K.J. Simmill's Blog, page 25

Book review: Michael Gerhartz – Dark Times (@MichaelGerhart5)

Marine biologist, Natascha, was missing the thrill of the dive since starting work at the [image error]aquarium, so when an opportunity arose to explore a flooded mine it was an adventure she couldn’t resist. Little did she know what her exploration would uncover. Already suspicious about the underhanded deeds of a nearby abbey. Her shocking discovery puts her life in jeopardy as she undercovers a criminal operation so enormous that its reach seems endless. This operation has been running smoothly for a long time, and those in charge have their own agenda with the unsuspecting Natascha. Will she survive to reveal what she has uncovered, or will she too disappear like all those who trod this path before her?

Dark times is an award-winning thriller by Michael Gerhartz. I really enjoyed how the author skilfully incorporated different speech for his characters based on their upbringing and nationality, and loved the use of appropriate colloquialisms, and the dialogue was written in such a way you could easily hear the speaker’s voice. Whilst the book has many characters, it focuses mainly on the journeys and exploits of a few, using supporting characters to expertly build scenes, create tension, and reveal the depths alternative, related events. There is so much to this book, the in-depth and detailed plot will keep readers entertained beginning to end, building a clear picture of the characters, their evolving relationships, and the difficulties they face. This is certainly a well-constructed novel with a brilliantly executed plot. I honestly didn’t want to put it down, so the fact I was on a long-haul flight had its benefits, because I didn’t have to. If you enjoy watching plots and schemes unravel in a character and event-driven plot filled with dark happenings, mystery, and danger, then you will love this.

Book link:

 

Book review: Sharon C Williams – Jasper, Amazon Parrot (@NewEngland_Muse)

Newly hatched Jasper has a lot to learn. The world inside the nest is so big at first, but as [image error]he grows he and his younger brother discover there is so much more adventure to the world. With their new friend Charlie, the spider monkey, exploration and new adventures are never far behind.

A Rainforest Adventure – Jasper, Amazon Parrot is a rain forest adventure written by Sharon C Williams. This book is simply adorable. Jasper is such a lively character, and it was brilliant watching him and his brother grow and mature from the time they first hatched to their adventures in the forest as they encounter other inhabitants. This is not only a fun read, but an educational one. Whilst I know it is targeted at children, I really enjoyed it, and appreciated the messages and morals woven into the plot.

Book link:

 

 

Book review: C.A. King – Hang on to Your Shirt Tails (@PortalProphecy)

Tails and Brody finally had a home, a sanctuary of sorts for them and the rescued [image error]children. But not everyone thinks their home is a sanctuary. With George’s first shift, and Eliza running away they know they can’t stay long. Little did they know that Eliza’s escape brings with it a more harrowing concern. Zeus lives, and is more determined than ever to assert the shifters’ dominance and put humans in their place. With the wayward child at his side, he could do just that.

Hang on to your Shirt Tails by C.A. King is the second book in the Chasing Tails series. Having read the first I loved how this story picks up almost where the other one left off, with new discoveries and adaptation of their new lives and growing relationship. The plot progresses at a steady and addictive pace, and its short length make it easy to lose yourself in completely. I always enjoy a book by C.A King, they flow seamlessly and keep me entertained and enticed. The book is left on a cliff hanger, so I will eagerly await the next addition to the series.

Book link:

 

Book review: C.A. King From Alice to Malice (@PortalProphecy)

Alice was running. She had to escape, to be free. But little did she know that even [image error]freedom has its price. Her desperate retreat sends her spiralling down a rabbit hole, a large seasonal sink hole known to open this time of year. Nothing is as it should be in this world. Everything is opposite on the flip side, but there is a balance. Malice is the exact opposite image of Alice, a confident, powerful figure who swears to solve Alice’s every trouble. There is only one thing she needs to do, swap places, Alice to Malice.

C.A. King’s From Alice to Malice is another fantastic edition to Welcome to Knollville series. I have read so many of these books now that I already have an investment in the characters and the underlying threat which is steadily gaining momentum in every one of these stand-alone books. I enjoyed Alice and Malice’s characters as well as the unfolding events and relationships of Jeff and Miranda as they begin to understand the true scope of their roles. Playful malice, revenge, murder, and discovery will keep you entertained as we join Alice down the rabbit hole, and Malice as she exacts the revenge Alice never could.

Book link:

 

Book review: Sean Robins – The Crimson Deathbringer (@seanrobins300)

Jim Henderson had thought having the leader of the resistance bleeding to death on his [image error]sofa, was bad news. It was an act that carried with it a death penalty, but he soon finds there is more to worry about than the wrath of a petty man who controls the world. An invasion is coming to Earth, an army with one agenda, capture the planet, remove its inhabitants, and re-populate it with their own kind. Luckily, there was a warning, a chance to set up a new resistance, one which would fight for the very future of the planet. But with such impossible odds, can they hope to achieve what no other race had?

The Crimson Deathbringer is a gripping science fiction by author Sean Robins. Wow you’re in for a treat, this has all the intensity of Star Wars, Firefly, and Star Trek rolled into one with the occasional hat tip towards them. Humorous undertones alleviate the tension in a character-driven dystopian. This has everything a science-fiction fan looks for, action, adventure, vibrant characters, aliens, futuristic technology and guys and girls overflowing with moxie and charisma, not to mention epic battles, on land, sea, and in the air. If you’re looking for an epic read, this is definitely one for your list.

Book link:

 

 

Miami, Day Four, final day part one, bookfair. #ReadersFavoriteMiami2019 (@lisavproulx @MichaelGerhart5)

Wow, if I had only one word, to sum up, today it would be epic.

The day started with a group of authors meeting in the lobby ready for the bookfair. It was a brilliant opportunity to talk to people about their work

Once the bus arrived we were off to the bookfair. The early morning crowd was quite thin but by dinner time it was packed. I had a great time having my photo taken with fellow authors, and of course getting to meet and know Ann Boelter, Lisa V Proulx, and Michael Gerhartz.

We had an incredible time, I even managed to restrain myself after buying two books. (Don’t ask how many I got on my kindle though, but kindle books don’t count right?) It was such a great feeling to be in the thick of such an event, the streets were packed, the sun was shining, and the atmosphere was charged.

There were so many stalls, so many books, it really was a bibliophile’s dream come true. There was the chance to meet other authors, publishers, and readers.

We stayed at the fair until one, I think all of us would have liked to stay longer, it was brilliant just soaking io the atmosphere. After the fair, Lisa, Michael, and I headed off to the Dolphin Mall for a bit of last-minute shopping

[image error]

[image error]

Then it was off back to the hotel to get ready for the big night. But that, of course, is another post entirely.

stay tuned for the final post, the Readers’ Favorite award ceremony.

Amazing authors I’ve met at #ReadersFavoriteMiami2019 (@linneatanner) (@tjwolfauthor )(@MichaelGerhart5 ) (@SilverfireKS)(@LisaVProulx) (@MilanSergent)

It is Sunday now, and I am still filled with energy from yesterday’s events. While sitting in the airport I thought I would write a quick post telling you about some of the amazing people I have met.

Saturday was the big day for all of us here, starting with the bookfair and finishing with the grand finale of the award ceremony.

To start Saturday’s events, I met with Linnea Tanner (@linneatanner) author of the Curse of Clansmen and Kings series. What a lovely lady. Her book is definitely on my to-read list, it sounds amazing.

[image error]

Dagger’s Destiny was a recipient of this year’s awards, and with its Roman roots, it will appeal to a wide audience. In a tense plot, King Amren accuses his daughter, Catrin, of treason for aiding the Roman enemy and her lover, Marcellus. The ultimate punishment is death unless she can redeem herself. She must prove loyalty to her father by forsaking Marcellus and defending their kingdom—even to the death. Forged into a warrior, she must overcome tribulations and make the right decisions on her quest to break the curse that foretells her banished half-brother and the Roman Empire will destroy their kingdom.

Before heading out to the book fair I also had a wonderful conversation with T.J & M.L Wolf, (@tjwolfauthor) about their book A Gleam of light, in which a government employee Una Waters, working for DC, is summoned to help

[image error]

solve a crisis when the U.S. Army’s sudden interest regarding a cave discovery in the Sacred Peaks has triggered alarm, leading to violence. With the help of friends, new and old, Una must confront her painful past, seek proof to qualify the ancient site for protection under the law, and stand up to a stiff-necked general, whose agenda is more concerned with retrieving a mysterious power source.

Next up, a lady I was dying to meet Ann Boelter, author of one of my favourite books this year, Nena. It was such a privilege to be able to meet her in person, and an even greater honour to receive a signed copy of her amazing book. She is a wonderful lady and I loved the time we spent talkingbith at the book fair and the ceremony. If you haven’t read my review for this gripping tale you can do so here.

[image error]

Nena follows the smouldering aftermath of a gruelling battle, where Nena and Jarl find themselves in unfamiliar positions—Nena as a captive—Jarl wanting something he cannot have. A fierce clash of wills ensues. Torn between passion and prejudice, conviction and taboo, love and obligation, each is forced to question everything they knew and everything they were sure they wanted. But realizing their heart’s true desire is not enough. Their people are still mortal enemies. To be together they must be willing to sacrifice everything—even their lives. As I say, easily one of my favourite books

Another familiar name, who it was also a privilege to meet was author D Dalton, (@SilverfireKS), another talented author whose book I have read, and once again, I was not only thrilled to meet her, but excited to be presented with my own signed copy of her book. Check out the review here.

I still have such clear images of this book, from the strong characters, to the tension-filled plot.

[image error]

D Dalton’s Crown of the Realm earned a well-deserved award with its enticing plot where, facing ancient evils, arrogant elves, a sarcastic knight mentor, and one traitor—maybe more—Derora, Kelin, and Caleb have to choose: gamble desperately or hope that traditional strategy can take them to victory against enemies who have been perfecting their revenge for two thousand years.

Bringing a close to the authors whose books I have had the joy of reading, I was also fortunate enough to meet Milan Sergent (@MilanSergent). You can find my review for the award-winning CandleWicke 13 here.

[image error]

I still remember the sheer depth that went into this book in bringing the world, characters, and myths to life. In this novel, Valor McRaven tries to hide his odd symptoms from the “normal” witches. His shadow moves on its own, and he sometimes makes objects move without the required wand. Valor refuses to believe the rumours about his family, even after Mystic Ministry locks the McRavens in the sanatorium and schedules him to be the hunted fox in a ghastly tournament with blindfolded ogres, boiling cauldrons, and cats with moon madness. If Valor wins, or survives, he can begin his dream of becoming an apprentice of magic at Mystic Steeples, where he hopes to unravel the death of his twin and the attempts someone keeps making to kill him.

The final two people I want to mention were the ones who really brought this trip to life for me. I had the pleasure of their company throughout the day, and we had so much fun. From perusing the book fair and shopping at the mall, to enjoying the award ceremony.

First is award-winning author Michael Gerhartz (@MichaelGerhart5) his book, Dark Times, is already on my kindle waiting to be read.

[image error]

Dark Times follows the thrilling adventure of a London marine biologist working for an elite security company. When the latest expedition takes a drastic turn she finds herself at the centre of something unbelievable, but this discovery is just one thread in the plan of criminal mastermind.

Michael is an amazing guy, he and Lisa really put me at ease and made me feel so comfortable and welcome. The trip has been amazing, but meeting these two really made it something special.

So last but certainly not least, is Lisa V Proulx (@LisaVProulx) she came this year as a speaker, but has scooped up her fair share of awards and is a number one bestseller.

[image error]

She is living the author’s dream, and is more than happy to share her insight with anyone. She is definitely one of the most charismatic people I have met, it takes a lot to put me at ease, but she did so effortlessly.

I have already picked up King of Shadows and A Temporary Death, for my reading list.

You can learn more about her on her website http://www.lisavproulx.com

I met so many great people I couldn’t begin to list them here, and my kindle is heaving with new books. I feel so honoured and privileged to have been a part of #ReadersFavoriteMiami2019

Stay tuned for some photos from the big night. It is certainly an experience I won’t soon forget.

Miami, day three #ReadersFavoriteMiami2019

Hi everyone, I hope you’re doing well.

Friday was a busy day, I started the day with another delicious breakfast

[image error]

Then it was off to Miami beach. I was a little bit nervous about this trip since the T-mobile sim I picked up here has run out of data. I tried to top it up, but having a UK postcode made it impossible.

I was under the impression the hotel ran a bus to the beach, but if they did they don’t anymore. Taking advantage of the hotel’s free wi-fi, which for me only works when I am near the elevator or in the lobby, I managed to plan a bus route. A bit of a walk, two buses, and another short walk later, (just over an hour and a half) my effort was rewarded with the magnificent sight of Miami Beach.

[image error]

[image error]

[image error]

I spent about two hours swimming in the sea, I honestly can’t remember the last time I was in Poseidon’s domain. It was amazing.

A little before noon I packed up and head back to the hotel. After a delicious, late lunch, I went to the pool to swim 120 lengths.

It was almost teatime by then, so I headed back to the room to get ready for the meet and greet, and then made the fatal mistake of lying down.

Needless to say, I missed the meet and greet. Whilst I am kicking myself, I also feel really refreshed for the day ahead which consists of the book fair and the award ceremony this evening.

The book display is looking amazing, I have even read a few of the award winners

[image error]

[image error]

[image error]

[image error]

I hope you have an amazing day, next time I post it will be after the awards. I am so excited and nervous.

Take care x

Miami, day 2 #ReadersFavoriteMiami2019

Good evening everyone.

Well, it is day 2 here for me in Miami. After an early morning swim and an amazing breakfast (yep that is real cinnamon toast!), I took the Shuttle bus to the Dolphin Mall.
[image error]
Wow, that place is enormous. Living in Staffordshire, I would have to say it eclipses the potteries (Intu now), the stores are just so enormous, many of them comparing to Debenhams in size. It was an amazing shopping experience. There are so many things you can get here that you never see in the UK. I will confess to treating myself to a few things, now I have to figure out how to get them in my luggage. Worst case scenario, I can layer up for the flight home.
[image error]

[image error]

It was late afternoon when I got back, so instead of heading out again, I opted for another swim before tea.

Other authors have started to arrive now, and the book display is looking incredible. Tonight I plan to turn in early with a good book.

I am torn about what to do tomorrow, whether to have an extra day at the book fair, or see Miami beach, maybe I can do both.

Well that’s all from me for today, have an amazing day everyone x

Miami, day one. #ReadersFavoriteMiami2019

Good morning everyone. I hope you are well.

As you may know, yesterday (Wednesday) I flew out to Miami in preparation for the Readers’ Favorite award ceremony. It has been over ten years since I was last on an aeroplane, and going alone made me quite nervous. I have to say, things have changed since I was last on a plane. For one, the food is edible.