Sean Keefer's Blog, page 4

Swallow Savannah - Ken Burger - A Review

In the late 1940's there wasn't too much to Groton, South Carolina but that all changed with two things.  First, the arrival of Frank Finklea and second, the beginning of construction on the Savannah River Plant.

I've said it before and I'll say it again.  Mainstream publishing doesn't have a thing on the independently published books out there.  Once again I feel like I'm in on a secret that's just waiting there like a hidden gem to be discovered.  Swallow Savannah by Ken Burger is just the latest in prizes I've discovered from the world of independently published books.


So, let me introduce you to the world you'll find in the pages. 

Frank Finklea rolled in to Groton, South Carolina with little more than the shirt on his back, but he had a gift for self-preservation and survival.  He quickly put them to work and in short order found himself in the mix of the Groton elite, but that wasn't enough.  He set his sights higher and ended up in the South Carolina legislature where he maneuvered in such a fashion to become one of the richest, most powerful politicians in the entire state.  It didn't hurt his rise that he was corrupt and when you have a corrupt southern politician and a nuclear power plant in the same equation, rarely can anything good result from the mix.

That is the setting for Swallow Savannah, the first novel from veteran newspaperman, Ken Burger.  Burger spent many a year on the staff of the Charleston Post & Courier covering news around the state.  A career of experience and observation shines through in his writing.

He has a gift for the dialogue and personality of the South Carolina residents, particularly those of the Lowcountry.  He captures the setting so perfectly you can smell the marsh, hear the ocean or see the road winding away through the front windshield.  He transports you onto the pages where you feel as if you are watching a drama unfold before you.

But that is only Burger's style.  We haven't even come to the story yet.

One thing that the South is famous for is that which runs beneath.  It seems anyone you encounter in the South has a dark side, some skeleton (or even graveyard) in their closet that they deal with by repressing or hiding from the rest of us.  It is not unusual for everyone else to know about these demons, but the demons simply aren't fodder for polite conversation.  Burger hits a homerun in capturing this facet of Southern life.  There are a lot of demons in Swallow Savannah and they all make to solidify an already compelling tale.

When I first picked up the book I was impressed to see that the famed southern writer Pat Conroy had heartedly endorsed the book.  After reading it, I had to agree.  If you like dramatic fiction that takes you behind the shiny happy faces you pass on the street, you will enjoy Swallow Savannah.  Family drama, deception, political intrigue, mystery and suspense, you'll find all of that and more.

Burger won a first place prize in regional fiction with Swallow Savannah in the prestigious Independent Publisher's competition in and after reading this book it's easy to see why.  The best thing is that although this is his debut, the follow up, Sister Santee is ready and waiting.  I for one can't wait to get my eyes on it.

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More Beach Reads - Summer 2011 Part II

So the end of Summer is upon us.  In fact it's the last weekend of summer, but there is nothing wrong with squeezing out a few more weeks of bliss before fall is upon up.

Hopefully everyone has devoured a number of great books since Memorial Day. If nothing else, I'm sure you've read The Help by Kathryn Stockett.  While I am told there is one person who hasn't read the book, I am also told this is the same person who doesn't have a cell phone, so no one's been able to track him down.  

Earlier in the summer, as the days of beaches, holidays, vacations, and afternoons by the ocean/lake/cabin, etc. was getting started, I offered up a few suggestions for summer beach reads. 

Since then I've read a few more books and wanted to offer a few suggestions for the end of the summer season.  If I've reviewed the book, follow the link for more information.

Iron House by John Hart.  If you haven't read John Hart you're missing out.  He has four books in print and all are great standalone novels.  He's an amazing storyteller, so much so that you won't be able to help yourself as you keep reaching to turn the page. 

Iron House takes you along for quite the ride as an orphan who has grown up in New York travels back to the mountains of North Carolina to uncover a past that probably was better left alone.  You'll be on the edge of your seat until you've read the last word.  Then you'll be off to the bookstore to get more of Hart's books.

In Leah's Wake by Terri Giuliano Long.  One of the things I love about being an independent author is that I read a number of books by other independent authors.  In Leah's Wake is one of those books.  When I first reviewed this book, I felt as if I was in on a secret having found it.  However since then the secret has started to spread and I'm sure it is only a matter of time until this book is all the buzz.

Long takes us inside what appears to be the model suburban family, but once inside the cracks start to show.  In Leah's Wake uses the tragic and near instant fall from grace of the family's teenager daughter, Leah, to show that sometimes the familiar and comfortable façade really isn't as solid as it may appear.  You'll be talking about this book long after you're finished.

Bella by Steve Piacents.  Yet another independent author I've had the pleasure to discover.

Piacente is a former newspaperman and he brings to play a wealth of knowledge and experience in his debut novel, Bella.

Bella is a young, beautiful widow who has lost a husband in combat in Afghanistan.  The only problem is that while the Army says he died in combat, an anonymous phone calls say otherwise. 

With cover ups, political intrigue, great dialogue and a fast pace, you'll want to stop because you know the end is coming, but you won't be able to.

Serena by Ron Rash.  I hope you've heard of Ron Rash.  If not, now you have.  Rash is perhaps the newest and truest voice in southern literature to arrive in many years.  He has a number of books out, but Serena, his latest, is simply pristine.

Serena is set in and around Asheville, North Carolina in the early 20th century.  The backdrop is the clear cutting logging industry and sets the stage for a chilling tale of love, obsession, revenge and deception.  You'll likely close the book when you're finished and simply say, "Wow."  I also just found out that Rash's newest book will be out next April, so mark your calendars.

The Billionaire's Vinegar: The Mystery of the World's Most Expensive Bottle of Wine by Benjamin Wallace.  I read nonfiction as well. I particularly love nonfiction when it is stranger than fiction and Billionaire's Vinegar fits the bill.

Wallace takes us inside the world of fine wine auctions using a stash of wine having belonged to Thomas Jefferson as the vehicle.  The back-story is astounding and not something that you will think could have really happened.  If you aren't a wine enthusiast you'll enjoy it. If you are, you'll love it.   

So those are my humble offerings for end of the summer reads.  Of course, I'd love to have you pick up my book, The Trust, if you're looking for something to wind up the summer with. 

And while you're here, why not check out my novel, The Trust. It was recognized in the 2011 Beach Book Festival and was picked by Charleston Magazine as a must read for the end of the summer.  It's also on sale through Labor Day.

Enjoy the rest of you summer but remember, a Beach Read is just as good in the Fall or Winter as it is in the Summer or Spring!

Bella by Steve Piacente - A Review

Piacente spent a career as a journalist and his experiences set the foundation for the compelling tale that is Bella.

A soldier is killed in Afghanistan.  The official US Army version is that the death occurred at the hand of the enemy.  However not long after the funeral his widow receives an anonymous phone call.  The caller says her husband's death was not as the Army has told her.  Seems we have a cover up that reaches to the heights of our nation's military order.

The widow, Bella, finds her way to a DC reporter and enlists him to help her find out the truth about what really happened to her husband.  Though reluctant at first reporter Danny Patragno, our central character, finds himself quickly involved in not only realizing there is a cover up, but also in being involved with Bella which adds a healthy dose of conflict to his sense of journalistic integrity.

Piacente writes about what he knows.  He blends together his knowledge and understanding of beltway politics, southern culture and the news business while mixing in a romantic storyline, all of which combine to make a compelling read.

One enjoyable part of Bella is that Piacente writes in the first person which adds to the story.  Absent the all-knowing narrator, the reader sees and experiences the story as it develops through the eyes of Patragno.

While the story, on its surface is a razor sharp tale of political intrigue and cover up the real story is the tale of Patragno as he struggles with the reality of his life. 

The balance between the intrigue and suspense of a timely, believable issue with the reality of everyday life gives Bella a heightened degree of relevance.  Many a writer can craft a tale where the fate of the world hangs in the balance but rarely do these books have any foundation in everyday life.

In Bella Patragno is racing against time and the might of the US military while at the same time having to deal with problems in his personal life, problems with his job and the uncertainty of Bella, the enigma of a woman who has suddenly consumed his existence.

Piacente has an eye for the details and characteristics of the locales he uses in his book.  He transports you up and down the east coast with seamless ease.   All the while he uses a gift for dialogue and suspense that builds to a satisfying ending.  All too often in books I read it seems authors work to end books without resolution. 

This bothers me. 

I don't expect happily ever after in every book I read, but a degree of closure is always a nice thing.  Piacente gets this and provides a great ending to the story that, I feel, will satisfy even the most demanding of readers. 

Overall Piacente has an effortless gift for storytelling.  Plain and simple.  He creates believable characters, characters with flaws but characters to which the reader can relate. 

Fans of literary fiction and tales of suspense would enjoy Bella.  As well, fans of fiction with a strong male lead will be happy with Piacente. 

Go get this book and give it a read, I am sure that you, as did I, will find it hard to believe that this is a debut novel.  I only hope that there are more to come and soon.

Terri Giuliano Long - Author of In Leah's Wake - An Interview

In the last few months I've had the opportunity not only to read In Leah's Wake, but to also get to know the author through our mutual involvement in a events and just discussing life as an indie writer.   This week Terri is taking part in a Whirlwind Tour coordinated by the folks at Novel Publicity.  As part of this, having earlier posted a review of In Leah's Wake, I wanted to run an interview with Terri where she talks about reading, writing and the process behind her approach to her novel.  She also gives us a surprise or two.  Check our her website for a wealth of information about Terri and her latest work. Announcing the In Leah's Wake Social Media Whirlwind Tour—WooHoo! [image error] As part of this special promotional extravaganza sponsored by Novel Publicity, the price of the In Leah's Wake Kindle edition has dropped to just 99 cents this week. What's more, by purchasing this fantastic book at an incredibly low price, you can enter to win many awesome prizes, including a Kindle, 5 autographed copies of the book, and multiple Amazon gift cards (1 for $100, 3 for $25, 5 for $10, and 10 for $5 – 19 in all)! Be sure to enter before the end of the day on Friday, August 26th, so you don't miss out.   To win the prizes: Purchase your copy of In Leah's Wake for just 99 cents Fill-out the form on the author's site to enter for prizes Visit today's featured event; you may win an autographed copy of the book! And I can win $100 too if you vote for my blog over on the author's website. The blog host that gets the most votes in this traffic-breaker polls wins, so please cast yours right after purchasing In Leah's Wake and entering the contests!   The featured events include: Wednesday, Google+ video chat with the author! Join our hangout between 12 and 3 PM Eastern Time to talk with the author and us via video chat. We'll be gabbing about great books including In Leah's Wake and about writing. Did you know that Terri is a creative writing instructor at Boston College? She's got tons of good advice for aspiring writers. By joining in the Google+ video chat at the designated time, you may win an autographed copy of In Leah's Wake. Don't forget to visit the author's blog to enter for the other prizes! Thursday, Facebook interview with the author! Stop by Novel Publicity's Facebook page and ask Terri questions. She's chosen three of her favorite topics to talk about: writing, parenting, and gourmet cooking. Of course, you're welcome to ask about In Leah's Wake too. Leave a comment or question as part of the thread, and you may win an autographed copy of In Leah's Wake. Don't forget tolike Terri's Facebook page or to visit her blog to enter for the other prizes! Friday, Fun & games based on the book! We want to close this whirlwind social media tour with a gigantic bang, which is why we've set-up two interactive book-themed features on the author's blog. You can take the official Facebook quiz to find out which In Leah's Wake character is most like you and learn how that character ties into the story. Then try out our crossroads story game. Throughout the course of the narrative, you'll have several decisions to make. What you choose will affect the outcome of the story. Play as either rebellious teenager Leah or the trampled peacemaker and mother Zoe. Leave a comment or question on any of Terri's blog entries, and you may win an autographed copy of In Leah's Wake. Don't forget to check out the other give-away contests while you're on Terri's blog! About In Leah's Wake: The Tyler family had the perfect life – until sixteen-year-old Leah decided she didn't want to be perfect anymore. While Zoe and Will fight to save their daughter from destroying her brilliant future, Leah's younger sister, Justine, must cope with the damage her out-of-control sibling leaves in her wake. Will this family survive? What happens when love just isn't enough? Jodi Picoult fans will love this beautifully written and absorbing novel.   An Interview with Terri 
 Terri's book was voted the 2011 book club pick of the year by the BookBundlz staff and community!

About Terri:

1. If you could have coffee with any 3 authors, living or dead, who would they be?

This is a tough question. Let's see: Joan Didion – I love her work. The Year of Magical Thinking is a powerful book. I'd like to have coffee with her because she's a brilliant, courageous woman, a true pioneer, and she's led a varied and interesting life. I'd love to hear her stories.

Cormac McCarthy – although I'm not a fan of his early work – too macho for my taste – he hooked me with No Country For Old Men. I enjoyed the novel so much that I taught it in one of my classes. The Road is the most moving novel I've ever read. The man says to his son: "You have my whole heart. You always did." That line has stayed with me – as have so many stark, tender moments. I'm in awe. I think I'd be too dumbstruck to talk. I'd probably just sit there.

Alice Hoffman – I love her work and I admire her ability to write a bestselling novel, year after year. It took me several years to finish In Leah's Wake. To produce a book a year requires tremendous determination and discipline. You've got to be willing to sit down and write, whether you feel like it or not. That discipline helped her overcome breast cancer, after which she established the Hoffman Breast Center at the Mount Auburn Hospital in Cambridge, MA. She's also written screenplays and children's books. And friends who know her say she's a lovely, giving person.

2. If you could only take one book, food item and drink with you to a deserted island what would they be?

Oh, goodness, another tough question! If I had to choose one book, I'd take the Bible. The stories are fascinating, with so many layers of meaning, and the imager and language are captivating. You can read the stories over and over and never grow tired. For nourishment, champagne and dark chocolate – I'd be tipsy and fat, but I would be smiling.

3. What are your secret indulgences?

Travelling and trying new foods – my husband, Dave, and I have had the great fortunate of visiting many beautiful, interesting places. I love ethnic foods and I'm fairly gutsy when it comes to trying new dishes. In Beijing, a few years ago, we went to a tiny restaurant with two students we met. The restaurant was a local spot, as opposed to a tourist trap, the menu written in Chinese, so they ordered for us. When the steaming bowl arrived, I dipped my chopsticks into the stew – and pulled out a frog. The head was gone, thank goodness, but the body was fully intact. I realize that a lot of people eat frog; this was actually green. I thought Dave would gag when I ate it. To his credit, he didn't.

4. What about you would surprise your readers?

When they meet me, people almost always assume I'm in my thirties, so they're surprised to learn that I have adult children and grandkids. I was 18 when I married Dave and he's the love of my life. Like all couples, we've had our ups and downs, but we still enjoy each other's company, we have fun, and we love being together. This surprises people.

5. What is your perfect day as an author?

Being in a quiet place, with beautiful scenery, and no phone or Internet. A few years ago, we spent a heavenly winter in Stowe, Vermont. I would sit at my desk, looking out at the mountains. Dave would be working in the other room, so I wasn't alone; we'd work all day, then have dinner together, maybe a glass of wine by the fire. Now I'm actively involved with social media, which I really enjoy, but I long for a quiet day with no interruptions, no distraction.

6. If you could be any fictional character who would it be?

Sara Paretsky's PI, V.I. Warshawski – I have a special place in my heart for police officers. They risk their lives for us, every day, and they're the connectors, the glue that holds communities together. I've always admired Gail Mullen Beaudoin, a police officer in Chelmsford, MA. Gail brings strength, dignity and grace to a very difficult job. In a fictional character, V.I. is the closet I can come to Gail – two very strong, caring, centered women. Theirs are very big, wonderfully feminine shoes to fill.

7. What are the book(s) you are reading now?

The Trust, an engaging, fast-paced legal thriller by Sean Keefer, and A Walk in the Snark, a wise, sexy, very funny nonfiction read by Rachel Thompson, and Take One Candle Light a Room, an insightful, gorgeously textured literary novel by National Book Award finalist Susan Straight.

8. What was your favorite book as a teenager, and why?

Please don't laugh – The Exorcist. By today's standards it's tame; then The Exorcist was a shocking literary sensation. I was a bit of a rebel when I was younger. I didn't use drugs or take the risks Leah takes in my novel, but I hated being told what to do. Although I've always loved reading, I never got the full enjoyment from the classics we were forced to read in school. That The Exorcist was forbidden gave it a wonderfully sweet edge. I also loved Exodus, a glorious book by Leon Uris, about the birth of the nation of Israel. It was, to my mind, the first truly important book I ever read.

9. (Aside from your own) What book(s) have you read that you think are perfect for book clubs?

Elizabeth Strout's heartbreaking novel Abide With Me would make a terrific book club selection. Her Pulitzer Prize winner, Olive Kitteridge, is one of my favorite books. Abide With Me, a moving story about a young minister struggling to raise two small children after the premature death of his wife, is so real and relatable on so many levels, and it raises thought-provoking questions about family and life.

  About In Leah's Wake:

10. Where did the inspiration for your book come from?

Years ago, I wrote a series of feature articles about families with drug and alcohol-addicted teens. The moms talked candidly about their children, their heartbreaking struggles. Those stories stayed with me.

My husband and I have four daughters. Most families struggle during their children's teenage years. We're no different – though, thank goodness, we experienced nothing remotely akin to the problems and challenges the Tylers face in the book. As a parent, I knew how it felt to be scared, concerned for your children's welfare and future. These were the primary forces driving me to write this story.

My work with families, my personal experiences and core beliefs – all these things played on my conscious and subconscious mind, and ultimately emerged as this book.

11. They say every book written is the author telling a personal philosophy. What personal philosophy are you trying to get across?

The epigraph, from The Grand Inquisitor, says it best: "everyone is really responsible to all men for all men and for everything." Hillary Clinton famously said that it takes a village to raise a child. I believe we must all do our part, be supportive members of the village. The Tyler family is far from perfect, but they love one another. Our flaws make us human and that humanity connects us. I very much hope that readers feel this sense of connection—and hope.

12. Writers are often surprised by something that happens in their book. Perhaps a character says or does something you did not think they would, or something you thought would only be a couple of paragraphs turns into 10 pages. What surprised you about your book?

The challenges Leah faces in the aftermath of her sexual awakening. In the first draft, she lost her virginity; in the context of her rebellion, that felt right. In later drafts, darker incidents emerged. As a mom, I found these scenes hard to write, but they felt very true to Leah's character and experience.


  About Terri's Writing Process:

13. What is your writing process like?

With the first draft of In Leah's Wake, I had no idea where I was going – in writing programs, this sort of organic writing is usually encouraged. In the revision process, I looked for and developed themes. In Leah's Wake is character driven, so outlining would have produced a different book. I think it's helpful to know who we are, as writers, and what our goals are. For literary fiction, the goal is to develop and understand character. I hope I've done this adequately.
My novel-in-progress, Nowhere to Run, is a psychological thriller, so I'm approaching that differently. I've mapped a partial outline – plot points to use as markers – and writing the sections organically. While I recognize the benefits of outlining or plotting, sticking firmly to either feels limiting. Giving myself this freedom allows for possibilities. Of course, it also makes for a messier process.

14. What gets you in the mood to write?

When I first sit at my desk, especially if I've been away for a few days, I often feel blocked, the nasty editors on my shoulders heckling: A writer? Are you crazy? Nine times out of ten, I dig in; the writing may be choppy at first, but eventually I regain fluidity. If the demons are too loud to ignore, I read. Reading, like meditation or yoga, settles my mind, calms me. Soon I find my mind wandering to my story, and I can't wait to start writing.

15. What advice would you give to aspiring authors?

Believe in yourself. I know wonderful writers whose first, second or third books, really good, strong books, were rejected. To deal with the rejection, boot your computer, day after day, when it seems as if no one cares, the stars misaligned – or to indie publish in a world that still privileges the traditionally published – you have to believe in yourself.
Writing is a lonely profession. Most of the time, we're alone with our work. The loneliness can wear on you, and cause you to question yourself. A few supportive writer friends, supporting and encouraging you, can make all the difference.
Hold onto your dreams. You can make them happen. Don't ever give up!

The Help - Kathryn Stockett - Not Really a Review

It's usually not my practice to jump on the bandwagon with overhyped bestsellers.  Generally this means no reviews and sometimes I don't even read them.  In fact I've yet to learn a thing about Dragon Tattoos or Rooms.

However, after a recent holiday where I traveled through a number of large airports I returned with the feeling I'd just been for a swim in a sea of Kathryn Stockett's books.  It was simply impossible to look any direction on a plane, a beach or while in an airport and not have your field of view filled with The Help.
    
Of course with 5 million copies floating around, it is of little wonder though I feel like I've personally seen most of the books in print.

I decided to give it a read and see for myself why total sales are now being measured in the millions.  Then after reading it, I wanted to write about it, but felt a review at this point would be a bit on the clichéd side as I am sure if you don't know what this book is about the chances of you stumbling across this review are quite slim.

Some background.

I grew up in the rural South in the 70's. 

I remember visiting with friends who had help in their homes. 

I also remember seeing a lot of the interaction between the help and their employers.  Even more I remember what my friends had to say and how they interacted with the people who worked in their homes.

With this in mind, I read and enjoyed the book.  Overall, I found The Help quite a compelling book. 

Sure, there were places where the narration got a bit wordy and there are parts where the story drags a bit, but growing up in the South, well, that's a part of our reality down here.  Things move a little slower and take a bit more time but we ultimately get where we are going.  Sometimes along the way we talk a lot.  After all, we all only have a limited time here so why not make the most of it?

I also understand why so many people are talking about the book.

In my humble opinion, it is generally not possible to write about the subject matter of The Help and not have it be a lightening rod for comments from all sides. 

There are more than 4,000 reviews of the book on Amazon.  My book has 30 reviews and I wear that like a badge of honor.  That more than 4,000 took the time to review this book speaks to the splash it has made 

A few years back The Da Vinci Code had a similar impact on the world of publishing. 

Perhaps, other than wizards and vampires, it takes something of this level of controversy to propel a book to the heights The Help has reached.

I read a number of the Amazon reviews. Interestingly enough, the bulk of the reviews are 5 star reviews that simply cannot heap enough praise on the book and the author.  I expect that with 5 star reviews.

For this reason I go to the 1 star reviews to see what bothers the readers.  They rail on Stockett about how she is the wrong race to write about African-Americans, they decry her dialogue as stereotyped, they say she can't write and criticize her for taking liberties with reality. However, after reading a number of these reviews, I think it all boils down to the fact the 1 star folks just didn't like the book. And just because you don't like something doesn't make it bad.  I don't like steak but that doesn't make steak bad.

I think it's an effective book. I think it is quite the talent to be able to write something that will elicit that kind of response.

At the end of the day, it's fiction and in my humble opinion, pretty good fiction, particularly with so many people talking about it.  I've lost count of the conversations I've had or overheard about The Help.

I don't expect The Help to change anything that happened in a historical context.  I think some people may be surprised that what she talks about is based in reality – and in some cases – not a 50-year-old reality. 

In checking about I learned some interesting things about Stockett and her road to getting The Help published. 

First it was far from an overnight success.  It took her years to write it and longer still to have it published.  I will admit that I felt a connection when I learned that I had about the same number of rejection letters as did Stockett. 

I enjoyed the book.  I enjoyed the characters and felt compelled to finish the book quickly.  I will look forward to her next book.  Sure, there were things about the book that weren't perfect, but I actually enjoyed these qualities of the book.

Stockett breaks a lot of rules that were engrained in my head as huge "no-no's" when I started writing.  But for Stockett, they worked.  They worked so successfully that I finished a 400+ page book in a couple of days. 

I believe if they work for her, they can work for others.  This reinforces my belief that if you have a story to tell, tell it, worry about the rules later, but tell your story.

I like the fact that Stockett has more than 50 rejection letters.  This essentially confirms for me what I have suspected.  Even the agents, editors and publishers can't be certain what is going to sell (unless it is Stockett's next book) or what won't sell.  Sure they can make educated guesses, but until it hits the shelves, you just don't know.

For me reading fiction has always been about an escape.  It has been a gateway to allow me into another world where I am the author's guest.  Stockett provides just that and does it in a very effective fashion.  

If you haven't read The Help yet, stop what you're doing and look around.  I'm sure there's a copy within arm's reach.  If not, go pick one up.  I think you might enjoy it.

A Line in the Ice by Jamie Craig A Review

I generally don't read science fiction, sticking more to the mystery/thriller/suspense genre, but I've been trying to branch out and read things out of my comfort zone.  So when I had an opportunity to read A Line in the Ice by Jamie Craig, I welcomed the opportunity.

I found the premise quite interesting.  In the frozen tundra of the Earth, a rift between worlds had opened and creatures are seeping through intent on having their way with the entirety of the Earth.

A multinational force of ultra-trained soldiers acts in this arctic wasteland as a first line of defense.  It seems that during the first World War there was a similar occurrence (that being an invasion of these other-worldly creatures) so the military has been aware of the potential ever since and wants to save the Earth should it happen again, so they sent out 6 soldiers.

On a routine patrol instead of a monster from across the rift, the team finds a man.  They bring him back to their base and discover he is a descendent of the force leader from World War I that not only repelled an earlier attempt at invasion, but had also disappeared.

The book starts out with a bang and moves along at a great pace.  The characters are developed quite well and I was very taken at how Craig was able to keep a number of distinct personalities together and work their interplay in an effective fashion where no individual seemed contrived or otherwise ineffective. 

My one qualm with the book was the occasional diversion away from saving the world for intimate interpersonal relationships.  I found this a bit distracting, wanting to get back to learn more about the monsters, the rift, the other world and whether or not the Earth would be saved.

I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys classic science fiction or anyone who wants a fast paced read.

Overall I would give the book 7 out of 10 stars.

Tour Notes: Please vote for my blog in the traffic-breaker poll for this tour. The blogger with the most votes wins a free promotional twitterview and a special winner's badge. I want that to be me! You can vote in the poll by visiting the official Line in the Ice blog tour page and scrolling all the way to the bottom. Learn more about this author duo by visiting their website, blog, Facebook or GoodReads pages or by connecting with them on Twitter.

In Leah's Wake by Terri Giuliano Long - A Review

The manner in which Terri Giuliano Long has woven the tale of In Leah's Wake is perhaps best described as a tapestry of words.

I read the book while on holiday and it was the perfect read for my travels in that it provided several things.  It offered a very tight story with engaging characters.  Secondly, it was a quick read which was surprising given the plot and subject of the book.  Since it was a quick read and as I was on vacation, two other people on the trip read the book (during our travels) and with the follow up from their having read the book the appreciation and enjoyment of the book grew.

We spent hours discussing the book and what we had taken from it.  Most surprising was the spontaneous nature in which these discussions developed.  We didn't plan it, it just happened.  With only a simple question we realized we had to talk about this book.

I read a lot of books and it is not a frequent thing that this happens.

In Leah's Wake is a book you'll want to talk about. In fact I would suspect you'll have to talk about it.

You'll want to talk about how the characters responded to certain situations, you will want to talk about how you would have handled a situation with which the characters were confronted, you will want to talk about how you would have helped the characters, but mostly you will want to talk about the story.

Long tells the story of the poster family for the American dream who stand by helpless as they witness their reality crumble around them.  A Husband and Wife, two perfect children and the family dog live in an idyllic world, but cracks start to show.  They find their perceived perfection has left them ill equipped to stop their decent into chaos.

Problems start with their eldest daughter, Leah, an extremely smart student and gifted athlete. As her problems grow they cause a ripple effect through the family. 

Through a gift for dialogue Long creates some very memorable characters, characters to whom you will relate and will identify with.

The themes in Leah's Wake are intense and mature.  The problems are contemporary.  The reality is that many times you want to turn a blind eye to situations like you will find in the world Long creates, but in the end, the story won't let you leave until it reaches the end.

I would recommend this book to fans of literary fiction and to fans of character driven story lines.

This is Long's debut and I for one and anxiously awaiting her next offering.  As an added bonus, Leah's Wake, along with several other books are available today on Kindle for 99 cents.  Take my recommendation and go get this book then not only will you want to talk about the book but you'll also be telling everyone that you got it for less than a dollar.  Visit the Best Seller for a Day Tour page here or In Leah's Wake on Kindle here.

In Leah\'s Wake by Terri Giuliano Long - A Review

The manner in which Terri Giuliano Long has woven the tale of In Leah's Wake is perhaps best described as a tapestry of words.

I read the book while on holiday and it was the perfect read for my travels in that it provided several things.  It offered a very tight story with engaging characters.  Secondly, it was a quick read which was surprising given the plot and subject of the book.  Since it was a quick read and as I was on vacation, two other people on the trip read the book (during our travels) and with the follow up from their having read the book the appreciation and enjoyment of the book grew.

We spent hours discussing the book and what we had taken from it.  Most surprising was the spontaneous nature in which these discussions developed.  We didn't plan it, it just happened.  With only a simple question we realized we had to talk about this book.

I read a lot of books and it is not a frequent thing that this happens.

In Leah's Wake is a book you'll want to talk about. In fact I would suspect you'll have to talk about it.

You'll want to talk about how the characters responded to certain situations, you will want to talk about how you would have handled a situation with which the characters were confronted, you will want to talk about how you would have helped the characters, but mostly you will want to talk about the story.

Long tells the story of the poster family for the American dream who stand by helpless as they witness their reality crumble around them.  A Husband and Wife, two perfect children and the family dog live in an idyllic world, but cracks start to show.  They find their perceived perfection has left them ill equipped to stop their decent into chaos.

Problems start with their eldest daughter, Leah, an extremely smart student and gifted athlete. As her problems grow they cause a ripple effect through the family. 

Through a gift for dialogue Long creates some very memorable characters, characters to whom you will relate and will identify with.

The themes in Leah's Wake are intense and mature.  The problems are contemporary.  The reality is that many times you want to turn a blind eye to situations like you will find in the world Long creates, but in the end, the story won't let you leave until it reaches the end.

I would recommend this book to fans of literary fiction and to fans of character driven story lines.

This is Long's debut and I for one and anxiously awaiting her next offering.  As an added bonus, Leah's Wake, along with several other books are available today on Kindle for 99 cents.  Take my recommendation and go get this book then not only will you want to talk about the book but you'll also be telling everyone that you got it for less than a dollar.  Visit the Best Seller for a Day Tour page here or In Leah's Wake Amazon page here.

Enter to Win

I generally blog about writing tips or my experiences as a writer, but today I am going to mention a few things that are designed to benefit you checkbook.

Recently I posted a review of Iron House by John Hart. Amazing book! You can read the review here.  After the review was posted, Hart's publisher, McMillan contacted and offered up a free copy of this book on audio to a reader of my blog.  I am going to draw for this in about a week, but wanted to encourage everyone to enter.  To enter, just follow the link to the review above and enter a comment.  I'll get back in touch with the winner so they can claim their prize.

Secondly, what do the following books have in common?

     -In Leah's Wake by Terri Giuliano Long
     -Sophia & Carter by Chelsea Fine
     -Chasing Amanda by Melissa Foster
     -Bella by Steve Piacente
     -The Trust by Sean Keefer (that's my book by the way)

All of these books will be featured in the Indie Book Collective's next Best Seller for a Day.  What does this mean for the readers out there?  Plain and simple on the 17th of August each of these books will be available for the ridiculously low price of 99 cents.  It's essentially like the pizza promotion – 5 books for $5 bucks.  Visit the main page for this promotion here.  The prices will only be lowered for the day of the promotion, so mark your calendars and spread the word to help make these books Best Sellers for a Day.

Finally, I thought I would give away a signed copy of my book, The Trust.  To enter, just leave a comment on this blog.  I'll contact the winner in about 10 days to arrange getting the book to them.  If you'd like to read an excerpt from my book before you enter feel free to stop over here.

As always thanks and Enjoy!

John Hart - Iron House - Review Part II with a Giveaway

NOW ITS A GIVEAWAY
After I posted my recent review of Iron House, I was contacted by John Hart's publisher who offered a FREE audiobook of IRON HOUSE to one of my blog readers.  Wanting to make sure not to let this opportunity pass, I jumped at the opportunity.  

So I'm running my review again and inviting comments.  From the comments, after a 10 day run, I'll randomly select one person to receive this amazing book on audio.  If you want another entry to win the book, tweet about this giveaway and mention @thetrustnovel in the tweet and make sure to link to this blog (here's the link http://bit.ly/ndW5Ch) .  Good Luck to Everyone!

I discovered John Hart a few years back.  I read his first book and loved it.  I was even more pleased when I learned he had a second book out and I was able to dive right in.  Then, as an added bonus, I learned his third, The Last Child, was soon to be released.  

Then I had to wait for number 4.

It was worth the wait.  

Through each of his 4 books, Hart has progressed to what I would simply call a master storyteller.  

In Iron House, Hart strays a bit beyond his comfort zone for the setting.  Until now his books have been set exclusively in rural North Carolina with a strong preference for Rowan County and the Salisbury area – not surprising given that Hart calls the area home.  However with Iron House, Hart takes a few steps away.  

Iron House opens in New York City where Michael, our main character, awakes in the bed of his girlfriend, the exotic and terribly sexy Elena.  I will admit, the opening catches you and doesn't let you go.

Iron House ostensibly tells the story of two boys, Michael and Julian, who were orphaned at a very young age.  The boys end up filed away in a mental hospital turned orphanage called, Iron House.  Iron House is not a happy place, in fact Hart paints it to be just a step or two better than hell in that on the rarest of occasions a child is adopted.  

There's a murder and the boys are separated.  Julian is adopted and Michael runs away.

Flash forward near 25 years.  

Michael, taken under the wing of one of the largest crime bosses in New York, has become a top enforcer.  Julian, adopted by the now United States Senator from North Carolina, has become a children's author, but is haunted by the ghosts of his past.

Michael is at a crossroads in his life.  He wants out of the mob life.  His girlfriend is pregnant and the crime boss is dying.  However, the mob won't let him leave. 

In an explosive New York City confrontation, Michael and Elena narrowly escape and head to North Carolina to make sure Michael's brother is safe.

With this as the setting Hart spins his tale.  

Hart does a wonderful job combining both plot and character driven fiction.  His flawed characters make for some extremely entertaining reading and his ability to command the story makes me as a writer plain envious.  I believe that in Hart there has been discovered a new champion of Southern literature.

As I was reading the book I was nearing the point of resolution between several of the characters but was puzzled given the pace of the book at that point balanced against the number of remaining pages.  In true form, Hart was not finished when the point of resolution was reached.  He allowed a moment for composure then it was off to the races once again.  

If you like mysteries blended with southern literary fiction you'll love Iron House.  However, even if you don't you owe it to yourself to read this book.

There are a few points that I should mention.  They're minor, but I believe it would be okay to have one or two characters that were without inner demons. After all, while I believe most people could benefit from therapy, not everyone needs it. 

Overall it was worth the wait and I'm already looking forward to Hart's next.  


Don't forget to comment for a chance to win a FREE audiobook of Iron House.