K.J. Simmill's Blog, page 33

Book review: Piggybacker – Mikki Noble (@missmikkinoble )

Marley had no idea what had happened. It was the first anniversary of her father’s [image error]death, and life was starting to feel almost normal again. Then she was accused of trying to kill herself. She had no memories of that day, but she knew with certainty this could not be true. She would never try to take her own life. The wounds, the evidence, all seemed to point to the contrary. To add insult to injury, when she was placed in the ‘mental hospital’ to recover she started to go insane. She kept hearing a voice. A boy called Gavin begged for her help. In seven days his life would end, permanently. He was already dead, but she could help bring him back. His death had has been special, executed by a Limbonian. If she could find the five items needed their special bond would allow him to return. He is a piggybacker, able to live off her soul for seven days, but if this time elapses he has no hope of return. The closer Marley gets the more questions she has, what will happen if she fails to meet the deadline, what happened on that day, and why does someone seem intent to stop her succeeding.

Piggybacker is book one in Mikki Noble’s Vessel of Lost Souls series, and it is a series I look forward to following. Marley is an excellent character, with great detail and effort placed into adding depth to her personality, life, and character. She is strong and vulnerable at the same time. Her journey is a difficult one, made harder by the complicated and strained relationships following her attempt in her life. The supporting cast of characters, from the mysterious Circe to Marley’s closest friend Kimmy, are all nicely developed with their own personalities and backstories. Piggybacker is written in a steady, engaging pace in a first-person narrative. I loved the ideas, and execution of links and magic. Vivid characters, a ticking clock, magic, mystery, and uncertainty come together to create this riveting and compelling tale, and I was thrilled to see it was only the first book in what promises to be a gripping series.

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Book link:

 

Review by K.J. Simmill, award-winning fantasy author.

Book review: Borrego Moon – Kat Drennan (@KatDrennan )

Years had passed since Alex had removed himself from Lily’s life. She had made [image error]something of herself. She was a hot-shot lawyer, and one of the partners in the firm was actively seeking her hand in marriage. He had proposed, but she had been unable to give an answer. When a body was uncovered back in her hometown it opened a lot of doors to the past, and gave her just the excuse she needed to get away. On the night she and Alex had broken up, her sister had gone missing, and was presumed dead. Her mother refused to believe it, in hope to get closure Lily returns to her childhood home to find it in ruins, but she is determined to salvage what she can. It seems Alex too has his own restoration in mind. He has never forgotten her. He wants to rebuild his life, but a secret from Lily’s past refuses to let her trust him.

Borrego Moon is book one in Kat Drennan’s Love on the Faultline. It follows the complicated relationship of Alex and Lily as past and present collide to once more bring them together. It was great watching the gradual building and restoration of their relationship. I enjoyed the characters, I thought they were well-written, engaging, with enough flaws, hang-ups and personality to make them realistic. The investigation aspect adds intrigue and mystery to the compelling romance and leaves you eager to discover the truth from all those years ago, and there is more than one secret to be uncovered. I found the book to be compelling, engaging, and entertaining. I didn’t want to put it down until I had all the answers.

Book link:

 

Book Review: Blood Relic – Lucretia Stanhope @DianaS58

Alice had been clear. She did not want to be used by the PPK’s military. She detested the part of herself capable of killing. She would not be their killer. But when witches started showing up, used and tossed aside, something had to be done. [image error]There was talk of an ancient magic, blood relics, and in order to stop the body count continuing to rise there was no choice but to act. Can her own special magic lure out those responsible, and is she prepared to deal with the consequences? One thing is for certain, this mission has only one guarantee. From this day forth, nothing will be the same again.

I absolutely adored Lucretia Stanhope’s Blood Relic. I somehow missed a book, something I intend to rectify, but regardless of this it works brilliantly as stand alone. I loved the complicated relationships that were penned with such passion and expertise they reach into you. Something so simple, can send butterflies through your stomach as you read. Danger lurks at every corner, and passion runs high. Threat, fear, and a drive to succeed push Alice through life-threatening encounters on a journey of self discovery and acceptance. This is a must-read for lovers of supernatural. The romance and passion will set your heart aflutter while the danger leaves you clinging to the edge of your seat.

Book link:

 

Marketing: Building a Customer Profile – Part Two – Behaviour

 

In my previous article we began to put together a customer profile of your reader based on demographic, that is to say, location, age, and gender. But as an author you know such basic information is only the first part in character creation. To continue to build a profile of our customer we next need to look at how they behave. Understanding this shows us where and how we should be looking to reach them.

We could have the most amazing advertising campaign, but if it is appearing in the wrong places and not being seen by our intended audience then it is failing to generate leads, interest, and custom.

Who are you really?

So now we know the estimated age, gender, and location of our reader we now start some guess work and assumptions. We need to know their habits, interests, personalities, lifestyles, behaviour, and motivation. This is never finished, your book will appeal to a wide range of people. Refinement of the customer persona, and even the development of more, will be required to help streamline your marketing and focus your efforts towards people more interested in your work, and thus help generate more leads and some of them may convert to buyers.

Habits, Interests, Personality, Lifestyle, and Behaviour

These are all important factors in identifying your customer. If you know what they like, what they are passionate about, what they need, you can form an idea of how to reach and entertain them. One of the most important questions you can ask is not, how do I sell you my book, but what value can I give you. Someone who feels valued, like you care about them and are adding something to their life (even if that something is only a smile or a useful tip), is more likely to become a lead than someone who thinks you have only connected with them for the sole purpose of selling to them.

[image error]Photo by Joy Deb on Pexels.com

To discover what is important to your customer it is always important to start with what you know. If you’re trying to sell a book, one of the key interests of your target audience will be they like to read. With this in mind we have to ask ourselves what we know about readers.

If you’re a writer, you most likely read a lot too, so think about what you like to do, and how that ties in to what you write. Think about what you like, what your interests are, and apply them to your profile.

As with most thing we have to make assumptions, but these can be refined as we learn about our audience. This is one area that can be more difficult when it comes to fiction. In non-fiction, you can make some educated guesses based on the book’s content. If you’re writing about herbal medicines and the use of herbs in magic, then you can guess the kind of things your customer would like. Those interested in the herbal side of things would likely visit webpages that sell remedies, look at blogs for tips, applications, and information. They would also likely be interested in holistic therapies and medicines. Those interested in the magic side often have a lifestyle centred around their beliefs, and would also be found searching for information relating to their practises, various cycles, and could even be part of a larger online community. So straight off, you are developing an idea of how the customer lives and where they spend their time.

For fiction, however, it is a lot trickier because your assumptions aren’t based on something that directly impacts lifestyle, unless your profile is those who attend conventions, Comicon’s, etc. This is where your own experience comes in. When you were writing the book, think about all the resources you used. If you have a lot of survivalist information, then look at that as part of the profile. Think what has gone into your book, and how it reflects into real life and interests and you have a strong starting point.

The next step is to think about ways to reach and entertain these people through these channels. Remember, Marketing is not just about thrusting your product in someone’s face, it’s about courting them, entertaining them, and getting their interest.

So I have my customer profile, what now?

Now you have created this profile you have an insight into who this person is, what drives them, and where you might find them. Now for the fun part. When you write a book you immerse yourself into your world, you become your characters, so too must you now become this customer.

[image error]Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

Put on their mask. Think and act like they would. What websites would they visit, what social groups are they interested in? Immerse yourself in their world, and while doing so ask yourself if these avenues of interest can be used as another pathway to engage and reach your customer.

Finally, create content to entertain them, not just sell to them, reach out and talk to them, start or join a conversation, and listen to what it is they are after. If your interests don’t align, then you can start further refining your profile. It is important that there is an overlap between you and your customer. The customer goal, in this case to be entertained by a book of their favourite genre, must align with your goals and product. In the marketing world, this is known as share value, because you are both adding something to each other’s lives. The customer is being targeted and entertained by something they have an interest in, and by reaching the right audience you are increasing your potential leads into a higher level of conversions by offering the customer something they want.

Remember, a reader is giving you one of the most important things they have, their time. They are spending their time reading your work and investing a part of their life in your story.

I hope to see you here again.

Article by K.J. Simmill (KS the Dreamer)

Since I still have your attention, and this is a marketing post, it must be time for some shameless self-promotion – check out my award winning books here, and have a great week x

How many books have you read today?

Hi everyone.

Anyone who follows me will have just seen a large influx of book reviews. Sadly, I haven’t conjured a small pocket dimension where I can sit and read while no time passes in the real world. I am still working on it though.

As a Readers’ Favorite reviewer, I am often given ARC copies of books. For books not yet on the shelf I often draft a post for when the books get published. As things were a bit hectic last year with the death of my Nan, I didn’t keep track on Amazon as to whether a book I had read had been released. Since I have a few moments today I thought I would just check and attach links to all the reviews and get them out there.

Think of it as my own version of spring cleaning.

I still have a few books in my drafts waiting for release, and look forward to sharing them with you later.

All the best, and keep reading x

 

Book review: Mo Robinson – Game of Twins

Suzanne Delacroix was born to investigate homicide. She excelled through the ranks of the police force [image error]by her own merit and was dubbed the Tigress. She had only been sick once before, during one horrific night at a frat party, but the triple murder of the Monroe twins and their mother brought that night back to the forefront of her mind. Her reaction was so intense she handed in her resignation and fled to the beach for some solitude. But she couldn’t stay away for long, the murder gnawed at her, and soon she finds herself drawn back, uncovering links and secrets she would have never imagined.

Mo Robinson brings lovers of murder, mystery and paranormal something to really sink their teeth into in their thrilling and enticing book, Game of Twins. With each chapter being clearly labelled with the date and correlation to critical events navigating a complex timeline spanning many years is made surprisingly easy. Packed with action, adventure, murder, sex, mystery, and a game spanning back decades. Mia and Suzanne make some brilliant lead characters, well developed and rounded they each find themselves pursuing the truth, a truth which leads them to unexpected revelations and their supporting cast not only enhance their characters, but bring their own something special to events, be it antagonism, doubt, difficulties, or support. There is so much to love about this book, from vivid scene setting, to the delicate threads of character plot, history, and settings woven throughout. This really is a well-rounded and tight story. From the very start to the final page you’ll find yourself gripped by this immersive and well-constructed story.

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Book review: Jeff Altabef – Devil’s Den (@JeffAltabef ) 5star

Steve’s mother saw demons, and now he does too. Returning home in the hope to [image error]discover answers he soon finds himself on a mission that will bring him closer to the truth than he could imagine. He has spent years battling demons, both figurative and literal ones, but he finally came home, only to receive an almost perfectly timed plea for help. His ex’s daughter, Megan, has been abducted, and lacking the funds to pay the police she reaches desperately to the one person she thinks could be of help. He will move Heaven and Hell to see it through, better yet, they should know their place and step aside. Nothing will stop him, not the demons who hunt him, not his doubts, not even the fact his enemies seem to remain one step ahead of him. Megan is just another number in a string of disappearances orchestrated by The Farm, they brainwash their subjects into compliance and preach religion, but their agenda is a little more sinister.

Devil’s Den is the first book in Jeff Altabef’s, A Nephilim Thriller and what a first book it is. You’re immediately pulled into the distorted world of Steven, a place of political hierarchy, districts and, of course, demons. You can’t help but love Steve’s no nonsense attitude. Tempered by life and experiences he is a firm believer in actions speaking louder than words, especially when said actions make people confess, and he had the stomach and the attitude needed to get things done. Nothing and no one will stop him. Devil’s Den possesses an intensely gripping narrative with vivid descriptions, striking characters, and a plot that sinks its claws so deep you may end up scarred for life. It is impossible to put down, you just have to know what is happening, you need to see the bigger picture, and when you do you may wish you’d had the foresight to avert your gaze.

Book link:

 

Book review: Robert E Kreig, The Brides of Woodmyst (@robertekreig )

The ascension of the Magi, as prophesied, came to pass, and word is spreading quickly, [image error]too quickly. War grips the land, innocents are being slaughtered, and against her every wish Alice must remain, and work on the bonds with her new sisters in magic, letting countless suffer. But this is but one of the many sacrifices needed if any hope of victory is possible in this time of darkness. The enemies are many, and their own numbers are few. But just as life, death, earth, and sky must live alongside each other, the four with their newly awakened powers must find balance within themselves, but one is not amongst them. It is known, on occasion for one of the four to seek dominion over the others, when that occurs it falls to those who remain to rein it back and restore order, but with other forces at play this may not prove easy. There are prices to be paid, war is waged, and despite everything they think they know, they may still be blind to the real threat.

Having red book five and six of the of The Woodmyst Chronicles I was really excited to get my hands on number seven, The Brides of Woodmyst. I have come to expect a certain flair from the author Robert E Kreig, and he continues to deliver in his latest addition to the series. Robert E Kreig provides an elegant balance of history, description, dialogue, world building, and character development that work flawlessly with the intricately designed and ever-advancing plot. Once again we are delivered a vivid and interesting cast of characters. Trials and hardship stand before them, and they must rise against them, lest they be crushed. I never fail to be captivated by his writing style, imaginative descriptions, brilliant scene settings and a forever raising stake. Things for Alice began so simply, but things were never easy, but to see her claw her way to where she now stands is amazing, and she is not alone is such growth. This is one book where the characters, events, and plot all drive the reader forward making it impossible to put down.

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Book link:

 

Book review: Diane May – EVO (@DianeMayWriter )

Marchiori had seen more than his fair share of murders, in his job it was to be expected. [image error]But never before had he seen anything like this. With all the markings of a rapidly escalating serial killer time is of the essence. And with the latest turn, the killer himself has given them a deadline with a very clear threat against one of their own. The problem is, he never touches his victims, he leaves no evidence, except for the pen drive showing him killing in the most terrifying way, hypnosis. There is more to this than meets the eye, an entire thread of things way beyond his pay grade, secret experiments, dastardly research, and the most terrifying threat humanity has to face. Luckily he is not alone, but every second is one closer to the final toll for all but a few.

Diane May’s EVO possesses some amazingly developed, realistic, and deep characters enhancing the plot of this engrossing murder mystery. But this is not your simple who done it, an intricate web of lies, secrets, and experiments give the fascinating tale a supercharge. With a serial killer at large, mass genocide on the cards, and the CIA’s experimental children danger emanates from every page and I was hooked from the beginning, the vivid descriptions and portrayal of emotion are well crafted and flow seamlessly, feeding and stimulating the reader’s imaginations. Filled with complex relationships, doubts, secrets, agendas, lies, and dangerous revelations this is guaranteed not to leave you wanting in any area, a must read for lovers of the genre or those seeking something with a little more to offer.

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book link:

 

Read Sept 2018

Book review: Michael Pronko – The Moving Blade (@pronkomichael )

Jamie hadn’t seen her father, Bernard Mattson, for years, they had drifted apart, but it [image error]had been about to change, they had planned to reunite, but then his murder put a stop to the plan. But murder is not the only thing she finds in his wake, a robbery on the day of his funeral suggests there may be more to the murder of the renowned diplomat. Jamie is eager to discover the truth about what befell her father, on the case is Detective Hiroshi Shimizu, along with his motley crew of ex-sumo wrestlers, rugby players, and Private investigators. With nothing but a wiped computer, stolen statues, and erotic prints it seems an impossible task. But the body count is rising and answers are demanded. Can they uncover the truth before more people fall to the blade?

Culturally rich and seductively compelling The Moving Blade is a must read for lover of murder mystery and crime fiction fans. Great attention to detail in both setting, lifestyle, and characters has been applied to create an atmospheric, tense, and engaging read which is further enhanced by Michael Pronko’s skilled narrative. Plots, protests, questions, and secrets fill the pages and drive the reader forward through the engaging and well constructed plot. The characters are rich, deep, and vibrant, each with their own very distinctive rules, personality, relationships, and objectives. I can honestly say I enjoyed every minute I spent reading this, and it gets something I save only for those special books I really connect with, my heartfelt recommendation. Whether you’re looking for a suspenseful and engaging read, or just something to pass the hours you should give The Moving Blade a try.

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Book link:

I read this some time ago, but never published the review on my blog.