydavidwest.com/
Martin David Porter
https://www.facebook.com/MartsArtsPho...
Oh yes, and there's me:
Julie Elizabeth Powell
http://www.freewebs.com/julizpow
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Editor: Bob Helle
http://www.quietfurybooks.com/editing...
The book will be released soon - I'll come back and post the links!
Available for pre-order now! Only 99p/99c...usual price $3.99 from March 16, 2015
http://www.amazon.com/Triptychs-Minds...
I'm sure you'll enjoy this wonderful collection - and if you do, please think about posting a review.
December 1, 2014
Wonderful Reads
Here's the second post.
I just had to tell you about some of the wonderful books I've read recently in addition to some old favourites.
***
Brian Harmon is a recent discovery for me. He's an independent writer of horror /thrillers.
He has written two main series - Rushed and Temple of the Blind and cleverly offers the first ones FREE.
You'll be hooked if you read them!
***
Rushed #1 by Brian Harmon
Eric can't remember the recurring dream that keeps waking him in the middle of the night with an overwhelming urge to leave, yet he spends each day feeling as if he desperately needs to be somewhere. With no idea how to cure himself of this odd compulsion, he decides to let it take its course and go for a drive, hoping that once he proves to himself that there is nowhere to go, he can return to his normal life. Instead, he finds himself hurled headlong into a nightmare adventure across a fractured Wisconsin as the dream reveals itself one heart-pounding detail at a time.
Horror, science fiction, dark fantasy. From the author of The Temple of the Blind. 84,000 words.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Rushed-Book-1...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Rushed-Book-1-B...
My review:
A superb dark story of an unusual journey of Eric, a seemingly ordinary man on a mission delivered by a dream.
It's difficult to say much without giving away too much but it's well written with great humour, dialogue and detailed horror and suspense. The characters are realistic and believable despite the fantasy element and I was hooked from the start.
Highly recommended.
***
Temple of the Blind #1 - The Box by Brian Harmon
When Albert finds a mysterious wooden box waiting for him in the driver's seat of his locked car, he has no idea that it will lead him on an extraordinary and terrifying adventure. Each clue he unravels leads only to more questions as he pieces together a map of the complex, subterranean system that lies beneath the city and the strange labyrinth hidden deep within. Can he discover the meaning behind the box? Or will the endless darkness and the things that lurk unseen within these walls swallow him forever?
Book one of The Temple of the Blind. 52,000 words. Adult content. Horror, dark adventure, suspense, mystery.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Box-Temple-Bl...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Box-Temple-Blin...
My review:
This was a very well written original story filled with mystery, suspense and intrigue. The characters were realistic and fit together well in this unusual tale about a mysterious box.
I don't give spoilers so it is difficult to say too much, however, this is a horror with a difference, something to trigger many questions and wonder about the capabilities of humankind. I will say that I was surprised at the unexpected turn of events and its explicit nature but it did fit in with the story.
Very well done, so good that I am now reading book 2.
***
I've since read all the Temple of the Blind and loved the lot!
I've pre-ordered #4 in the Rushed series. I've also read his short stories too. Brilliant author!
***
Triana Willard is another recent discover, her books captured my imagination...magic in old Japan.
Now, this may seem confusing, but I read The Book of En first because it was on special through Clean Indie Reads (book group on Facebook), but in actuality, it is about Midori before her rise in Autumn Magic. However, personally, I think The Book of En should be read first...it's up to you. I think you'll want to read them both, regardless.
The Book of En by Triana Willard
The exciting prequel to Autumn Magic…
Before she was Lady Green Aki, powerful, rich and refined, she was Midori – a foundling raised by the witch Isala. Midori’s true dreams that show her the future might be the key to a better life, but others have plans to use her talents for their own advantage. Midori is taken from her quiet village and thrown into the aristocratic world of the bustling city Saikyo, where her magical gift will lead her before the great witch Queen herself.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Book-En-T...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Book-En-Triana-...
My review:
A fabulous read about a girl who dreams about the future and those who wish to exploit her gift.
I found this wonderfully descriptive story rich in the Japanese culture, filled with mystery, magic and intrigue. The characters are realistic despite the fantasy feel - both good and bad. Each brought another dimension to this fascinating tale. We follow the changes and how the girl's encounters determined her life and...I don't give spoilers!
Overall, a gripping adventure, the prequel to Autumn Magic, which I am now reading.
Highly recommend to those who enjoy something different and enchanting.
***
Autumn Magic by Triana Willard
Exiled to the last outpost of the Empire…
Wren could not remember the glorious city, and could not regret the quiet way she had been raised. But she knew Sky longed for nothing more than to return to the capital. Obviously, she was willing to do anything, even leave Wren behind, to return there.
When a stranger arrives from the capital, Wren is faced with a decision that will change her life forever as dark forces from across the mountains compel her to act.
Can Wren let her sister go, restore honour to her family, and come to grips with the world of magic unfolding around her?
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Autumn-Magic-...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Autumn-Magic-Tr...
My review:
Having enjoyed reading The Book Of En, I knew I wanted to read this story... I was not disappointed. This was an enchanting tale of Wren and her journey in finding out who she is and where she belongs.
I don't give spoilers but will say that this is a well written compelling read filled with magic, mystery, beautiful imagery and an Eastern culture.
Very well done and highly recommended.
***
This next one is a short story collection, written by an assortment of talented authors, each from the photographic talent of Martin David Porter and Helle Gade.
It's called Reflections, the second collection from the Mind's Eye series, where each author is given a photograph from which to write a story or poem - clever idea, expertly done.
Reflections by Darcia Helle, Maria Savva, Jason McIntyre, J. Michael Radcliffe, Ben Ditmars and Helle Gade.
Do you trust what you see?
Right becomes left.
Up becomes down.
Distorted, unreal.
Your world looks new when you see its...
REFLECTIONS
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Reflections-M...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Reflections-Min...
My review:
Having read the first collection, I knew I would want to read this one. Every story is an imaginative take on the wonderful photographs provided by Martin David Porter and Helle Gade, each author bringing their unique style and delighting the reader.
It's not easy to say too much because I never give spoilers, but there's magic, horror, intrigue, humour, darkness and light (and more) - every tale original, creative and imaginative - amazingly sparked from a photograph.
The poetry too is moving, if sad for the most part, but excellently bringing words together in an almost dreamlike way.
Overall, a brilliant collection - not least the 'real life' tale from Martin David Porter and the squirrel!
Love it - highly recommended.
***
Catherine Cookson has been a long favourite author of mine, although I hadn't realise I'd not read everything, so I loaded some onto my Kindle. This author had a fantastic sense of people and their motives...
The Parson's Daughter by Catherine Cookson
The Victorian Sabbath was not without its difficulties for some of those committed to its observance. Such a one was Nancy Ann Hazel, the young and high-spirited daughter of a country parson. He was a good man and she loved him dearly, but his Sunday sermons could seem long indeed when beyond the church door the sunshine beckoned her into the fields of this pleasant corner of County Durham.
Two older brothers had taught Nancy Ann how to look after herself, so that she could, when necessary, hold her own with the roughest of the village children, even though such escapades might not be considered altogether fitting in a daughter of the vicarage; but they foreshadowed the courage and fortitude she would soon enough have to muster when the greater challenges of a controversial marriage thrust her into womanhood, and when conflict and tragedy alike had to be faced and overcome.
The Parson's Daughter is a major novel spanning the last quarter of the nineteenth century and introduces one of Catherine Cookson's most memorable heroines. Its strong and vibrant narrative will captivate this great storyteller's readers throughout the world.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Parsons-D...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Parsons-Daughte...
My review:
A firm favourite, this author never disappoints. I always love the way the characters are so real and jump off the page. The Parson's Daughter is no exception, and we see Nancy Ann grow from child to girl to woman and live with her through the journey she takes with love, guilt, remorse and many other human emotions.
I also like that, although we are reading Nancy Ann's journey, we also see through eyes of other characters, so to give balance and more depth to the story.
I never give spoilers so it's always difficult to say much, especially when it's such a good story, this time taking place in England in the late 19th century. This author has an abundance of knowledge of the status and wide gap between the rich and poor and the many supposedly civilised notions of what is right and wrong in that era. The arrogance of the rich is astounding, and very real, whereas the poor struggle the same as they do today, as people never change regardless of laws - despite the massive improvements that have been made over the years...attitudes, it could be said, never change.
Overall a fantastic read that pulls the reader from beginning to end.
Highly recommended.
***
Another recent find from Steve LeBel - unusual and funny.
The Universe Builders: Bernie and the Putty by Steve LeBel
Dive into a humorous fantasy world unlike anything you have imagined - a world of gods and goddesses who build universes for a living. Are they all-powerful and all-knowing? Well, not exactly...
As Bernie graduates from God School, he is thrilled to land his dream job as a builder of universes. His first assignment is to build his own universe. Determined but unsure, bright but without confidence, Bernie forges ahead, only to find problems everywhere. Mysterious asteroids, unexplained volcanoes, shifting continents and more lead him to suspect sabotage. But who could sabotage his universe? Only another god could do that...
It’s god vs. god, guile vs. goodness, where only one of them plays by the rules. Bernie must find a way to outwit his vicious foe. If he fails, it will cost him everything.
A fascinating tale of good vs. evil and a young hero on a journey of self-discovery in an original, humorous, fantastic wrapper.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Universe-...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Universe-Builde...
My review:
I was sent this book for review quite some time ago and have only just been able to read it because my list is vast. As a reviewer as well as an author, I don't necessarily know what to expect and this story surprised me - it is an amazing read.
Being a mixture of fantasy, science-fiction and science-fact for the main part, this was fascinating in itself, and yet it was filled with intrigue, good v evil and a touch of romance. It is also steeped in philosophy and myth, intermingled with such topics as bullying, power games, ecology, morality and ethics.
I love the realistic feel of the characters, especially Bernie and his mix of emotions and kind heart.
I don't want to give away its secrets so will say that, in my opinion, this story is original, intelligent, well researched and very clever, and written in such a way as to draw in the reader from the start.
Yes, I am now a fan.
Highly recommended.
***
Okay, Dean Koontz doesn't need my help with promotion, but I loved this story...
The City by Dean Koontz
No.1 New York Times bestselling author Dean Koontz is at the peak of his storytelling powers with this major new novel – a rich, multi-layered story that moves back and forth across decades and generations as a gifted musician relates the ‘terrible and wonderful’ events that began in his city in 1967, when he was ten.
THIS IS THE STORY OF A BOY AND A CITY…
Jonah Kirk’s childhood has been punctuated by extraordinary moments – like the time a generous stranger helped him realize his dream of learning the piano. Nothing is more important to him than his family and friends, and the electrifying power of music.
But now Jonah has a terrifying secret. And it sets him on a collision course with a group of dangerous people who will change his life forever.
For one bright morning, a single earth-shattering event will show Jonah that in his city, good is entwined with malice, and sometimes the dark side of humanity triumphs. But it will also teach him that courage and honour are found in the most unexpected places, and the way forward lies buried deep inside the heart.
If he can just survive to find it…
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-City-Dean...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/City-Novel-Dean...
My review:
Dean Koontz is my favourite author because I love the way he uses his characters to explore mystery - the mystery of the world within which there is something so intriguing if we only take the time to look.
The City has its dark plot, its wonderfully described characters that are so easily brought to life and its delicious mystery of something more. It is sad and it is beautiful and is deeply thought provoking. I would love to have known Amalia more.
This author's work just gets better and better. I don't give spoilers but will say that this story is fantastic and highly recommended
***
Beth M Honeycutt is another newbie for me, but she's a great author.
What Dreams May Come by Beth M Honecutt
Reality is overrated. Or so Ellie Cross has always believed.
Ellie is an ordinary, nothing-special girl who feels invisible most of the time. She’s the kind of girl who would loan her lunch money to anyone, but she’s definitely not the kind of girl to get noticed. Well, except by her mom, who constantly nags her not to be such a dreamer, and the class bully who makes her life miserable. It’s kinda grim for a girl who’s already painfully shy and all-too-aware that she “takes work.”
But Ellie has a best friend, someone she can turn to whenever she has a problem. Well, some might call him an imaginary friend, since they’ve never actually met outside of dreams.
And, sure, Ellie knows it’s kinda weird to have a friend no one else can see, but since her real-world friends currently number one, she figures an imaginary friend can only improve her social life. Even better, since he isn’t real, she can tell dream-guy-Gabe anything, without ever worrying that he’ll ditch her for someone cooler or embarrass her by blabbing her secrets. And so what if she happens to have an itsy-bitsy crush on her reality-challenged friend? Who’s it hurting, really?
But things are about to get complicated, because there’s a new guy in school—a guy with hauntingly familiar eyes. A guy who knows things about Ellie that he shouldn’t have any way of knowing…
This book has been professionally edited and proofread.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/What-Dreams-M...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/What-Dreams-May...
My review:
I was very lucky to receive this book for review despite it being a romance and for a younger audience - as I don't usually read this genre and am far from young.
However, for one, I loved the writing style, which flowed easily from beginning to end. Its humour, too, was excellent. It was the psychological insights that made this story a winner for me because the author truly understood the inner turmoil of being human and the differences between how others see us and how we see ourselves.
I don't give spoilers but will say that this tale is based on a clever idea and is written extremely well, with some beautiful scenes that express what can be difficult emotions without sickly sentimentality.
Very well done and highly recommended.
***
Recommended reads not so recent:
Haunted by Maria Savva
Nigel Price has MURDER on his mind.
He can run but he cannot hide. Nigel's past has come back to haunt him. The truth is, his past has never left him... it follows him without remorse, catching him at every turn. There is no escape.
Regret, guilt, nightmares, despair... these fill his every waking hour and disturb his sleepless nights.
Take a trip inside Nigel's mind, in this dark, psychological thriller with a paranormal twist.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Haunted-Maria...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Haunted-Maria-S...
My review:
I was lucky enough to read this story in advance of publication and I loved it from beginning to end.
I really enjoyed the in-depth character building - so important to a story - where I could see into the minds of each of them, making for great reading. The plot was dark and clever and kept me guessing until the end.
The story gave great insight into the emotions of mankind, where guilt can create an obsessive and insane point of view. We can wonder what we'd do in the circumstances given in the plot and whether conscience is a spark for 'doing the right thing' and if we don't, we have to accept the consequences - these issues are dealt with creatively, yet never once leaving behind reality...cleverly done.
A fantastic read, well written within its many twists and turns, and so far, my favourite story by this talented author.
Highly recommended.
***
Secrets by Darcia Helle
SURVIVAL
Samantha’s monsters aren't under the bed; they’re the people she calls Mom and Dad.
ESCAPE
She makes it out alive, her sanity barely intact.
LIES
She creates a new past that fools everyone, including herself.
HOPE
A life filled with love and security teeters on its base of lies.
SECRETS
When it all comes crumbling down, will Samantha make it out alive?
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Secrets-Darci...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Secrets-Darcia-...
My review:
I won a copy of this book and I was immensely glad I did - it was fantastic. It's extremely well-written and so fast-paced that it was almost mind-blowing, to coin a phrase. The characters are wonderful - both good and bad - and I couldn't wait to see what happened.
Secrets is a true testament to the saying that an easy to read book is difficult to write - a truly amazing talent.
There are many things I'd like to say about it, but I never give spoilers, however, I will say the storyline will have you on the edge of your seat, and that it certainly deals with how secrets can both save lives in the beginning but will destroy them in the end, if we don't take them by the scruff of the neck and shake them loose.
Highly recommended.
***
A Measure of Disorder by Alan Tucker
Jenni Kershaw’s ordinary, eighth grade life becomes a thing of the past when her science class goes on a field trip. Armed with only their notebooks, MP3 players, and wits, Jenni and her classmates are magically transported to another world. Follow Jenni and her class on their extraordinary adventures in their fight to find their way home and discover who — and what — they really are.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Measure-Disor...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Measure-Disorde...
My review:
I knew from the beginning I was going to love this story - well written, great characters and fabulous originality!
It starts with a group of teenagers on a school field trip - ordinary, everyday, yes - until...
I don't give spoilers but will say that this is a delightful, insightful, energising read, in-built with messages about Nature and how things will only become worse for Earth if things don't change. This is cleverly done within a wonderfully imaginative created fantasy world, where descriptions bring it alive - that and the cast of great characters (some unusual, some bad, some good some...unexpected).
Highly recommended - and yes, I am already reading book two in the series.
*****************************************
Well, there they are, some superb reads...time ran out to include them all, but thank you authors for giving me joy with your words.
I just had to tell you about some of the wonderful books I've read recently in addition to some old favourites.
***
Brian Harmon is a recent discovery for me. He's an independent writer of horror /thrillers.
He has written two main series - Rushed and Temple of the Blind and cleverly offers the first ones FREE.
You'll be hooked if you read them!
***
Rushed #1 by Brian Harmon
Eric can't remember the recurring dream that keeps waking him in the middle of the night with an overwhelming urge to leave, yet he spends each day feeling as if he desperately needs to be somewhere. With no idea how to cure himself of this odd compulsion, he decides to let it take its course and go for a drive, hoping that once he proves to himself that there is nowhere to go, he can return to his normal life. Instead, he finds himself hurled headlong into a nightmare adventure across a fractured Wisconsin as the dream reveals itself one heart-pounding detail at a time.
Horror, science fiction, dark fantasy. From the author of The Temple of the Blind. 84,000 words.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Rushed-Book-1...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Rushed-Book-1-B...
My review:
A superb dark story of an unusual journey of Eric, a seemingly ordinary man on a mission delivered by a dream.
It's difficult to say much without giving away too much but it's well written with great humour, dialogue and detailed horror and suspense. The characters are realistic and believable despite the fantasy element and I was hooked from the start.
Highly recommended.
***
Temple of the Blind #1 - The Box by Brian Harmon
When Albert finds a mysterious wooden box waiting for him in the driver's seat of his locked car, he has no idea that it will lead him on an extraordinary and terrifying adventure. Each clue he unravels leads only to more questions as he pieces together a map of the complex, subterranean system that lies beneath the city and the strange labyrinth hidden deep within. Can he discover the meaning behind the box? Or will the endless darkness and the things that lurk unseen within these walls swallow him forever?
Book one of The Temple of the Blind. 52,000 words. Adult content. Horror, dark adventure, suspense, mystery.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Box-Temple-Bl...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Box-Temple-Blin...
My review:
This was a very well written original story filled with mystery, suspense and intrigue. The characters were realistic and fit together well in this unusual tale about a mysterious box.
I don't give spoilers so it is difficult to say too much, however, this is a horror with a difference, something to trigger many questions and wonder about the capabilities of humankind. I will say that I was surprised at the unexpected turn of events and its explicit nature but it did fit in with the story.
Very well done, so good that I am now reading book 2.
***
I've since read all the Temple of the Blind and loved the lot!
I've pre-ordered #4 in the Rushed series. I've also read his short stories too. Brilliant author!
***
Triana Willard is another recent discover, her books captured my imagination...magic in old Japan.
Now, this may seem confusing, but I read The Book of En first because it was on special through Clean Indie Reads (book group on Facebook), but in actuality, it is about Midori before her rise in Autumn Magic. However, personally, I think The Book of En should be read first...it's up to you. I think you'll want to read them both, regardless.
The Book of En by Triana Willard
The exciting prequel to Autumn Magic…
Before she was Lady Green Aki, powerful, rich and refined, she was Midori – a foundling raised by the witch Isala. Midori’s true dreams that show her the future might be the key to a better life, but others have plans to use her talents for their own advantage. Midori is taken from her quiet village and thrown into the aristocratic world of the bustling city Saikyo, where her magical gift will lead her before the great witch Queen herself.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Book-En-T...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Book-En-Triana-...
My review:
A fabulous read about a girl who dreams about the future and those who wish to exploit her gift.
I found this wonderfully descriptive story rich in the Japanese culture, filled with mystery, magic and intrigue. The characters are realistic despite the fantasy feel - both good and bad. Each brought another dimension to this fascinating tale. We follow the changes and how the girl's encounters determined her life and...I don't give spoilers!
Overall, a gripping adventure, the prequel to Autumn Magic, which I am now reading.
Highly recommend to those who enjoy something different and enchanting.
***
Autumn Magic by Triana Willard
Exiled to the last outpost of the Empire…
Wren could not remember the glorious city, and could not regret the quiet way she had been raised. But she knew Sky longed for nothing more than to return to the capital. Obviously, she was willing to do anything, even leave Wren behind, to return there.
When a stranger arrives from the capital, Wren is faced with a decision that will change her life forever as dark forces from across the mountains compel her to act.
Can Wren let her sister go, restore honour to her family, and come to grips with the world of magic unfolding around her?
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Autumn-Magic-...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Autumn-Magic-Tr...
My review:
Having enjoyed reading The Book Of En, I knew I wanted to read this story... I was not disappointed. This was an enchanting tale of Wren and her journey in finding out who she is and where she belongs.
I don't give spoilers but will say that this is a well written compelling read filled with magic, mystery, beautiful imagery and an Eastern culture.
Very well done and highly recommended.
***
This next one is a short story collection, written by an assortment of talented authors, each from the photographic talent of Martin David Porter and Helle Gade.
It's called Reflections, the second collection from the Mind's Eye series, where each author is given a photograph from which to write a story or poem - clever idea, expertly done.
Reflections by Darcia Helle, Maria Savva, Jason McIntyre, J. Michael Radcliffe, Ben Ditmars and Helle Gade.
Do you trust what you see?
Right becomes left.
Up becomes down.
Distorted, unreal.
Your world looks new when you see its...
REFLECTIONS
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Reflections-M...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Reflections-Min...
My review:
Having read the first collection, I knew I would want to read this one. Every story is an imaginative take on the wonderful photographs provided by Martin David Porter and Helle Gade, each author bringing their unique style and delighting the reader.
It's not easy to say too much because I never give spoilers, but there's magic, horror, intrigue, humour, darkness and light (and more) - every tale original, creative and imaginative - amazingly sparked from a photograph.
The poetry too is moving, if sad for the most part, but excellently bringing words together in an almost dreamlike way.
Overall, a brilliant collection - not least the 'real life' tale from Martin David Porter and the squirrel!
Love it - highly recommended.
***
Catherine Cookson has been a long favourite author of mine, although I hadn't realise I'd not read everything, so I loaded some onto my Kindle. This author had a fantastic sense of people and their motives...
The Parson's Daughter by Catherine Cookson
The Victorian Sabbath was not without its difficulties for some of those committed to its observance. Such a one was Nancy Ann Hazel, the young and high-spirited daughter of a country parson. He was a good man and she loved him dearly, but his Sunday sermons could seem long indeed when beyond the church door the sunshine beckoned her into the fields of this pleasant corner of County Durham.
Two older brothers had taught Nancy Ann how to look after herself, so that she could, when necessary, hold her own with the roughest of the village children, even though such escapades might not be considered altogether fitting in a daughter of the vicarage; but they foreshadowed the courage and fortitude she would soon enough have to muster when the greater challenges of a controversial marriage thrust her into womanhood, and when conflict and tragedy alike had to be faced and overcome.
The Parson's Daughter is a major novel spanning the last quarter of the nineteenth century and introduces one of Catherine Cookson's most memorable heroines. Its strong and vibrant narrative will captivate this great storyteller's readers throughout the world.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Parsons-D...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Parsons-Daughte...
My review:
A firm favourite, this author never disappoints. I always love the way the characters are so real and jump off the page. The Parson's Daughter is no exception, and we see Nancy Ann grow from child to girl to woman and live with her through the journey she takes with love, guilt, remorse and many other human emotions.
I also like that, although we are reading Nancy Ann's journey, we also see through eyes of other characters, so to give balance and more depth to the story.
I never give spoilers so it's always difficult to say much, especially when it's such a good story, this time taking place in England in the late 19th century. This author has an abundance of knowledge of the status and wide gap between the rich and poor and the many supposedly civilised notions of what is right and wrong in that era. The arrogance of the rich is astounding, and very real, whereas the poor struggle the same as they do today, as people never change regardless of laws - despite the massive improvements that have been made over the years...attitudes, it could be said, never change.
Overall a fantastic read that pulls the reader from beginning to end.
Highly recommended.
***
Another recent find from Steve LeBel - unusual and funny.
The Universe Builders: Bernie and the Putty by Steve LeBel
Dive into a humorous fantasy world unlike anything you have imagined - a world of gods and goddesses who build universes for a living. Are they all-powerful and all-knowing? Well, not exactly...
As Bernie graduates from God School, he is thrilled to land his dream job as a builder of universes. His first assignment is to build his own universe. Determined but unsure, bright but without confidence, Bernie forges ahead, only to find problems everywhere. Mysterious asteroids, unexplained volcanoes, shifting continents and more lead him to suspect sabotage. But who could sabotage his universe? Only another god could do that...
It’s god vs. god, guile vs. goodness, where only one of them plays by the rules. Bernie must find a way to outwit his vicious foe. If he fails, it will cost him everything.
A fascinating tale of good vs. evil and a young hero on a journey of self-discovery in an original, humorous, fantastic wrapper.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Universe-...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Universe-Builde...
My review:
I was sent this book for review quite some time ago and have only just been able to read it because my list is vast. As a reviewer as well as an author, I don't necessarily know what to expect and this story surprised me - it is an amazing read.
Being a mixture of fantasy, science-fiction and science-fact for the main part, this was fascinating in itself, and yet it was filled with intrigue, good v evil and a touch of romance. It is also steeped in philosophy and myth, intermingled with such topics as bullying, power games, ecology, morality and ethics.
I love the realistic feel of the characters, especially Bernie and his mix of emotions and kind heart.
I don't want to give away its secrets so will say that, in my opinion, this story is original, intelligent, well researched and very clever, and written in such a way as to draw in the reader from the start.
Yes, I am now a fan.
Highly recommended.
***
Okay, Dean Koontz doesn't need my help with promotion, but I loved this story...
The City by Dean Koontz
No.1 New York Times bestselling author Dean Koontz is at the peak of his storytelling powers with this major new novel – a rich, multi-layered story that moves back and forth across decades and generations as a gifted musician relates the ‘terrible and wonderful’ events that began in his city in 1967, when he was ten.
THIS IS THE STORY OF A BOY AND A CITY…
Jonah Kirk’s childhood has been punctuated by extraordinary moments – like the time a generous stranger helped him realize his dream of learning the piano. Nothing is more important to him than his family and friends, and the electrifying power of music.
But now Jonah has a terrifying secret. And it sets him on a collision course with a group of dangerous people who will change his life forever.
For one bright morning, a single earth-shattering event will show Jonah that in his city, good is entwined with malice, and sometimes the dark side of humanity triumphs. But it will also teach him that courage and honour are found in the most unexpected places, and the way forward lies buried deep inside the heart.
If he can just survive to find it…
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-City-Dean...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/City-Novel-Dean...
My review:
Dean Koontz is my favourite author because I love the way he uses his characters to explore mystery - the mystery of the world within which there is something so intriguing if we only take the time to look.
The City has its dark plot, its wonderfully described characters that are so easily brought to life and its delicious mystery of something more. It is sad and it is beautiful and is deeply thought provoking. I would love to have known Amalia more.
This author's work just gets better and better. I don't give spoilers but will say that this story is fantastic and highly recommended
***
Beth M Honeycutt is another newbie for me, but she's a great author.
What Dreams May Come by Beth M Honecutt
Reality is overrated. Or so Ellie Cross has always believed.
Ellie is an ordinary, nothing-special girl who feels invisible most of the time. She’s the kind of girl who would loan her lunch money to anyone, but she’s definitely not the kind of girl to get noticed. Well, except by her mom, who constantly nags her not to be such a dreamer, and the class bully who makes her life miserable. It’s kinda grim for a girl who’s already painfully shy and all-too-aware that she “takes work.”
But Ellie has a best friend, someone she can turn to whenever she has a problem. Well, some might call him an imaginary friend, since they’ve never actually met outside of dreams.
And, sure, Ellie knows it’s kinda weird to have a friend no one else can see, but since her real-world friends currently number one, she figures an imaginary friend can only improve her social life. Even better, since he isn’t real, she can tell dream-guy-Gabe anything, without ever worrying that he’ll ditch her for someone cooler or embarrass her by blabbing her secrets. And so what if she happens to have an itsy-bitsy crush on her reality-challenged friend? Who’s it hurting, really?
But things are about to get complicated, because there’s a new guy in school—a guy with hauntingly familiar eyes. A guy who knows things about Ellie that he shouldn’t have any way of knowing…
This book has been professionally edited and proofread.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/What-Dreams-M...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/What-Dreams-May...
My review:
I was very lucky to receive this book for review despite it being a romance and for a younger audience - as I don't usually read this genre and am far from young.
However, for one, I loved the writing style, which flowed easily from beginning to end. Its humour, too, was excellent. It was the psychological insights that made this story a winner for me because the author truly understood the inner turmoil of being human and the differences between how others see us and how we see ourselves.
I don't give spoilers but will say that this tale is based on a clever idea and is written extremely well, with some beautiful scenes that express what can be difficult emotions without sickly sentimentality.
Very well done and highly recommended.
***
Recommended reads not so recent:
Haunted by Maria Savva
Nigel Price has MURDER on his mind.
He can run but he cannot hide. Nigel's past has come back to haunt him. The truth is, his past has never left him... it follows him without remorse, catching him at every turn. There is no escape.
Regret, guilt, nightmares, despair... these fill his every waking hour and disturb his sleepless nights.
Take a trip inside Nigel's mind, in this dark, psychological thriller with a paranormal twist.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Haunted-Maria...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Haunted-Maria-S...
My review:
I was lucky enough to read this story in advance of publication and I loved it from beginning to end.
I really enjoyed the in-depth character building - so important to a story - where I could see into the minds of each of them, making for great reading. The plot was dark and clever and kept me guessing until the end.
The story gave great insight into the emotions of mankind, where guilt can create an obsessive and insane point of view. We can wonder what we'd do in the circumstances given in the plot and whether conscience is a spark for 'doing the right thing' and if we don't, we have to accept the consequences - these issues are dealt with creatively, yet never once leaving behind reality...cleverly done.
A fantastic read, well written within its many twists and turns, and so far, my favourite story by this talented author.
Highly recommended.
***
Secrets by Darcia Helle
SURVIVAL
Samantha’s monsters aren't under the bed; they’re the people she calls Mom and Dad.
ESCAPE
She makes it out alive, her sanity barely intact.
LIES
She creates a new past that fools everyone, including herself.
HOPE
A life filled with love and security teeters on its base of lies.
SECRETS
When it all comes crumbling down, will Samantha make it out alive?
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Secrets-Darci...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Secrets-Darcia-...
My review:
I won a copy of this book and I was immensely glad I did - it was fantastic. It's extremely well-written and so fast-paced that it was almost mind-blowing, to coin a phrase. The characters are wonderful - both good and bad - and I couldn't wait to see what happened.
Secrets is a true testament to the saying that an easy to read book is difficult to write - a truly amazing talent.
There are many things I'd like to say about it, but I never give spoilers, however, I will say the storyline will have you on the edge of your seat, and that it certainly deals with how secrets can both save lives in the beginning but will destroy them in the end, if we don't take them by the scruff of the neck and shake them loose.
Highly recommended.
***
A Measure of Disorder by Alan Tucker
Jenni Kershaw’s ordinary, eighth grade life becomes a thing of the past when her science class goes on a field trip. Armed with only their notebooks, MP3 players, and wits, Jenni and her classmates are magically transported to another world. Follow Jenni and her class on their extraordinary adventures in their fight to find their way home and discover who — and what — they really are.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Measure-Disor...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Measure-Disorde...
My review:
I knew from the beginning I was going to love this story - well written, great characters and fabulous originality!
It starts with a group of teenagers on a school field trip - ordinary, everyday, yes - until...
I don't give spoilers but will say that this is a delightful, insightful, energising read, in-built with messages about Nature and how things will only become worse for Earth if things don't change. This is cleverly done within a wonderfully imaginative created fantasy world, where descriptions bring it alive - that and the cast of great characters (some unusual, some bad, some good some...unexpected).
Highly recommended - and yes, I am already reading book two in the series.
*****************************************
Well, there they are, some superb reads...time ran out to include them all, but thank you authors for giving me joy with your words.
Christmas Specials
Hello everyone! Hope you're not too stressed about the coming festivities...from wherever you are.
I've decided to have a sale - not that any of my books are expensive - but, maybe you'll like 99c/77p?
This is one of two posts - this about my books...tee hee...the other about some great books I've read (old and new).
Okay, back to my sale!
Oh yes, there are tasters on Amazon for all my books to help you decide.
***
99c/77p
Gone, a fantasy, is (in my opinion) a unique read and, I hope, stretch your mind and make you think differently.
After Charley dies in her office chair, how is it that she finds herself propelled into the mysterious world of Avalon?
Upon encountering an essence, which insists is her daughter – the one she knows she left behind – insanity battles with fear inside her mind.
The further she delves, the more puzzling things appear, especially after she rises into the Orb of Caprice – a realm of fairies, talking flowers and goblins…and something else, something that lurks in the shadows ready to swallow her whole.
Can she realise in time what it is she must do…or has she left it too late?
Gone is a story inspired by a true event.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Gone-Julie-El...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Gone-Julie-Eliz...
***
99c/77p
Misadventures Of Fatwoman (humour)
Andi has always been anxious about her weight and like many women, thinks that unless she is thin, she has no value.
Follow her 'misadventures' and see if this is true or will she find there are more important things that makes a person who and what they are?
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Misadventures...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Misadventures-F...
***
99c/77p
Knowing Jack (mystery adventure, set in the Lake District, England at Christmas)
Twelve-year-old Jack knows they shouldn’t go but is unable to persuade his parents not to take the planned trip to the Lake District. Something was going to happen but what?
The weird feelings he had were always so fuzzy and they didn’t always make sense. Maybe it was just because he’d have to spend time with his pampered cousin, Rosie? Anyway, it was nearly Christmas and what could go wrong with just staying in some cabin in the woods?
He was being stupid…all he had to do was ignore the way his belly churned and his head pounded.
He might be wrong after all.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Knowing-Jack-...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Knowing-Jack-Ju...
***
99c/77p
Of Sound Mind (fantasy)
Jorja always knew she was different. But it wasn’t until she discovered her telekinetic ability that she realised just how different she was.Living with her frail mother and an obsessive, cruel and hated aunt, Jorja grapples with the truth of her being.
As her story is revealed, other powers are uncovered – not least that she can see other people’s souls in the colours that surround them – and we are led into a surprising and shocking world of fantasy, forcing doubt as to the sanity of the heroine.
We follow Jorja’s life, delving into her loves, hates and fears though cannot help but delight in the woman she becomes, despite the question which hangs mysteriously in the air.
It will be up to the reader to decide if Mageia and its diverse inhabitants are indeed real or only the illusionary world created by a disturbed mind, due, not only to grief but also to her persecution by her aunt and the defective qualities of a barbarous doctor.
Although the story is resolved, questions will remain.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Sound-Mind-Ju...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Sound-Mind-Juli...
***
99c/77p
The Avalon Trilogy (epic fantasy adventure) 3 books - such a bargain!
The Avalon Trilogy is the omnibus edition of The Star Realm, Invasion and Secrets Of The Ice.
It tracks the epic fantasy adventure of five children in the magical lands of Avalon. It is filled with enchantment, magic and danger, where the five must pull together to solve the mystery that has its roots in the distant past.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Avalon-Trilog...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Avalon-Trilogy-...
***
These prices are for a limited time.
You'll see these are a mixture of genres, that's because I can't settle on one and I'd become bored writing the same thing all the time.
I break the rules, don't stick to formulas but love to write. Although, I've had to curtail somewhat because I cannot sit at the PC so much these days.
That doesn't stop me dreaming of ideas...gee, I don't think my mind ever stops thinking. I love to challenge my writing and delve into the unknown, and my imagination has no bounds!
Well, there they are, but if you want something different, my other books are on my author page - http://author.to/JulieElizabethPowell - some horror, short stories, murder mystery, crime thriller, psychological thriller/fantasy, non-fiction...
That reminds me...Slings & Arrows and Gone Omnibus Edition is also on special until the 26 December. (&2.99/£1.49)
***
Although Slings & Arrows and Gone are available separately, I felt that as the stories are undeniably linked, it would be useful to combine the two stories – one true, one fantastical answer – in one volume. In so doing, I hope that after reading the events of the first, your mind will be open to the possibility of the truth of the second. Whatever you believe in this world, I’m sure that by the time you’ve read to the end of both tales, you will never think the same again.
Slings & Arrows
Nobody expects to lose a child but when it happens what can we do? In the sea of grief that seizes the soul how can we swim against the tide? But when that loss is compounded in each minute of every day, what do we do then?
Slings and Arrows is a story about the consequences of a moment, a moment, which separates a mother and daughter in ways impossible to imagine.
It charts their parallel lives, each suffering, one knowing, one not. It is brutally honest; an account filled with bewilderment, guilt, anger and pain yet it also holds the key to hope. That whatever happens, the bonds of love can never be broken.
Gone
After Charley dies in her office chair, how is it that she finds herself propelled into the mysterious world of Avalon? Upon encountering an essence, which insists is her daughter – the one she knows she left behind – insanity battles with fear inside her mind.
The further she delves, the more puzzling things appear, especially after she rises into the Orb of Caprice – a realm of fairies, talking flowers and goblins…and something else, something that lurks in the shadows ready to swallow her whole.
Can she realise in time what it is she must do…or has she left it too late?
Gone is a story inspired by a true event.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Slings-Arrows...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Slings-Arrows-O...
***
Thanks to anyone reading this, and buying /reading /reviewing my books.
Merry Christmas - and good wishes to anyone for whatever they celebrate at this time of year.
I've decided to have a sale - not that any of my books are expensive - but, maybe you'll like 99c/77p?
This is one of two posts - this about my books...tee hee...the other about some great books I've read (old and new).
Okay, back to my sale!
Oh yes, there are tasters on Amazon for all my books to help you decide.
***
99c/77p
Gone, a fantasy, is (in my opinion) a unique read and, I hope, stretch your mind and make you think differently.
After Charley dies in her office chair, how is it that she finds herself propelled into the mysterious world of Avalon?
Upon encountering an essence, which insists is her daughter – the one she knows she left behind – insanity battles with fear inside her mind.
The further she delves, the more puzzling things appear, especially after she rises into the Orb of Caprice – a realm of fairies, talking flowers and goblins…and something else, something that lurks in the shadows ready to swallow her whole.
Can she realise in time what it is she must do…or has she left it too late?
Gone is a story inspired by a true event.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Gone-Julie-El...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Gone-Julie-Eliz...
***
99c/77p
Misadventures Of Fatwoman (humour)
Andi has always been anxious about her weight and like many women, thinks that unless she is thin, she has no value.
Follow her 'misadventures' and see if this is true or will she find there are more important things that makes a person who and what they are?
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Misadventures...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Misadventures-F...
***
99c/77p
Knowing Jack (mystery adventure, set in the Lake District, England at Christmas)
Twelve-year-old Jack knows they shouldn’t go but is unable to persuade his parents not to take the planned trip to the Lake District. Something was going to happen but what?
The weird feelings he had were always so fuzzy and they didn’t always make sense. Maybe it was just because he’d have to spend time with his pampered cousin, Rosie? Anyway, it was nearly Christmas and what could go wrong with just staying in some cabin in the woods?
He was being stupid…all he had to do was ignore the way his belly churned and his head pounded.
He might be wrong after all.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Knowing-Jack-...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Knowing-Jack-Ju...
***
99c/77p
Of Sound Mind (fantasy)
Jorja always knew she was different. But it wasn’t until she discovered her telekinetic ability that she realised just how different she was.Living with her frail mother and an obsessive, cruel and hated aunt, Jorja grapples with the truth of her being.
As her story is revealed, other powers are uncovered – not least that she can see other people’s souls in the colours that surround them – and we are led into a surprising and shocking world of fantasy, forcing doubt as to the sanity of the heroine.
We follow Jorja’s life, delving into her loves, hates and fears though cannot help but delight in the woman she becomes, despite the question which hangs mysteriously in the air.
It will be up to the reader to decide if Mageia and its diverse inhabitants are indeed real or only the illusionary world created by a disturbed mind, due, not only to grief but also to her persecution by her aunt and the defective qualities of a barbarous doctor.
Although the story is resolved, questions will remain.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Sound-Mind-Ju...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Sound-Mind-Juli...
***
99c/77p
The Avalon Trilogy (epic fantasy adventure) 3 books - such a bargain!
The Avalon Trilogy is the omnibus edition of The Star Realm, Invasion and Secrets Of The Ice.
It tracks the epic fantasy adventure of five children in the magical lands of Avalon. It is filled with enchantment, magic and danger, where the five must pull together to solve the mystery that has its roots in the distant past.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Avalon-Trilog...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Avalon-Trilogy-...
***
These prices are for a limited time.
You'll see these are a mixture of genres, that's because I can't settle on one and I'd become bored writing the same thing all the time.
I break the rules, don't stick to formulas but love to write. Although, I've had to curtail somewhat because I cannot sit at the PC so much these days.
That doesn't stop me dreaming of ideas...gee, I don't think my mind ever stops thinking. I love to challenge my writing and delve into the unknown, and my imagination has no bounds!
Well, there they are, but if you want something different, my other books are on my author page - http://author.to/JulieElizabethPowell - some horror, short stories, murder mystery, crime thriller, psychological thriller/fantasy, non-fiction...
That reminds me...Slings & Arrows and Gone Omnibus Edition is also on special until the 26 December. (&2.99/£1.49)
***
Although Slings & Arrows and Gone are available separately, I felt that as the stories are undeniably linked, it would be useful to combine the two stories – one true, one fantastical answer – in one volume. In so doing, I hope that after reading the events of the first, your mind will be open to the possibility of the truth of the second. Whatever you believe in this world, I’m sure that by the time you’ve read to the end of both tales, you will never think the same again.
Slings & Arrows
Nobody expects to lose a child but when it happens what can we do? In the sea of grief that seizes the soul how can we swim against the tide? But when that loss is compounded in each minute of every day, what do we do then?
Slings and Arrows is a story about the consequences of a moment, a moment, which separates a mother and daughter in ways impossible to imagine.
It charts their parallel lives, each suffering, one knowing, one not. It is brutally honest; an account filled with bewilderment, guilt, anger and pain yet it also holds the key to hope. That whatever happens, the bonds of love can never be broken.
Gone
After Charley dies in her office chair, how is it that she finds herself propelled into the mysterious world of Avalon? Upon encountering an essence, which insists is her daughter – the one she knows she left behind – insanity battles with fear inside her mind.
The further she delves, the more puzzling things appear, especially after she rises into the Orb of Caprice – a realm of fairies, talking flowers and goblins…and something else, something that lurks in the shadows ready to swallow her whole.
Can she realise in time what it is she must do…or has she left it too late?
Gone is a story inspired by a true event.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Slings-Arrows...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Slings-Arrows-O...
***
Thanks to anyone reading this, and buying /reading /reviewing my books.
Merry Christmas - and good wishes to anyone for whatever they celebrate at this time of year.
November 3, 2014
I need your support
Healing Through Fiction
Julie Elizabeth Powell (pen)
In 1982, my daughter, Samantha, was born with transposition of the main arteries to the heart in addition to two holes and a blocked valve. When she was 8 months old, she had corrective surgery at Great Ormond Street Hospital for Sick Children, London. All seemed well until the 26th November, 1984 when her heart stopped and she died for the first time.
Unfortunately, doctors resuscitated too long and too late leaving Samantha severely brain damaged.
This meant that she no longer knew me or in fact anything of her life before. She had been wiped clean; her essence vanished, leaving her a suffering, twisted blind shell, which only became worse for her during the next 17 years until she died a second time on 26 December, 2001 at the age of 19.
What this meant for me is probably quite obvious – I’d lost my daughter, and yet her body existed, in limbo, leaving me helpless to do anything except watch her wither away and suffer agonies.
I had to make many unpleasant decisions – all of which can be read in my account, called Slings & Arrows. It is brutally honest and may prompt some to point accusing fingers; however, I did my best under such terrible circumstances.
During that waiting time, I had a question, one that haunted me because although Samantha ‘existed’, what made her who she had been had gone. But where, I asked? Where had my daughter gone?
So on one of those forever sleepless nights, I thought, maybe just maybe...so I created a world and went in search of her.
Gone is the result. It is a unique fantasy, one which explores other dimensions and is one answer to that question. It tackles the host of tangled emotions, where Charley must make decisions of life and love and whether or not to prolong the agonies. It is filled with adventure, magic, mystery, questions, answers, decisions and challenges.
Gone though is about hope. Yes, it’s about loss and grief and love and anger and helplessness...but hope rings loudly – as, I think, does humour, for without that, life is an ever mountainous chore.
Writing both books did heal me in some ways, although I think I am forever broken. Strangely, I could not write Slings & Arrows until after Samantha’s second death. But Gone had to be written as soon as the idea popped into my head.
I think I found her and hope that Avalon is there waiting for me, with Samantha smiling in the wings.
***
I need your support in memory of my daughter, Samantha: https://www.thunderclap.it/projects/1...
To mark the 30th anniversary of my daughter, Samantha's, first death (her second 17 years later), Thunderclap has agreed to help if I can gather support. If people would like to read Slings & Arrows and Gone (omnibus edition), I am willing to give away mobi copies - reviews are optional but appreciated.
Of course if anyone wishes to buy it...
Slings & Arrows and Gone Omnibus Edition: http://viewbook.at/B007OA1S3M
Here is the link to support me and this book:
https://www.thunderclap.it/projects/1...
Thank you.
Julie Elizabeth Powell (pen)
In 1982, my daughter, Samantha, was born with transposition of the main arteries to the heart in addition to two holes and a blocked valve. When she was 8 months old, she had corrective surgery at Great Ormond Street Hospital for Sick Children, London. All seemed well until the 26th November, 1984 when her heart stopped and she died for the first time.
Unfortunately, doctors resuscitated too long and too late leaving Samantha severely brain damaged.
This meant that she no longer knew me or in fact anything of her life before. She had been wiped clean; her essence vanished, leaving her a suffering, twisted blind shell, which only became worse for her during the next 17 years until she died a second time on 26 December, 2001 at the age of 19.
What this meant for me is probably quite obvious – I’d lost my daughter, and yet her body existed, in limbo, leaving me helpless to do anything except watch her wither away and suffer agonies.
I had to make many unpleasant decisions – all of which can be read in my account, called Slings & Arrows. It is brutally honest and may prompt some to point accusing fingers; however, I did my best under such terrible circumstances.
During that waiting time, I had a question, one that haunted me because although Samantha ‘existed’, what made her who she had been had gone. But where, I asked? Where had my daughter gone?
So on one of those forever sleepless nights, I thought, maybe just maybe...so I created a world and went in search of her.
Gone is the result. It is a unique fantasy, one which explores other dimensions and is one answer to that question. It tackles the host of tangled emotions, where Charley must make decisions of life and love and whether or not to prolong the agonies. It is filled with adventure, magic, mystery, questions, answers, decisions and challenges.
Gone though is about hope. Yes, it’s about loss and grief and love and anger and helplessness...but hope rings loudly – as, I think, does humour, for without that, life is an ever mountainous chore.
Writing both books did heal me in some ways, although I think I am forever broken. Strangely, I could not write Slings & Arrows until after Samantha’s second death. But Gone had to be written as soon as the idea popped into my head.
I think I found her and hope that Avalon is there waiting for me, with Samantha smiling in the wings.
***
I need your support in memory of my daughter, Samantha: https://www.thunderclap.it/projects/1...
To mark the 30th anniversary of my daughter, Samantha's, first death (her second 17 years later), Thunderclap has agreed to help if I can gather support. If people would like to read Slings & Arrows and Gone (omnibus edition), I am willing to give away mobi copies - reviews are optional but appreciated.
Of course if anyone wishes to buy it...
Slings & Arrows and Gone Omnibus Edition: http://viewbook.at/B007OA1S3M
Here is the link to support me and this book:
https://www.thunderclap.it/projects/1...
Thank you.
August 18, 2014
'Meet My Main Character' Blog Tour
I've been tagged by my fellow author Maria Savva to take part in a blog challenge about meeting my main character.
I read a vast amount (important, I think, as a writer) and like to support other self-published authors...I would recommend Maria's books...
I have read all of Maria's books and would recommend each and ever one, however, my favourites are Haunted and The Dream because they take on a paranormal stance.
Here is the link to Maria's blog, where she talks about Nigel, the main character from Haunted:
https://www.goodreads.com/author_blog...
And here is the link to the book:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
This is what I said about it:
I was lucky enough to read this story in advance of publication and I loved it from beginning to end.
I really enjoyed the in-depth character building - so important to a story - where I could see into the minds of each of them, making for great reading. The plot was dark and clever and kept me guessing until the end.
The story gave great insight into the emotions of mankind, where guilt can create an obsessive and insane point of view. We can wonder what we'd do in the circumstances given in the plot and whether conscience is a spark for 'doing the right thing' and if we don't, we have to accept the consequences - these issues are dealt with creatively, yet never once leaving behind reality...cleverly done.
A fantastic read, well written within its many twists and turns, and so far, my favourite story by this talented author.
Highly recommended.
***
Here are the rules:
I have to write a post answering seven questions about a main character from one of my novels, then I nominate five other authors to answer the same questions about their main characters.
***
The main character I've chosen is Charley from my fantasy novel, Gone.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
1. Tell us a little about this main character. Is he fictional or a historic person?
Although a fictional character, Charley, I suppose, is based on me. Gone was written in answer to the question: Where had my daughter gone? The question nagged me during the waiting time of my daughter's first and second deaths.
When Samantha was two, her heart stopped and she was severely brain damaged, leaving her wiped clean, her 'essence' gone, although her body still existed on Earth, surviving for seventeen torturous years.
Because of that question - after all, if she wasn't here, then where was she? - I created a world and went in search of her.
Charley was created with all the very real thoughts and feelings that were prompted during this terrible time.
2. When and where is the story set?
The story is set, for the most part, in a place called Avalon, a fantasy world perfect for the journey Charley had to travel both physically and emotionally.
3. What should we know about him/her?
Charley is forty-two, overweight and in deep sorrow, with feelings of guilt about a host of things including putting her daughter in a home, hating to visit her and not being able to end her suffering. Every day she is tormented with these and other conflicts.
She is a writer and graphic designer of novels in her own business.
4. What is the main conflict? What messes up his life?
Guilt. The fact that her daughter doesn't know her and that she (Charley) can do nothing to help leads to twisted and tangled emotions and a life not even half lived for both mother and daughter.
5. What is his/her personal goal?
To end the suffering of her daughter.
6. What are the titles of your novels, and where can we read more about them?
I write in a variety of genres for two reasons: I like to challenge my writing and I become easily bored.
Gone is a fantasy of course, because this would be the only way, in my eyes, to tackle the sticky subjects involved, and the idea lends itself to this genre.
I also like fantasy because I don't have to stick to rules - oops, not one for following those.
***
The Star Realm (#1 Avalon Trilogy) was written because I didn't want to waste the world of Avalon so I created an epic fantasy - which spans three books and over one thousand pages. Invasion and Secrets Of The Ice finish the trilogy.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6...
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
The Avalon Trilogy is also available as an omnibus edition:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
This trilogy is for 12+ (or maybe younger) and most definitely for those young at heart.
Another book, technically for children is Knowing Jack, the idea sparked by my extremely intuitive son.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4...
***
The fantasy theme continues with Of Sound Mind, which questions sanity.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
***
Lost Shadows is a mix of psychological thriller and fantasy dealing with the effects of memory.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
***
13 is a horror - it's so good to tap into the dark side!
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
***
A Murderer's Heart and Dirty Business are crime thrillers, although the former deals with the motives behind killing and the second is a darker puzzle.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/9...
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
***
Misadventures Of Fatwoman is a humorous look at what is like to be fat - although it, hopefully, brings laughter, I think it will show the very real heartache involved.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
***
Slings & Arrows is a non-fictional account of that waiting time and why Gone was written.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
***
Lastly, there are two collections of short stories and poems, and a fantasy short story that was inspired by a dream...as are most of my books.
Figments
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
Expressions
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
Three Into One
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
***
You can read excerpts of all my books on Amazon:
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_sb_s...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_...
and Lulu: http://www.lulu.com/julipow
***
All reviews can be found on my website: http://www.freewebs.com/julizpow
***
7. When can we expect your next book to be published?
Hmm, I'm not sure about this. I've recently had a few health problems that curtail my writing with the use of the PC. However, I do have several works in progress. I continue to have many, many ideas and sometimes they evolve into a novel, other times a short story...but I do love it and will do my best to publish more this year.
Now I should nominate five other authors but everyone is so busy that I could only find three...
*
T. Isilwath, or Izzy, as she likes to be called, is a wonderful writer and when I read The Heart of a Fox, I was amazed by it, being one of those books that draws you in and fires the imagination. I still think of it now, many years later. It is a spectacular fantasy that takes place, for the most part, in Japan, four hundred years ago. Highly recommended.
This is what I said about it:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
Spectacular! Good way of showing time in which the story begins, May 6 2012, that is until... The beginning gives the reader plenty of reasons for what might go wrong therefore wants to know more.
It has an easy-to-follow style. I like the use of identifying nicknames for characters - especially good for 'those passing through' - Geek From Hell. The style has a great way setting the scene /info needed without being boring.
Good humour undertone - liked 'Joanna' at once.
A clever mix of reality /fantasy /cultural history.
What a fantastic way to travel - if only we could be sure of our destination!
A spectacular and wonderful story, fantastic characters, impeccably researched and perfectly crafted! I didn't want to put it down...can't wait for more.
Highly recommended.
*
Not only is Izzy a fabulous author, but also has a caring heart...for animals and people and lives in Philadelphia, USA.
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
You can also find her on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/T-Isil...
https://www.facebook.com/isilwath
I'm not sure where Izzy will post this, but it'll be well worth a look if she talks about a certain fox!
***
Dionne Lister is another author whose books stay with you. The Shadows of the Realm is a fantasy and my favourite.
This is what I said about it:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
I won a copy of this book and yes, I was lucky. The story is steeped in imagination, magic and enchantment, with characters that bring it alive in the most realistic way.
The writing is superb, with wonderfully rich descriptions, creating fantastic detailed worlds. The building of characters was excellent, so that readers have no choice but to care about what happens to them...rooting for the good and hating the bad - and with the right degree of uncertainty.
I also found the story original in parts and was fascinated by the ideas of several realms and how they could be used for 'magic'. The 'bonding' sequences were particularly intriguing and were portrayed amazingly well.
The only downside was that I will have to wait until the next book to find out what happens!
I do not give spoilers, but will say that overall this book hooked me from start and I didn't want to put it down - an excellent tale that I highly recommend.
Please hurry with the next installment.
*
Dionne, also known as Eloise March, lives in Australia and also writes short stories full of suspense and more unusual topics; as you will see if you read, Close Call.
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Dionne is also on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dionne...
https://www.facebook.com/dionne.liste...
Her blog:
http://dionnelisterwriter.com/
***
I have only recently 'met' Sara Gauldin and have, so far, read her book, The Corporeal Pull.
This is what I said about it:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
I was sent this book for review and found it to be an intelligent and thought provoking read.
This story is deeply philosophical and explores worlds and concepts of life and death, good versus evil and transcendence in an original and clever way.
Although this first in the series it holds great significance to what it means to be human and the forces that surround us and that the next book will only delve deeper.
It too explores the 'reality' of society and its encompassing sadness and hardships - the very journeys in which make Terra's role so important.
Extremely well done.
*
Sara Lives in the USA and is an extremely competent writer, and although I don't share her views on certain beliefs, it proves how good her writing is because it kept me hooked.
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/sara.gauldin...
Blog:
http://sebgwrites.wordpress.com/
It will be interesting to see which character she chooses.
***
I read a vast amount (important, I think, as a writer) and like to support other self-published authors...I would recommend Maria's books...
I have read all of Maria's books and would recommend each and ever one, however, my favourites are Haunted and The Dream because they take on a paranormal stance.
Here is the link to Maria's blog, where she talks about Nigel, the main character from Haunted:
https://www.goodreads.com/author_blog...
And here is the link to the book:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
This is what I said about it:
I was lucky enough to read this story in advance of publication and I loved it from beginning to end.
I really enjoyed the in-depth character building - so important to a story - where I could see into the minds of each of them, making for great reading. The plot was dark and clever and kept me guessing until the end.
The story gave great insight into the emotions of mankind, where guilt can create an obsessive and insane point of view. We can wonder what we'd do in the circumstances given in the plot and whether conscience is a spark for 'doing the right thing' and if we don't, we have to accept the consequences - these issues are dealt with creatively, yet never once leaving behind reality...cleverly done.
A fantastic read, well written within its many twists and turns, and so far, my favourite story by this talented author.
Highly recommended.
***
Here are the rules:
I have to write a post answering seven questions about a main character from one of my novels, then I nominate five other authors to answer the same questions about their main characters.
***
The main character I've chosen is Charley from my fantasy novel, Gone.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
1. Tell us a little about this main character. Is he fictional or a historic person?
Although a fictional character, Charley, I suppose, is based on me. Gone was written in answer to the question: Where had my daughter gone? The question nagged me during the waiting time of my daughter's first and second deaths.
When Samantha was two, her heart stopped and she was severely brain damaged, leaving her wiped clean, her 'essence' gone, although her body still existed on Earth, surviving for seventeen torturous years.
Because of that question - after all, if she wasn't here, then where was she? - I created a world and went in search of her.
Charley was created with all the very real thoughts and feelings that were prompted during this terrible time.
2. When and where is the story set?
The story is set, for the most part, in a place called Avalon, a fantasy world perfect for the journey Charley had to travel both physically and emotionally.
3. What should we know about him/her?
Charley is forty-two, overweight and in deep sorrow, with feelings of guilt about a host of things including putting her daughter in a home, hating to visit her and not being able to end her suffering. Every day she is tormented with these and other conflicts.
She is a writer and graphic designer of novels in her own business.
4. What is the main conflict? What messes up his life?
Guilt. The fact that her daughter doesn't know her and that she (Charley) can do nothing to help leads to twisted and tangled emotions and a life not even half lived for both mother and daughter.
5. What is his/her personal goal?
To end the suffering of her daughter.
6. What are the titles of your novels, and where can we read more about them?
I write in a variety of genres for two reasons: I like to challenge my writing and I become easily bored.
Gone is a fantasy of course, because this would be the only way, in my eyes, to tackle the sticky subjects involved, and the idea lends itself to this genre.
I also like fantasy because I don't have to stick to rules - oops, not one for following those.
***
The Star Realm (#1 Avalon Trilogy) was written because I didn't want to waste the world of Avalon so I created an epic fantasy - which spans three books and over one thousand pages. Invasion and Secrets Of The Ice finish the trilogy.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6...
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
The Avalon Trilogy is also available as an omnibus edition:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
This trilogy is for 12+ (or maybe younger) and most definitely for those young at heart.
Another book, technically for children is Knowing Jack, the idea sparked by my extremely intuitive son.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4...
***
The fantasy theme continues with Of Sound Mind, which questions sanity.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
***
Lost Shadows is a mix of psychological thriller and fantasy dealing with the effects of memory.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
***
13 is a horror - it's so good to tap into the dark side!
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
***
A Murderer's Heart and Dirty Business are crime thrillers, although the former deals with the motives behind killing and the second is a darker puzzle.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/9...
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
***
Misadventures Of Fatwoman is a humorous look at what is like to be fat - although it, hopefully, brings laughter, I think it will show the very real heartache involved.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
***
Slings & Arrows is a non-fictional account of that waiting time and why Gone was written.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
***
Lastly, there are two collections of short stories and poems, and a fantasy short story that was inspired by a dream...as are most of my books.
Figments
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
Expressions
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
Three Into One
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
***
You can read excerpts of all my books on Amazon:
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_sb_s...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_...
and Lulu: http://www.lulu.com/julipow
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All reviews can be found on my website: http://www.freewebs.com/julizpow
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7. When can we expect your next book to be published?
Hmm, I'm not sure about this. I've recently had a few health problems that curtail my writing with the use of the PC. However, I do have several works in progress. I continue to have many, many ideas and sometimes they evolve into a novel, other times a short story...but I do love it and will do my best to publish more this year.
Now I should nominate five other authors but everyone is so busy that I could only find three...
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T. Isilwath, or Izzy, as she likes to be called, is a wonderful writer and when I read The Heart of a Fox, I was amazed by it, being one of those books that draws you in and fires the imagination. I still think of it now, many years later. It is a spectacular fantasy that takes place, for the most part, in Japan, four hundred years ago. Highly recommended.
This is what I said about it:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
Spectacular! Good way of showing time in which the story begins, May 6 2012, that is until... The beginning gives the reader plenty of reasons for what might go wrong therefore wants to know more.
It has an easy-to-follow style. I like the use of identifying nicknames for characters - especially good for 'those passing through' - Geek From Hell. The style has a great way setting the scene /info needed without being boring.
Good humour undertone - liked 'Joanna' at once.
A clever mix of reality /fantasy /cultural history.
What a fantastic way to travel - if only we could be sure of our destination!
A spectacular and wonderful story, fantastic characters, impeccably researched and perfectly crafted! I didn't want to put it down...can't wait for more.
Highly recommended.
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Not only is Izzy a fabulous author, but also has a caring heart...for animals and people and lives in Philadelphia, USA.
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
You can also find her on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/T-Isil...
https://www.facebook.com/isilwath
I'm not sure where Izzy will post this, but it'll be well worth a look if she talks about a certain fox!
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Dionne Lister is another author whose books stay with you. The Shadows of the Realm is a fantasy and my favourite.
This is what I said about it:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
I won a copy of this book and yes, I was lucky. The story is steeped in imagination, magic and enchantment, with characters that bring it alive in the most realistic way.
The writing is superb, with wonderfully rich descriptions, creating fantastic detailed worlds. The building of characters was excellent, so that readers have no choice but to care about what happens to them...rooting for the good and hating the bad - and with the right degree of uncertainty.
I also found the story original in parts and was fascinated by the ideas of several realms and how they could be used for 'magic'. The 'bonding' sequences were particularly intriguing and were portrayed amazingly well.
The only downside was that I will have to wait until the next book to find out what happens!
I do not give spoilers, but will say that overall this book hooked me from start and I didn't want to put it down - an excellent tale that I highly recommend.
Please hurry with the next installment.
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Dionne, also known as Eloise March, lives in Australia and also writes short stories full of suspense and more unusual topics; as you will see if you read, Close Call.
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Dionne is also on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dionne...
https://www.facebook.com/dionne.liste...
Her blog:
http://dionnelisterwriter.com/
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I have only recently 'met' Sara Gauldin and have, so far, read her book, The Corporeal Pull.
This is what I said about it:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
I was sent this book for review and found it to be an intelligent and thought provoking read.
This story is deeply philosophical and explores worlds and concepts of life and death, good versus evil and transcendence in an original and clever way.
Although this first in the series it holds great significance to what it means to be human and the forces that surround us and that the next book will only delve deeper.
It too explores the 'reality' of society and its encompassing sadness and hardships - the very journeys in which make Terra's role so important.
Extremely well done.
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Sara Lives in the USA and is an extremely competent writer, and although I don't share her views on certain beliefs, it proves how good her writing is because it kept me hooked.
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/sara.gauldin...
Blog:
http://sebgwrites.wordpress.com/
It will be interesting to see which character she chooses.
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July 9, 2014
It's all about me!
Please give my horror novel cover a vote! Register /login then scroll down to Best Cover - 13 Horror Julie Elizabeth Powell Thanks!
http://www.efestivalofwords.com/2014-...
Discussion:
https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
Website:
For news and reviews.
http://www.freewebs.com/julizpow/
Reviews:
Gone
USA: http://www.amazon.com/Gone-Julie-Eliz...
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Gone-Julie-El...
For reviews of my other works, please see either my website or Amazon
UK:
http://www.amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_sb_s...
USA:
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_nos...
Shout over...
http://www.efestivalofwords.com/2014-...
Discussion:
https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
Website:
For news and reviews.
http://www.freewebs.com/julizpow/
Reviews:
Gone
USA: http://www.amazon.com/Gone-Julie-Eliz...
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Gone-Julie-El...
For reviews of my other works, please see either my website or Amazon
UK:
http://www.amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_sb_s...
USA:
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_nos...
Shout over...
