K.J. Simmill's Blog, page 76
May 12, 2016
Book review: Lost: The Field Researchers Book 2 by A.E. Hellstorm
Lost: The Field Researchers Book 2 by A.E. Hellstorm is one of the best books in its genre I have read for some time. Carl is a field researcher and child interviewer for the FBI, but 
when his partner Mira goes missing, presumed dead in a bombing, all kinds of horrible flashbacks begin to haunt him, her loss just another link in a chain of devastation. Carl has seen more than his fair share of horror and tragedy, but nothing which could compare to what he is about to face. Days are lost searching for Mira, his hope fading, just as he fears he can take no more fate intervenes and offers a distraction. A young child has been found and his services are enlisted by Allie, a confident, sweet, and outgoing woman investigating a serial killer. He loses himself in the investigation, still holding on to the hope Miri is still alive, but his search leads him to places beyond his imagination and he soon finds himself pulled into a strange dimension. A horrific place basked in everlasting night where every aspect of the realm seems somehow warped and geared towards destroying the fragile psyche of all those who cross into its domain and once it has its claws in someone it will never let go.
Whether you like crime, thrillers, or horror Lost: The Field Researchers Book 2 is for you, it expertly combines several genres in an involved, intricate plot. There is so much to this book that any aspect could make a brilliant standalone novel, but the combination creates a tense, emotionally driven tale. A.E. Hellstorm creates an imaginative world where the reader’s own imagination, in a very Lovecraftian style, conjures the true horror. It is a rare balance between not enough information and too much, and A.E. Hellstorm has expertly achieved this. Eerily terrifying, and hauntingly horrific. A fully immersive read that will keep you on the edge of the seat. The characters are real, diverse, and well-developed. You can’t help but be pulled into their plight, their joy is yours, and their terror equally shared. The character development is clear, from when we first meet Carl, Miri, and Allie there is progressive growth based on their experiences. Relationships change and alter, not only between them but other characters. As a reader of H.P. Lovecraft I couldn’t resist this book and it not only met but surpassed my every expectation. Immensely gripping, riveting, truly a must read.
Amazon Links
US: Lost: The Field Researchers Book 2
UK: Lost: The Field Researchers Book 2
Filed under: writing
May 7, 2016
Author interview: Walter M. Williams III
It is with great pleasure we welcome author Walter M. Williams III to #SymposiumSaturday
About the Author
Tell us a little bit about yourself. (Author Bio) 
As you are undoubtedly aware, my name, is Walter M. Williams III. Though I have a degree in Criminal Justice with an emphasis on Homeland Security, I am actually in the process of learning more about teaching.
What are your hobbies?
Sadly, I used to read a lot more. Or, actually, I should rephrase that, I used to read a lot more books. Then it seems like one day I found myself reading an increasing number of articles, and studies, then books fell to the wayside. I have been trying to get back into the habit of reading books just for the pleasure of reading, and kick the habit of feeling like I need to read in order to learn something, or study even when there is nothing to study for.
Outside of reading, I really enjoy research (old habits die hard), working out whenever I have the chance, and video games.
Which writers inspire you?
Todd McFarlane, the author of the original Spawn comics, has been a huge inspiration too me since I was a young teen. The dark atmosphere, traveling to alternate planes of reality, concepts of heaven and hell, and the plethora of menacing characters. What is not to love? Ben Okri, a Nigerian poet and novelist wrote a book called “The Famished Road”. I read it as a child and the described imagery has always amazed me. The book had a way of blending everyday life with concepts of the spirit world. I have aspired to write with such humor, sincerity, and depth. Clive Barker‘s horror stories have inspired me since reading his “Hellbound Heart” series when I was much younger. Outside of both of those, I love Shakespeare poetic humanity in his writings. Stephen King‘s down-to-earth advice, and approach when it comes to writing. And James Baldwin‘s raw, unapologetic, unflattering, brilliant power with the written word.
For your own reading, do you prefer e-books or paper/hard back books?
I have this undying fantasy of sitting in an overstuffed armchair, in front of a fireplace, on a winter’s night, while reading a chosen book. I have a hard time replacing a paper, or hardback book, with a kindle in that image. But I am trying little by little to read e-books. But I am actually struggling to not order the three Indie author titles I mentioned above in paperback.
What are you reading at present?
I have been climbing between three Indie titles at the moment. Kayti Nika Raet‘s “Niko”. Claudette Melanson‘s “Rising Tide”. And Kenneth W. Harmon‘s “The Amazing Mr. Howard”. These three titles have been my of ‘learning to read for fun’ projects. I switch between the three of them, and have been enjoying each a great deal so far. My goal is to read as many indie titles as possible. I have downloaded quite a few.
What is your favourite book and why?
Wow. I really wish I could answer this definitively, and with little effort. It would be amazing to just know my favorite book without a doubt. There have been so many I have loved for so many reasons. “A Sense of Style” is a clever, funny, and informative book on writing. “On Writing” is a no-nonsense, no frills, razor sharp, and practical take on writing. “Bird by Bird” is sincere, poetic, moving, and very deep, but also about writing. “The Famished Road”, “Shabanu: Daughter of the Wind”, “Of Mice and Men”, “Ireland: A Terrible Beauty”, “Interview with a Vampire”, and so many more. They span years, styles, and genres. It is just impossible to choose!
What is your favourite film/ series and why?
What sort of cruel, mind-bending, brain scouring questions are these? I feel almost disloyal naming only one thing when so many creations have inspired me in so many ways. Again, far, far too many to name for various reasons. For movies, a brief example, almost every summer I watch Kenneth Branagh’s “Much A Do About Nothing” just once because for me it has this amazing life affirming joy to it. The music, costumes, the choice of Tuscany it all comes together to create something lighthearted and wonderful. Most of my favorite movies are horror films like the Grudge/Ju-On, Ring/Ringu, all of Romero’s Zombie films, 28 Days Later. I love movies that have ghosts, demons, lovecraftian horrors, zombies, vampires, any any other number of horrors in it.
However, these days I do not watch much television, or many movies. I wish I could say it was for some sort of high-minded, snooty reason, but the honest truth is I just have not been in the mood. I am sure that will change one day. But lately I have been interested mostly in some really great Youtube channels. When I am working on something late at night, and I am not in the mood for music, or when looking for something to watch with my daughter, there are a few channels that frequently come up because they have such great content. They range from discussing philosophy, politics, science, history, or other academic topics, to just featuring light humor, or talking about video games. My current favorites are Brain Craft, Crash Course history, the Young Turks, Vsauce, Good Mythical Morning, Angry Video Nerd, Dante & Holly, History Buff, Fanboy Flicks, Its Okay To Be Smart, Good Bad Flicks, Welcome to Night Vale, VatiVidya, EpicNameBro, RedletterMedia, Brain Scoop, Angry Joe, Chris Stuckman, Outsidexbox and a few others.
What do you feel is your greatest accomplishment?
If have ever done anything worthwhile, or right in this world, I know without a doubt it is being the second half to the equation that brought my daughter into this world. Even just to hear her laugh, or see her smile about something she is excited about, has this way of reminding me that sometimes we end up far happier than we may believe possible in this life.
How do you relax?
Writing, or video games. I seem to always be doing one or the either lately. To me, I never get why people become so pissed off while playing a game because I feel a lot of zen when playing one. This is how I normally write chapters, or when I was in school, entire essays in my head, while playing a game.
What advice would you give to aspiring writers?
Do not over think it. Stop saying you are going to write and just do it. Do not worry about plot, or characters, or making the story pretty. You just want to get the idea out, and started. If you have trouble hearing a character, write them out an application sheet, and then have them answer questions for you. Outside of just their name, and what celebrity you are imagining they look like, what is a little family history? Who are their parents? What was home life like? What are some of their likes and dislikes? Did these things shape them as they grew up? Then make that character true to themselves, and only allow change if it happens organically through the story. Never force them to jump through plot hoops just to get you from point A to point B.
Also, if it helps, listen to music while you are writing, if even very quietly. If there are songs that help you express, or feel certain emotions, or keep an atmosphere for you, keep those types of songs on your play list. Lastly, when you are stuck, get up and walk away for a little bit, or work on something else. Try and see your current plight with eyes that have rested for a few hours.
If your friends could use one word to describe you what would it be?
Loyal.
About writing
What made you realize your calling as an author?
My apologies if this sounds so pretentious that it just makes you want to kick me to sleep, but to be sincere, I am not certain if I have ever realized if this was a calling. I rarely, if ever, call myself an author outside of clarity sake. Personally, I see myself as a guy who just have a love of writing. Regardless of how many books sell, or never sell. No matter my level of fame or obscurity. I think I will continue writing until my last days. I started telling stories with little sentences, and colorings when I was in kindergarten. I cannot imagine now writing if even just privately.
Where do your ideas come from, what inspires you?
I always consider myself fortunate to receive an email, or comment from a reader expressing a thought about my writings. Be it positive or negative, they took the time to write and send, so I always respond. A common thread that runs through many readers thoughts is feeling that maybe the protagonist, or characters in some of my stories did not deserve such horrible circumstances. To which I would partially agree. But that is also life. It is not always about deserve, right, or wrong. Hans Fritz Lang, a German film director, was known for stories where the heroes did not always win. His reasons behind these seemingly bleak outcomes is because having “right” or being “just” is not a promise you will succeed., or defeat villains.
Yet, I would take it a small step further and ask, are heroes truly “heroic” if they are only willing to undertake missions, or struggles where victory is assured? Even if the heroes die in their struggle against the villain, the point is not that they died or failed. The point is they willingly paid the ultimate price to do the right thing.
A lot of people believe the ending to the Exorcist is sad. Yet, this is not true. Yes, the older priest perished during his struggle with the demon. Yes, the younger priest was possessed then committed suicide. But that is just all the obvious. The older priest knew there was a more than likely chance he was not going to walk away from that exorcism alive even before it began but he went because that little girl needed him. The younger priest did not go mad, or was tricked by the demon. He actually tricked the demon into himself, than while having a hold on it, killed himself, forcing the both from the world. The young priest died in triumph. But do not take my words for it. Try listening to the director’s commentary sometime… and ignore those money grabbing sequels forced out by suits.
This is what inspires me. My characters do sometimes find themselves in seemingly unfair, and purely unjust situations that would make many of us sink to the ground in despair. The odds are against them, the price for failure are nightmarish, and it there will be losses as the tale goes on. But these character never give up. Through tears, through horror, violence, and otherworldly terror, they push on– and sometimes even in the middle of all that, they stop to help others along the way. That is what matters most.
How long on average does it take you to write a book?
It varies. “Nightmare’s Paradise” took years because it was my first novel. I re-wrote it 3 separate times. “A Violent Lament” took far less than a year but was put away until I felt more certain about it. The same happened with “The Languishing Bay”.
Do you work to an outline or plot or do you prefer just see where an idea takes you?
No outline. I prefer to have my general idea, the characters, some motivations, then see where it all goes each night I begin writing. I feel like it leaves my imagination, and options open to allow the story to just go off in whatever organic direction it will move in.
What is the hardest thing about writing?
Trying to focus on just one idea at a time.
What is the easiest thing about writing?
It can all be much easier than it looks. I know there are horror stories of anxiety, writer’s block, rejection, and so on. But there is so much more to it all. It can be incredibly easy to begin slowly pulling an idea together if you are kind to yourself.
Do you ever get writer’s Block and if so, how do you deal with it?
No writer’s block. I do sometimes come to dislike, or hate an entire story. I have a folder I refer to as the abyss. There are a lot of unfinished stories, and partially finished novels in that folder. Some are well over 200 pages. Sometimes they are resurrected years later. I originally did not like A Violent Lament when I first completed it, then 2 yrs later, I looked it over, had a whole new outlook, and idea about it, then revised, and finished it.
How many books have you written, which is your favourite?
I have written about 5 or 6, but have only published 4. “Nightmare’s Paradise”, “A Violent Lament”, and “The Languishing Bay”. The 4th is actually a companion book to Nightmare’s, and Languishing, offering some background lore, and illustrations about the universe both those stories take place in.
Not sure if I can say I have a favorite. I removed “Nightmare’s Paradise” so I could revise somethings, and have it edited again (a 900 dollar mistake I warn other authors about). I enjoyed writing the Languishing Bay because it is set in the East Bay of California, where I live. But I also really enjoyed writing “A Violent Lament” because I was able to experiment with the idea of writing it as a modern Gothic Horror tale. I burrowed a lot from the language, troupes, and atmosphere gothic novels of the times had, but applied them to a modern setting.
What are you working on at the moment?
I am working on 3. I am revising Nightmare’s Paradise, and working on the final half of The Languishing Bay. However, my primary project is a book called Restless Dreams, a collection of both short fiction, and non-fiction– of course I label each story just to be safe as to clearly mark which is which. The short non-fiction has a range of moods and emotions that range from the tragic such as revisiting the death of my father when I was 12, having grown up witnessing a lot of violence, and shootings. Happier, and sweeter stories like going on my first date, that first love, and the adventure of learning to be a young parent. Then more humorous stories like having drinks one night New Years night with friends, then getting this brilliant idea to visit a supposed haunted house. Plus some more offbeat pieces like “Dating Species” a collection of common dating personalities single people can expect to meet on the dating scene. I based these off my own observations after years of dating sometime ago, and those common observations made by single female friends.
What genre are your books?
Admittedly, I have had some serious trouble classifying the genre. Now, wait, before you roll your eyes so hard they become permanently lodged in the back of your head, I promise this is not a “Don’t try define me!” sort of sort of diatribe. The trouble comes from being uncertain if I am misleading any potential readers who are looking for specific genres. “Nightmare’s Paradise” originally started out as horror, but there is also a lot of action, gun fights, etc. So maybe it is Action/Horror? “A Violent Lament” is my attempts at a modern Gothic Horror. Finally, the “The Languishing Bay”, as mentioned before, is in the same universe as my first novel but with different characters, in a different city. It has many of the same elements but definitely stays closer to the Supernatural Horror genre.
Give us an insight into your main character(s). What does he/she do that is so special?
I set out to make each protagonists in all three novels different from one another. Not for merely the sake of being different but to also hopefully offer readers a varied philosophy in which they experience the story.
In Nightmare’s Paradise, Samuel Vesey Anderson, is a U.S Army veteran that has served thee tours in Afghanistan. He comes from a family that has sort of a military heritage, as many of his cousins, all of his uncles, his father, and even his grandfather, have all served in the Army. Samuel returns from his final tour of duty noticeably different from the many recall before leaving. He is sullen, withdrawn, and quiet. This deeply worries his parents, who request that he move back home, and begin seeing a local psychiatrist. There is no mystery to if he has seen combat or not. After all he was awarded a purple heart. Yet, something other than the fighting is the cause, and he never talks about it.
Samuel is brave, driven, head-strong, and smart. He has a knack for improvising and remaining calm even in chaotic situations. He can be rather judgmental when he begins measuring people by his own internal compass of what he perceives as right and wrong. Samuel holds those people in his life to a rather high standard and can be unforgiving when they fail to meet those expectations. However, he is most critical of himself, and lives with a fear of not being skilled enough at those things he desires to do. Samuel seeks approval from his superiors for reassurance that he is not failing. But he can also be naïve in his beliefs of shared camaraderie.
In Nightmare’s Paradise, we meet Samuel shortly before the crisis begins, and he is thrown back into combat like situations. As the story progress he realizes that it is only now he has felt little to no depression since the start of fighting for his life, and to protect others. Samuel begins questioning himself because of this. Does some part of him only feel alive when he is risking his life, and fighting? Can he ever feel normal again without such danger? Has war left some vital part of him fundamentally broken?
In A Violent Lament, the protagonist is actually a damned soul that has been resurrected to the mortal planes through a series of bargains between those who bartered for her, an ancient spirit, and whatever terrible entity ruled over one of the many planes of Hell she was within imprisoned. Throughout a majority of the story she is mostly referred to as either “Polly” or “Devourer”. Most of who she was, and almost every memory before her tragic memory, scoured away by her time in a place called the Abyss, so in many ways she is learning to be a new person but there are some personality quirks that remain.
In this story our heroine is quite literally the monster, despite being in a story filled with Vampires. Polly is caught between being repulsed at what she has become, but also reveling more and more in the bloodshed, hunts, and new found abilities as what is referred to as the Predator’s Essences grows within. Polly also wants to know who she was and who murdered her. There are not clear “good guys” or “bad guys” in a Violent Lament. Like Polly, the reader is suddenly thrust into a clandestine, religious/civil war, and is only hearing one side of the story.
In the Languishing Bay, Tabitha Anne Yeager is a kid of the 90’s that fell head over heels into the grunge scene, but who quite suddenly had to grow up, become a wife and mother, earn a degree, and stuff herself in a suit to join the working world. She comes from a very traditional Catholic family, and much to her mother’s chagrin, she named her two daughters after two of her favorite characters in Greek myths, Luna and Persephone. At the time of the story we meet Tabitha when she is 33, divorced from her rather unfaithful husband, and now works as the supervisor in a department of social workers.
Even before the horrific events of the Languishing Bay begins, Tabitha is a woman secretly in crisis. She is a flawed individual with some questionable habits, and prejudices. One of her biggest issues is a great deal of repressed anger that begins seeping out the more she is overtaxed by stress. This tale is more about one not truly knowing who one is until they are truly at their most desperate, and what they are willing to do to survive, or protect/reach those they love.
However, Tabitha is not a fighter. She has no experience, or training outside of how to maintain and supervise an office. She is just an average individual caught in terrifying circumstances, and has to find various ways through dangerous situations other then brute force. She has two little girls who she loves with all her heart, and she is desperate to reach them.
Who is your favourite character and why?
So far like my different characters for various reasons. It is hard to choose a favorite. I have side characters, and villains in the books I write that I also like. Samuel represents the tarnished knight archetype in many ways. I have loved knights, their history, and even the romanticized stuff since I was a kid. I enjoyed writing for Tabitha because I tried my best to write form a completely different point of view, and I channeled my love of my own daughter to feel her desperation. Yet, I am also 6’4, and have some training on how to take care of myself. But in a crisis, what if I had none of these advantages? What would I do to reach the most important person in my life?
This contrast is not male or female, as in the Army one of the most respected, and downright badass drill sergeants was a woman named D.S Aubel, who if I had ever gone to combat with, I would have followed to the ends of the earth because I respected, and believed in her that much. The contrast is being smaller, no weapons experience, and no training. Originally Tabitha was going to be a male character but suddenly she spoke up, and he was gone. Polly channeled my own insecurity, fears, and uncertainty in high school, just with the dial turned up to 11. I feel bad for her but I also love her abilities.
Tell us a little bit about the book(s)/ series.
The Languishing Bay, and Nightmare’s Paradise, both share the same universe. One I hope to write several stand alone, single stories in. While both these titles will have a direct sequel to them, I would prefer to right several stand-alone tales in this universe. For both protagonist of this shared universe, their individual stories begins the same, they awake to discover the sky is constant lit like it is the beginning of evening twilight, and besides for a few remaining survivors, the cities are seemingly deserted. These elements in themselves would be distressing but the protagonist soon come to learn that there are a variety of warped abominations stalking the streets, each killing one another, as well as any survivors they encounter. Both stories follows each respective protagonist as they search for their loved ones, clues to what is happening, and their desperate struggle to survive the various horrors they encounter. Nightmares & Predators is a 50 page companion book offering lore, and illustrated profiles of some of the creatures the characters encounters. The stories do go much deeper but at the risk of major spoilers I have to leave the synopsis for both there.
A Violent Lament follows the protagonist, Polly, after she has been resurrected from the Abyss by a race of vampires, through an ancient covenant with a primordial spirit known only as the Grave Shadow. She is turned into the Devourer, a damned human soul transformed into a predatory spirit, and ritually bound back into the corpse it once inhabited. She is told her summoning is proof that the Priest-King, the enigmatic ruler of the theocratic nation of vampires, still has heaven’s mandate to rule. His secret police, and the Lord Inquisitor begins using Polly as a living weapon in their war against the insurrectionist. She makes for a terrifying religious weapon as the thought of having one’s soul devoured, thus being denied paradise, is a potent threat. Yet, who are these insurrectionist? And what has lead to this religious war? Making matters far more grave is that as the fighting continues the vampires increase their risk of being discovered by those they secretly rule over, humanity– who obviously would react with far more than just fear, pitchforks, and torches.
Where can we buy it/them?
Your friendly neighborhood Amazon!
In what formats is your book available?
Paperback, kindle, or whatever other e-book reader one prefers. However, Nightmare’s Paradise is currently unavailable, as it is undergoing some revisions.
When is your next book due for release?
Restless Dreams should be ready this June. It is a project I am very excited about.
Book titles and synopsis:
“Nightmare’s Paradise”
Take a deeper look into some of the haunting lore, and unnatural predators of the “Nightmare’s Paradise” universe
“A Violent Lament”
With her damned soul bartered for, Polly is liberated from one of the many terrible planes of Hell, only to be transformed into a monstrous weapon, then forced into the steadily rising flames of a civil and religious war threatening to consume the whole of the vampire race. Now shackled by agents of the powerful, and ancient Priest-King, she stalks a nightly battlefield on behalf of the crown’s loyalist, against the large number of rebels fighting on behalf of an enigmatic figure. In this through-the-mirror-darkly, labyrinthine world of deception, Polly will quickly discover the nights are longer, the shadows deeper, spirits whisper bargains through the veil, and moral quandaries are a luxury predators cannot afford.
“The Languishing Bay”
Tabitha Anne Yeager, a young mother of two, awakens to discover herself lying in the derelict remains of an abandoned building. Her only recollections of the night’s earlier events swims through her hungover brain as misty snippets of laughter, music, and drinking. None of which answers how she arrived here, or what happened to the friends she went out with. Her confusion turns to panic, when she glances at her wrist watch and discovers it is actually the next morning. She promised her daughters she would be away no more than two hours. She eventually finds her way outside– and into a nightmare. Why does the sky continuously glow no matter the hour? What tragedy has twisted so many people into a variety of lethal abominations? She has no answers to such pressing questions. Tabitha only knows she must reach her children, and that she is willing to do such by any means necessary.
Connect with the author:
Blog: http://ghostwinds.blogspot.com/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/WalterMWilliams
Website: http://ghostwinds.blogspot.com/
Filed under: author, reading, writing
May 4, 2016
Book Review: Fairfield’s Auction: A Witherston Murder Mystery by Betty Jean Craige
Fairfield’s Auction: A Witherston Murder Mystery by Betty Jean Craige is a murder mystery set in the town of Witherson. All is not well in the town of Witherston. Long ago the 
Cherokees were cast from their land, their belongings claimed by the white man, and now they are being auctioned off as treasure for thousands, lining the pockets of the rich whilst the Cherokees are left unable to reclaim their heritage. Fairfield’s auction is such an event, countless treasures sold to the highest bidder, and those who protest and request respect for their own history, such as the Cherokees living in Tayanita village (known as Free rooster to the locals), are cast out. So many weapons, from tomahawks to a blowgun, but the final item certainly raised a few eyebrows, a live African Grey parrot by the name of Doolittle. Stressed and unloved, sealed in a small cage he finds himself sold like property to one of the only people present who believes animals too have souls, Dr Charlotte (Lottie) Byrd and this parrot can talk, its words betraying the neglect it suffered. In the meantime a mysterious person known only as Alpha has requested the ‘kidnapping’ of this bird by their recently recruited aid referred to as six, and this is where the real trouble begins. The town is snowed in, the roads in and out blocked by a storm fell tree and an 18 wheeler. Everything is at a standstill, and during this time it seems more dastardly deeds were afoot, the next day, two bodies were discovered. Was Alpha’s scheduled abduction of Doolittle part of the plan, who had the most to gain by the death of the two citizens, and what were their motives?
I do enjoy a good murder and Fairfield’s Auction: A Witherston Murder Mystery has no shortage of suspicious deaths and intrigue. Betty Jean Craige presents the case in a rather unique way, using articles from Webby Witherston, the online paper, alongside a dialogue driven narrative to lay breadcrumbs for the reader to follow, and most are very subtle. I did however feel the news articles, whilst unique, were overused and in some cases broke up the narrative. There is a very real feel to the plot and characters. I particularly liked the twins Jorge and Jamie, and found the small bedtime chatting routine, which appears a number of times, very endearing. Whist a murder mystery it also touches on social issues, especially relating to the acquisition of property, land, and expelling of the Cherokees. Betty Jean Craige combines history, culture, and difference of opinions, bringing them central to the plot in a manner that never nice seemed bias towards one view or the other. With interesting developments and unexpected twists it won’t fail to grab your attention.
Links
US: Fairfield’s Auction: A Witherston Murder Mystery
UK: Fairfield’s Auction: A Witherston Murder Mystery
Filed under: author, book review, reading
May 3, 2016
Readers’ Favorite: I’ve earned my stamp
For those of you who follow my blog you’ll have noticed it is more about the books I have read and the authors I have encountered rather than my own books, Darrienia and Herbal Lore. The reason is a simple one, I believe authors should support each other.
I have recently been approved as an official reviewer for Readers’ Favorite and a few days back I earned the privilege of being able to use their official stamp.
From this point onward any review I do on their behalf will feature the stamp, whilst other reviews will not. I’d like to thank you all for following my blog, and wish you a wonderful week.
Filed under: author, book review, reading
May 2, 2016
Book review: Underland by Chanda Hahn
Underland by Chanda Hahn is young adult paranormal novel, with urban fantasy elements. Kira hadn’t always been lost, once she’d had a family, a father who loved her 
and shared with her the experience of his Navy SEAL training. When she had awoken with night terrors he had chased them away, but when he died the nightmares became flesh. She fled the streets to escape the wrath of her violent step-father, and for two years she had survived. Then one night the monsters returned plunging her into a world of slavery where she was sold to the highest bidder. Humans are the lowest of the low, the bottom of the food chain, so what chance does she really have in this mythical world beneath the streets? As if things weren’t bad enough, she is selected to participate in the games. Her new prison is already filled with enemies, creatures thought only to be myth, who would prefer to kill her rather than look at her, especially given the entrance she made into their territory. Can she form the alliances needed to survive this terrifying world, and how can she, a lowly human, hope to compete in a game even those with a lifetime of training struggle to survive?
For me Underland had a very Neverwhere (Neil Gaiman) feel to it. Not in the sense of a mirrored storyline, but in the creation of a vast world below ours, where creatures once feared, and those forgotten, now live. Combine this with the more well-known Hunger Games series, a fight to the death for the pleasure of those watching, add a chance of earning freedom and creatures of legend, and you have the fantastic story woven by Chanda Hahn. The author’s style of writing is suited to the new adult, young adult age group, which is the chosen target audience, and it reminded me in places of the point horror genre. The only thing which would have enhanced the reading experience for me would be a little more description in some places. There is this enormous vast land, filled with more creatures and monsters than you can imagine and whilst scope is implied a few more details would have impressed the greatness and magnitude of this world seeing it reach its full potential. I would recommend this book, by a quarter of the way through I didn’t want to put it down and I had become invested in Kira and her struggle wanting to know what happened next. The gripping tale of an underdog trying to survive against all odds alone is enough to grab any reader’s attention, but throw in mythical creatures and ancient gods and you have a combination bound to inspire.
Book links:
US: Underland
UK: Underland
Review completed for Readers’ Favorite
Filed under: author, book review, reading
April 30, 2016
Author interview: Marsha A. Moore
It is with great pleasure I welcome the very talented author of the Coon Hollow Coven Tales and The Enchanted Bookstore Legends Series, Marsha A. Moore. For those of you who follow my blog closely you may remember that Marsha A. Moore was one of my top five favourite authors from 2015. She already has 8 fantastic titles, including her newly released Witch’s Cursed Cabin. Her title, Witch’s Moonstone Locket, is currently on sale at 99 cents until the end of May 3rd.
About the author
Tell us a little bit about yourself. (Author Bio)
Marsha A. Moore loves to write fantasy and paranormal romance. Much of her life feeds the creative flow she uses to weave highly imaginative tales.
The magic of art and nature spark life into her writing, as well as other pursuits of watercolor painting and drawing. She’s been a yoga enthusiast for over a decade and is a registered yoga teacher. Her practice helps weave the mystical into her writing. After a move from Toledo to Tampa in 2008, she’s happily transformed into a Floridian, in love with the outdoors where she’s always on the lookout for portals to other worlds. Marsha is crazy about cycling. She lives with her husband on a large saltwater lagoon, where taking her kayak out is a real treat. She never has enough days spent at the beach, usually scribbling away at stories with toes wiggling in the sand. Every day at the beach is magical!
What are your hobbies?
I have too many! I mentioned some in my bio: painting, drawing, yoga, kayaking, and cycling. I also am a knitaholic and knit during evening TV watching. For any readers who are knitters, I’m on Ravelry with the username MarshaAMoore. I also like to refinish furniture and have recently fallen in love with chalk paint. I’m crazy about gardening…every flower, herb, veggie, bush and tree fascinates me, all except the lawn grass, which is my husband’s job. Learning how to garden in Florida has been a fun challenge. And I love to read. If I could read while knitting, life would be awesome!
Which writers inspire you?
There are so many. Magical realism books like The Girl Who Chased the Moon by Sarah Addison Allen and Practical Magic and The Green Witch by Alice Hoffman are delicately woven with the most sparkling magic. Other books that captivate me are Natasha Mostert’s Season of the Witch and Erin Morgenstern’s Night Circus. In both of those, magic caused mental effects for both the giver and receiver. I enjoy the complexity of that theme and often employ it in my writing. I also enjoy Melissa Marr’s Wicked Lovely series with how her magic plays off darker emotions.
For your own reading, do you prefer e-books or paper/hard back books?
For reading fiction I prefer e-books. With reference books I need paper copies so I can add notes and mark pages easier.
What are you reading at present?
I’m in the middle of the Wicked Lovely series by Melissa Marr and am also reading Moonheart by Charles de Lint. Loving both!
What is your favourite film/ series and why?
I love the movie Pan’s Labyrinth because it wavers on a line between reality and myth through amazing use of imagery.
What do you feel is your greatest accomplishment?
Helping my family through difficult times. I was the primary caregiver for my mother while she suffered with dementia until her death.
How do you relax?
Writing relaxes me. I love dropping deep into the world I’m creating. If I’m too wound up to write, exercise or gardening is usually what I turn to.
What advice would you give to aspiring writers?
Seek out and work with other authors to improve both your writing craft and your marketing reach.
If your friends could use one word to describe you what would it be? Imaginative
About writing
What made you realise your calling as an author?
Through the years, I picked up a hobby of writing music reviews for record companies. During that time, I was inspired by some of those experiences and tinkered with fiction. Initially, I wrote fiction based on the world of rock music. Through a lucky happenstance, a man who worked for a major book publishing house read my first attempts at fiction, which were posted on a music forum. He repeatedly encouraged me to submit my creative writing to publishers. Over time, I came to believe him and did. After that, a new world opened up and it’s been a wonderful time.
Where do your ideas come from, what inspires you?
Most often nature inspires me. Like many fantasy writers, I’m setting oriented. With my hobbies, I’m outside a lot. It’s necessary to keep me balanced and my creativity fresh. I have an active imagination and can see strange creatures and portals to other worlds all around. I get a lot of positive and amazed comments about my imagination, usually, “Where do you get these ideas?” or “How do you drive with all these wild ideas in your head?” I honestly have no idea—it’s just me and how I think. I’ve been this way as long as I can remember. It does make for some great tales though!
This orientation might be credited to my father. As a child, instead of having a bed-time story read to me, my father prompted me to create stories with him. Together over a few years, we conjured a series of verbal fantasy tales called The Land of Wickee Wackee. The characters and sub-plots interwove. I loved creating new stories in that make-believe world!
How long on average does it take you to write a book?
Usually six to eight months since my books are lengthy with plenty of world-building and plot twists.
Do you work to an outline or plot or do you prefer just see where an idea takes you?
I plan the major story arc with the development of the main characters. I break that outline into chapters, but the connections between those key elements aren’t planned and flow freely. Many subplots come from that freedom.
What is the hardest thing about writing?
Organizing my time so that the marketing doesn’t take away from writing new stories.
What is the easiest thing about writing?
Finding ideas to write. I have many books planned. This release is my 10th published book, and over time it’s become easy to relax into my writing. Anymore, I savor the creation process as a real treat.
Do you ever get writer’s Block and if so, how do you deal with it?
Not really. Once in a while a small transition that connects plot points trips me up, but taking a walk or going kayaking always solves the issue.
How many books have you written, which is your favourite?
I’ve written twelve books, and ten have been published (eight currently available). My favorite of the published books is Witch’s Moonstone Locket with the way the hero, heroine, and antagonist played so well off of each other. I’m also enjoying the book I’m writing now, Blood Ice & Oak Moon, since I’m working with characters who are more troubled and the magic is darker.
What are you working on at the moment?
I’m writing the third book in the Coon Hollow Coven Tales series, titled Blood Ice & Oak Moon. This story is about a young woman, Esme, who returns to Coon Hollow Coven at the age of twenty-seven. When she was a child, her mother wanted to keep Esme from witchcraft and took them away. But her mother couldn’t deny the warm relationship the girl formed with her Grammy Flora, a well-respected hedge witch in the Hollow. When Grammy Flora passes away, she leaves her coven property to Esme at a time she needs to escape problems and start a new life. Esme works, best she can, as a hedge witch, who must rely on help from the hedge world of faeries to find all the healing herbs she needs. The fae are shrewd traders. When they open their world to Esme, she’s expected to face the darkness her mother ran from. But if Esme can meet those dangers, the king of the Winter Court will give her a wonderful gift that will change her life…just what she needed to find when she returned to the Hollow.
About the books
What genre are your books?
My Enchanted Bookstore Legends series is epic fantasy romance. The Coon Hollow Coven Tales are paranormal romance, though some have told me historical fantasy romance is a better label since the sexual content of the books is mild.
What book titles have you released so far?
Coon Hollow Coven Tales, a paranormal fantasy romance series:
The Enchanted Bookstore Legends, a five-part epic, fantasy romance series:
Shadows of Serenity, a magical realism/women’s fiction book
Tell us a little bit about the series.
Coon Hollow Coven Tales are about a coven of witches in a fictitious southern Indiana community, south of Bloomington, the neck of the woods where I spent my favorite childhood years surrounded by the love of a big family. The books are rich with a warm 
Hoosier down-home feel. There are interesting interactions between coven members and locals from the nearby small town of Bentbone. If magic wasn’t enough of a difference between the two groups, the coven folk adhere to the 1930s lifestyle that existed when the coven formed.
Note to readers: please feel free to enjoy reading my books about Coon Hollow Coven in any order. Residents of the Hollow may pass in and out of various books, but each book has its own unique and special story to be told.
Where can we buy them?
All the titles are available on Amazon.
(You can click on the book title to be taken to the Amazon page)
Coon Hollow Coven Tales, a paranormal fantasy romance series:
The Enchanted Bookstore Legends, a five-part epic, fantasy romance series:
Heritage Avenged (book 2) (UK)
Quintessence (book 5, final) (UK)
Shadows of Serenity, a magical realism/women’s fiction book (UK)
Give us an insight into your main character. What does he/she do that is so special?
Aggie Anders, the heroine of Witch’s Cursed Cabin, is a witch from the New Wish Coven in southern Indiana near the Ohio River. Witches there align their powers with specific elements of nature. Aggie is a sun witch and must recharge from that element.
Having lived her entire life in her parents’ home, Aggie’s more than ready to move out and learn to live on her own. Lucky for her, she has a distant cousin who lives in Coon Hollow Coven, a ways north in the hill-country near Bloomington, Indiana. She eagerly accepts his offer to live in his wife’s deserted, old homestead log cabin. Brave girl! Or desperate to get away from home!
Although Aggie’s a capable sun witch and has a determined and strong personality, magic in Coon Hollow Coven is nothing she expected. Unlike where she’s from, witches in the Hollow gain powers from their deceased family. Spirits remain active in the daily lives of the Hollow’s homes. Some spirits are friendly, while others are moody. Some are evil in the blackest way and have labeled Aggie as an outsider who needs to be run out of town because they fear her different sort of magic. Determined to remain and be away from home, she has a lot to learn and fast!
Who is your favourite character and why?
My favorite character would be Lyra McCauley from my Enchanted Bookstore Legends. She’s the main character of the entire series. With her voice, I worked through many problems I faced while my mother suffered from dementia. That made me especially close to that character. It was extremely difficult to leave that series after I finished writing the closing book. There was a real sense of grief or loss.
In what formats is your book available?
The Enchanted Bookstore Legends are available in digital format only, while the Coon Hollow Coven Tales are also in print.
When is your next book due for release?
I just released Witch’s Cursed Cabin: A Coon Hollow Coven Tale this week. Blood Ice & Oak Moon: A Coon Hollow Coven Tale will probably release in late September, 2016.
Book titles and synopsis:
Witch’s Cursed Cabin: A Coon Hollow Coven Tale
Eager to be on her own away from home, twenty-year-old Aggie Anders accepts a relative’s invitation to live in Coon Hollow Coven. Although she’s a witch from a different coven, what locals say about the Hollow confuses her. How can witchcraft
there live and breathe through souls of the dead?
Aggie’s new residence in this strange southern Indiana world is a deserted homestead cabin. The property’s carriage house serves as the coven’s haunted Halloween fundraiser. It’s a great opportunity for her to make new friends, especially with the coven’s sexy new High Priest Logan.
But living in the homestead also brings Aggie enemies. Outsiders aren’t welcome. A cantankerous, old neighbor tries to frighten her off by warning her that the homestead is cursed. Local witches who practice black magic attempt to use their evil to drive Aggie away and rid their coven of her unusual powers as a sun witch.
Determined to stay and fit in, Aggie discovers not only that the cabin is cursed, but she alone is destined to break the curse before moonrise on Samhain. If she fails, neither the living nor the dead will be safe.
Witch’s Moonstone Locket: A Coon Hollow Coven Tale
Twenty-three-year-old Jancie Sadler was out of the room when her mother died, and her heart still longs for their lost goodbye. Aching to ease her sorrow, Aunt Starla gives Jancie 
a diary that changes her entire life. In entries from the 1930s, her great grandmother revealed how she coped with her own painful loss by seeking out a witch from nearby Coon Hollow Coven. The witch wore the griever’s moonstone locket, which allowed whoever could unlock its enchantment to talk with the dead.
Determined to find that locket, Jancie goes to the coven’s annual carnival held in her small southern Indiana town of Bentbone. This opposes her father’s strict rule: stay away from witches. But she’s an adult now and can make her own decisions. She meets Rowe McCoy, the kind and handsome witch who wears the moonstone. He agrees to let her try to open the locket, but they’re opposed by High Priestess Adara and her jealous desire to possess him. Desperate for closure with her mother, Jancie persists and cannot turn away from a perilous path filled with magic, romance, and danger.
The Enchanted Bookstore Legends, a five-part epic, fantasy romance series:
Enchanted Bookstore Legends (series description):
Genre: Epic Fantasy Romance
The Enchanted Bookstore Legends are about Lyra McCauley, a woman destined to become one of five strong women in her family who possess unique magical abilities and serve as Scribes in Dragonspeir. The Scribes span a long history, dating from 1,200 to present day. Each Scribe is expected to journey through Dragonspeir, both the good and evil factions, then draft a written account. Each book contains magic with vast implications.
Lyra was first introduced to Dragonspeir as a young girl, when she met the high sorcerer, Cullen Drake, through a gift of one of those enchanted books. Using its magic, he escorted her into the parallel world of Dragonspeir. Years later, she lost that volume and forgot the world and Cullen. These legends begin where he finds her again—she is thirty-five, standing in his enchanted bookstore, and Dragonspeir needs her.
When Lyra reopens that enchanted book, she confronts a series of quests where she is expected to save the good Alliance from destruction by the evil Black Dragon. While learning about her role, Lyra and Cullen fall in love. He is 220 years old and kept alive by Dragonspeir magic. Cullen will die if Dragonspeir is taken over by the evil faction…Lyra becomes the Scribe.
Seeking a Scribe (book1)
Lyra McCauley is a writer and loves fantasy novels, but until she opens a selection from bookstore owner Cullen Drake, she has no idea he’s a wizard character who lives a double life inside that volume…or the story’s magic will compel her from the edge of depression to adventure, danger, and love.
His gift to Lyra, the Book of Dragonspeir, was actually her copy, misplaced years ago. Lost in her pain following divorce and death, she fails to recognize him as her childhood playmate from the fantasyland. Friendship builds anew. Attraction sparks. But Lyra doubts whether a wizard is capable of love. She’s torn—should she protect her fragile heart or risk new love?
Opening the book’s cover, she confronts a quest: save Dragonspeir from destruction by the Black Dragon before he utilizes power of August’s red moon to expand his strength and
overthrow the opposing Imperial Dragon. Lyra accepts the challenge, fearing Cullen will perish if evil wins. Along with magical animal guides, Cullen helps her through many perils, but ultimately Lyra must use her own power…and time is running out.
When Lyra opens her lost childhood book, she remembers her destiny as the next Scribe and must save Dragonspeir’s Alliance from overthrow by the Dark Realm.
Heritage Avenged (book 2)
Lyra McCauley receives an alarming letter from the coroner who evaluated her deceased aunt, originally thought to have died of cancer. The news causes Lyra to take leave from her job and travel from sunny Tampa to the frozen island community in northern Michigan.
Questioning whether Dragonspeir magic was responsible for her aunt’s death, she resolves to learn the truth and accepts the Imperial Dragon’s appointment into the Alliance sorcery training.
Additionally, becoming proficient in magic craft is the only way she can bridge the gap between her mortal human world and her lover’s. Cullen, a 220-year-old wizard, is dependent upon his Dragonspeir magic for immortality. He is her only family now; she cannot lose him.
Evil forces block her and try to steal her inherited scribal aura. Riding a stealth dragon, a cloaked rider pursues Lyra. Both the Alliance and Dark Realm alchemists lay tricks and traps. Her aura equals that of the first and most powerful Scribe, but will Lyra’s novice training allow her to discover the truth…and find a life with Cullen? Or will the Dark Realm keep them apart?
Lost Volumes (book 3)
When Lyra McCauley learns residents of Dragonspeir’s Alliance are suffering with a deadly plague, she doesn’t heed the warnings of her fiancé, wizard Cullen Drake, to remain safe in her human world. After all, she’s the present Scribe—one of five strong women in her 
ancestry who possessed unique magic, each destined to protect the Alliance against the evil Black Dragon of the Dark Realm. With Cullen dependent upon Alliance power to maintain his immortality, the stakes are doubled for Lyra.
She leaves her college teaching and puts herself at risk for the community afflicted by black magic. To find a cure, she and Cullen travel into the vile, lawless underworld of Terza to strike a bargain with an expert. Their efforts further enrage the Black Dragon, vowing to decimate the Alliance and avenge the murder of his heir.
Lyra must secure the three lost volumes of the Book of Dragonspeir. Written by the three earliest Scribes, each book contains energy. Possession of the entire set will enable
overthrow of the Dark Realm. Following clues into dangerous lands, Lyra and Cullen seek those volumes. His assistants, Kenzo the tiger owl and Noba the pseudodragon, prove invaluable aids. Only if they succeed, will the Alliance be safe and Lyra reach closer to the immortality she needs to live a life with Cullen.
Staurolite (book 4)
Lyra McCauley, current Scribe of the Alliance, is the only one who can decode magic hidden in the recently retrieved ancient texts written by her ancestors, the first four 
Scribes. Information in those writings can help Lyra locate the four missing keystones, which will restore power to the Alliance and allow overthrow of the Dark Realm. With peace restored, she and her beloved, Cullen, could finally marry.
Time is short with the Black Dragon’s Dark Realm increasing attacks to avenge the death
of his heir. Many innocent lives are lost. Alliance residents are forced into hiding. Magicals and blue dragons follow leadership of the Imperial Dragon and the other three Guardians into battle to defend the Alliance.
While Lyra unlocks the ancient magic, she opens herself up to scribal powers from her ancestors. She alone can fight the deadliest of the Dark Realm’s forces—the cimafa stealth dragons—but at a cost. The energy flux threatens her health and ability to learn where to find the missing keystones. Can Lyra overcome this shrewd tactic of the Black Dragon to decimate the Alliance?
Quintessence (book 5, final)
Barbaric Dark Realm warfare threatens to overtake all Dragonspeir lands, including the Alliance. Lyra McCauley, the fifth Scribe of the Alliance, finds herself in a desperate competition to gather four missing keystones. Those amulets of the four natural elements 
guarantee victory for the side possessing them. The Dark Realm’s alchemist, Eburscon, beats her to finding the water gem, the Pearl of Pendola. Three more keystones remain: the fluorite containing earth energy, the moonstone of the sky, and the fiery, dangerous Emtori Ruby.
The powerful gems, stolen centuries ago, channel astral energies and can restore much-needed Alliance power—the last hope. The wizard, Cullen, who is Lyra’s beloved, relies on Alliance magic for his immortality and will perish if the land falls to the Dark Realm.
Lyra uses her rare magical energies of quintessence and the Staurolite, governor of the four natural elements, to guide her to the hidden keystones. However, greed and power drive opponents, who challenge her in close pursuit, planning to destroy the Alliance, or to claim the power of quintessence for themselves.
The Dark Realm captures the ten-year-old Alliance seer, Kessa. Her abilities can give them information about the locations of the keystones, complicating Lyra’s plans. Will her love, allegiance, and quintessence allow her to save Cullen, Kessa, and the Alliance before the Dark Realm claims all of Dragonspeir?
Shadows of Serenity
Genre: Women’s fiction paranormal fantasy/Magical realism
Joyce Runsey spends her life savings to open a yoga studio in an historic Victorian St 
Augustine house, only to discover the property is haunted. A female ghost’s abusive and very much alive husband still tortures her by using dark witchcraft. The disruptive energy thwarts Joyce’s ambition to create a special environment to train students to become yoga teachers.
Joyce engages in a deadly battle with not only the tormented spirit, but also the dangerous husband. To protect her students from harm, she must overcome mounting obstacles. An unknown swami pays an unexpected visit to give advice on how to free the anguished ghost. Can Joyce comprehend and follow the wise man’s guidance in time to save everyone who depends on her?
Connect with the author:
Website: http://MarshaAMoore.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/marshaamooreauthorpage
Twitter: http://twitter.com/MarshaAMoore
Google +: http://google.com/+MarshaAMoore
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/marshaamoore/
Amazon author page: amazon.com/author/marshaamoore
Goodreads author page http://www.goodreads.com/marshaamoore
Newsletter: http://bit.ly/MarshaAMooreNewsletter
Filed under: author, book review, reading, writing
April 29, 2016
Book review: The Memory of Lost Dreams by David Curtis
The Memory of Lost Dreams by David Curtis is well placed in the Dystopian genre. Wanted for treason Malik has no choice but to flee his homeland, where his only crime had been to challenge poor leadership the people so blindly followed. A cave seems to offer salvation, the darkness all-consuming until a glimmer of light beckons him. But the light at the end of the tunnel seems to be a beacon to the dead, or a tribute to it. Within the confines of a ruined city lies REQUIEM, and the start of his nightmares. Trapped in a strange new world it seems if Malik wishes to escape he has no choice but obey the terrifying request of Jean-Pierre, the figure who claims to be his only salvation from this domain. The world he find himself in is one of oppression. Curfews, brutal enforcement of the law, and severe penalties for even the most minor misconduct. All this oppression was bound to spur a resistance movement, but with two opposing forces, who will Malik align himself with? The one who can save him, or the one who wishes to save them all?
David Curtis’ descriptive style easy conjures fantastic and graphic images of the world, some beautifully stunning, others dark and haunting. This style brilliant for holding the reader’s intention and is also able to create the needed emotional responses, awe, fear, relief, etc. The plot itself in places reminds me of a hybrid combination of Inception and The Matrix, whilst being completely separate and unique to the plots of those well-known films. The Memory of Lost Dream’s focus stays with Malik, thus we gain insight into events through his interactions, be them with objects or people, as such our own assumptions as to the events are formed by the things he discovers and learns. There is certainly enough intrigue as to what is occurring to keep the pages turning, and through the plot we come to gain a wider understanding of all that is at stake. I felt this was done in a particularly good manner, the reader is led to make their own decisions with the facts being presented. At one point I had a number of theories as to the truth behind Malik’s plight, the plot so involved that it kept my imagination engaged as I considered the various possibilities of all which occurred. David Curtis manages to take something which is a very real threat, the loss of privacy in the name of protection, and show exactly how such a thing can be manipulated and corrupted for the benefit of others. The world he describes could very easily come to pass, perhaps that is one of the things most chilling about this book.
If I was to summarise my thoughts on this book in a single sentence it would have to be: A beautifully written, immersive, Dystopian fantasy.
Links:
Disclaimer: This is my first official book review as a Readers’ Favorite reviewer, as such it will not appear on Amazon, but will still be found on Goodreads and I have obtained permission to publish any reviews I write on my blog.
Why not visit Readers’ favorite and see what they have to offer.
Filed under: author, book review, reading
April 28, 2016
Book Review: Tacenda by Christine Vann
Tacenda by Christine Vann is a brilliant example of a first contact science fiction. The plot revolves around the two main characters Arucken, a nestling, and Kerris, a human 
partnered into his service. Life as a cross-species team is never easy, especially when so few humans seemed to successfully accept the pairing. Their latest orders send them to Maylith Tara with a delivery of fresh seedlings from the seedport, and a message. But the delivery of this message opens a whole new problem. Something has happened to the children of the newest colony, they are wild, aggressive, and no longer able to recognise or communicate with their parents. It seems their request for aid has gone unheard, fortunately it’s a plight Arucken and Kerris cannot ignore.
I found this book to be an enjoyable read, it was written in a style which would appeal to both adults and young adults. The author’s writing flows easily, generating tension where needed. One of the things I enjoyed most were the few short chapters which were written from Lily’s perspective. They were written in a completely different style and really added to the overall reading experience.
The author, despite the main story occurring on Maylith Tara, excellently provides a scope and vastness to their universe. I am a bit of a Trekie, and within the plot I saw many of the things I enjoy so much about the series, and I don’t just refer to advanced technology. It is a compelling and interesting read that expertly combines integration of humans and aliens, along with all the struggles that would accompany such thing.
If you’re interested in checking it out for yourself, here are the links:
UK:Tacenda
US: Tacenda
Filed under: author, book review, reading
April 25, 2016
Book review: Annwyn’s Blood (The Paladin of Shadows Chronicles, #1) by Michael Eging
Annwyn’s Blood (The Paladin of Shadows Chronicles, #1) by Michael Eging is a fantasy 
science fiction set in Sub-Roman Britain. King Mattheus’ daughter Marianna has been abducted, but when no word of ransom comes the King is forced to take matters into his own hands, dispatching his warriors to scour the land in search of her. The book follows this adventure from alternate perspectives, from the group of warriors following heresy and hope, to young Erik who finds far more than he bargained for. There is more at risk than the fate of one princess, the Ruler of the Dead has his own plans, to which both Marianna and Erik are central. Forced into a world between life and death Erik seeks a way to rid himself of the curse forced upon him by Marianna, and attempts to save her in the process.
The first thing that struck me about this book it the beautifully descriptive style of writing. the author has a skill to take even the most simplest things as inject feeling and magic into the words. Remaining true to the era the author describes things that would be, whilst avoiding those which would not, this is not only limited to equipment and structure, but things such as the exclusion modern day colloquialisms to embrace phrases and words which would have been used. One thing I am always wary of when reading historical books is the dialogue, sometimes, in a bid to be genuine to the speech too many old words can hinder the experience, but here the author, much in the style of my favourite author Karen Gray, finds the perfect balance between use of old/ appropriate words and phrasing a sentence appropriate to the time and speech pattern.
The turmoil suffered adds depth to the characters and the plot itself is full of unexpected twists and revelations, as well as an amalgamation of different religions to produce a well-rounded story. The author’s style is immerse and events drive the plot forward. As the first book in the series it provides a very good hook to see readers will be eagerly awaiting the next instalment.
Here are the Amazon links, why not see what other people have to say about it
UK: Annwyn’s Blood
US: Annwyn’s Blood
Filed under: author, book review, reading
April 23, 2016
Author interview: Chris Ward
It is with Great pleasure I welcome author Chris Ward. Mr Ward currently has his book OMG Joe Warren up for the Kindle Scout nominations with twenty+ days remaining, take a look and if you like what you see press that nominate button.
About the author
Tell us a little bit about yourself. (Author Bio)
Chris Ward was born in West Bromwich England. He lived his childhood & boarded at School in Surrey. He then went to college for two years learning how to cook, followed by working at the BBC for 3 years cooking for the stars, as well as on an Iranian missile base in the Persian Gulf. He then spent thirty odd years in sales and marketing as a commercial Director before starting his own marketing company. Chris is now a full time successful writer having published 7 crime thriller books.
What are your hobbies?
Watching Football and Rugby, TV programs include a good film and cookery programs especially Masterchef. Reading, obviously writing and anything to do with food and wine!
Which writers inspire you?
Simon Scarrow, Anthony Riches, Conn Iggulden, Alex Rutherford, Bill Ward, Bernard Cornwell, Robyn Young, Ben Kane, John Stack
For your own reading, do you prefer e-books or paper/hard back books?
Paperback and Hardback
What are you reading at present?
Empire of the MOGHUL by Alex Rutherford
What is your favourite book and why?
Atlantic Meeting by H V Morton
It’s the story of Winston Churchill crossing the Atlantic in 1941 during WW2 too visit President Roosevelt. It was a momentous occasion and cemented the special relationship between America and the UK.
What is your favourite film/ series and why?
There are so many good films…Dances with Wolves is a great movie starring Kevin Costnor.
What do you feel is your greatest accomplishment?
Difficult, family always comes first but taking up writing late in life and being successful at it is up there with the best of them.
How do you relax?
Glass of wine and a good book.
What advice would you give to aspiring writers?
Stop talking about writing a book, get the first word down and let it flow.
If your friends could use one word to describe you what would it be?
Ha not sure hmm how about funny.
About writing
What made you realise your calling as an author?
A very roundabout way! My brother Bill Ward a very successful crime writer wrote his first book in 2013. I decided to have a go myself and now its ten books later.
Where do your ideas come from, what inspires you?
Everyday life inspires me, and then I turn something into a story, I have a good imagination.
How long on average does it take you to write a book?
On average three months but that’s several hours every day.
Do you work to an outline or plot or do you prefer just see where an idea takes you?
I have a plot/outline and try to plan the book into four parts but often add, change all the time.
What is the hardest thing about writing?
Sometimes it all gets a bit intense and I just walk away for a day or two.
What is the easiest thing about writing?
When you know exactly what the story is and you literally can’t stop writing.
Do you ever get writer’s Block and if so, how do you deal with it?
Walk away for a period of time or a bottle of red can sometimes help!
How many books have you written, which is your favourite?
I’ve written ten wow so many! My favourite? Tricky urm maybe my latest which is nearly finished an MI5 Terrorist story.
What are you working on at the moment?
My MI5 Terrorist story….
About the books
What genre are your books?
Adult Crime and one Teen Young Adult
What book titles have you released so far?
Bermondsey Trifle
Bermondsey Prosecco
Bermondsey The Final Act
Return to Bermondsey
Driven to Kill
Blue Cover Up
Serial Killer
OMG JOE WARREN is in nomination for a Kindle Scout/Press deal.
Give us an insight into your main character(s). What does he/she do that is so special?
DI Karen Foster has issues with the bottle and with whether she prefers men or woman! Gangster/Businessman Paul Bolton and his partner Lexi are survivors and would do anything for their family.
Who is your favourite character and why?
DI Karen Foster she’s real and so full of character.
Tell us a little bit about the book(s)/ series.
The Bermondsey series started as a trilogy but people wanted more so I wrote “Return To Bermondsey” and now people are asking for a fifth book! They are gritty real stories with adult content throughout.
Where can we buy it/them?
All available from Amazon.co.uk
In what formats is your book available?
Ebook and Paperback
When is your next book due for release?
I currently have a book “OMG JOE WARREN” IN THE Kindle Scout nominations. It’s a cracking adventure for Teen and Young Adults far removed from my normal fare. You can nominate at http://tinyurl.com/hnoyarn
My nearly finished MI5 book should be published beginning July or sooner.
Book titles and synopsis:
BERMONDSEY TRIFLE
“The first book in a trilogy that chronicles the lives of a group of Bermondsey gangsters”
Paul and Tony Bolton are two born and bred Bermondsey brothers, who are building an empire of sex clubs in London. Paul’s life changes when he meets and falls madly in love with posh totty Emma Miller from Kingswood in Surrey. He 
moves to Chelsea Harbour and starts to enjoy the trappings of his success. Mad Tony stays in Bermondsey and continues his own personal crusade of armed robberies, murder and torture. Richard Philips and Jack Coombs are Essex gangsters who have a Pub Security business, a chain of Brothels and the supply of AK47 Assault Rifles to fellow gangsters as a side line. The four villains are inextricably drawn together in a web of violence, deceit and passion. Mixed in with this is a gang of Albanian ex Special Forces killers who arrive in the UK intent on revenge for the murder of one of their countryman. The Met Police CID at Rotherhithe nick are determined to clean up their manor. DC’s Jeff Swann and Karen Foster are hot on the trail of a cop killer whilst trying to get enough evidence to send local villains down for a long stretch.
The action switches from HM Prison Belmarsh to Bermondsey to Torremolinos in Spain, grisly murders, excruciatingly hideous torture, love, passion and tears; an action packed thriller that will have you on the edge of your seat throughout this great read.
BERMONDSEY PROSECCO
A must read Gangster Thriller that will leave you breathless and gasping for more. The
sequel to Bermondsey Trifle. Mad Tony is tucked up in Broadmoor Psychiatric Hospital, and Gangster Richard Philips is in the Scrubs. Paul Bolton is trying to get over the death of his beloved Emma and wants to take the business Legit. Police officers Foster and Swan are fighting a gang of ruthless woman traffickers who kill and torture people for fun. There is violence, sex and passion aplenty, a real rollercoaster of action that doesn’t stop from page one to the end. You will gasp, be horrified and maybe even shed a tear but one thing is for certain once you have picked the book up you will not put it down again.
BERMONDSEY THE FINAL ACT
We are back on the mean streets of South East London for the concluding part in the 
trilogy. The action is unrelenting and again once you have started reading you will not be able to put the book down! Tony Bolton and Richard Philips are back on the streets of London, they leave a trail of blood and death in their path as they seek payback from Tony’s brother Paul. If anyone is stupid enough to get in their way they are dealt with ruthlessly and without compromise. Paul has found blissful new love following the death of Emma. Will that be allowed to continue to flourish or could tragedy strike yet again? Jeff Swan and Karen Foster CID at Rotherhithe Nick are still committed to making their manor gangster free as they hunt down Philips and Bolton. The two police officers struggle desperately to cope with the devastating bloodbath meted out by the two maniacs right on their patch. Jaw dropping violence, spectacular chase scenes, sensational sex and uplifting valour: A book not to be missed.
RETURN TO BERMONDSEY
RETURN TO BERMONDSEY Following on from the best-selling original Bermondsey Trilogy. Paul Bolton and Lexi suffer a major family catastrophe,
are they strong enough to cope with that and a serious threat to their business empire? Real characters in a taut gritty Bermondsey crime epic that shouts from the rooftops. DI Karen Foster is seconded back to Bermondsey from Surrey Police to help with a crime epidemic created by two drug barons from Essex. Karen is also fighting the bottle and falling in love again, or is it just the hard sex she craves. Grisly Murder, Intrigue, Passion, Sex, Twists and Turns and Tears aplenty. A compelling adult crime thriller that will have you on the edge of your seat from start to finish, definitely not one to be missed.
DRIVEN TO KILL
A compelling crime thriller that concludes the three books. The action swit
ches from London to Kazakhstan as Michael Fletcher desperately tries to get his life back after a major catastrophe.
Detective Inspector Karen Foster still can’t sort out her private life as she continues a relationship with a French liaison officer from the Police Nationale. There is mayhem and murder committed by two young thugs in the local areas of Epsom and Leatherhead. Foster and her sidekick Mick Hill, are chasing shadows as the thugs are not only ruthless, but extremely clever. An adult story full of suspense, spectacular action, violence, passion, intrigue and tears.
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BLUE COVER UP
DI Karen Foster is still battling with her private life; booze and sex have always been the 
issue and that hasn’t changed. Karen is in a steady relationship with Simon but then a beautiful French Police Liaison Officer Esme turns-up and muddies the water, couple that with the black man mountain Friday, and Karen is back in private turmoil.
All is quiet in leafy Surrey and then a young man walks into Epsom Police Station, an incident that sets off an explosive chain of events that sees Karen pitting her wits against senior Metropolitan police officers involved in a monstrous cover up. Gruesome murder, spellbinding intrigue and emotion crunching escapades abound in this taut gritty thriller. A storming crime epic that will keep you hooked from first page to the last.
Karen Foster has left the Metropolitan Police and Joined Surrey Police as a Dete
ctive Inspector working out of Epsom Police Station. Her partner Chau persuaded her to leave Bermondsey for a quieter life in leafy Surrey. Karen hoped she had left behind the bloody deaths, the horrific torture and the bloodthirsty gangsters. Karen has a blissful introduction to Surrey policing and is enjoying the summer weather and the beautiful scenery. Then the unthinkable happens as a serial killer strikes and creates terror throughout Surrey. Not only does Karen have to deal with a spate of deadly killings but she is also hunting a serving Surrey Police Officer who is part of the Paedophile ring. Not a book for the faint hearted with gruesome Murder, bloodcurdling torture and sensational sex scenes. An action packed page turner you will not be able to put down.
Joe Warren, a sixteen year old college student is propelled into an extraordinarily 
dangerous situation and survives it as a hero to his friends and his country. Very soon he realises he has been blessed with amazing powers and that he has been chosen to lead a crusade to change the world. The ultimate evil Satan decides he cannot allow Joe Warren to succeed, and he assembles his devilish Kazdet armies to destroy the human race once and for all. An incredibly entertaining action-packed adventure.
Don’t forget this book is in the Kindle Scout nominations, if you’re interested click here to nominate it.
Connect with the author:
Amazon Author Page: http://tinyurl.com/jaomhq7
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BermondseyTrifle/
Goodreads: http://tinyurl.com/jaomhq7
Linkedin:
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/bermondseyT
Website: www.authorchrisward.com
Kindle Scout nominations for OMG JOE WARREN http://tinyurl.com/hnoyarn
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