Angela Lockwood's Blog, page 12
January 23, 2017
Crushing on the Enemy by Darcy Doll
It has been a good week. I've had lots of fun setting up and posting to the new FB page: Tomfoolery. Tom the cat has now a decent following.
Tomfoolery on Facebook
The thunderclap campaign is also gathering momentum with half of it's target reached. With 13 days to go things, are on target.
Support my thunderclap
I've also updated the website (long overdue but I had to lean to do it myself!) I still have some work to do but the new book is added and the title changed:
Webpage
Paradox design has provided the cover to the print copy and that is looking fantastic too.
Amongst all that, I've finished a book too. It is a gentle romance that will appeal to all ages. I gave the wholesome clean read 5 stars.
Crushing on the Enemy by Darci Doll on Amazon
Crushing on the enemy introduces us to a thoroughly modern woman with an old fashioned marshmallow heart. Roselyn Cosi is a hard working woman in charge of opening new 24/7 chain stores. When the chain is planning to open up in a picturesque village, they are met with fierce protests from local business owners. Roselyn is faced with a dilemma when the heart wants what the head forbids her to do.What I do like about the main character Roselyn is that she faces what many women do in the work place. She has decided to sacrifice romance in the pursuit of a career. Two weeks before her 30thBirthday she hears her biological clock ticking loudly and she realises she wants a family. Her younger sisters engagement and bliss make her realise a large part of her life is unfulfilled. She meets a man that is the polar opposite to her and she starts to question her love and work life.I enjoyed this book; it is written in an engaging style and moves at a good pace. This is a book you won’t feel embarrassed to give to either your mother or your daughter as it is a good clean read that will appeal to all age groups.
Tomfoolery on Facebook
The thunderclap campaign is also gathering momentum with half of it's target reached. With 13 days to go things, are on target.
Support my thunderclap
I've also updated the website (long overdue but I had to lean to do it myself!) I still have some work to do but the new book is added and the title changed:
Webpage
Paradox design has provided the cover to the print copy and that is looking fantastic too.
Amongst all that, I've finished a book too. It is a gentle romance that will appeal to all ages. I gave the wholesome clean read 5 stars.
Crushing on the Enemy by Darci Doll on AmazonCrushing on the enemy introduces us to a thoroughly modern woman with an old fashioned marshmallow heart. Roselyn Cosi is a hard working woman in charge of opening new 24/7 chain stores. When the chain is planning to open up in a picturesque village, they are met with fierce protests from local business owners. Roselyn is faced with a dilemma when the heart wants what the head forbids her to do.What I do like about the main character Roselyn is that she faces what many women do in the work place. She has decided to sacrifice romance in the pursuit of a career. Two weeks before her 30thBirthday she hears her biological clock ticking loudly and she realises she wants a family. Her younger sisters engagement and bliss make her realise a large part of her life is unfulfilled. She meets a man that is the polar opposite to her and she starts to question her love and work life.I enjoyed this book; it is written in an engaging style and moves at a good pace. This is a book you won’t feel embarrassed to give to either your mother or your daughter as it is a good clean read that will appeal to all age groups.
January 20, 2017
Tomfoolery
Its been a good week. Penny my editor and her daughter Amy have done a wonderful job of editing and proof reading Conversations with Tom. I've formatted it and loaded it onto Amazon so it is ready to fill all those pre-orders. We are still tinkering (Well I made a mess and now Penny is clearing it up!) on Createspace and hopefully the paperback will also be ready for the 5th of February. If you haven't got your copy yet you can order it now:
Conversations with Tom
The book was inspired by my cat Clicquot and I've now given Tom/Clicquot his own Facebook page as he has plenty more to say.
Tomfoolery Facebook page of Tom the cat
There is also still time to support my Thunderclap campaign:
Thunderclap
Conversations with Tom
The book was inspired by my cat Clicquot and I've now given Tom/Clicquot his own Facebook page as he has plenty more to say.
Tomfoolery Facebook page of Tom the cat
There is also still time to support my Thunderclap campaign:
Thunderclap
January 15, 2017
Thunderclap
Gearing up for the big release of
Conversations with Tom
on the 5th of February. Pre-orders are starting to come in and excitement is building. I've set up a thunderclap campaign to help give the launch a social media blast on the day. You can support it via the following link:
http://thndr.me/blRaSK
Or even better you can pre-order the book via amazon.
Conversations with Tom on Amazon.com
http://thndr.me/blRaSK
Or even better you can pre-order the book via amazon.
Conversations with Tom on Amazon.comJanuary 10, 2017
Paradox - Equilibrium (Book 4) (Paradox series) by Patti Roberts
As you might know, Patti Roberts is the talented lady that designs my book covers. What you might not, is that she is a great writer too. This is the forth book I have read in the Paradox series and they are getting better. Book 3 was a little slower, but this one picks up the pace ending on a few cliff-hangers. 5 stars.
Paradox-Equilibrium (Book 4) (Paradox series) by Patti Roberts on Amazon.com
This has been a riveting series so far and in this one we are getting to know some more about the other characters in Grace’s life as her story takes a back seat now and then. This is not a criticism as the other people in Grace’s life have back stories that would fill a whole other series, and they add plenty of action. Grace herself finally knows the truth and what it took to keep that truth from her. Angela was her deadpan amusing self when she showed her friend how she had created a home next door, even picking some suitable parents from a catalogue. The book ends on no less than two cliff-hangers and I just have to find out what happens next. As usual, Patti puts her readers on the edge of their seats and leaves them dangling there, desperate for the next instalment.
Paradox-Equilibrium (Book 4) (Paradox series) by Patti Roberts on Amazon.comThis has been a riveting series so far and in this one we are getting to know some more about the other characters in Grace’s life as her story takes a back seat now and then. This is not a criticism as the other people in Grace’s life have back stories that would fill a whole other series, and they add plenty of action. Grace herself finally knows the truth and what it took to keep that truth from her. Angela was her deadpan amusing self when she showed her friend how she had created a home next door, even picking some suitable parents from a catalogue. The book ends on no less than two cliff-hangers and I just have to find out what happens next. As usual, Patti puts her readers on the edge of their seats and leaves them dangling there, desperate for the next instalment.
January 5, 2017
Conversations with Tom
Big News! Conversations with Tom is ready to pre-order on Amazon. Be the first to have a copy on your kindle when it hits the virtual shelves on the 5th of February. It is the perfect romantic Valentines read.
Conversations with Tom by Angela Lockwood on Amazon.com
When Jeff and his wife Lisa adopt a kitten named Tom, they have no idea their marriage is in trouble. When the fluffy kitten turns out to be a boisterous cat, hell-bent on destroying furniture, Lisa realises life isn’t turning out the way she’d planned. Tom’s conviction that 4am really is the best time of day, plus her husband’s disastrous business sense, soon drives Lisa into the arms of another man.
Newly single, and at a loss, Jeff turns to his cat for a sympathetic furry ear. The witty and convincingly cat-like character he imagines becomes the friend he so desperately needs. But as his owner agonises about love and life, Tom concerns himself with more important matters, such as soliciting tuna and how to get better acquainted with the neighbour’s rabbit. Although they don’t always understand each other, Jeff and Tom form an unbreakable bond – until a trip to the vet changes everything…
You might have also noted that the blog has changed it's title to a more suitable: Angela Lockwood writes and reviews.
Conversations with Tom by Angela Lockwood on Amazon.comWhen Jeff and his wife Lisa adopt a kitten named Tom, they have no idea their marriage is in trouble. When the fluffy kitten turns out to be a boisterous cat, hell-bent on destroying furniture, Lisa realises life isn’t turning out the way she’d planned. Tom’s conviction that 4am really is the best time of day, plus her husband’s disastrous business sense, soon drives Lisa into the arms of another man.
Newly single, and at a loss, Jeff turns to his cat for a sympathetic furry ear. The witty and convincingly cat-like character he imagines becomes the friend he so desperately needs. But as his owner agonises about love and life, Tom concerns himself with more important matters, such as soliciting tuna and how to get better acquainted with the neighbour’s rabbit. Although they don’t always understand each other, Jeff and Tom form an unbreakable bond – until a trip to the vet changes everything…
You might have also noted that the blog has changed it's title to a more suitable: Angela Lockwood writes and reviews.
Who Killed Vivien Morse (DCI Hatherall Book 4) by Diana J Febry
Happy new year to all my readers. A bit slow of the mark, but with work and a bout of flu, things are not as quick as I would like. With the launch of Conversations of Tom on the horizon, I realise that I have a lot of work to do. The book is safely in the hands of Penny Hunter who is finalising the edit. I however need to plan and execute a big roll out for the 5th of February. 1st on the agenda was a revamped and renamed Facebook site. Language in the Blood is no longer my only book and this blog will need a new name too. (Any suggestions?)
Have a look, I think the banner by Paradox looks great:Angela Lockwood Author
I still try to read and review books by other independent authors. One of them; Diana Febry has been on my list for a long time and I'm glad I've finally got round to reading one of her books. I gave it 5 stars.
Who Killed Vivien Morse (DCI Hatherall Book 4) by Diana J Febry on Amazon.com When the body of Vivien Morse is found in some woodland, the case quickly becomes complicated. The abusive ex-husband has a cast iron alibi and due to her job as a social worker, there are many leads to follow for DCI Hatherall and his partner Fiona. This is not only a good mystery that had me guessing to the last, but also a highly entertaining read. This book could only have been set in the English country side; where else would you find such a colourful and eccentric mix of characters. I did feel for our DCI when he is trying to do his job, deal with personal problems and has to placate the local Neighbourhood watch busybody. A man dressed as a druid and not wearing shoes is hardly cause for hysteria? It was highly entertaining to be travelling in the shoes of our long suffering DCI as he was trying to extract fact from tittle tattle and flamboyant statements. Who Killed Vivien Morse is the 4th book in the DCI Hatherall series. Some characters pop up and it is clear that they played a role in earlier books but that doesn’t get in the way at of the story. I’m certainly tempted now to explore the first three books in the series.
Have a look, I think the banner by Paradox looks great:Angela Lockwood Author
I still try to read and review books by other independent authors. One of them; Diana Febry has been on my list for a long time and I'm glad I've finally got round to reading one of her books. I gave it 5 stars.
Who Killed Vivien Morse (DCI Hatherall Book 4) by Diana J Febry on Amazon.com When the body of Vivien Morse is found in some woodland, the case quickly becomes complicated. The abusive ex-husband has a cast iron alibi and due to her job as a social worker, there are many leads to follow for DCI Hatherall and his partner Fiona. This is not only a good mystery that had me guessing to the last, but also a highly entertaining read. This book could only have been set in the English country side; where else would you find such a colourful and eccentric mix of characters. I did feel for our DCI when he is trying to do his job, deal with personal problems and has to placate the local Neighbourhood watch busybody. A man dressed as a druid and not wearing shoes is hardly cause for hysteria? It was highly entertaining to be travelling in the shoes of our long suffering DCI as he was trying to extract fact from tittle tattle and flamboyant statements. Who Killed Vivien Morse is the 4th book in the DCI Hatherall series. Some characters pop up and it is clear that they played a role in earlier books but that doesn’t get in the way at of the story. I’m certainly tempted now to explore the first three books in the series.December 19, 2016
Enablers Anonymous by Nico Laeser
Finally a chance to get back to the writer of one of my favorite Indie books of the last year; Skincage. I didn't think this was on a par, but it was still very good and deserved 5 stars.
Enablers Anonymous by Nico Laeser on Amazon.com
Ever since reading Skincageby Nico Laeser I’ve been keen to sample some more of his work. Enablers Anonymous is a dark comedy. It has its finger firmly on the pulse of the modern world. We meet Jimmy King a self-confessed loser but also a cynic who exploits what can be exploited. He stumbles into the world of therapy and self-help groups. What starts with a scheme to make some extra cash, gradually grows into a fast money making network of groups and seminars. As Jimmy struggles with keeping his web of lies from unravelling, his conscience is already pulling at the various threads.The character of Jimmy is very well written, as he confesses to us the reader, we sense from his anecdotes that all is not as he sees it, and we develop a lot of sympathy for him as he blunders from one scheme to another. We get first hand a journey of self-discovery and growth. Enablers Anonymous is a clever story with a lot of heart. Recommended.
Enablers Anonymous by Nico Laeser on Amazon.comEver since reading Skincageby Nico Laeser I’ve been keen to sample some more of his work. Enablers Anonymous is a dark comedy. It has its finger firmly on the pulse of the modern world. We meet Jimmy King a self-confessed loser but also a cynic who exploits what can be exploited. He stumbles into the world of therapy and self-help groups. What starts with a scheme to make some extra cash, gradually grows into a fast money making network of groups and seminars. As Jimmy struggles with keeping his web of lies from unravelling, his conscience is already pulling at the various threads.The character of Jimmy is very well written, as he confesses to us the reader, we sense from his anecdotes that all is not as he sees it, and we develop a lot of sympathy for him as he blunders from one scheme to another. We get first hand a journey of self-discovery and growth. Enablers Anonymous is a clever story with a lot of heart. Recommended.
December 6, 2016
Eve of Tomorrow (Dawn of Rebellion Series Book 3) by Michelle Lynn
This has been a great YA series and I thoroughly enjoyed all 3 books. Maybe the second and third lacked some of the humour of the first, but that was offset by a fast and exciting plot. I gave it 5 stars.
Eve of Tomorrow (Dawn of Rebellion series Book") by Michelle Lynn on Amazon.com
Eve of Tomorrow is the third and last book in the Dawn of Rebellion series. And what a cracking end to the series it is. Quite a number of surprises and I dare you not to shed a tear. What I liked most about the series is seeing the two girls; Dawn and Gabby grow from London street urgings into not to be messed with strong woman, without losing their core characters. Gabby remains mouthy and defiant, while Dawn keeps her softer caring side.Book 2 was rather dark and serious, and while things are grim in the colonies we see a more hopeful tone and also some romance. One character that comes to the fore in this book is Lee and I really felt for the tall silent American as he had the misfortune to fall in love.The plot is exciting and fast moving as the girls race against time to stop a dangerous weapon that could spell the end of the colonies, being deployed.I’m sad that the series has ended but it has been a great read and even though I would have liked a different ending, I can understand why the writer has reached this conclusion. Great stuff and look forwards to reading more from this writer in the future.
Eve of Tomorrow (Dawn of Rebellion series Book") by Michelle Lynn on Amazon.comEve of Tomorrow is the third and last book in the Dawn of Rebellion series. And what a cracking end to the series it is. Quite a number of surprises and I dare you not to shed a tear. What I liked most about the series is seeing the two girls; Dawn and Gabby grow from London street urgings into not to be messed with strong woman, without losing their core characters. Gabby remains mouthy and defiant, while Dawn keeps her softer caring side.Book 2 was rather dark and serious, and while things are grim in the colonies we see a more hopeful tone and also some romance. One character that comes to the fore in this book is Lee and I really felt for the tall silent American as he had the misfortune to fall in love.The plot is exciting and fast moving as the girls race against time to stop a dangerous weapon that could spell the end of the colonies, being deployed.I’m sad that the series has ended but it has been a great read and even though I would have liked a different ending, I can understand why the writer has reached this conclusion. Great stuff and look forwards to reading more from this writer in the future.
November 19, 2016
The Friendship Triangle by Joey Paul
It's not often that I read what before would have been called a children's book, but these days the early teens fall under YA. I think I would have enjoyed this book when I was about that age especially if I had some issues to deal with. The message about bullying was very good; don't suffer in silence, tell someone. I gave it five stars as I really enjoyed reading it, even as a much, much older adult.
The Friendship Triangle by Joey Paul on Amazon.com
This is rather a charming book for the younger young adult (early teens.) It deals with a number of difficult issues, such as bereavement, divorce, alcoholism and bullying. It is far from a depressing book because it has a very strong positive message; friendship is important and you can’t do it alone. The writer has made the three girls typical eleven and twelve year olds who don’t always make the best decisions, but with a bit of mystical intervention they reach the right conclusion. Written at a good pace and in simple language a younger reader will enjoy. Recommended.
The Friendship Triangle by Joey Paul on Amazon.comThis is rather a charming book for the younger young adult (early teens.) It deals with a number of difficult issues, such as bereavement, divorce, alcoholism and bullying. It is far from a depressing book because it has a very strong positive message; friendship is important and you can’t do it alone. The writer has made the three girls typical eleven and twelve year olds who don’t always make the best decisions, but with a bit of mystical intervention they reach the right conclusion. Written at a good pace and in simple language a younger reader will enjoy. Recommended.
November 15, 2016
Darrienia: Book 1: The Forgotten Legacies Series (Volume 1) by K J Simmill
Fantasy is not my preferred genre. Truth be told; I was bored to tears by the Hobbit. (Both the book and the film!) I know there is a huge fan base for this genre and I don't shy away from reviewing it. Even though this book was not quite my cup of tea, I know it will appeal to the readers who like to sit down with a thick book and immerse themselves in a fantasy world full of magic. I gave this 4 stars.
Darrienia: Book 1: The Forgotten Legacies Series (Volume 1) by K J Simmill on Amazon.com
When Zoella turns up in Daniels village she can’t remember the last 10 years of her life. Despite this Daniel realises she is special and introduces her to his family. Daniel’s mother, Angela, notices her talent for healing; an almost magical talent. Zo and Daniel become firm friends. Zo’s healing talents are called upon when another mysterious woman is found more dead than alive. Acha is healed and becomes part of the group of friends, despite many questions being left un-answered. Zo happiness is disturbed when a friend from the past shows up and tells them they are all in danger. Her forgotten past hides a terrible secret. Darrienia is the first book in a complex adventure series, which takes the reader to a magical world where nothing is quite like it seems.The character of Zo/Marise is fascinating; an assassin that has been put under a spell to forget her sadistic Alter ego. The struggle between the blood thirty Marise and gentle healer Zo brings a lot of tension and dread to the story.Elly is equally intriguing as we are never sure of her intentions and motivations.I struggled a little with the complexity of the story and I think it will suit an older young adult best. (Also because some scenes are terrifying!) It will be a real treat for the reader who loves fantasy like the Lord of the Rings and other fleshed out magical adventure stories full of wondrous creatures and finely woven plot. The writer might consider using italics for the flashbacks as it left me a little confused as to what time line we were in.Good writing, intriguing characters and a thrilling story.
Darrienia: Book 1: The Forgotten Legacies Series (Volume 1) by K J Simmill on Amazon.comWhen Zoella turns up in Daniels village she can’t remember the last 10 years of her life. Despite this Daniel realises she is special and introduces her to his family. Daniel’s mother, Angela, notices her talent for healing; an almost magical talent. Zo and Daniel become firm friends. Zo’s healing talents are called upon when another mysterious woman is found more dead than alive. Acha is healed and becomes part of the group of friends, despite many questions being left un-answered. Zo happiness is disturbed when a friend from the past shows up and tells them they are all in danger. Her forgotten past hides a terrible secret. Darrienia is the first book in a complex adventure series, which takes the reader to a magical world where nothing is quite like it seems.The character of Zo/Marise is fascinating; an assassin that has been put under a spell to forget her sadistic Alter ego. The struggle between the blood thirty Marise and gentle healer Zo brings a lot of tension and dread to the story.Elly is equally intriguing as we are never sure of her intentions and motivations.I struggled a little with the complexity of the story and I think it will suit an older young adult best. (Also because some scenes are terrifying!) It will be a real treat for the reader who loves fantasy like the Lord of the Rings and other fleshed out magical adventure stories full of wondrous creatures and finely woven plot. The writer might consider using italics for the flashbacks as it left me a little confused as to what time line we were in.Good writing, intriguing characters and a thrilling story.
