Maria Savva's Blog, page 17
January 28, 2016
Book Review: Cupid's Way, by Joanne Phillips
Cupid's Way by Joanne PhillipsMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
I enjoyed this book. The characters were interesting and I was impressed at how the author was able to create a very believable community with the residents of Cupid's Way.
This story is mainly about the character Evie Stone and her attempts to help out her grandparents who live at Cupid's Way. The Victorian terrace is at risk of being demolished when a company with ideas about how to develop the area shows an interest in buying out the properties.
Cupid's Way contains just the right amount of entertainment, drama, and romance. Although there are a lot of characters, the author did well in introducing and developing each of their stories so that by the end I really felt like I knew them all.
I always enjoy Joanne Phillips' books because she has a very engaging writing style. I'll definitely be looking out for more of her books.
I'd recommend it to fans of women's fiction. If you like contemporary drama and romance you'll enjoy it.
View all my reviews
January 27, 2016
Guest post: Jason McIntyre, author of ZED
Today I have a guest post from one of my favourite writers, Jason McIntyre.
He recently released his novel, Zed, which is part of the Dovetail Cove series of books.
Here's Jason to tell us a bit more about the book, and if you scroll down you'll find a fun interview with one of the characters from the novel :)
***************************************
Writing my latest novel, ZED, was profound and scary and fulfilling all at once. Why scary? Believe it or not, I always try to scare myself as I approach a new piece of work. It makes the story better and more urgent and, truth be told, it pushes me further—as a writer and a person.
Often, those scares come from writing about a topic or in a style that is completely new for me. In the case of ZED, the story worked out in a way that I was able to incorporate special-needs patients living in a care home, something I had some experience with but had never brought to the page. Some of characters have developmental challenges. Others, physical disabilities. The period of the novel is the 1970s, a time when understanding and acceptance of such things was very different than it is today.
One of them, Zeke, turned into a main character and one I’m extremely proud of. His disability becomes central to the book but never was it approached with negativity. In fact, for the most part, Zeke’s honesty and earnest approach to life is a breath of fresh air. He acts as a counterpoint to many of the characters who don’t have learning disabilities — those who act greedily or take their situations for granted.
Apparently, when Marcel Proust was fourteen years old, his friend Antoinette asked him this list of questions. While these questions were originally intended for his personal use and self-enlightenment, I find them to be helpful questions to ask my characters as I try to understand them more deeply. Oh, and by the way, this is very serious. Only the most serious writers talk to their fictional characters. Out loud. At the dinner table.
Here is Proust’s Questionnaire, with answers by Zeke, one of the main characters the novel, ZED. To note, Zeke suffered a serious brain injury as a boy. He’s in his sixties now, but developmentally, he’s very much been ‘left behind’.
1. What is your idea of perfect happiness? My truck.
2. What is your greatest fear? Something happening to my truck.
3. What is the trait you most deplore in yourself? Sometimes I’m not as strong as I want to be. Try as I might, I can’t lift the heaviest things anymore. Mr. Tom says I’m just getting older…but I feel like, I dunno, I feel like I’m only about six. Seven, tops. I should be able to lift stuff.
4. What is the trait you most deplore in others? Lying. You’re not gonn lie, are you?
5. Which living person do you most admire? It used to be Mr. Tom but no I ain’t so sure. I like Police Chief Birkhead. Him’s a good man and he has a real nice car and a good haircut. Hard to get a good haircut here in town. My daddy used to cut mine but…huh? Oh, Okay. I’ll answer the next one.
6. What is your greatest extravagance? What’s a ‘extra-ga-vants’? Huh? Oh, well, I put the premium gas in m’gas tank. It’s a penny more, don’t you know, but it’s worth it. Daddy says we gotts ta take care of the things we work hard for. Or we might lose em.
7. What is your current state of mind? Um. Hungry. Mostly. Is it almost lunch time? Karen says we gots ta eat three squares a day. Fidela makes bad lunches. If’n you ask me, her lunches taste like square blocks o’ wood. Sorry, that was mean. I like Fidela, she’s a nice lady. Even if she can’t cook worth sawdust.
8. What do you consider the most overrated virtue? Don’t know what a virtue is. Huh? Oh, I guess…em…Honest-ness. I like it when I don’t have to work really hard to know what someone wants me to do. Just tell me. I’ll do it.
9. On what occasion do you lie? Uh-uh. Nooo waaaay. Zeke, he NEVER lies. Daddy says we always gots to tell the truth. I found out the hard way when I told a fib long time ago. But I don’t really remember doing that. Daddy has to remind me.
10. What do you most dislike about your appearance? My truck.
11. Which living person do you most despise? It’s not nice to say out loud. But if’n you come a little closer, I’ll whisper it in your ear.
12. What or who is the greatest love of your life? Aren’t you paying attention? My truck.
13. When and where were you happiest? At that there hot spring. North of town. And with Mary. When we was out there together, that was the best time of…ever.
14. Which talent would you most like to have? Counting. And remembering. I got a broken glass thinker bottle, that’s what Daddy says.
15. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? You gotts a bad thinker too! I just told you!
16. What do you consider your greatest achievement? You don’t know by now? My truck!
17. If you were to die and come back as a person or a thing, what would it be? A smarter man than even my Daddy.
18. Where would you most like to live? Oh I couldna live anywhere but the Cove. It’s my home. Good and proper.
19. What is your most treasured possession? Not gonna answer this one anymore! Daddy always says you gotts ta pay attention.
20. Who are your favorite writers? I never learned to read more than a hundred words. Maybe less. Maybe fifty.
21. Which historical figure do you most identify with? What’s a ‘istorigul’ figgur?
22. Who are your heroes in real life? Most people are pretty good, if ya let ‘em be.
23. What are your favorite names? Tom. I really liked Mr. Tom but then he…oh nevermind. I still like Mr. Tom.
24. What is it that you most dislike? Olives. Oh. And raisins. I like raisins from a box but not in stuff. Raisins ruin a cookie and a muffin.
25. What is your greatest regret? That I didn’t eat more breakfast. Fidela’s breakfast is better than her lunch. I shoulda filled up this mornin.
26. How would you like to die? I don’t want to talk about bad stuff, kay? But I guess if you made me answer…I’d want to die helping. I’m good at helping. I try harder than anybody I know.
27. What is your motto? C-O-O-G-E-R-Z! Go, Cougars!
About the book…
ZED by Jason McIntyre Booktrope Editions, 2015
There are two kinds of people in the tiny island town of Dovetail Cove: those who shop at the Foodway on Broad and those who shop at Harlow's on Main. Nineteen year old Tom Mason is neither.
It's the waning dog days of August, 1975 and Tom's only here for his summer job at the group home so he can afford a new camera and impress his professors back home. His boss, Karen Banatyne, cuts corners on the food bills and dopes her handicapped 'houseguests' so she can re-up her financial grant income. The Banatynes are the wealthiest couple in town but Karen's hubby, Chris, hasn't been seen in a few weeks and Karen isn't saying why. Something’s hiding in the hot springs north of the beach, just off the main road. And the local handyman is seeing things that may or may not be real.
Tom may learn what friendship is from his lovable charges at the care home, might just come to understand the real value of a dollar, and may yet piece together the weird goings-on in the tourist town that he couldn't wait to leave but now realizes he's going to miss. Even if it conspires to kill him.
ZED is part of a group of books and stories about the citizens of Dovetail Cove. But it's not a series. Each book stands on its own while sharing the same universe and telling a much larger tale. Enter at your own risk.
Find Jason McIntyre:
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Jason%20McIntyr...
Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/"...
Apple iBooks: https://itunes.apple.com/author/jason...
Social Media
Website: http://www.thefarthestreaches.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AuthorJasonMc...
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jasoncmcintyre
He recently released his novel, Zed, which is part of the Dovetail Cove series of books.
Here's Jason to tell us a bit more about the book, and if you scroll down you'll find a fun interview with one of the characters from the novel :)
***************************************
Writing my latest novel, ZED, was profound and scary and fulfilling all at once. Why scary? Believe it or not, I always try to scare myself as I approach a new piece of work. It makes the story better and more urgent and, truth be told, it pushes me further—as a writer and a person.
Often, those scares come from writing about a topic or in a style that is completely new for me. In the case of ZED, the story worked out in a way that I was able to incorporate special-needs patients living in a care home, something I had some experience with but had never brought to the page. Some of characters have developmental challenges. Others, physical disabilities. The period of the novel is the 1970s, a time when understanding and acceptance of such things was very different than it is today.
One of them, Zeke, turned into a main character and one I’m extremely proud of. His disability becomes central to the book but never was it approached with negativity. In fact, for the most part, Zeke’s honesty and earnest approach to life is a breath of fresh air. He acts as a counterpoint to many of the characters who don’t have learning disabilities — those who act greedily or take their situations for granted.
Apparently, when Marcel Proust was fourteen years old, his friend Antoinette asked him this list of questions. While these questions were originally intended for his personal use and self-enlightenment, I find them to be helpful questions to ask my characters as I try to understand them more deeply. Oh, and by the way, this is very serious. Only the most serious writers talk to their fictional characters. Out loud. At the dinner table.
Here is Proust’s Questionnaire, with answers by Zeke, one of the main characters the novel, ZED. To note, Zeke suffered a serious brain injury as a boy. He’s in his sixties now, but developmentally, he’s very much been ‘left behind’.
1. What is your idea of perfect happiness? My truck.
2. What is your greatest fear? Something happening to my truck.
3. What is the trait you most deplore in yourself? Sometimes I’m not as strong as I want to be. Try as I might, I can’t lift the heaviest things anymore. Mr. Tom says I’m just getting older…but I feel like, I dunno, I feel like I’m only about six. Seven, tops. I should be able to lift stuff.
4. What is the trait you most deplore in others? Lying. You’re not gonn lie, are you?
5. Which living person do you most admire? It used to be Mr. Tom but no I ain’t so sure. I like Police Chief Birkhead. Him’s a good man and he has a real nice car and a good haircut. Hard to get a good haircut here in town. My daddy used to cut mine but…huh? Oh, Okay. I’ll answer the next one.
6. What is your greatest extravagance? What’s a ‘extra-ga-vants’? Huh? Oh, well, I put the premium gas in m’gas tank. It’s a penny more, don’t you know, but it’s worth it. Daddy says we gotts ta take care of the things we work hard for. Or we might lose em.
7. What is your current state of mind? Um. Hungry. Mostly. Is it almost lunch time? Karen says we gots ta eat three squares a day. Fidela makes bad lunches. If’n you ask me, her lunches taste like square blocks o’ wood. Sorry, that was mean. I like Fidela, she’s a nice lady. Even if she can’t cook worth sawdust.
8. What do you consider the most overrated virtue? Don’t know what a virtue is. Huh? Oh, I guess…em…Honest-ness. I like it when I don’t have to work really hard to know what someone wants me to do. Just tell me. I’ll do it.
9. On what occasion do you lie? Uh-uh. Nooo waaaay. Zeke, he NEVER lies. Daddy says we always gots to tell the truth. I found out the hard way when I told a fib long time ago. But I don’t really remember doing that. Daddy has to remind me.
10. What do you most dislike about your appearance? My truck.
11. Which living person do you most despise? It’s not nice to say out loud. But if’n you come a little closer, I’ll whisper it in your ear.
12. What or who is the greatest love of your life? Aren’t you paying attention? My truck.
13. When and where were you happiest? At that there hot spring. North of town. And with Mary. When we was out there together, that was the best time of…ever.
14. Which talent would you most like to have? Counting. And remembering. I got a broken glass thinker bottle, that’s what Daddy says.
15. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? You gotts a bad thinker too! I just told you!
16. What do you consider your greatest achievement? You don’t know by now? My truck!
17. If you were to die and come back as a person or a thing, what would it be? A smarter man than even my Daddy.
18. Where would you most like to live? Oh I couldna live anywhere but the Cove. It’s my home. Good and proper.
19. What is your most treasured possession? Not gonna answer this one anymore! Daddy always says you gotts ta pay attention.
20. Who are your favorite writers? I never learned to read more than a hundred words. Maybe less. Maybe fifty.
21. Which historical figure do you most identify with? What’s a ‘istorigul’ figgur?
22. Who are your heroes in real life? Most people are pretty good, if ya let ‘em be.
23. What are your favorite names? Tom. I really liked Mr. Tom but then he…oh nevermind. I still like Mr. Tom.
24. What is it that you most dislike? Olives. Oh. And raisins. I like raisins from a box but not in stuff. Raisins ruin a cookie and a muffin.
25. What is your greatest regret? That I didn’t eat more breakfast. Fidela’s breakfast is better than her lunch. I shoulda filled up this mornin.
26. How would you like to die? I don’t want to talk about bad stuff, kay? But I guess if you made me answer…I’d want to die helping. I’m good at helping. I try harder than anybody I know.
27. What is your motto? C-O-O-G-E-R-Z! Go, Cougars!
About the book…
ZED by Jason McIntyre Booktrope Editions, 2015
There are two kinds of people in the tiny island town of Dovetail Cove: those who shop at the Foodway on Broad and those who shop at Harlow's on Main. Nineteen year old Tom Mason is neither.
It's the waning dog days of August, 1975 and Tom's only here for his summer job at the group home so he can afford a new camera and impress his professors back home. His boss, Karen Banatyne, cuts corners on the food bills and dopes her handicapped 'houseguests' so she can re-up her financial grant income. The Banatynes are the wealthiest couple in town but Karen's hubby, Chris, hasn't been seen in a few weeks and Karen isn't saying why. Something’s hiding in the hot springs north of the beach, just off the main road. And the local handyman is seeing things that may or may not be real.
Tom may learn what friendship is from his lovable charges at the care home, might just come to understand the real value of a dollar, and may yet piece together the weird goings-on in the tourist town that he couldn't wait to leave but now realizes he's going to miss. Even if it conspires to kill him.
ZED is part of a group of books and stories about the citizens of Dovetail Cove. But it's not a series. Each book stands on its own while sharing the same universe and telling a much larger tale. Enter at your own risk.
Find Jason McIntyre:
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Jason%20McIntyr...
Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/"...
Apple iBooks: https://itunes.apple.com/author/jason...
Social Media
Website: http://www.thefarthestreaches.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AuthorJasonMc...
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jasoncmcintyre
January 14, 2016
Kickstarter campaign for Jeremy C. Shipp's new horror novel
Jeremy C. Shipp has just launched a Kickstarter campaign for his upcoming novel, LUCKY.
This book will be published in ebook and trade paperback formats around December 2016. To accomplish this, Jeremy is raising funds to pay for cover art, formatting, editing, publishing, book promotion, and other expenses.
Follow this link to find out how you can be involved in helping to support the project and what rewards are on offer: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/...
Synopsis: Randall owns 1384 rabbits' feet, 28 horseshoes, 134 four-leaf clovers...and that's just the items under his bed. Despite his ever-growing collection, his luck is lousy. After the loss of his wife and his best friend, Randall turns to a happiness guru named Maddox Hale for a little guidance. Maddox might smell like cat food and look like a grownup version of a Garbage Pail Kid, but he seems like the real deal. Can Randall complete his "happiness assignments" and find inner peace? And what about all the strange messages written all over town in colored chalk? Oh, and did I mention that there's a murderer on the loose? LUCKY will keep you guessing until the end.
Jeremy is a very talented writer, a Bram Stoker Award nominee, who has written many novels and short stories.
Find out more at his website: https://jeremycshipp.wordpress.com/
This book will be published in ebook and trade paperback formats around December 2016. To accomplish this, Jeremy is raising funds to pay for cover art, formatting, editing, publishing, book promotion, and other expenses.
Follow this link to find out how you can be involved in helping to support the project and what rewards are on offer: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/...
Synopsis: Randall owns 1384 rabbits' feet, 28 horseshoes, 134 four-leaf clovers...and that's just the items under his bed. Despite his ever-growing collection, his luck is lousy. After the loss of his wife and his best friend, Randall turns to a happiness guru named Maddox Hale for a little guidance. Maddox might smell like cat food and look like a grownup version of a Garbage Pail Kid, but he seems like the real deal. Can Randall complete his "happiness assignments" and find inner peace? And what about all the strange messages written all over town in colored chalk? Oh, and did I mention that there's a murderer on the loose? LUCKY will keep you guessing until the end.
Jeremy is a very talented writer, a Bram Stoker Award nominee, who has written many novels and short stories.
Find out more at his website: https://jeremycshipp.wordpress.com/
January 6, 2016
New Release: Wake Me Up, by Justin Bog
Talented author Justin Bog has just released his first novel, Wake Me Up.
Those of you who follow my blog and reading recommendations will know that I have enjoyed Justin's books in the past. He has two wonderful short story collections and a brilliant novella.
Justin has been working on this crime fiction novel for many years. I am very much looking forward to reading it.
Justin says, "I write what disturbs me, what I seek answers to in the darkness of a life unknowable to me. I imagine how people cope with their own guilt, the secrets they think they need to keep. Justice is also important to me. It forms my name even. Social justice plays a part in my new upcoming crime novel, Wake Me Up.
Read more about the book on Justin's Website: http://justinbog.com/wake-me-up-first...
Get your copy from Amazon
US: Kindle: http://www.amazon.com/Wake-Me-Up-Just...
Paperback: http://www.amazon.com/dp/1513706586
UK: Kindle: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Wake-Me-Up-Ju...
Paperback: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1513706586
Those of you who follow my blog and reading recommendations will know that I have enjoyed Justin's books in the past. He has two wonderful short story collections and a brilliant novella.
Justin has been working on this crime fiction novel for many years. I am very much looking forward to reading it.
Justin says, "I write what disturbs me, what I seek answers to in the darkness of a life unknowable to me. I imagine how people cope with their own guilt, the secrets they think they need to keep. Justice is also important to me. It forms my name even. Social justice plays a part in my new upcoming crime novel, Wake Me Up.
Read more about the book on Justin's Website: http://justinbog.com/wake-me-up-first...
Get your copy from Amazon
US: Kindle: http://www.amazon.com/Wake-Me-Up-Just...
Paperback: http://www.amazon.com/dp/1513706586
UK: Kindle: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Wake-Me-Up-Ju...
Paperback: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1513706586
December 23, 2015
Some of my favourite reads from 2015
I've discovered some talented authors this year and also read some new books by some of my favourite authors.
In no particular order, here are some of my favourite books from this year:
(they may not all have been published in 2015 but are books that I read this year)
Eli's Coming, by Darcia Helle
From one of my favourite authors, the first in a series. I'm looking forward to the next book.
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Elis-Coming-C...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Elis-Coming-Cha...
The Smell Of Paprika, by James Everington
I enjoyed the first four books in this series. It's a weird fantasy tale. There are strange characters and even stranger goings-on. I'm looking forward to the rest of the series, and would definitely recommend the stories.
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Quarantined-C...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Quarantined-Cit...
Weird: A Henry Ian Darling Oddity Missive One, by Julie Elizabeth Powell
Another series I have enjoyed this year. I'm looking forward to more "weird" stories about Henry Ian Darling :)
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Henry-D...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Weird-Henry-Dar...
The Cestus Concern, by Mat Nastos
Again, this is the first book in a series. I am looking forward to finding time to reading more by this author.
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Cestus-Concer...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Cestus-Concern-...
Living the Dream, by Tim Baker
I read the first two books from this series this year and enjoyed them. I have some other books by this author on my Kindle and am looking forward to reading more of his work.
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Living-Dream-...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Living-Dream-Ti...
Dreams of a Calico Mouse: The Poems of Dorien Grey
If you like poetry, I'd highly recommend this collection.
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Dreams-Calico...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Calico-M...
Those Pesky Rabbits, by Ciara Flood
If you're looking for a good book to read to children, this one's great. My nieces and nephew (age range 4 years - 8 years) absolutely love the book.
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Those-Pesky-R...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Those-Pesky-Rab...
Odin's Eye, by Maria Haskins
This is one of the new authors I discovered this year. She also writes poetry and has a new collection which I'm reading at the moment. She's joining us for book 5 of the Mind's Eye series.
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Odins-Eye-Mar...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Odins-Eye-Maria...
Daddy's Glove, by Thomma Lyn Grindstaff
I've read quite a few of Thomma Lyn Grindstaff short stories this year and enjoyed them all. This is another author that I've invited to join us for book 5 of the Mind's Eye series.
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Daddys-Glove-...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Daddys-Glove-Th...
Easy Target, by Jenny Hilborne
An engaging, suspenseful thriller. Although the second book in the series, I enjoyed reading it even though I haven't yet read the first one.
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Easy-Target-J...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Easy-Target-Jen...
------------------------------------
Those are my top picks of 2015.
I must also mention the two Mind's Eye series books that were released this year.
Triptychs and Tales From The Cacao Tree.
I contributed short stories to those anthologies. There are stories from many talented writers, including Darcia Helle , Julie Elizabeth Powell,Lisette Brodey, Eden Baylee, Jason McIntyre, and J. Michael Radcliffe. There are also poems from Ben Ditmars and Helle Gade. Well worth reading.
Triptychs:
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Triptychs-Min...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Triptychs-Minds...
Tales From The Cacao Tree
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Tales-From-Ca...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Tales-From-Caca...
In no particular order, here are some of my favourite books from this year:
(they may not all have been published in 2015 but are books that I read this year)
Eli's Coming, by Darcia Helle
From one of my favourite authors, the first in a series. I'm looking forward to the next book.
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Elis-Coming-C...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Elis-Coming-Cha...
The Smell Of Paprika, by James Everington
I enjoyed the first four books in this series. It's a weird fantasy tale. There are strange characters and even stranger goings-on. I'm looking forward to the rest of the series, and would definitely recommend the stories.
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Quarantined-C...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Quarantined-Cit...
Weird: A Henry Ian Darling Oddity Missive One, by Julie Elizabeth Powell
Another series I have enjoyed this year. I'm looking forward to more "weird" stories about Henry Ian Darling :)
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Henry-D...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Weird-Henry-Dar...
The Cestus Concern, by Mat Nastos
Again, this is the first book in a series. I am looking forward to finding time to reading more by this author.
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Cestus-Concer...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Cestus-Concern-...
Living the Dream, by Tim Baker
I read the first two books from this series this year and enjoyed them. I have some other books by this author on my Kindle and am looking forward to reading more of his work.
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Living-Dream-...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Living-Dream-Ti...
Dreams of a Calico Mouse: The Poems of Dorien Grey
If you like poetry, I'd highly recommend this collection.
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Dreams-Calico...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Calico-M...
Those Pesky Rabbits, by Ciara Flood
If you're looking for a good book to read to children, this one's great. My nieces and nephew (age range 4 years - 8 years) absolutely love the book.
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Those-Pesky-R...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Those-Pesky-Rab...
Odin's Eye, by Maria Haskins
This is one of the new authors I discovered this year. She also writes poetry and has a new collection which I'm reading at the moment. She's joining us for book 5 of the Mind's Eye series.
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Odins-Eye-Mar...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Odins-Eye-Maria...
Daddy's Glove, by Thomma Lyn Grindstaff
I've read quite a few of Thomma Lyn Grindstaff short stories this year and enjoyed them all. This is another author that I've invited to join us for book 5 of the Mind's Eye series.
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Daddys-Glove-...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Daddys-Glove-Th...
Easy Target, by Jenny Hilborne
An engaging, suspenseful thriller. Although the second book in the series, I enjoyed reading it even though I haven't yet read the first one.
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Easy-Target-J...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Easy-Target-Jen...
------------------------------------
Those are my top picks of 2015.
I must also mention the two Mind's Eye series books that were released this year.
Triptychs and Tales From The Cacao Tree.
I contributed short stories to those anthologies. There are stories from many talented writers, including Darcia Helle , Julie Elizabeth Powell,Lisette Brodey, Eden Baylee, Jason McIntyre, and J. Michael Radcliffe. There are also poems from Ben Ditmars and Helle Gade. Well worth reading.
Triptychs:
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Triptychs-Min...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Triptychs-Minds...
Tales From The Cacao Tree
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Tales-From-Ca...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Tales-From-Caca...
December 16, 2015
Writing Update
It's been a while since I updated you on my current writing projects.
Here's what I've been working on:
1. Mind's Eye Series
I have just finished two new short stories for Book 5 in The Mind's Eye series.
Both stories were inspired by photographs, one by Helle Gade and the other by Martin David Porter.
Our editor (Bob Helle) told me that my first story, "Somewhere In Time" (a strange tale where nothing is as it seems), reminded him of the Twilight Zone series. My second story is called "Sand and Water". Interestingly, both titles were inspired by music titles - Somewhere in Time ( Iron Maiden album title) and Sand and Water (Beth Nielsen Chapman). The line "Solid stone is just sand and water," fits well with my story.
You can find out more about the series and the writers/photographers involved by following this link: http://quietfurybooks.com/mindseyeser...
2. Lost and Found - short story collection
My new collection of short stories, "Lost and Found" is currently with my beta readers. I hope to release that sometime early next year.
The stories are:
A Different World
An Innocent Man
Boomerang
What's Left Unsaid
Office Gossip
Birthday Boy
Happy Anniversary
All the stories (apart from Boomerang) were originally written for short story competitions in the '90s. They had been saved on an old floppy disk. When I found the disk a few years ago, it had become corrupted, so I thought the stories were lost. I found printed copies in a drawer at home last year and decided to edit them and publish them. I wrote "Boomerang" last year as an extra story for the collection.
The title "Lost and Found" seems apt because I'd originally thought the stories had been lost. Also, "Boomerang" was originally called "Lost and Found", but I often change titles of stories after I finish them :)
I also had the help of Bob Helle in editing this collection.
3. New novel
I'm due to send my sixth novel to my editor shortly (I'll be using Bob Helle again for this one). Its working title was "In the web of dreams and lies" but I think I already have too many books with "dream" in the title, so will be thinking up a new title... to be revealed soon.
The new novel is a fantasy/horror/romance/thriller with a bit of humour. It was a lot of fun to write and I'm looking forward to publishing that sometime next year.
4. Co-writing project
Last, but not least, I've been working on a novel with Darcia Helle. The idea came from Darcia. So far we've written ten chapters. It's an interesting concept and none of us have any idea where it's going as the characters have already taken over! With any luck, we'll be able to reveal more about this project early next year.
That's all for now.
Check out my website for all the up-to-date news: http://www.mariasavva.com
Here's what I've been working on:
1. Mind's Eye Series
I have just finished two new short stories for Book 5 in The Mind's Eye series.
Both stories were inspired by photographs, one by Helle Gade and the other by Martin David Porter.
Our editor (Bob Helle) told me that my first story, "Somewhere In Time" (a strange tale where nothing is as it seems), reminded him of the Twilight Zone series. My second story is called "Sand and Water". Interestingly, both titles were inspired by music titles - Somewhere in Time ( Iron Maiden album title) and Sand and Water (Beth Nielsen Chapman). The line "Solid stone is just sand and water," fits well with my story.
You can find out more about the series and the writers/photographers involved by following this link: http://quietfurybooks.com/mindseyeser...
2. Lost and Found - short story collection
My new collection of short stories, "Lost and Found" is currently with my beta readers. I hope to release that sometime early next year.
The stories are:
A Different World
An Innocent Man
Boomerang
What's Left Unsaid
Office Gossip
Birthday Boy
Happy Anniversary
All the stories (apart from Boomerang) were originally written for short story competitions in the '90s. They had been saved on an old floppy disk. When I found the disk a few years ago, it had become corrupted, so I thought the stories were lost. I found printed copies in a drawer at home last year and decided to edit them and publish them. I wrote "Boomerang" last year as an extra story for the collection.
The title "Lost and Found" seems apt because I'd originally thought the stories had been lost. Also, "Boomerang" was originally called "Lost and Found", but I often change titles of stories after I finish them :)
I also had the help of Bob Helle in editing this collection.
3. New novel
I'm due to send my sixth novel to my editor shortly (I'll be using Bob Helle again for this one). Its working title was "In the web of dreams and lies" but I think I already have too many books with "dream" in the title, so will be thinking up a new title... to be revealed soon.
The new novel is a fantasy/horror/romance/thriller with a bit of humour. It was a lot of fun to write and I'm looking forward to publishing that sometime next year.
4. Co-writing project
Last, but not least, I've been working on a novel with Darcia Helle. The idea came from Darcia. So far we've written ten chapters. It's an interesting concept and none of us have any idea where it's going as the characters have already taken over! With any luck, we'll be able to reveal more about this project early next year.
That's all for now.
Check out my website for all the up-to-date news: http://www.mariasavva.com
December 7, 2015
Recommended Christmas reads
I've read some great Christmas stories in the past few years, so I thought I'd share these with you.
Christmas is a time when it's wonderful to lose yourself in fiction.
Here are my recommendations. I hope you'll try some of them :)
Christmas Past, by Julie Elizabeth Powell
My review:
What is Christmas and why was it banned? Two questions that the protagonists in this story need to find out. This is a wonderful fantasy tale set some time in the future. I really liked the message behind this story. It's a message of peace and, as such, is a perfect Christmas read. The two main characters, Thomat and Draven, are breaking the rules by entering the mysterious library that contains the answers they need.
This is a short tale but a complex one, and it's well written. I liked the interaction between the characters.
Julie Elizabeth Powell's stories are always very imaginative and this is no exception.
Buy the book:
Amazon:
UK:http://www.amazon.co.uk/Christmas-Pas...
US: http://www.amazon.com/Christmas-Past-...
Also available as an audiobook: http://www.audible.co.uk/pd/Sci-Fi-Fa...
*****************************
The Christmas Spirit, by Susan Buchanan
My review:
Perfect read for this time of year. Lots of Christmas references, and seasonal food described in delicious detail.
A magical tale full of true-to-life characters.
Who is the mysterious Natalie Hope and what difference will her presence in the Sugar and Spice bakery and café make to the residents in town? Can she restore the Christmas spirit?
Susan Buchanan is expert at introducing us to lots of interesting characters and weaving the tales of their lives into a great plot.
A bit of romance, a touch of fantasy, festive feasts, and down to earth humour.
A quick read that will put you in the mood for Christmas.
Buy the book:
Amazon:
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0...
US: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00G...
Susan Buchanan has just launched a sequel to this book, Return of the Christmas Spirit. I haven't read it yet, but am looking forward to it.
About the book:
Christmas is just around the corner when Star begins working at Butterburn library, but not everyone is embracing the spirit of the season.
Sixteen-year-old Arianna’s mock exams are looming and she’s feeling under pressure. With her father living abroad and her mother working three jobs, she doesn’t have much support at home.
The bank is threatening to repossess Evan’s house, and he has no idea how he’s going to get through Christmas with two children who are used to getting everything they want.
Patricia’s cliché of a husband, after 23 years of marriage, has announced he’s moving out of the family home, and moving in with his secretary.
Daniel is doing the work of three people in his sales job, as well as looking after his kids and his wife. Pulled in too many different directions, he’s feeling stressed out.
Can Star, the library’s Good Samaritan, help set them on the path to happiness this Christmas?
Buy the book:
Amazon:
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Return-Christ...
US: http://www.amazon.com/Return-Christma...
****************************
Hark---A Christmas Collection, by Justin Bog
My review:
This is not your usual Christmas collection of stories. There are no tales of magic and miracles to be found. In this book, the author has collected together short stories that show another side of Christmas. An equally important side. There are people who, for whatever reason, may not be enjoying the Christmas season, and these stories looks at a few examples. Christmas comes every year and, therefore, brings with it memories. In 'Hark' you will find stories of regret, loneliness, fear, pain. That's not to say that it's a depressing read. On the contrary, I enjoyed reading these stories because the characters seem like real people and their emotions are so well portrayed. The author has a talent for bringing characters to life. This is a well written collection. All the stories were enjoyable for different reasons, but I think my favourite is the last story 'The Heralds' because there is a great twist and it is uplifting as well as being insightful. I liked the ending of 'Snow Globe'; it's a great example of the author's ability to understand the complexities of human nature. Although all the stories have a dark side, there is also fun to be found among the pages, most notably in the story, 'Seducing Santa'.
I'd definitely recommend this book, especially as a Christmas read. The sights and sounds of the season are intertwined with the deep and poignant characters' stories.
Buy the book:
Amazon:
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0...
US: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00P...
*************************
Frostbite - The Dragon that Saved Christmas, by J. Michael Radcliffe
My review:
I really enjoyed this short story. It's perfect for the Christmas season. It's a fantasy tale about a curse that must not be broken, and how a dragon saved Christmas. The story is full of enchanting and magical characters. I am already a fan of this author's work, having enjoyed his novels and other short stories. He is a talented writer who excels at fantasy writing. This short story is a great way to sample his work
Buy the book:
Amazon:
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0...
US: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00A...
************************
Christmas Stories, by Paulo Coelho
My review:
I enjoyed these stories. It's a quick read. Perfect for reading at Christmastime. The stories are not entirely original, as they're based on tales and legends from around the world, nevertheless, they are uplifting and contain important messages of hope and love.
Buy the book:
Amazon:
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0...
US: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00Q...
Christmas is a time when it's wonderful to lose yourself in fiction.
Here are my recommendations. I hope you'll try some of them :)
Christmas Past, by Julie Elizabeth Powell
My review:
What is Christmas and why was it banned? Two questions that the protagonists in this story need to find out. This is a wonderful fantasy tale set some time in the future. I really liked the message behind this story. It's a message of peace and, as such, is a perfect Christmas read. The two main characters, Thomat and Draven, are breaking the rules by entering the mysterious library that contains the answers they need.
This is a short tale but a complex one, and it's well written. I liked the interaction between the characters.
Julie Elizabeth Powell's stories are always very imaginative and this is no exception.
Buy the book:
Amazon:
UK:http://www.amazon.co.uk/Christmas-Pas...
US: http://www.amazon.com/Christmas-Past-...
Also available as an audiobook: http://www.audible.co.uk/pd/Sci-Fi-Fa...
*****************************
The Christmas Spirit, by Susan Buchanan
My review:
Perfect read for this time of year. Lots of Christmas references, and seasonal food described in delicious detail.
A magical tale full of true-to-life characters.
Who is the mysterious Natalie Hope and what difference will her presence in the Sugar and Spice bakery and café make to the residents in town? Can she restore the Christmas spirit?
Susan Buchanan is expert at introducing us to lots of interesting characters and weaving the tales of their lives into a great plot.
A bit of romance, a touch of fantasy, festive feasts, and down to earth humour.
A quick read that will put you in the mood for Christmas.
Buy the book:
Amazon:
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0...
US: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00G...
Susan Buchanan has just launched a sequel to this book, Return of the Christmas Spirit. I haven't read it yet, but am looking forward to it.
About the book:
Christmas is just around the corner when Star begins working at Butterburn library, but not everyone is embracing the spirit of the season.
Sixteen-year-old Arianna’s mock exams are looming and she’s feeling under pressure. With her father living abroad and her mother working three jobs, she doesn’t have much support at home.
The bank is threatening to repossess Evan’s house, and he has no idea how he’s going to get through Christmas with two children who are used to getting everything they want.
Patricia’s cliché of a husband, after 23 years of marriage, has announced he’s moving out of the family home, and moving in with his secretary.
Daniel is doing the work of three people in his sales job, as well as looking after his kids and his wife. Pulled in too many different directions, he’s feeling stressed out.
Can Star, the library’s Good Samaritan, help set them on the path to happiness this Christmas?
Buy the book:
Amazon:
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Return-Christ...
US: http://www.amazon.com/Return-Christma...
****************************
Hark---A Christmas Collection, by Justin Bog
My review:
This is not your usual Christmas collection of stories. There are no tales of magic and miracles to be found. In this book, the author has collected together short stories that show another side of Christmas. An equally important side. There are people who, for whatever reason, may not be enjoying the Christmas season, and these stories looks at a few examples. Christmas comes every year and, therefore, brings with it memories. In 'Hark' you will find stories of regret, loneliness, fear, pain. That's not to say that it's a depressing read. On the contrary, I enjoyed reading these stories because the characters seem like real people and their emotions are so well portrayed. The author has a talent for bringing characters to life. This is a well written collection. All the stories were enjoyable for different reasons, but I think my favourite is the last story 'The Heralds' because there is a great twist and it is uplifting as well as being insightful. I liked the ending of 'Snow Globe'; it's a great example of the author's ability to understand the complexities of human nature. Although all the stories have a dark side, there is also fun to be found among the pages, most notably in the story, 'Seducing Santa'.
I'd definitely recommend this book, especially as a Christmas read. The sights and sounds of the season are intertwined with the deep and poignant characters' stories.
Buy the book:
Amazon:
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0...
US: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00P...
*************************
Frostbite - The Dragon that Saved Christmas, by J. Michael Radcliffe
My review:
I really enjoyed this short story. It's perfect for the Christmas season. It's a fantasy tale about a curse that must not be broken, and how a dragon saved Christmas. The story is full of enchanting and magical characters. I am already a fan of this author's work, having enjoyed his novels and other short stories. He is a talented writer who excels at fantasy writing. This short story is a great way to sample his work
Buy the book:
Amazon:
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0...
US: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00A...
************************
Christmas Stories, by Paulo Coelho
My review:
I enjoyed these stories. It's a quick read. Perfect for reading at Christmastime. The stories are not entirely original, as they're based on tales and legends from around the world, nevertheless, they are uplifting and contain important messages of hope and love.
Buy the book:
Amazon:
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0...
US: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00Q...
November 22, 2015
New Release: Drawn Apart, by Lisette Brodey
Talented author, Lisette Brodey has just released the third book in her YA Paranormal trilogy "The Desert Series". The 3rd book is "Drawn Apart".
About the book:
When Avalon Martelli and Stephanie Lambert meet at the start of their junior year at Mystekal High, they form an instant connection. Stephanie is from South Jersey and Avalon from North Jersey, and they both feel out of place in the Southern California desert.
Aside from having a home state in common, they each possess a talent for art and the heartbreak of a broken family. Avalon has the gift of sight, where the future is sometimes revealed in her paintings, while Stephanie’s drawings are all about forever love. As Stephanie, a self-described poetry geek and hopeless romantic, talks about past lives and eternal happiness, Avalon denies she’s in love with her best guy friend, River Dalworth, who is attending art school in Los Angeles.
Only weeks before graduation, Stephanie is in a car accident and falls into a coma. Devastated, Avalon believes it is all her fault. The night before, she had painted Stephanie with her head against the steering wheel—and hadn’t told her. She confides this to River, who has come home to be with her, but he can’t convince her she’s not to blame. Avalon loudly proclaims to the universe that she no longer wants her gift, but River warns her she may receive another one in its place.
Avalon and her family, along with Stephanie’s mother, pray for a miracle. River tries to console her, but she finds his presence difficult, knowing he has someone else who “just might be the one.” Trying to push her own pain and disappointment aside, Avalon keeps vigil for her best friend, hoping that Stephanie will wake up and have her greatest wish fulfilled— the meeting of her soul mate.
I really enjoyed the first book in the series and am looking forward to finding time to read the others.
You can buy the new book on Amazon worldwide:
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/DRAWN-APART-D...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/DRAWN-APART-Des...
Author links:
Website: http://lisettebrodey.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrodeyAuthor
Twitter: https://twitter.com/LisetteBrodey
About the book:
When Avalon Martelli and Stephanie Lambert meet at the start of their junior year at Mystekal High, they form an instant connection. Stephanie is from South Jersey and Avalon from North Jersey, and they both feel out of place in the Southern California desert.
Aside from having a home state in common, they each possess a talent for art and the heartbreak of a broken family. Avalon has the gift of sight, where the future is sometimes revealed in her paintings, while Stephanie’s drawings are all about forever love. As Stephanie, a self-described poetry geek and hopeless romantic, talks about past lives and eternal happiness, Avalon denies she’s in love with her best guy friend, River Dalworth, who is attending art school in Los Angeles.
Only weeks before graduation, Stephanie is in a car accident and falls into a coma. Devastated, Avalon believes it is all her fault. The night before, she had painted Stephanie with her head against the steering wheel—and hadn’t told her. She confides this to River, who has come home to be with her, but he can’t convince her she’s not to blame. Avalon loudly proclaims to the universe that she no longer wants her gift, but River warns her she may receive another one in its place.
Avalon and her family, along with Stephanie’s mother, pray for a miracle. River tries to console her, but she finds his presence difficult, knowing he has someone else who “just might be the one.” Trying to push her own pain and disappointment aside, Avalon keeps vigil for her best friend, hoping that Stephanie will wake up and have her greatest wish fulfilled— the meeting of her soul mate.
I really enjoyed the first book in the series and am looking forward to finding time to read the others.
You can buy the new book on Amazon worldwide:
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/DRAWN-APART-D...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/DRAWN-APART-Des...
Author links:
Website: http://lisettebrodey.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrodeyAuthor
Twitter: https://twitter.com/LisetteBrodey
November 16, 2015
Books and Chocolate - the perfect combination
Today is release day for the 4th book in The Mind's Eye Series.
"Tales From The Cacao Tree" is a collection of short stories and poetry inspired by photographs. For this anthology, we set our photographers the task of taking interesting photographs of chocolate.
The gorgeous book cover was designed by Kat at Aeternum Designs (http://aeternumdesigns.com/) from a photograph taken by Helle Gade.
Interestingly, the Science Daily reported an important discovery about cacao trees last week. Their story says,
Cacao trees evolved around 10 million years ago, earlier than previously believed, new research shows. Considerable genetic variation might remain to be discovered among wild cacao populations, which could be crossbred with cultivated cacao for greater resistance to disease and climate change, and possibly new flavors.
Read the full story here: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/...
That is great news for chocolate lovers.
Even better news is that you can purchase a copy of Tales From The Cacao Tree on Kindle today! :)
There are 3 new short stories from me in the anthology.
The book also contains stories from Darcia Helle, J. Michael Radcliffe, and Julie Elizabeth Powell. There are poems from Ben Ditmars, Helle Gade, and Richard Weatherly.
The photographs were contributed by Martin David Porter, Helle Gade, and Kim Stapf.
Considering chocolate is so sweet and all the writers love it, surprisingly there are lots of murder stories in this collection. This may have been caused by the frustration of staring at photos of chocolate but not being able to eat it... :)
I've read all the stories and poems and absolutely love them. Just like a box of chocolates, there's something for everyone in this collection: murder, mystery, love, romance, loss, revenge, fantasy, magic, and dragons.
I'd suggest you eat chocolate whilst reading it :)
The book is available free on Kindle Unlimited, or $3.99/£3.99
Here are the links:
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Tales-Cacao-T...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Tales-Cacao-Tre...
Also available at Amazon stores worldwide.
Now I need to go and eat some chocolate :)
"Tales From The Cacao Tree" is a collection of short stories and poetry inspired by photographs. For this anthology, we set our photographers the task of taking interesting photographs of chocolate.
The gorgeous book cover was designed by Kat at Aeternum Designs (http://aeternumdesigns.com/) from a photograph taken by Helle Gade.
Interestingly, the Science Daily reported an important discovery about cacao trees last week. Their story says,
Cacao trees evolved around 10 million years ago, earlier than previously believed, new research shows. Considerable genetic variation might remain to be discovered among wild cacao populations, which could be crossbred with cultivated cacao for greater resistance to disease and climate change, and possibly new flavors.
Read the full story here: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/...
That is great news for chocolate lovers.
Even better news is that you can purchase a copy of Tales From The Cacao Tree on Kindle today! :)
There are 3 new short stories from me in the anthology.
The book also contains stories from Darcia Helle, J. Michael Radcliffe, and Julie Elizabeth Powell. There are poems from Ben Ditmars, Helle Gade, and Richard Weatherly.
The photographs were contributed by Martin David Porter, Helle Gade, and Kim Stapf.
Considering chocolate is so sweet and all the writers love it, surprisingly there are lots of murder stories in this collection. This may have been caused by the frustration of staring at photos of chocolate but not being able to eat it... :)
I've read all the stories and poems and absolutely love them. Just like a box of chocolates, there's something for everyone in this collection: murder, mystery, love, romance, loss, revenge, fantasy, magic, and dragons.
I'd suggest you eat chocolate whilst reading it :)
The book is available free on Kindle Unlimited, or $3.99/£3.99
Here are the links:
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Tales-Cacao-T...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Tales-Cacao-Tre...
Also available at Amazon stores worldwide.
Now I need to go and eat some chocolate :)
November 14, 2015
Book Review: The Fairy In The Tale, by Julie Elizabeth Powell
The Fairy In The Tale by Julie Elizabeth PowellMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
Being a big fan of Julie Elizabeth Powell's fiction, I was looking forward to reading this new story. As with all her other books, it's an easy read that kept me interested throughout. This story is quite different to anything else I've read by this author; Julie Elizabeth Powell is a writer who likes to experiment with her writing and write in many varied genres. The one thing that connects all of her books is the fact that she has such a wonderfully vivid imagination and can write skillfully in any genre.
This story is about a fairy. Prudence Willowfig is a Music Fairy who is trying to earn her wings. We follow her on the New Leaf Challenge. Will she successfully complete the challenge?
There are many unexpected twists and turns. Although the beginning of the story is quite slow paced, it does move on quite quickly and develops into an exciting tale. On her journey, Prudence Willowfig meets up with someone who knows nothing about fairies. Is the meeting part of her test?
A fun and inspiring fantasy tale from a very talented writer.
View all my reviews
