K.J. Simmill's Blog, page 54
October 16, 2017
Book review: Taeowolf by Kris Moger
Taeowolf is the first book in the Zentrin series by author Kris Moger. The caste system [image error]had been abolished, but in reality very little had changed Hunaen clan still did the grunt work, Elvean tended the fields, Wolvean handled business, and the Feleal owned pretty much everything else. The only chance to break away was through hard work and education. That was precisely what Aiden had been doing, although he spent a lot of time dreaming. He’d always had one particularly vivid dream, and now a word had followed him back, Taeowolf. It was a name belonging to one of the five founders of the Zentrin Guards. He was a great leader, and his name became a title, a name for justice. All of Aiden’s education would not prepare him for what he must do, what he must face, after all, the real history was buried and events manipulated to ensure no challenge would never arise and that the Zentrin Guards could never return. Aiden has been selected to face the challenges of the Mist, a test he must face to find balance and prove his worth, but there are those who would go to any lengths to ensure his failure, and not everyone can be trusted to guide him on the path of his destiny.
Taeowolf is an intense story filled with vivid characters and an imaginative plot, it is certainly an example of fantasy at its best and a book you’ll be hard pushed to put down. This is not only an adventure, but one that plays with psychology, philosophy and relationships. The characters are easy to connect with, even the ones you may not like are, in their own way, likable, and I will certainly be looking forward to seeing the next book in the series, I can’t wait to see where Kris Moger takes us next, but one thing is for certain, if they deliver on the promises made in Taeowolf it will be an tremendous adventure.
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October 14, 2017
Book review: Tenebrous by G.A. Renteria
Sehren had not been plagued by nightmares for some time, perhaps he should have [image error]taken their return as a prediction of ill-tidings. But instead he thought it to be nerves. That day he was to bring the crown prince into the Knights, but more importantly the price would become his squire. It was not a decision Sehren was pleased with, or a role he wished to undertake, but he would do his duty, and do so fairly. He had no idea that someone was counting on him doing just this in order to further their own ambitions. Sehren failed to expect such treachery and as a result his life is torn apart, all in the name of a greater scheme, but can the truth be heard when spoken by the lips of one thought to have committed the most heinous of crimes?
Well written with great character development and world building Tenebrous is an easy book to lose yourself in. I love a good fantasy, and the scene setting and plot execution of this book is done well. You feel yourself drawn to the characters, experiencing things from their perspective and wanting to know what fate has in store.
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The Ancestral Odyssey: The Utopian Dream – Reviewed by K.J Simmill
Well here it is guys, the third and final review written by K.J Simmill, a very talented woman, author of the highly successful Forgotten Legacy Series, which currently has three books to it’s name. Before I expand on this author’s achievments and present her review, before I talk about the experience and give you my thoughts on what the reviewers wrote, I would personally like to thank all of the reviewers who took the time out to read and write about my work. It is so very touching to know what you think, whether I received good or bad reviewers it is important to thank the people who wished to share their critique of my book, a book I have slaved over for the past ten to fifteen years.
About the reviewer: K.J Simmill, is an award winning British author who has written a total of five books. Books which…
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October 13, 2017
Book review: Purple Mike: A Trip by Sin Mils (@SinMils )
Purple Mike: A Trip, is a children’s/ young teen tale written by Sin Mils. It is best described as an [image error]educational/ urban fiction. The humans in Anyplace once lived a peaceful existence, never wanting, never fearing. Vicodin however lived elsewhere, and he watched the beings of Anyplace with malice and hatred. He despised them, hated their happiness, their mere existence infuriated him. But he had a plan, he would corrupt them, taint all that is good with his own gang of outlaws, Pot, Pill, and Powder, led by Purple Mike. He planned to start small and spread his seed of corruption far and wide, but then something occurred even he had not been prepared for, her name was Sally Sue, and Purple Mike’s mission was turned askew by unfamiliar feelings towards her, those of love. But Vicodin’s plan was already advancing at speed, and the destruction Mike and his gang have wrought seems beyond repair. But for her, he knew he must try.
Written in a very charming manner for such a heavy topic. In some ways it reminded me of something I’d expect to see from Dr Zeus, although with a far more serious topic. I can certainly say that I have never read anything like it. Purple Mike: A Trip by Sin Mils, warns readers about the dangers of drugs through an engrossing and easy to read story. It shows the reader how drugs can cause serious harm despite seeming innocent and warns of the dangers of usage. It is actually a very clever and serious book disguised in a fun read which shows actions and consequences. I can certainly see this finding its way into the heart of many parents who want to educate their young teen on the dangers in a more fun and creative manner.
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Book review: The Ancestral Odyssey: The Utopian Dream by D.W. Gill (@MegasTeque )
The Ancestral Odyssey: The Utopian Dream is an epic fantasy by D.W. Gill. Lethaniel had [image error]been thought dead, yet this lone figure was found plodding through a field of death, a field of the countless lives lost to the horror of war and death he could have prevented, at least that seemed to be the opinion of those scarce few who were left alive. In a moment of reflection he knew what must be done, a way to usher victory and perhaps even ring in a new age. The odds are stacked against him, against his people, but he will stand his ground, he will prevail. There have been many beginnings since this world began, and a new start is long overdue.
Anyone who knows me knows there’s nothing more I love than to lose myself in an epic and with a paperback of 980 pages this is certainly that. D.W. Gill does not shy away from embracing fantasy, and this is the kind of book you can easily lose a day or two to. You cannot help but be invested in the characters, and what an array of characters there are. There is war, horror, and hope threaded with skill through a plot both epic in size, scope and undertaking and this only scratches the surface of the magical world built and developed by D.W Gill. This is one heck of a fantasy read, a must for the library of fans of this genre. From beginning to end you’ll lose a yourself in the well written, wonderfully descriptive style and be amazed at the attention to detail throughout.
Make yourself a hot drink, get a plate of sandwiches at the ready, because you will not want to put this down.
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October 12, 2017
Book review: Conversations with Tom by Angela Lockwood (@LitBCameronB)
After a whirlwind romance from love at first sip to a wedding on the beach, life had [image error]seemed smooth sailing. But Lisa wanted children, but Jeff was not quite ready and, given how much he missed his own childhood pet, suggested a trial run with a cat. It turns out this had been one of Jeff’s only good ideas. Failed business ventures quickly exhausted their savings, and Lisa hated the long commute to work. The tension in the home had become a source of great unrest and Tom, the feisty ginger cat, waking her up at 4am every day was not helping. Lisa soon comes to realise that she can not longer see a future with Jeff, and his cat. She turns to another man, ending their marriage and is relieved to see the back of them both. Jeff is torn apart, and seeks comfort by confiding his concerns in Tom, while trying to provide the best life he can for his somewhat mischievous feline, but his aptitude for business is anything but good.
This is certainly a unique read, the sections from Tom’s perspective really made me grin at times, as a cat owner myself I’ve been on the receiving end or witness to some of Tom’s quirks. It is a brilliantly written, engaging, and enjoyable story about relationships, not only between a cat and his human, but between families and loved ones as well. I have to say there were parts of this book that really made me chuckle, in fact, one of Jeff’s business ventures in particular still has me grinning, but I won’t spoil it by saying which. If you have a moggy of your own, or simply enjoy a good story infused with heartbreak, romance, and comedy, then this is a read for you.
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October 10, 2017
Book Review: An Invisible Murder baby Joyce Cato (@MaxineBbooks)
Starting a new job is never easy. It is just as well Jenny knew she’d be perfect [image error]for the live in position at Avonsleigh Castle. Everything was going smoothly, the interview went off with just a small bout of nerves and she slipped into the role like a hand in to a well fitted glove. The food earned compliments, as well it should when prepared by a woman whose passion is cooking. But this incredible start came with a complication, someone in the house had a murderous agenda, Jenny has barely had time to unpack when they struck, and more concerning issue that she is forced by her new employer to help the police get to the bottom of this tragedy.
Hints and clues threaded amidst an involved plot ensure you’ll be contemplating events alongside Jenny as the investigation occurs. Well written in the appropriate tone for the setting which adds authenticity to what proves to be an enjoyable read. This is certainly the kind of book you can play whodunit while reading. If you pay attention as events unfold you’ll certianly work it out.
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An Invisible Murder
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Book review: Snowfall by Mark H Scanlon (@sentafliks )
It was as dreary day in London, and Lancelot wanted nothing more than to sit inside his [image error]favourite tavern, watching the world go by as he sipped his favourite drink. But alas that was not to be. The assembly had sent an inquisitor, Fiona Whitehall, seeking aid where once they would have refused to turn. Within Fiona’s possession is an item of unquestionable power. It’s very discovery could draw attention from things best left forgotten. But with events as they are, perhaps this news has reached him too late.
I really enjoyed the atmosphere conjured by Mark H Scanlon in their book Snowfall. I found the scene setting to be charming and easily imagined. It’s a short story, but ripe with detail and good story telling.
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October 7, 2017
Book review: The Awakening by Andrew Wichland (@AWichlandAuthor)
Ryuu’s life is about to change. It is his thirteenth birthday and from this day [image error]on nothing will ever be the same. He had always been different, he matured quicker, grew and developed faster than his peers. He had known he wasn’t quite like everyone else and worked hard to gain approval. He just doesn’t realise exactly how different he truly was. But he is about to find out. There would be eight chosen, eight heroes would rise and stand against the tyranny of the Black Dragon, he is but one, but all must unite if there is any hope to stand against this evil, but they may already be too late.
Throughout this book there were numerous gems which made me think of other fantasies I have encountered encountered over the years spanning from the jrpgs such as Arc the Lad, and Breath of Fire, all the way to movies such as Disney’s Treasure Island. The rapport between the characters is well written and suited to the young teenage audience, while still being enjoyable to the older generation. This is a tale of heroes, of friendships and peril and standard against the odds.
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October 6, 2017
Book review: Dying thoughts – Third Wish by Joey Paul (@msjoeybug)
Since the first day of the new term Tara has eagerly awaited the end of year summer [image error]holidays. Six weeks of bliss, minimal study, and free time. She can barely wait for that final bell to ring, her mind was filled with visions of duvet mornings and joy. But her father had other plans. He decided, since next year is Tara’s last year in high school, and she has no desire to go to college, she needed experience, she needed a summer job. Her days of comfort are quickly replaced with police work, her new job, and coursework. After all, working full time for a charity means she can’t afford to slack off, otherwise she’ll never get the work done for school, and despite not caring about her grades there are some boundaries she won’t push with her father. The thing is this new job is with a charity that helps disabled and seriously ill children with conditions that affect their quality of life. By her second day she knows something is not quite as it seems, and if her latest vision is anything to go by, her instincts are right on the money.
This is another enjoyable edition to the series. Joey Paul gives the reader yet another thrilling adventure as Tara is dragged through her life with a gift that can feel more like a curse. From the first book as a reader you see growth, some of it reluctant on Tara’s part, and great development. Joey Paul certain has a talent for this genre. Her writing style is immersive, to the point where I start reading and, what seems like moments later, I glance at the clock and realise a few hours have passed. I look forward to reading the next book in the near future.
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