K.J. Chapman's Blog, page 47

ARC Review: The Phoenix Cycle by Bob Collopy

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The Phoenix Cycle: The Best Shall Rise by Bob Collopy 3/5

[image error]New San Francisco is the last city standing on a world ravaged by storms of ash and debris. The city survived by putting the ideals of the American dream on steroids and inspiring its people to persevere, though they have become ruthless in the process. Its citizens are ruled by the General, who has made sure that his people understand that gentleness and pity have become weaknesses that nature no longer tolerates.

Now Steve and Leslie must choose whether they will apply for the General’s once in a lifetime opportunity to “Rise from the Ashes” and join the Inner Circle that rules the city. If they don’t, they will be damned to spend the rest of their lives in the ghettos of Edingburg, a place where virtual reality has become a government-subsidized addiction.

For Steve, the choice is easy. His loyalties lie with the IRA, a revolutionary army led by a voice only known as “Mom.” They are trying to overthrow the General and free the people of New San Francisco from the cruelties of the City Guard. Steve’s mission is to broadcast a recording of a speech that a famous philosopher died to tell. Many thousands have and will perish to get this message out, but is anyone willing to listen?

Thank you to the author who gave me an e-copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

This book is due for release on 23rd June 2017. 

Review:

An imaginative, dystopian novel that doesn’t shy away from the brutality of a post apocalyptic world, and clings to the us and them concept.

The narrative could have been streamlined a little more. There were times when my brain was playing catch up, although the pace wasn’t that fast. The male protag had motivation and led an intriguing life that kept the pages turning. I would have liked more character development, but the flitting between Steve’s POV, broadcasts, and the journal entries took away from that little. However, there were characters to root for.

Fans who liked the Hunger Games trilogy would probably enjoy this novel. The Inner Circle and the Phoenix Cyclers idea lends itself to the eat or be eaten concept.

The opinions expressed here are those of K.J.Chapman and no other parties

All books reviewed on this blog have been read by K.J.Chapman

K.J.Chapman has not been paid for this review

ARC Review: Unsanctioned Eyes by Brianna Merritt

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Unsanctioned Eyes by Brianna Merritt 5/5

[image error]Quinn Rogers doesn’t exist. There are no records of her name. Her DNA has no match. She is a ghost. A phantom killer no one can trace. The perfect assassin. Or so she thinks.

At the top of her game, Quinn’s no longer looking over her shoulder. Her master will protect her, save her, like he always has. But there are forces at work neither of them suspect.

Can Quinn find the truth in a world of lies? Or will her unsanctioned past catch up to her in the end?

My thanks go to the author for giving me an ecopy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

Unsanctioned Eyes is due for release on 27th June 2017.

Review:

Quinn is not only an assassin, she is the best of the best. Being heartless helps with this. When an assignment goes wrong, and she has to go on the run, her memories and her new relationships set her on a journey of self- preservation and self-discovery. Maybe there is a beat in that swinging brick of a heart.

An action packed narrative that is led by an anti-heroine to root for. You shouldn’t like Quinn, but you do. You shouldn’t be rooting for her, but you are. The author has given Quinn enough inner monologue and backstory to help the reader associate with an otherwise deadly assassin. Her character development from start to finish is spot on and progresses at a fast, yet believable pace.

The sub characters keep the narrative moving smoothly. Their skill set, relationships with Quinn, and backstory tie in well with Quinn’s story, and add realism to world of terrorism and assassins, and give credit to Quinn’s change of heart.

Thrillers are not my usual read, but I found this novel a real page turner. This book is extremely well written and I’d highly recommend it.

The opinions expressed here are those of K.J.Chapman and no other parties

All books reviewed on this blog have been read by K.J.Chapman

K.J.Chapman has not been paid for this review

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Picture Prompt 09/06/17

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Here is another of my Instagram picture prompts for you to get creative with. I invite you to have a go at writing a sentence/paragraph/short story to accompany the picture. Remember to link your post back to me, so I can read your creations and spotlight them in the next picture prompt post.

You can find me on Instagram by following this link.

Writer Spotlight:

Two writers picked up the last prompt and invented their own story from it.

Check out Dana’s interpretation over on Instagram, and give her a follow while you are at it! Dana Fraedrich on Instagram.

Gabriel also created a brilliant piece. Check it out here in the comments of my last post:  Gabriel’s Interpretation. Head on over to Gabriel’s blog and follow follow follow: A Little Me, Apparently.

This Week’s Prompt:

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*This picture is of the old lifeboat station at Lizard Point, Cornwall.*

Jack is a secretive type. I know him, and yet, I don’t. We met by chance when he saved my life when I was caught in a rip current. Since then, we have met up every evening at the beach, but he always rushes off after our meetings, especially if my brother and my friends are due to turn up. Tonight, I was adamant that I would follow him. Keeping a good distance between us, I follow him onto the coastal path. I dont recall any residential buildings on the cliffs, and it’s quite a way to walk to the neighbouring port. He wouldn’t make it before dark.

I’m contemplating turning back when he diverts from the coastal path and heads down the slip to the old lifeboat station. Ignoring the warning signs, he brazenly sprints across the rickety platform. I watch him disappear inside. Could he be living here? Is that why he’s embarrassed to meet my friends, or tell me much about himself? By confronting him, I hope to ease some of his worries. He’s a good guy, a gentleman, and if its help he needs, perhaps I am the one to give it to him.

Slipping and sliding my way down the seaweed covered slipway, I gingerly make my way over the platform. A blinding light glares from within the station, but only for a moment. The noise of Jack clanging around inside disappears, and I have the oddest sensation of being totally alone. The hairs on the back of my neck stand on end.

“Jack?” I call, the heebie jeebies getting the better of me. No reply. “Jack?”

Rushing inside the old station, I clamber over bits of drift wood and good knows what else in search of the man I saw run in here just moment ago. “Jack! This isn’t funny. I know you’re in here. If you’re embarrassed–”

Another flash of light burns at my retinas. I stumble backward, sprawling over the mounds of debris. Jack reappears out of thin air, only now, he is accompanied by two men. The three of them tap at the metal bands on their wrists; the metal band that Jack always wears, and I thought was a bracelet of some kind. What the hell is happening? Where did they come from? Jack isn’t comfortable around these people. I can sense the hesitation in his body language. I’m too frightened to move. My mind is swimming with questions, and trying to think up a logical excuse for three people to just pop out of thin air. I should have minded my own business and kept well away.

I shrink back as they pass, trying to make myself as small as possible. One of the strangers shoves Jack ahead of him, nearly toppling him in the process. As he rights himself, his eyes meet mine. The shock on his face is quickly replaced with worry. Placing a finger to his lips, he pleads with his eyes for me to remain quiet.

“You’ve been posted here for a month, and you’re telling me that you’ve not even managed to talk to the girl?” The other guy asks him.

Jack’s eyes flit to my hiding spot. “I don’t think she’s the one, Franky. I did some digging, and her Dad died in a machinery accident when her Mum was pregnant with her.” My stomach swoops. He’s talking about me. “There’s a grave and everything–”

Franky clouts him around the head. “Oh, you’ve done some digging. Did you dig up that bloody grave? Did you find out who, if anyone, is buried there, because it sure as hell ain’t her old man?” Jack recoils from him, positioning himself between them and me. “You’ve spoken to her, haven’t you?” Franky says, gripping at the scruff of Jack’s top. “You’re protecting her.”

Jack pulls himself free. “I won’t let you take her back to him.” The pair laugh, but Jack draws himself up taller. “If Lana was here right now, I’d tell her she is in danger, and to get to that clear space at my nine o clock. Trust me.” He whispers those last two words. Franky and the other guy look at him bewildered. “Now, Lana!” Jack shouts.

I have to do what he says. Every fibre in my body urges me to move. Jumping up from my position on the floor, I hurdle the debris and land in the open space beside Jack. He turns on his heels, sprinting toward me, tapping at his watch as he runs. The two men draw guns, but they don’t have the time to use them. Jack body slams me, wrapping his arms around me, and then shouts at me to close my eyes. Another final blast of light ignites the air around us, and in the next split-second, we sprawl onto a cool, metal floor. As Jack hoists me to my feet, my first sight is the most spectacular and daunting sight I have ever seen. I’m looking at the Earth from space.

Content belongs to K.J. Chapman

 

 

Blurb Reveal: Zombie Playlist

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Did you catch yesterday’s cover reveal? If not, don’t fret….

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But what you’re really here for is the blurb reveal, right? I shall not withhold it from you for a moment longer…

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I’m excited to finally give you a little insight into Dagger’s story. If this interests you, keep your eyes peeled for my ARC reviewers request post coming in the foreseeable future.

Content belongs to K.J.Chapman

Cover Reveal: Zombie Playlist

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Some of you may know that I have been slogging away over my Zombie novella, Zombie Playlist, since the end of 2016. I am a huge fan of anything zombie, so it was a natural progression for me to write something in the genre. The idea for Zombie Playlist popped into my head when I was making a playlist for my last book, Thrown to The Blue. I wanted to write a book where the playlist was an important part of the narrative, and this idea lent itself well to my Zombie narrative idea.

I have completed the first draft and shall tuck into some editing soon, but first, I wanted to show off the cover. It is a bit quirky, a little funky, a tad pretty awesome, and it sums up the whole tone of the novella…

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Keep your eyes peeled for the blurb reveal tomorrow.

Content belongs to K.J.Chapman

EVO Ghost Update 01/06/17

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In my last update, I had hoped to have finished the remainder of my EVO Ghost draft by June. I fell a little short, but I’m close- real close. I hadn’t bargained on the read-throughs of EVO Nation and EVO Shift taking as long as they did. The read-throughs were important, and I have notes upon notes to keep in mind when drafting/ editing book three.

Another distraction, but an exciting one, was sorting the paperback version of Thrown to The Blue. The full cover was completed, and I gave the document a final check before submitting it for review. Keep your eyes peeled for the paperback release.

A few days ago, I had a break from all things EVO. My mind was being consumed day and night by Teddie’s story, so I took a day off to concentrate on Zombie Playlist. I easily fell back into Dagger’s mindset, and even sorted at least four definite tracks to add to her playlist. Whoop.

What have I been listening to?

Seeing as I have only written on my Zombie Playlist WIP this last week, I shall include one song from the playlist. This is an exclusive, because I NEVER divulge the playlist songs. I tend to keep them secret because each song is a chapter title and compliments the narrative. Are you ready for a sneak peek…

What’s Next?

There is only one thing on my agenda: Finish the first draft of EVO Ghost. Once that is done and dusted, I can have a break from it for a few weeks, and get the cover and blurb reveals out of the way.

I hope to finish the first draft of Zombie Playlist before I dive into the redraft of EVO Ghost. That way, both WIPs get a rest before I go over them with a fine tooth comb. Although, Zombie Playlist is a novella and may be ready for publication before EVO Ghost.

Excerpts:

These are short and sweet. No spoilers.

EVO Ghost:

“Where’d you get it,” I say, holding my numb lip up with my fingers.

“It was in the pocket of a coat that I claimed from the laundry when I first arrived. It may have been through the washer, but its wrapper is still intact. I shoved it in a drawer and forgot about it. I wouldn’t be putting it anywhere near my mouth if it has been through the wash with people’s smalls.”

Zombie Playlist:

If you haven’t eaten Marshmallow Fluff out of the jar using a Curly Wurly, you haven’t lived. Open packets litter the floor around us, and an empty bourbon bottle rolls around on the uneven floor boards. That was the extent of the alcohol supply, but one bottle of bourbon between two light-weights after months on the dry was more than ample.

Content belongs to K.J.Chapman

May Reads Round Up

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A Mere Interlude by Thomas Hardy

[image error]Full Review: A Mere Interlude.

I rate this book 2.5/5. Three short stories in a blunt, fluff-free writing style. I prefer a little fluff in my romance stories. Despite the era it was written in, I couldn’t get passed the silly, scornful, or fanciful portrayal of the female characters.

 

Carnival of Souls by Melissa Marr

[image error]Full Review: Carnival of Souls.

I gave this book 3/5. A fantastical world with a great story concept. I found the number of POVs bogged down the story and left me trying to catch my breath. Aya was a fab character, but Mallory was absurdly naive.

 

Dolce Vita by Iseult Teran

[image error]Full Review: Dolce Vita.

I gave this book 4/5. I thoroughly enjoyed Una’s journey. Teran has captured Una’s sixteen year old mindset, along with her fascination for writing lists and recounts of her crazy dreams. Some difficult topics broached and handled masterfully. Una’s a character that you don’t necessary like 100% of the time, but she grows on you.

Infernal Ties by Holly Evans

[image error]Full Review: Infernal Ties.

I gave this book 4/5. A fast paced, urban fantasy that offers healthy doses of the supernatural. Witches, elves, and lycan walk secretly amongst humans, and hunters keep them in line. Excellent world building with the cultural back drop of modern day Prague. The sibling, platonic love was a refeshing change from romantic love.

Four in One Review: Short Stories

Full Review: Four in One Review #1

Eden was my favourite with a well rounded, zombie narrative that offered back story and a plot twist/ shock ending. Shea’s Birthday Blaze fell a little short on character development, verging on contradictory at times, but the platonic sub-plots were the saving grace. Shadows of the Wolf was part one of a sixteen part serial with a story that ended just as it got started. Luna Proxy was another serial (by the same author) without conclusions in the individual story, but the story we were given was intriguing and well written.

Four in One Review #2: Short Stories

Full Review: Four in One Review #2

Fenix Rising and Bad Decisions were my favourites, with clear conclusions and cliffhangers, and action-packed narratives. The Hospital was ‘nightmare inducing’, but the MC wasn’t likeable. Teeth had a confusing, skittish narrative and a lacking story.

What a Way to Go by Julia Forster

[image error]Full Review: What a Way to Go.

I gave this book 4/5. An array of well rounded, interesting characters. A 12 year old MC who is endearing and snarky. This book deals with pubescent angst and real life heart break, and does it with truth and humour. Not my usual type of read, but enjoyable none the less.

 

Self Edit Your Way to Awesome by K.L. Tolman

[image error]Full Review: Self Edit Your Way to Awesome.

I gave this book 3.5/5. A quick read that discusses self-editing, options for finding a professional editor, and the importance of beta readers. The author is not a qualified/ certified editor, but an indie author discussing their editing experience of self-editing with humour and truth.

 

Island by Nicky Singer

[image error]Full Review: Island.

I gave this book 4.5/5. This book handles an important message calmly and magically. Although it is aimed at 12+, any one can appreciate the story and the message. A book that the younger generations, obsessed with technology and material things, should read.

 

Content belongs to K.J. Chapman

Review: Island by Nicky Singer

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Island by Nicky Singer 4.5/5

[image error]Urban teenager Cameron arrives on an uninhabited arctic island. He is prepared for ice and storms and (stripped of his smart technology) possibly boredom. He is not prepared for 24 hour daylight and erupting graves. At first Cameron believes the explanations of his research scientist mother. But – as the island reveals itself to him – he begins to see (and hear) things which push him towards a very different reality. One of them is an Inuit girl. The other is a large white bear.

Review:

Cameron is a typical, twenty-first century teenager. His dependance on technology sees him reluctant to go with his Mum on one of her research trips to an artic Island: Herschel Island. He is definitely not prepared to meet Inuluk, an Inuit girl whose mission is to teach him the history of her people and open his eyes to the beauty of the island. What secret is Inuluk hiding, and why is Cameron the only one to have met her?

This book handles a strong message, but manages to put it across in a calm, mystical, intriguing way. The characters are subtle, but offer reality to what might be perceived as a fantastical story. Cameron’s character was well developed, and his character arc developed naturally, alongside his ‘teachings’ from Inuluk.

This book is aimed at 12+, but transcends the children’s literature/ YA genre. Anyone can enjoy this story and understand the importance of its messgae. As a reader, you are left with a new perspective, and perhaps, shame for having your eyes closed to everything this book preaches.

I won’t say too much on the nature of the children’s friendship or their journey because I don’t want to spoil the reading experience of others. A worth while read that I shall ensure my daughter reads in a few years.

The opinions expressed here are those of K.J.Chapman and no other parties

All books reviewed on this blog have been read by K.J.Chapman

K.J.Chapman has not been paid for this review

 

 

Picture Prompt 29/05/17

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Here is another of my Instagram picture prompts for you to get creative with. I invite you to have a go at writing a sentence/paragraph/short story to accompany the picture. Remember to link your post back to me, so I can read your creations and spotlight them in the next picture prompt post.

You can find me on Instagram by following this link.

Prompt:

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“There is a shrine of sorts upon the cliffs. I saw it this morning when I was walking. There are dates carved into the wood,” I say, helping myself to a cup of milk. Something bristles in my cousin, Lizbeth, but she composes herself before turning back to me, offering a smile.

“Oh, you mean The Wrecking Post. Yes, that is a shrine to the ships and boats wrecked on the rocks below. The date of the wreckage is carved into the wood, and a piece of debris is added to the collection.” She takes a cup from my outstretched hand, and despite her smile, her hand shakes.

“But there is so much there: ropes, drift wood, pieces of metal. How many ships have been wrecked upon those cliffs.”

“Many,” she replies, taking her shawl from the hook and hurrying out of the door. “I shall be late if I stand conversing about shipwrecks, Jenna.”

“Then, tell me why my asking has affected you so.”

She stops in her tracks, her back going rigid. “Do not speak of this again, Jenna. Hold your tongue on this subject with the villagers. It is not something talked of in an informal fashion.”

“Lizbeth, my stomach has sunk like a stone. Why have there been so many wrecks on those rocks? You must answer me.”

She sighs heavily, rubbing a hand over her face. “How do you think this village has flourished, Cousin? Your father was one of the first group of men to partake in such acts. It has become necessity. You mustn’t judge, for you have benefitted as much as the rest of us over the years. You were just never made aware, living with Aunt April in the city.”

I feel faint, slumping into my chair with all the grace of a sitting heifer. “Oh, Lord. We are a family of wreckers,” I say.

“We are a village of wreckers,” Lizbeth corrects.

Content belongs to K.J. Chapman

Review: Self Edit Your Way to Awesome by K.L. Tolman

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Self Edit Your Way to Awesome by K.L. Tolman 3.5/5

S [image error] elf-edit your way to awesome for writers of all kinds!

Do you want to improve your writing? Master the art of self-editing? Publish your book?

Maybe you want more reviews which leads to better sales?

Learn how to improve and edit your writing in this short guide to self editing for indie authors.

Review:

I saw this book on an Amazon free promotion, and thought, ‘why not?’ As an indie author, I’m always open to tips and techniques on anything writing related. Okay, so the first thing that concerned me was that the author lists the reasons why we should listen to their advice, and not one of those reasons is because they are a qualified/ certified editor. Yes, they are a blogger, indie author, and reader, but the lack of editing qualifications made me approach the rest of the book with trepidation, just like any advice book by an unqualified advisor would. That being said, I know authors who edit their own and other people’s work to a professional level and have never been formally educated in the art, so I ploughed on with the read. Qualifications aren’t everything, right? Experience is key.

I appreciate the information on hiring a professional editor. This book is not religious in it’s self-editing belief in all authors, and provides alternative options for those who may not be confident in their editing abilities. There is also useful information regarding the importance of beta readers.

This book may be of benefit to new, indie authors looking to publish their debut work. The author outlines the fundamentals of self editing in a humourous, honest way, using their own self editing experiences as a base.

The opinions expressed here are those of K.J.Chapman and no other parties

All books reviewed on this blog have been read by K.J.Chapman

K.J.Chapman has not been paid for this review