K.J. Simmill's Blog, page 48

Book review: The Selection by Jason Nugent (@LailokenRi )

Centuries ago the Anastasians had implemented The Selection, all boys of eighteen were [image error]expected to participate. Eron’s time was approaching but with the memories of his brother’s ear-piercing screams he was filled with fear and foreboding. But there was something about this ritual, something that seemed out of place. Males outnumbered females ten to one, and the more he looked into it the more wrong it seemed. Adult males were sent to the Defence Force, so very few were seen around the community, but stranger still, was he thought they were alone upon the world, a nameless community the only one to exist, and yet there were others. Things he should have known appear to have been kept from him, can he discover why he alone knows so little, while others know their home’s name and of the existence of others. Something doesn’t add up, and perhaps having the answers could mean survival against unlikely odds, but who can he trust when there are no rules, and the aim of the game is to live?

I really enjoyed reading Jason Nugent’s The Selection, and as the first book in the Forgotten Chronicles I am certainly interested to see where this promising author takes us next. Filled with action, kinship, questions, and mystery you are forced to turn page after page in hope of piecing together the truth of The Selection, and given the ending, I will be picking up the next book to see what plans are in store for the future of this world. Events have been set into motion, and whether the inhabitants know it or not, nothing can remain the same, not now. A gripping read.

Book link:

 

Book review: The Tomb of Hercules by Andy McDermott (@AndyMcDermott)

Nina thought she’d landed her dream job, great money, funding, and time to  [image error]on a new obsession, finding the Tomb of Hercules. After finding Atlantis she has a void to fill. Chase, however, finds himself stagnating. He was never designed to be tied to a desk, and Nina had changed, attempting to fit into her new lifestyle. Such change is not always for the better. A face from Chase’s past creates strife, especially when he travels halfway around the world after her. Little did he know he was setting into motion terrible events, and Nina’s latest obsession was just what they were looking for to set their plans into motion.

Betrayal, action, adventure, old alliances, and new enemies come together to create the second book in Andy McDermott’s series. When first we met Nina and Eddie they sought Atlantis, now they are in search of the lost Tomb of Hercules. Buckle down because there is no lack of action, adventure and peril within. As a big follower of Greek mythology I couldn’t wait to lose myself in this adventure. Whilst the first book was more Tomb Raider, in the sense of clues and pursuit of a lost civilisation, this was more James Bond, lots of action, guns, threat, disaster, but not all that much in the way of solving cryptic puzzles and following ancient clues. All in all a good read, but the first book in the series remains my favourite so far.

Book link:

 

Book review: The Hunt For Atlantis by Andy McDermott (@AndyMcDermott )

Nina Wilde was orphaned when her parents’ quest for Atlantis ended in betrayal, but  [image error]the same obsession runs through her veins. She has dedicated her life to continuing her parents’ pursuits, and she is certain she has the answer, the location of Atlantis itself. Excitement and nervousness floods through her as she gives her presentation in hope to raise funding, not knowing that following the same path as her parents could end with her sharing the same fate. As far as she knows they died in an avalanche, otherwise she may have shown more caution. Before she knows what is happening she finds herself in the crosshairs of the Brotherhood, a secret organisations whose sole purpose is to prevent the discovery of ancient legend. They will do whatever it takes to stop her, fortunately she has those on side who will do just as much to ensure her success.

With a plot straight out of Tomb Raider, The Hunt for Atlantis will keep you on the edge of your seat as Nina travels the world, piecing together ancient texts and forgotten mythologies, and challenging the interpretations of Plato’s writings. A brilliant, action packed mystery/ adventure that will win the hearts of Tomb Raider and Indiana Jones fans the world over. Andy McDermott’s narrative is ideal for this style of writing, a rich descriptive voice along with well developed characters complete a tight and intensely gripping plot. I have already picked up the second book in this series, and if it’s anything like the first then Andy McDermott has a new fan.

Book link:

 

Book review: The Foreseen by Emma Coray (@EmmCoray )

Jodie has suffered at the hands of her husband, Jack,  to the point she was merely a tool [image error]to his daily life, a set routine, a strict diet regime of what to make and when, and if any of her spirit returned he disciplined her. But he had taken it too far. His actions had been witnessed by Barry, the owner of a dry cleaner, who stepped in to rescue her from his violent hand, and hid her away. But Jack had be in control. Barry’s intervention  had landed him in hospital, and cost him his wife, and he would pay. His scheme to dispose of the disaster’s catalyst backfires, almost costing him his job, and further stoking the rage. All the while, Jodie begins to rediscover herself, her passions, and finally takes a job, safe in the knowledge she is hidden from her husband’s brutal hand. While she is focused on surviving, and entering a new relationship, her son, CJ, is being haunted by the ghosts of his friends. It seems they still have unfinished business, and CJ is convinced the wrong person has been arrested for their murder. They still have work to do, but is their mission to bring the one who killed them to justice, or is there another agenda? Find out in The Foreseen by Emma Coray.

The main focus of The Foreseen is on Jodie and Jack, along with the events surrounding her leaving him. From rage and violence to infidelity and murder, this is certainly a suspenseful read. The paranormal element is more subtle and for the  most part revolves around CJ, although the forces at play have a way of knowing where and how they are needed most. Their subtle acts make huge differences, especially in life and death situations. Emma Coray’s narrative is intensely gripping and supported by a tight plot and a small cast of excellently developed characters. Whilst it is the sequel to Struck, I found it worked well on its own, any important information is filled in if it is relevant. Even without the paranormal aspect it is an engrossing read, it’s so nice to find a book that doesn’t feel the need to overuse such things when subtly works as well if not better. The Foreseen is an intense and gripping read that left me feeling a bit lost when I finally read that last page and had to  return to reality.

[image error]

Book link:

 

Book review: Malthus Revisited by Lin Wilder (@LinWilder )

Lj had just started college, a event which acted as a catalyst for her to meet her biological [image error]mother, Lyndsey. Lj is an alcoholic, and so when Lyndsey, and her husband, Rich, suggested she stayed with them she was relieved Lj didn’t trusting herself around college bars and drinking students. The invitation extended to Lj’s fast friend Morgan,  a young lady diagnosed with ASD, amongst other things, and this single offer could have saved the world itself. Morgan has been cursed with nightmares about the suffering of people given a weaponised version of Mad Cow Disease. Morgan is not the only person moved into place by God’s hand, watch the plan unravel as time begins to run out in Lin Wilder’s, Malthus Revisited: The Cup of Wrath.

Lin Wilder successfully writes a Christian fiction without religion being all-consuming in the plot. There is an array of wonderful and unique characters who you can’t help but be drawn to. You’ll follow the plot with keen interest, it starts at a steady pace escalating as soon as the danger begins to materialise. Malthus Revisited: The Cup of Wrath, has a fascinating and intricate plot, and characters with impressive back stories who are well developed. Alongside the religious aspects you’ll discover some well-researched scientific information, brilliant settings, and fantastic tension building. Parts of the plot will have you perched on the edge of the seat, while others will make you smile. If you’re looking for an engaging, well-constructed, plot with vivid characters, and subplots, written with a strong narrative that also draws on genuine historical events, then look no further. Beginning to end this is an engaging read, sure to please almost any reader.

[image error]

Book link:

Book review: Hunting Shadows by Rain Oxford

Astrid had been missing for some time now, with no sign of being found. More [image error]concerning was that others were disappearing too, something brought to Rory’s by Cody, her ex. Normally Astrid took care of problems involving paranormal, but with her disappearance there was no one else he could turn to, except for the rouge barkeeper. A letter to Astrid asking for help detailed a series of missing people with a believed paranormal cause, and Rory had no choice but to take up the investigation in her friend’s stead. Humans could not deal with this kind of thing, and so she finds herself on a mission to discover the truth behind these strange disappearances, but she has never been an investigator, and finds herself almost grateful when someone Logan enters the scene, even if there are things about him she can’t explain. Will they find the reason behind the missing children and discover who or what is behind these abductions before another child vanishes without a trace? Find out in Rain Oxford’s Hunting Shadows.

I have to say, I do enjoy a good paranormal book. I found both Rory and Logan’s character interesting. There is something mysterious about Logan, and it’s clear he’s keeping secrets and knows more than he feels willing to divulge. The conversations and banter between the two characters are enjoyable, as is their quest itself. The two discover they can operate well as a team, and two people who know better than to trust, begin to rely on each other. Rain Oxford writes with a talent for the genre, the story flows seamlessly, taking the reader on a gripping adventure of discovery. This won’t only appeal to paranormal fans, but for those who enjoy a mystery, and there is certainly more than one in need of solving. Great characters, an enjoyable plot, and well-written Hunting Shadows is definitely worth a read.

[image error]

Book link

 

Book review: Power’s Wrath by Stephen Shortall

The King’s assassination had marked a change for the remote kingdom of Screenia. The [image error]Queen had been childless, and there were many who thought the throne should pass to them. The King had been assassinated by an Unknown. The strange creature had been witnessed but all attempts to stop it had failed. The King had been content with his lands, but there were those who wanted to march South and reclaim the lands that were once theirs. Not everyone thought this way, and now there was cause to peruse these ventures. Calthus Calstone was gadal to the King, a respected advisor, but time had not been kind to his aging body which now disguised a man who had once been thought of as a hero. The inscriptions left on the former king’s chest bore some importance. Locked away in the prison of his mind he knew of their relevance but he could not pull the meaning from his mind, but he knew it meant they must go South, only there would answers be found, but perhaps they were asking the wrong questions. Join the adventure in Stephen’s Shortall’s Power’s Wrath.

Power’s Wrath: Book One of the Hourglass Series by Stephen Shortall is a fine example of epic fantasy. Conflict, deceit, schemes, and politics mesh to form a kingdom on the verge of war, but there is something bigger afoot. Stephen Shortall possesses a wonderful descriptive voice that allows the reader to clearly visualise the vivid scenes and complex characters. A large cast is easily handled with no two characters being the same, each is unique driven by their own desires and motivations. Growth and development of key characters run parallel, if not central to the finely designed tale. This is one book you won’t want to put down. With such a rich and vibrant environment and magnificent world building it can seem as real, if not more so than your everyday existence. Action-packed, riveting, and immersive, Power’s Wraith was a truly amazing read, and a strong first book in what looks to be a very interesting and exciting series.

[image error]

Book link:

 

Filed under: author, book review, reading, writing

Book review: Alferrions Exodus by Simon Anthony Marriott

Flowing the death of Delforian it was suggested by the psychologist that everyone keep a [image error]journal. For the ten long years since they had left their home world they had been on a quest. It had taken a great deal of resources and sponsorship, but finally they had set up on a scavenger hunt across the stars. Strange tablets in an unfamiliar language had been uncovered at beacons, guiding their quest forwards until they finally reached the most unusual destination. The ancient depictions had led them to an ancient relic they came to call the Gate Stone, and it was capable of amazing feats. For Alferrion it represented answers to long asked questions, but to others it was seen as a weapon, a means to protect themselves against the very race who created it. But contact with the stone has a price, discover the cost and enjoy the gripping conclusion in Simon Anthony Marriott’s Alferrions Exodus, Before Wynter (Wynter series Book 1)

Alferrions Exodus is comprised of the dictations of Alferrion into his Personal Hand Terminal, PHT. Through this we, the reader, get a real sense for the tea-loving character from his idle musings and humour to their more serious considerations. It is certainly a short book, at around 40 pages, making it the perfect bedtime read, and despite being comprised of dictations is enjoyable and atmospheric. There are a few surprises in store too, especially as Alferrions Exodus reaches its climax. An enjoyable adventure from start to finish. This short story’s lore was based in was Last Wynter – Curse of Crows Wood, and with Simon Anthony Marriott’s style being so gripping it is a book I will certainly be adding to my want to read list.

[image error]

Book link:

 

Filed under: author, book review, reading, writing

Book review: BEOWULF: The Midgard Epic by James Matthew Byers (@MattByers40 )

My hat off to James Matthew Byers for this entertaining and original rendition of a classic tale. With a skill to rival bards and fablers he has woven this legend of old in rhyme, and what better way to relate such an ancient a tale? This presentation added a real charm and those already familiar with the story will find new insertions and additions. A must for fans of old tales and legends, a truly creative masterpiece.

Book link:

 

Filed under: author, book review, reading, writing

Book review: The Secret of the Sacred Scarab by Fiona Ingram (@FionaRobyn )

Adam and Justin could hardly wait, a trip to Egypt with their aunt was a dream come [image error]true, little did they know the danger that awaited. A missing archaeologist, a strange feeling of being followed, and a secret entrusted to them, all marks the start of a gripping adventure that will take them to places beyond their greatest dreams in an attempt to unravel the mysteries before their own lives become forfeit.

When I first picked up Fiona Ingram’s The Secret of the Sacred Scarab I did not begin to imagine the fantastical adventure I would be whisked away on. I loved the rich and vibrant characters and their portrayal, especially their close familial relationship. I found myself grinning, cringing, and releasing bated breaths as I was drawn into a tale that could be straight from The Young Indiana Jones Chronicles. Majestic  descriptions make imagining the land easy.  If you have never been to Egypt you’ll get an amazing feel for the sights and atmosphere, and if you have, like myself, you’ll find a vividness in the writing that will stir memories from your own experiences there. There’s action, danger, secrets, and a mystery just begging to be solved. Without a doubt a griping and amazing read whether you’re old or young. The Secret of the Sacred Scarab gets my heartfelt recommendation. I can’t wait until my son is a few years older and we can read this gripping tale together.

Book link:

 

Filed under: author, book review, reading, writing