K.J. Simmill's Blog, page 32

Book review: Moon Deeds – Barbara Pickering

Cassidy had heard the music from the stars for a long time, even through the Shaman’s Shield she could still sometimes hear their song. There had been a time when her twin [image error]brother, Torr, had once recited the message, but the words had long been muted, and the true melody forgotten. Her mind was on other things now, such as the Shaman’s Sheild failing, and her brother being the first line of defence against the Tegs. Little did the twins know that this calling was just a fraction of the destiny about to be laid before them. Magic has proven to be the only force capable of defending against their attackers. Being from Shaman descent they have been born to tap into this gift, they are the Star Children, and humanities only hope of survival.

Moon Deeds is the first book in Barbara Pickering’s Star Children Saga. This Space opera is set in the not so distant future, yet embraces a world changed, altered, and scarred as mankind get their wish for visitors from other planets. They brought with them new technology, new ideas, and far more than humanity had bargained for. There is only one hope of defence, and that is magic. I thought the book had solid scene setting, world-building, and vivid characters who display no shortage of growth, moxie, and perseverance. There is so much to love about this book, from its complex and intricately woven plot filled with tension, strife, and discovery, to the personal attachment you begin to build with the characters due to finely executed character building, engaging personalities, and difficulties in both moral dilemmas and situations. The pace is perfect to build tension, and I loved the page count of this book. There is something to be said for bigger books, they often feel more complete and developed, allowing you to fully emerge yourself into hours of reading. This is a really strong and engaging first book and the combination of magic and technologies will see it at home in any sci-fi or fantasy lover’s shelf.

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Book review: System programmer – Jean-Philippe Janssens

Joshua was ready to move on. He had said his final goodbyes to his loved ones through their dreams and was ready for what came next. He embraced the darkness, and yet [image error]something seemed wrong. Surely there was more to eternity than a dark and empty room. Then everything changed. But it was not the afterlife he had anticipated. He, however, was not the only one to be surprised. Having just turned twenty Catherine, a summoner from the respectable Lippi family, found herself with an unranked soul guardian. While they try to turn the unexpected turn of events to their favour, Joshua is determined to prove his skills as a computer programmer and software developer are more useful than the magic and knowledge a real soul guardian would have possessed. But their new relationship is not all they have to contend with, the king has an assignment for the youngest member of each summoner house, and it seems someone is intent on ensuring Catherine will not live to attend.

System Programmer is a fun, gripping, and entertaining fantasy by Jean Philippe Janssens. I really loved Joshua’s character, and how he takes everything in his stride with fierce determination, loyalty, and a splash of humour. There were times things he said or did cause me to laugh out loud. Pairing him with the more serious Catherine made for some interesting scenes, along the way, especially since they are both, literally from two different worlds. The characters magic was varied, interesting, and clear thought had gone into creating the magic system. This is the first book in The Maiden and the Madman  series, and the melding of humour alongside serious events and discovery made it an engrossing read. I found the author’s style engaging, fun, and well-paced. I will certainly be keeping an eye out for the next book.

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Book review Standing on a Whale – B.J. Tiernan (@standingwhale1 )

Lance was content to end his life. He had lived and suffered enough. It was on his [image error]birthday he decided to finally put thought to action. Or that had been his intention. Then his path crossed with Hayden’s, A mystic whose views and lectures on the world were so inspired that those in power had cause to fear him. To embrace his truth was to shed the darkness of oppression and see things clearly, and clarity and guidance was something Lance desperately needed. Lance had committed to monitoring Hadden’s health but, with whispers of infiltration and danger, it seemed this task may be more than he first believed, especially since it seems there are many who would seek to silence his charge, and some may be a little too close for comfort.

Standing on a Whale by B.J. Tiernan is a very clever and intelligent book that raises a lot of thinking points while inviting the reader to look inside themselves and see what their outlook and actions add to the world, positive or negative. Philosophy, pseudoscience, and mystery are just a few of the foundations of this gripping and intriguing journey which, among other things, is about acceptance, growth, and understanding. The book was well-written with detailed descriptions and vivid, three-dimensional characters. I enjoyed watching the forming relationships and the effects each person had on another, and how these roles could easily alter. There is a real and genuine feel to the book, and it has a lot to offer for those seeking an intellectual and engaging read.

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Book review: The Temptation of Destiny – D.M. Earley (@dmearleyauthor )

Jake had found love and happiness when he had least expected it. He had made a life for himself, raised a family. Concerns, however, [image error]gave him cause to reflect on what he wanted for them, what was for the best. The answer, however, turned him on a path of destiny he never would have imagined. In Wind River, Dakota’s home town, visions have been haunting the medicine man, visions which have come to pass, and those that warn of upcoming battles and the need for a warrior. A storm is coming to Wind River, and now more then ever it is told she will need a warrior beside her.

The Temptation of Destiny is a suspenseful fiction written by D.M. Earley. Following destiny and the path fate weaves before someone is something often considered something not without its challenges, but easy to follow, prepare to lose your misconceptions. Following his fate Jake is led through trials and tribulations he could never have seen, all tempering him for the difficulties of what is still to come, but at the same time, he is given the tools needed to survive. I enjoyed watching the characters grow and develop, as well as the immersion into different cultures, survival, and values. It was amazing to behold how the past of the characters and their experiences all combine to ensure they are in the right place, position, and have the capacity to do and be exactly what is needed. Past, present, and visions of the future pave the way, and the depth and detail ensure the reader will be left satisfied. This was beautifully written, expressive, and enjoyable. I loved the idea and themes behind the plot, and how everything came together.

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Book review: Chasing the Omega – Jessica Edwards (@JessEdwards1997)

 

Alice never really felt she belonged in her school. She wasn’t part of any of the [image error]cliques, but none of that really mattered. She had her best friend Sam, and she wanted nothing more. Her mother worked long hours as a nurse, and her father had left them, but she never felt alone thanks to her best friend, and others who had made themselves integral to her life. Things were tough, but she was happy. That was, until the night her life changed forever. The bite from a wolf changed her, in more ways than one. People who had always ignored her were taking notice, and among them was Max, a new student. As she learns more about her awaiting fate she learns about a string of murders, and some hit closer to home than she imagined. Can she discover who is behind these brutal murders, and who to trust before another person falls victim?

Chasing the Omega is Jessica Edwards’ addition to the urban supernatural genre. Written in the first person perspective of the main character, Alice. In honesty, it took me a few chapters to become invested, but once I had, I was eager to discover what was in store for the young protagonist. Feelings run high and trust and loyalty have to be proven, especially when Alice has more doubts and questions than answers. Written in a steady pace Chasing the Alpha offers shifter action, mystery, suspense, and romance. The characters are typical to the supernatural school scene, however, they do have their own personalities and stories, which we learn about through the things Alice is told. The idea was good and the plot intriguing as you try to guess who is behind events and what secret is being hidden. This is book one in the Small Town series, so be prepared for a sudden stop as things start to reach their climax.

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Book review: Nena – Ann Boelter

Nena knew the gods would one day choose a man for her, but at nineteen it seemed they were waiting. In earnest, Nena had no qualms about this delay. [image error]She loved her life as a warrior, the feel of a weapon in her hand, the thrill of battle. All the things she loved about her life would cease to be when the gods revealed the one they chose for her. The gods had their methods, but she had never expected the attack on a friendly tournament to be part of their plan. She had intended to fight to the death, and take as many of the enemy with her as possible. Fate had other plans. The proud warrior princess found herself at the mercy of the enemy. There was one way to secure her freedom, to give herself willingly to the one who holds her captive. Their people are enemies, and yet she sees something in her captor, something that makes her question everything she thought she knew, and her path no longer seems clear.

Nena is the first book in Ann Boelter’s The Treasure Huntress series. Straight off, I am going to say this is without a doubt a must read book. It has everything you could ask for, action, adventure, romance, conflict, and amazing characters. Whether main or supporting characters you will find them rich, vibrant, and believable as you join them on their amazing journey. As I neared the end, I found myself releasing a breath when I discovered another chapter. This is a tale I did not want to end. I loved the bonds and relationships between the characters, the intense wanting and drives. The intimate scenes were written to encompass passion, yet handled with taste. I loved this story, and I highly recommend every page of it. From prologue to epilogue Nena will captivate your attention, and hold you in its clutches long after the final page. I whole-heartedly recommend this to anyone who enjoys a good story, whether you’re looking for action, romance, historical fiction, adventure, or just a tale to entertain. In my eyes, this is a brilliant read, and I look forward to seeing more from Ann Boelter in the future.

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Book review: Pandora Syndrome – April Wahlin (@aprilwahlin)

Pandora died on the day she was born. She had been out celebrating her twenty-first birthday with her brother [image error]and best friend. Unfortunately, she had been separated from them. But the last day of her life became the beginning of a new and possibly eternal chapter. There was more to her death than a random act, and more to her than met the eye. Her grandmother had always called her devil girl, and as she realises the extent of her new powers she understands why. But attempting to fit into her new life is not the only challenge. Someone, or something, is pursuing her, determined to finish what they had started on the night she should have died. Can she uncover the truth and find a way to protect herself and those she holds dear, or will she continue to put everyone in her life in danger?

Pandora Syndrome is a paranormal, urban fantasy written by April Walin. I enjoyed it so much that after reading the final page the first thing I did was try to find the next book, sadly it isn’t out yet, but I will be keeping an eye out for it, and perhaps explore the earlier books in the Stories of Ithria collection. I loved Pandora as a character, she has such a vivid personality you can’t help but like her. She is a well-rounded and believable with good growth, just like the characters who are the supporting role in her tale. I was hooked on this book beginning to end, and loved the necromancer aspects that were woven throughout. I don’t want to give anything away, but it was a thrilling, action-packed, and tension-filled read, with romance, danger, and discovery. I can’t wait to get my hands on the next instalment.

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Book review: Little Girls Sleeping – Jennifer Chase (@JChaseNovelist)

Katie wasn’t sure of her place when she left the army. Her previous employment [image error]and her familial connections meant she at least had some time to find out. Working as an admin was different to the action-packed life she had been used to. It wasn’t long, however, before a cold case revived a ghost from the past. The abandoned case of Chelsea Compton brought back the memories of her own friend, Jenny. Returning from war is never easy, but her nightmares were altering, now the ghost of her friend was asking her to find the truth, to discover what became of that little girl, and when Katie decides to do something, nothing and no one can stop her. One thing is certain, the connections she is making haven’t been seen before. She fears if she doesn’t find the person responsible soon another life will be lost, especially given what she uncovers.

I have to say Jennifer Chase’s Little Girls Sleeping is one of the most inspired crime thrillers I have ever read. I love how I was not only taken by the hand into Katie’s life, but how we are forced to enter the mind of a serial killer, a person who, like every good antagonist, is the hero of their own story. There has been so much attention and thought woven into the telling that every aspect of this book is perfect in its own right. Trials and hardships of everyday life mingle with unspoken insecurities and past regrets to drive Katie to see things and understand things overlooked by others. She is an amazing character, strong and vivid. I didn’t want to put this book down, and I certainly want to discover more titles by this author. Jennifer Chase is truly a master of this genre and succeeded in making me fully invest in their book. Without a doubt, Little Girls Sleeping gets my whole-hearted recommendation.

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Book review: The Quest – Karina Kantas (@KarinaKantas )

Thya had left it all behind and had a new life on Earth. Part of her wanted to remain, to [image error]stay safe. She wanted to have a life with Alex, to be a great mother, to keep him safe. So when the crystal began to glow, warning a Tsinian had come to Earth, the feared the Senx would be close behind. She knew what she had to do, she had to leave, to ensure her son’s safety and that of her people. If one of them was here, it meant there was trouble. In her return she had expected to meet with danger and conflict, not for the battle to already be lost and her people in hiding. Kovon had conquered her home. In order to liberate her people, she must undertake a perilous journey and discover some truths she had never imagined possible. In order to succeed, she must make some difficult decisions and complete the quest put before her. To fail, is lose everything.

The Quest is the second book in Karina Kantas’ Illusional Reality Series. The plot focuses on the trials and difficulties of Thya, and the strength of will, heart, and bonds she has formed. The Quest is written in a compelling third-person narrative which draws you in from the start and refuses to let go. The plot progresses at a steady pace and, whilst it is book 2 in the series, all the required information is presented to ensure it works perfectly as stand alone. Heartache, difficult choices, and revelations are paramount in this journey of self-discovery as Thya attempts to do what is expected of her by her people. Monsters and magic combine with hardships and action to deliver an enjoyable and engaging fantasy.

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Book review: Enlightened – Billie Kowalewski (@Enlightened31 )

Harmony is a student at the best school known in existence. It teaches life lessons and [image error]experiences. This school is known as Earth. Classes are sent to experience different lives, and learn from them. But while they are there they don’t know any of this, they are simply living. This absence of recollection is thanks to the barrier. It keeps their real life separate from their class life. Harmony, however, has found a way to bring things thought with her, subtle things like a suggestion. When she shares her method with the class, and she is asked to prove it, something strange begins to happen. A string of accidental deaths centring around the experiment cause herself and Kaleb to repeatedly die as their paths collide. Is this a result of the experiment, or is there something more to these strange events?

Enlightened by Billie Kowalewski is a fascinating read. I loved how this book gave a possible explanation for past life memory in our world, and gave a brilliant purpose to reincarnation. The thought that we are each on Earth to learn something and return to a more whole being, who is a sum of all our experiences, is something I have encountered before, but it has been rarely executed in fiction, and never in this manner. I loved the characters, they were complex, deep, and real. Each one faces their own challenges on both Earth and in their reality. The bonds and relationships are well developed, and it is evident a lot of hard work and consideration has been involved in ensuring the story flows seamlessly. It has been well-executed, especially since it covers multiple lives and deaths of Harmony, and is done in such a manner that it remains clear and concise. This is aided by the alternating narrative, from Harmony addressing you, the reader, personally, to her recounting the tales of her experience. Romance, tension, questions, and frustrations are enhanced by the journey of friendship and discovery in this compelling tale. I will certainly be interested to see where book two in this series leads.[image error]Book link: