K.J. Chapman's Blog, page 61

Fortnightly Picture Prompts

Over on my Instagram account, I have posted an inspiring picture that I took on my rambles around Cornwall. I plan on posting a picture every fortnight that inspires me in some way, and invite you to have a pop at writing a sentence or paragraph to accompany it. You can find me on Instagram by following this link.

If you do not have an Instagram account, but would like to join in, you can post your sentence/ paragraph in the comments, and I will feature them in the next Picture Prompt post right here on my blog with links back to you.

So, let’s see this picture, KJ:

Here is my paragraph inspired by the picture:

‘The map says nothing about a lane or road in this part of the woods. The lock is new, but the fencing looks as if it has been here for some time. The wet mud preserves boot prints; someone has walked up there, but there are no boot prints to show that they have come back out.’

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Review: Book of Birds by L.M.Bryski

Book of Birds by L.M.Bryski 4/5

In post-war Canada during the late 1940s, Elly McGuinty and her younger sister, Dot, are newly orphaned. The girls are sent to live with their grandparents in a small prairie town. Still grieving the loss of her parents, Elly chafes at the responsibility of helping care for Dot and struggles to find a place for herself in her new life. When a travelling circus comes to town, Elly’s desire for new experiences leads her, Dot, and new friend Stammer – a shy boy mocked for his halting voice – down a path where lives are altered forever.

Thanks go to the author for giving me a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

Review:

I wasn’t sure what to expect when going into this book. It is not my usual reading genre, but that being said, if something is written well and captures my attention, then I’m all in. Book of Birds was one such book.

The writing effortlessly captures the essence of post war Canada and the lifestyle of two orphan girls having to uproot and live with grandparents. The narrative reads smoothly, and you are transported in time to the late 1940’s, seeing the world through Elly’s eyes. Bryski has truly captured the mind and voice of a young child in her writing.

Hard topics are well handled and interwoven with plot twists and secrets that corrupt the town. There is something bubbling away just under the surface that is expertly introduced in some shocking and heartbreaking moments. This book isn’t fast paced, but that didn’t matter. Bryski’s writing style fully submerges you as a reader. It feels as if you are plunged into the story and are the eyes over Elly’s shoulder so to speak.

The title, ‘Book of Birds’, refers to a bird encyclopedia that Elly clings to for comfort and as a link to her past. It also refers to Elly’s own journey as her life changes forever.

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

 

If You Like… The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

Blurb: The nation of Panem, formed from a post-apocalyptic North America, is a country that consists of a wealthy Capitol region surrounded by 12 poorer districts. Early in its history, a rebellion led by a 13th district against the Capitol resulted in its destruction and the creation of an annual televised event known as the Hunger Games. In punishment, and as a reminder of the power and grace of the Capitol, each district must yield one boy and one girl between the ages of 12 and 18 through a lottery system to participate in the games. The ‘tributes’ are chosen during the annual Reaping and are forced to fight to the death, leaving only one survivor to claim victory.

When 16-year-old Katniss’s young sister, Prim, is selected as District 12’s female representative, Katniss volunteers to take her place. She and her male counterpart Peeta, are pitted against bigger, stronger representatives, some of whom have trained for this their whole lives. , she sees it as a death sentence. But Katniss has been close to death before. For her, survival is second nature.

Nano Contestant #1 (Novella) by Leif Sterling

Blurb: In 2114, Pinnacle Corporation, the world’s largest tech company, hosts the Tech Games to showcase the world’s latest technology. The contestants must battle it out in 11 brutal games to ultimately win a $100 million prize!

These digital and hybrid athletes must use everything at their disposal in order to take that prize and all of its glory in the Tech Games.

Hacking, firewalls and electronic countermeasures are all being used by each contestant while running and fighting at top speed. It’s all on the line, because nothing is being left on the table!

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Blurbs sourced from Goodreads.com

EVO Nation by KJ Chapman | Book Review

What a lovely review to wake-up to!

The lovely Jasmine over at Ecrits du Coeur has reviewed EVO Nation, and I simply had to reblog this fab, insightful review. I’m always thrilled to hear someone has loved my book enough to give it 5*. It’s a happy author day for me today.

Écrits du coeur

Hello, everyone!!!

I’m super happy to be here with you today because I get to talk about books! This past week, I had multiple doctor’s visits and hospital visits (I’m fine and I’ll tell you more about all of that at the end of this post!) and while waiting, I decided to read this book! If you wanna know what I thought about it, keep on reading!

Title: EVO Nation

Author: K.J. Chapman

Published: K.J. Chapman

Edition: 2016 ebook

My rating: *****/***** (5/5)

The government tortures her, her own kind use her, and she is learning the true meaning of ulterior motives. Teddie Leason has been dragged into the festering underbelly of the secretive world of EVO; a world about to be blown wide apart.  EVO are the next link in evolution, but with that title come the dangers of capture, torture, and experimentation. And with that threat come the…

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Review: Train to the Edge of the Moon by Asper Blurry

Train to the Edge of the Moon by Asper Blurry 4/5

Punk is no ordinary girl who takes the life as it is. She has a nasty habit of getting in troubles, she shows the middle finger to people’s prejudice and stupidity, fights against her broken identity and the corporation where she works. She always goes against the stream with her heavy, tight shoes, but still tries to be a better person. Punk’s adventurous journey to become a poet starts in a Place Without a Name, continues in Italy and London. Her train is full of laughs, reflections, occasional heartbreaks and modern tales about our young lives and complicated relationships. You will probably love and hate Punk at the same time, but it will be difficult to forget about her wild side of the moon.

Thanks goes to the author for giving me a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

Train to the Edge of the Moon is due for release on October 8th 2016.

Review:

Punk is a whirlwind of drinking, sex, identity issues, and has a habit of making destructive choices. The poet is stagnating in her home ‘a place without a name’, and flees to find herself, or find anything- something, in Italy and London. The Train to the Edge of the Moon follows Punks wild, dangerous, and sometimes heartbreaking journey of complicated loves and life lessons.

This is a tricky review to write and not because I didn’t like the book, but because it is hard to sum up the essence of the book in few paragraphs. From the start I knew that Blurry’s writing style is undoubtedly unique and contemporary. The raw, bluntness in narrative and dialogue could come off as jarring, but adds to the tone of the book. I felt like I was privvy to something new and fresh. Punk’s edgy and destructive train of thought is captured perfectly.

The relationships are handled honestly and with raw abandon. While there are times that you hate and love Punk, you are always drawn to Puzzle and Bunny. They are both strong supporting characters who care about the disaster that is Punk. The only time you glimpse the real, damaged, honest Punk, is when she is with the two of them. Puzzle is a particularly important character, and some may see her as a wet blanket for putting up with the way Punk treats her, but I see her as a caring, loving, devoted person, who puts Punk’s feeling above her own. Such qualities make for a strong individual.

If you’re looking for a totally fresh writing style with complicated characters, blunt honesty, and an edgy narrative, then this is the book for you.

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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10 Weeks, 10 Prompts, 10 Minutes #7 (Prompt Me Special)

The purpose of these writing exercises is to take a prompt a week for ten weeks and allow myself ten minutes to expand on it. All the prompts are taken from my writing prompt eBook: Prompt Me.

To check out my list of ten prompts, and maybe have a go yourself, follow this link.  Go with the flow, take the prompt literally, or just allow elements to inspire a totally different story. It is up to you. Link back to me, so I can have a read of your creations.

The Prompt:

“When I said come bearing gifts it was code for weapons. I can’t believe you brought cheesecake.”

Manny simply stares at me. “Uh, sorry, Boss. I thought it was your birthday or something.”

“Why would I celebrate my birthday with you bunch of reprobates? Put it in the bin.”

He looks to the dessert like I’ve just asked him to kill his cat. “But it’s banoffee–”

“Put the fucking cheesecake in the fucking bin, or so help me God, I will put so many bullets in you that you’ll look like fucking cheese!” Slamming my gun on the table, the room recoils from my outburst. Manny drops the pudding into the bin, and I unclench my hands and brush my hair back out of my face.

Why do these useless assholes make life hard for themselves- for me. It’s not like I don’t pay them well. It’s just a pity that the people easiest to control, and have do your dirty work, are usually a sandwich sort of a picnic. If I wanted to be a babysitter, I’d not have killed that hooker and let her keep the baby.

“Please tell me you’ve got something for me,” I say to Gaz. Gaz is the self-appointed crew leader, and I suppose he is the brightest of a very dim bunch. He swings a black bin bag onto my desk and opens the top just a little. Wilkes’ severed head peers up at me, and I close the bag once more. “Good. What did you do with the rest of him?”

“Propped up in his office chair like you wanted.”

I slouch back into my chair. “And the note?”

“I personally hand delivered it an hour ago.”

That makes me feel good- really good. This is my city and anyone who thinks otherwise must be shown their place. “If Wilkes Jr wants Daddy’s head, then he signs over his shares to Gyroni Corp. If he doesn’t, then I underestimated the Daddy’s boy.”

Gaz takes the black bag from my desk. “Right. So, what’s with the weapons, Boss?”

“I’m glad you asked. There is a little situation I need handled. Do you think you’re up for it?” Gaz nods. “I want you to storm Harry May’s house.”

“The politician?” Gaz asks. The men shift awkwardly.

“The very same. He’s got a security team of seven ex-marines, coded doors, and a panic room.” I slap a piece of A4 on the desk in front of Gaz. “Here are the codes you’ll need to get into the house. Harry must stay alive, kill the wife, and abduct his sixteen year old daughter. I will pay one mill for this job.” The thought of all those zeroes seems to lighten the mood a little. “The girl remains untouched. I mean it- not a hair on her head or a dick in her panties! After all, we’re not animals.”

Content belongs to KJ.Chapman

 

 

Thrown to The Blue Update

This past week, I have been on a one woman editing mission! My proof reader has already got the first half of my manuscript, and is almost ready for the second half, and my Betas are currently reading as I type this. I’m getting fantastic feedback, and some brilliantly constructive suggestions. I’m excited now, really excited.

So, what does this mean? It means that I have a release date *drum roll please*…

Keep an eye out for my promo ads.

I shall be sending out ARCs from October 11th. If you would like to be an ARC reader, please comment below.

I have some amendments to make, so it’s back to the editing grindstone for me.

Content belongs to KJ.Chapman

 

September Reads Round Up

A round up of my September reads with links to the full reviews:

Thirst for the Hunt by A.C.Wentwood

Full Review: Thirst for the Hunt

I gave this book 2/5. I think the author read Twilight before writing this book.Character decisions were unbelievable, but I did like the weird group dynamics of the lost boys, and in particular, the highly jealous, slightly insane lost girl.

The Last Orphans by N.W.Harris

Full Review: The Last Orphans

I gave this book 5/5. Well written, perfectly paced, and action packed. A unique take on the infection outbreak storyline. I was fully submerged into Shane’s new reality and the dynamics of the whole gang.

 

Feyland by Anthea Sharp

Full Review: Feyland

I gave this book 2.5/5. Vivid descriptions and detailing of Feyland, but an old concept with little character development. I would have liked to have had more conclusion. This prequel felt more like a long prologue.

 

Grey by Kade Cook

Full Review: Grey

I gave this book 3/5. Detailed world building and a vast array of unique characters. The pacing felt a little off, and there were lots of info dumps, but a good fantasy story interwoven with the present day.

Burn the Dead: Quarantine by Steven Jenkins

Full Review: Burn the Dead: Quarantine

I gave this book 4/5. Some ‘oh my god’ moments within the first few chapters, and it was refreshing to be stunned by simple narrative twists and not just by the gore.

Hollowland by Amanda Hocking

Full Review: Hollowland

I gave this book 3.5/5. Interesting plot line with some well devloped characters. Some character choices didn’t add up, but overall an enjoyable read. Will definitely be reading the next book in the series.

 

Nano Contestant #1 by Leif Sterling

Full Review: Nano Contestant

I gave this book 4/5. Fans of the Hunger Games will like this book. Brilliant concept with motivated, rounded characters. Part of a large series. There isn’t a conclusion, more of a cliffhanger to lead onto the next installment, and that is what cost it that final 5th star for me.

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Finally Accepted the Proofs

After having trouble with createspace, I have finally received the proofs of EVO Nation series books one and two. There were some production issues with shoddy glue and loose pages which, fingers crossed, has been rectified. Createspace were quick to offer refunds and send new proofs, but it was a big worry. What if customers received books in such conditions? It can happen and has happened to people, but if anyone receives any less than perfect books from createspace, complain and you get sparkly new ones.

Anyway, on to the exciting bit. I have just approved the proofs. My paperbacks should appear on Amazon within 3-7 days. Here’s a little sneak peek of mine:

If you haven’t seen my update posts, then you may not have noticed that the covers have a different design. There were numerous factors involved in my decision to change the design, and after doing some research, I opted for the change. The eBooks also have been changed to match the paperbacks.

The cover for book three, EVO Ghost, is also complete and matches with the first two, but I am nowhere near release for that one. I shall share the cover nearer the time.

Now, I can feel like the series is fully completed when I publish EVO Ghost. The e-copies and paperbacks will be available, and I can be proud that I have a completed series on the market; something I never imagined!

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Another One!

After I finished my ‘What’s Your Name?’ posts, I felt a little stuck for writing exercise inspiration. I am still doing my ’10 Weeks, 10 Prompts, 10 Minutes’ posts, but as the title says, it only lasts for 10 weeks and I am coming to the end of these posts. So, there was only one option, right? To buy another naming book and start another writing exercise using new names.

My new name book has such a different variety of names to my old book, so it was definitely worth the buy. The layout of this book is a little different to the old one too. There are separate girl and boy name sections and this gave me an idea for a unique spin to these writing exercises. Rather than pick the one name each week, I shall pick two (one from each section) and have to use them both in the one exercise. It’ll be fun to have the characters interact with each other.

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The first exercise will be posted in two weeks, when my current writing exercise posts are finished. So, keep your eyes peeled for my ‘It Takes Two’ posts.

Content belongs to KJ.Chapman

GIF sourced from Giphy.com