Dale Ibitz's Blog, page 7
August 21, 2013
Book Review: Don't Fear the Reaper, by Michelle Muto
Don't Fear the Reaper
Michelle Muto
Initial Thoughts: Awesome!!!!
My Rating: Easily 4.5 starsSummary:
Grief-stricken by the murder of her twin, Keely Morrison is convinced suicide is her ticket to eternal peace and a chance to reunite with her sister. When Keely succeeds in taking her own life, she discovers death isn’t at all what she expected. Instead, she’s trapped in a netherworld on Earth and her only hope for reconnecting with her sister and navigating the afterlife is a bounty-hunting reaper and a sardonic, possibly unscrupulous, demon. But when the demon offers Keely her greatest temptation—revenge on her sister’s murderer—she must uncover his motives and determine who she can trust. Because, as Keely soon learns, both reaper and demon are keeping secrets and she fears the worst is true—that her every decision will change how, and with whom, she spends eternity.
My Thoughts:This was a very well crafted, written, and executed story. I really, really, really liked it! Has got to be one of my faves this year so far.
You have characters that are real, three-dimensional, and distinctive. The book opens with Keely's death. Her response to her own death is so believable, you actually think it's real. Like maybe the author followed Keely into the afterlife and wrote down her reactions.
Loved the bounty-hunter reaper, his name is Banning. He has that mysterious touch, silent and strong and you're not quite sure what motivates him. I found myself having an internal debate on whether he wanted to help Keely or trap her somehow.
And the sardonic, possibly unscrupulous demon? Daniel? His voice is so strong and yeah, he's a *likeable* demon. Whether or not he's unscrupulous is up to the reader to find out. But hint: he's a *demon* kiddos.
I loved the tension and interaction between the characters. I thought the pacing was excellent. Keely's motivation throughout was clear, and she pretty much stuck to her guns. I'm a little disappointed that we didn't learn of Daniel's past...why he is what he is and what his motivations were. And was the ending a tad predictable? Perhaps a little. These 2 reasons are why this didn't earn a full 5 stars, but there one or 2 things that did catch me by surprise, and all the little trails wound around the story and tied together in the end.
A very enjoyable ride.
Michelle Muto
Initial Thoughts: Awesome!!!!
My Rating: Easily 4.5 starsSummary:Grief-stricken by the murder of her twin, Keely Morrison is convinced suicide is her ticket to eternal peace and a chance to reunite with her sister. When Keely succeeds in taking her own life, she discovers death isn’t at all what she expected. Instead, she’s trapped in a netherworld on Earth and her only hope for reconnecting with her sister and navigating the afterlife is a bounty-hunting reaper and a sardonic, possibly unscrupulous, demon. But when the demon offers Keely her greatest temptation—revenge on her sister’s murderer—she must uncover his motives and determine who she can trust. Because, as Keely soon learns, both reaper and demon are keeping secrets and she fears the worst is true—that her every decision will change how, and with whom, she spends eternity.
My Thoughts:This was a very well crafted, written, and executed story. I really, really, really liked it! Has got to be one of my faves this year so far.
You have characters that are real, three-dimensional, and distinctive. The book opens with Keely's death. Her response to her own death is so believable, you actually think it's real. Like maybe the author followed Keely into the afterlife and wrote down her reactions.
Loved the bounty-hunter reaper, his name is Banning. He has that mysterious touch, silent and strong and you're not quite sure what motivates him. I found myself having an internal debate on whether he wanted to help Keely or trap her somehow.
And the sardonic, possibly unscrupulous demon? Daniel? His voice is so strong and yeah, he's a *likeable* demon. Whether or not he's unscrupulous is up to the reader to find out. But hint: he's a *demon* kiddos.
I loved the tension and interaction between the characters. I thought the pacing was excellent. Keely's motivation throughout was clear, and she pretty much stuck to her guns. I'm a little disappointed that we didn't learn of Daniel's past...why he is what he is and what his motivations were. And was the ending a tad predictable? Perhaps a little. These 2 reasons are why this didn't earn a full 5 stars, but there one or 2 things that did catch me by surprise, and all the little trails wound around the story and tied together in the end.
A very enjoyable ride.
July 31, 2013
Book Review: The Soulkeepers, by G.P Ching
The Soulkeepers
G.P. Ching
Initial Thoughts: LOVED this book!
My Rating: 4.5 Stars!Summary (from Goodreads):
When fifteen-year-old Jacob Lau is pulled from the crumpled remains of his mother's car, no one can explain why he was driving or why the police can't find his mother's body. A beautiful and mysterious neighbor offers to use her unique abilities to help him find his mom.
But in exchange she requires Jacob to train as a Soulkeeper, a protector of human souls. He agrees to her demands, desperate for any clue to the mystery of his mother's disappearance. But soon Jacob finds himself trapped in a web of half-truths, and questions her motives for helping him.
My Thoughts:This book starts off with intense action, and just keeps on going. It sucks you in, grabs you and just doesn't let go.
The characters are awesome. They are real-to-life, from Jacob to his family to his friends to the minor characters. They're well thought-out, easily believable, and convincing.
I like the subtilties of the characters as well. Some of them, you simply don't know if they're going to be bad or good, but it's so subtle you start to question motives. As you read, it's apparent they could swing either way. I like books where there's a gray area between good and evil; bad people don't necessarily always do bad things, ya know? Some of them you're not sure what's motivating them...you know there's something behind the scenes, and you just have to keep reading to discover some of the lurking secrets.
There's a take on fallen angels that was refreshing; I haven't read an urban fantasy that quite depicted them this way.
The plot moves fairly well. It cruises along nicely, though the end felt a little rushed. Sort of like being at a great party and the host suddenly shoves you out the door, saying "Party's over!" Some resolutions could have been lingered over, given us a little more detail and substance. While I accept the ending as far as the main characters, I didn't believe the reactions of the families involved who didn't know what was going on.
One other thing that bothered me just a little bit, was the preachy feel toward the end. It felt intrusive. Though I understand the motivation behind it, it didn't fit in with the natural flow of the story.
Despite that, I have to say one of my favorite indie reads of the year!
G.P. Ching
Initial Thoughts: LOVED this book!
My Rating: 4.5 Stars!Summary (from Goodreads):When fifteen-year-old Jacob Lau is pulled from the crumpled remains of his mother's car, no one can explain why he was driving or why the police can't find his mother's body. A beautiful and mysterious neighbor offers to use her unique abilities to help him find his mom.
But in exchange she requires Jacob to train as a Soulkeeper, a protector of human souls. He agrees to her demands, desperate for any clue to the mystery of his mother's disappearance. But soon Jacob finds himself trapped in a web of half-truths, and questions her motives for helping him.
My Thoughts:This book starts off with intense action, and just keeps on going. It sucks you in, grabs you and just doesn't let go.
The characters are awesome. They are real-to-life, from Jacob to his family to his friends to the minor characters. They're well thought-out, easily believable, and convincing.
I like the subtilties of the characters as well. Some of them, you simply don't know if they're going to be bad or good, but it's so subtle you start to question motives. As you read, it's apparent they could swing either way. I like books where there's a gray area between good and evil; bad people don't necessarily always do bad things, ya know? Some of them you're not sure what's motivating them...you know there's something behind the scenes, and you just have to keep reading to discover some of the lurking secrets.
There's a take on fallen angels that was refreshing; I haven't read an urban fantasy that quite depicted them this way.
The plot moves fairly well. It cruises along nicely, though the end felt a little rushed. Sort of like being at a great party and the host suddenly shoves you out the door, saying "Party's over!" Some resolutions could have been lingered over, given us a little more detail and substance. While I accept the ending as far as the main characters, I didn't believe the reactions of the families involved who didn't know what was going on.
One other thing that bothered me just a little bit, was the preachy feel toward the end. It felt intrusive. Though I understand the motivation behind it, it didn't fit in with the natural flow of the story.
Despite that, I have to say one of my favorite indie reads of the year!
July 29, 2013
Book Review: Prophecy Girl, by Faith McKay
Prophecy Girl
Faith McKay
Initial Thoughts: Entertaining Read!
My Rating: 4 StarsSummary (from Goodreads):
Ever since Samantha Winthrop's mother moved them to Lacuna Valley, supposedly in search of better weather, the list of strange questions she has no answers for has been growing out of control.
Does her little sister, Violet, have the ability to make things happen just by "praying" for them? Are Sam's dreams really predicting the future? Is she destined to marry the boy she just met, and what is the mysterious orb that he's guarding? Why does she get the impression that there are dangerous creatures watching from the woods?
While Sam should be focusing on answering those questions, there is one other that makes them seem almost irrelevant: Is her mother planning on killing her and Violet?
My Thoughts:First off, this was a very entertaining read. There were a few things that kept me from rating this 5 stars, but I'll get to those later. Let's start with the yummy stuff first!
Real-life, strong, like-able (and hate-able) characters: Check.All of the characters are well-developed. What's good about these characters is that they are not all perfect. Even the good guys have flaws. You like Sam, you like Violet, and you just straight-on hate the mom. They 'boy she just met'--Nick--is very like-able. He's strong and cute and I love the way he jumps to Sam's defense. Sam shows growth in this story, becoming stronger and more confident as the story moves along...maybe a little too confident as she and Nick get in over their heads.
And is Nick just a normal boy? You tell me! And there's a part in this book about Nick that is revealed that will make the young girls eat their hearts out. They'll all be saying, "I want a boyfriend like Nick!" Girls. Will. Love him.
Visuals: CheckThe writing gives the flavor of the surroundings...you can picture Lacuna Valley, feel the heat and boredom, feel the cold, picture the school. All very nicely drafted to give the readers a place to ground themselves while reading.
Flaws: Check (what novel doesn't have them??)The beginning of the novel moved a little too slowly for me. It takes a looooong time to get to the heart of the book: Sam and Violet's powers and what that means. I mean, Violet's powers are obvious...you see them almost immediately, but it takes Sam far too long to accept that something strange is going on. I found myself getting frustrated that the same questions keep arising with no answers until close to the middle of the book.
Sam and Nick laugh too much. Sorry. Yes, they're happy together and I get that, but I need some other description than "She laughed" or "He laughed" or "They laughed" to keep my interest.
There has to be more to Nick and his Dad than meet the eye, but I don't know what. Otherwise, not sure how they protect the orb against the unworldly beings. This is sort of just hanging out there...not sure if this is what it is (I hope not), or is developed in later books (I hope so). What is it about David that makes the bullies back off with just a word? Not sure. Like I said, he's a strong character, but I'm not really sure 'why'. I was hoping to get more.
I definitely have this in My Series To Keep Reading list!
Faith McKay
Initial Thoughts: Entertaining Read!
My Rating: 4 StarsSummary (from Goodreads):Ever since Samantha Winthrop's mother moved them to Lacuna Valley, supposedly in search of better weather, the list of strange questions she has no answers for has been growing out of control.
Does her little sister, Violet, have the ability to make things happen just by "praying" for them? Are Sam's dreams really predicting the future? Is she destined to marry the boy she just met, and what is the mysterious orb that he's guarding? Why does she get the impression that there are dangerous creatures watching from the woods?
While Sam should be focusing on answering those questions, there is one other that makes them seem almost irrelevant: Is her mother planning on killing her and Violet?
My Thoughts:First off, this was a very entertaining read. There were a few things that kept me from rating this 5 stars, but I'll get to those later. Let's start with the yummy stuff first!
Real-life, strong, like-able (and hate-able) characters: Check.All of the characters are well-developed. What's good about these characters is that they are not all perfect. Even the good guys have flaws. You like Sam, you like Violet, and you just straight-on hate the mom. They 'boy she just met'--Nick--is very like-able. He's strong and cute and I love the way he jumps to Sam's defense. Sam shows growth in this story, becoming stronger and more confident as the story moves along...maybe a little too confident as she and Nick get in over their heads.
And is Nick just a normal boy? You tell me! And there's a part in this book about Nick that is revealed that will make the young girls eat their hearts out. They'll all be saying, "I want a boyfriend like Nick!" Girls. Will. Love him.
Visuals: CheckThe writing gives the flavor of the surroundings...you can picture Lacuna Valley, feel the heat and boredom, feel the cold, picture the school. All very nicely drafted to give the readers a place to ground themselves while reading.
Flaws: Check (what novel doesn't have them??)The beginning of the novel moved a little too slowly for me. It takes a looooong time to get to the heart of the book: Sam and Violet's powers and what that means. I mean, Violet's powers are obvious...you see them almost immediately, but it takes Sam far too long to accept that something strange is going on. I found myself getting frustrated that the same questions keep arising with no answers until close to the middle of the book.
Sam and Nick laugh too much. Sorry. Yes, they're happy together and I get that, but I need some other description than "She laughed" or "He laughed" or "They laughed" to keep my interest.
There has to be more to Nick and his Dad than meet the eye, but I don't know what. Otherwise, not sure how they protect the orb against the unworldly beings. This is sort of just hanging out there...not sure if this is what it is (I hope not), or is developed in later books (I hope so). What is it about David that makes the bullies back off with just a word? Not sure. Like I said, he's a strong character, but I'm not really sure 'why'. I was hoping to get more.
I definitely have this in My Series To Keep Reading list!
July 12, 2013
Book Review: Project ELE, by Rebecca Gober & Courtney Nuckels
Project ELE
Rebecaa Gober & Courtney Nuckels
Initial Thoughts: Good premise, and interesting read.
My Rating: 4- StarsSummary (from Goodreads):
Millions have already died, and thousands more are perishing daily. As a last ditch effort to preserve the human race, the government implements Project ELE. With the earth heating at rapid speeds, all remaining survivors are forced to turn to F.E.M.A. shelters to wait out ELE's wrath.
Fifteen-year-old Willow Mosby's life, as she knows it, ends the moment she walks through the shelter's door. Willow has to quickly adapt to the new challenges that shelter life demands, the least of which includes making new friends and working a full time job.
Soon after making an interesting discovery, Willow and her friends start exhibiting strange abilities. Seeking answers, they embark on a mission to find out what these new abilities mean and whether they are a gift or a curse.
This new adventure can send her world crashing down around her. The question is: Can Willow survive the fall?
My thoughts:I struggled with the rating on this one, because while the story was very good, at times the writing wasn't. I finally decided on a 4- instead of a 3+, in order to give the plot its due credit.
This story started out with all the interesting facts about the imminent extinction of the human race, and the race to get into one of the shelters. It grabbed me from the first chapter, and the excitement continued (mostly) all the way through to the end.
I liked Willow and her friends. I also liked that who I thought was going to be the love interest, wasn't. You kind of know who the bad guys are from the start (though I was pleasantly surprised at one turn of events in the end), so there's no mystery there. You have betrayals, you have romance, you have a couple of twists and bam! It's a day of fun in the reading park.
The concept was interesting, and I enjoyed reading about patches on the ozone layer, and what ELE ultimately stands for. I thought these were creative aspects to the story.
What bothered me is that at times the level of writing seemed a little immature, and some of the dialogue bordered on kinda corny. Some times I was gripped, other times I was rolling my eyes. I also was bothered by numerous grammatical errors (such as using peak instead of peek, not once, but over and over), and there was a severe case of comma-itus especially towards the end where commas don't exist and the sentences were kind of running on do you see what I mean? There is a note on the Goodreads page that after reading reviews, that they've corrected all the errors they could find. Could be that I have an earlier version of the book (I *have* had it for awhile!) so these errors could be corrected. Not sure if maturity level of the writing has been aged or not.
With that being said, I read this book straight through on a Saturday, and really quite enjoyed it. Had a good cliff-hanger that has me wanting to continue reading the series to find out what those dastardly SOBs are up to!
Rebecaa Gober & Courtney Nuckels
Initial Thoughts: Good premise, and interesting read.
My Rating: 4- StarsSummary (from Goodreads):Millions have already died, and thousands more are perishing daily. As a last ditch effort to preserve the human race, the government implements Project ELE. With the earth heating at rapid speeds, all remaining survivors are forced to turn to F.E.M.A. shelters to wait out ELE's wrath.
Fifteen-year-old Willow Mosby's life, as she knows it, ends the moment she walks through the shelter's door. Willow has to quickly adapt to the new challenges that shelter life demands, the least of which includes making new friends and working a full time job.
Soon after making an interesting discovery, Willow and her friends start exhibiting strange abilities. Seeking answers, they embark on a mission to find out what these new abilities mean and whether they are a gift or a curse.
This new adventure can send her world crashing down around her. The question is: Can Willow survive the fall?
My thoughts:I struggled with the rating on this one, because while the story was very good, at times the writing wasn't. I finally decided on a 4- instead of a 3+, in order to give the plot its due credit.
This story started out with all the interesting facts about the imminent extinction of the human race, and the race to get into one of the shelters. It grabbed me from the first chapter, and the excitement continued (mostly) all the way through to the end.
I liked Willow and her friends. I also liked that who I thought was going to be the love interest, wasn't. You kind of know who the bad guys are from the start (though I was pleasantly surprised at one turn of events in the end), so there's no mystery there. You have betrayals, you have romance, you have a couple of twists and bam! It's a day of fun in the reading park.
The concept was interesting, and I enjoyed reading about patches on the ozone layer, and what ELE ultimately stands for. I thought these were creative aspects to the story.
What bothered me is that at times the level of writing seemed a little immature, and some of the dialogue bordered on kinda corny. Some times I was gripped, other times I was rolling my eyes. I also was bothered by numerous grammatical errors (such as using peak instead of peek, not once, but over and over), and there was a severe case of comma-itus especially towards the end where commas don't exist and the sentences were kind of running on do you see what I mean? There is a note on the Goodreads page that after reading reviews, that they've corrected all the errors they could find. Could be that I have an earlier version of the book (I *have* had it for awhile!) so these errors could be corrected. Not sure if maturity level of the writing has been aged or not.
With that being said, I read this book straight through on a Saturday, and really quite enjoyed it. Had a good cliff-hanger that has me wanting to continue reading the series to find out what those dastardly SOBs are up to!
July 8, 2013
Book Review: Tribulation, by Phillip W. Simpson
Tribulation
Phillip W. Simpson
Initial Thoughts: Not quite the same thrill as the first
My Rating: 3 1/2 StarsSummary (from Goodreads):
Halfway through the desolate Tribulation, half-demon Samael is still alone, with only his Samurai swords and memories of the dearly departed - especially his beloved Aimi - to sustain him. Fighting for the innocents who remain behind, Sam has thwarted the plans of the Antichrist once before. Now, having already conquered Europe, America remains a thorn in his brother’s side. At the head of a massive invasion fleet, an army of demons, and his sights firmly fixed on New York, he will not be denied again ...
Beset on all sides by adversaries, aided by friends old and new, Sam must stop his brother before America falls. And if that means killing him, then so be it. He failed once before; this time he will succeed - or die trying.
My thoughts:This is the 2nd book in the Rapture Trilogy, and while I still love Sam's character, this book didn't quite grab me as the first book did. I had to ponder why.
I feel so bad for Sam. I continue to root for him, and feel his confusion over the tug-of-war both sides (demons and angels) seem to be playing. For me, a human, I don't think I like the black-and-white view of the angels...they would seem to condemn someone because of the fault of their birth, not what's in their heart. I'm not a fan! However, I absolutely love that the angels aren't portrayed as perfect (from a human's empathetic point of view).
I also enjoyed seeing the Watcher come into play, and giving Sam a third option. How interesting! There are some interesting story lines being presented, which keeps the reader wondering exactly how book 3 is going to end.
So, that brings me back to my pondering. What didn't work for me? And if I'm going to be honest, it's the writing itself that slowed the story down. Oh, that and the fact that it's mostly prose with no dialogue. That in itself will slow a story down.
I felt, at times, that I was just watching Sam going through his daily life, doing this and dodging that, without really moving the story forward. The funny thing is, that's what I felt while reading it. However, when I did go back and sort of flip through, I found that that isn't necessarily true. The story starts out with action (Sam gets a new 'partner') and does keep going...but what happens is that there is so much internalization, and much of it repetitive, that I felt like the story wasn't going anywhere. I remember feeling that the story didn't actually start until 1/3 of the way into the book...but that's a feeling and not fact.
What also slowed the story down was the amount of telling, rather than showing or describing what Sam was feeling. With some good editing, those issues can be fixed and this story would be that much stronger.
Oh, and one more thing...great cliffhanger ending!
I plan on reading the 3rd and last installment of this series, and still recommend it as a read.
Phillip W. Simpson
Initial Thoughts: Not quite the same thrill as the first
My Rating: 3 1/2 StarsSummary (from Goodreads):Halfway through the desolate Tribulation, half-demon Samael is still alone, with only his Samurai swords and memories of the dearly departed - especially his beloved Aimi - to sustain him. Fighting for the innocents who remain behind, Sam has thwarted the plans of the Antichrist once before. Now, having already conquered Europe, America remains a thorn in his brother’s side. At the head of a massive invasion fleet, an army of demons, and his sights firmly fixed on New York, he will not be denied again ...
Beset on all sides by adversaries, aided by friends old and new, Sam must stop his brother before America falls. And if that means killing him, then so be it. He failed once before; this time he will succeed - or die trying.
My thoughts:This is the 2nd book in the Rapture Trilogy, and while I still love Sam's character, this book didn't quite grab me as the first book did. I had to ponder why.
I feel so bad for Sam. I continue to root for him, and feel his confusion over the tug-of-war both sides (demons and angels) seem to be playing. For me, a human, I don't think I like the black-and-white view of the angels...they would seem to condemn someone because of the fault of their birth, not what's in their heart. I'm not a fan! However, I absolutely love that the angels aren't portrayed as perfect (from a human's empathetic point of view).
I also enjoyed seeing the Watcher come into play, and giving Sam a third option. How interesting! There are some interesting story lines being presented, which keeps the reader wondering exactly how book 3 is going to end.
So, that brings me back to my pondering. What didn't work for me? And if I'm going to be honest, it's the writing itself that slowed the story down. Oh, that and the fact that it's mostly prose with no dialogue. That in itself will slow a story down.
I felt, at times, that I was just watching Sam going through his daily life, doing this and dodging that, without really moving the story forward. The funny thing is, that's what I felt while reading it. However, when I did go back and sort of flip through, I found that that isn't necessarily true. The story starts out with action (Sam gets a new 'partner') and does keep going...but what happens is that there is so much internalization, and much of it repetitive, that I felt like the story wasn't going anywhere. I remember feeling that the story didn't actually start until 1/3 of the way into the book...but that's a feeling and not fact.
What also slowed the story down was the amount of telling, rather than showing or describing what Sam was feeling. With some good editing, those issues can be fixed and this story would be that much stronger.
Oh, and one more thing...great cliffhanger ending!
I plan on reading the 3rd and last installment of this series, and still recommend it as a read.
July 2, 2013
Book Review: Beautiful Creatues, by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl
Beautiful Creatures
Kami Garci & Margaret Stohl
My Rating: 4 Stars
Initial Thoughts: Ends with an "wow!"
Summary (from Goodreads):
Lena Duchannes is unlike anyone the small Southern town of Gatlin has ever seen, and she's struggling to conceal her power, and a curse that has haunted her family for generations. But even within the overgrown gardens, murky swamps and crumbling graveyards of the forgotten South, a secret cannot stay hidden forever.
Ethan Wate, who has been counting the months until he can escape from Gatlin, is haunted by dreams of a beautiful girl he has never met. When Lena moves into the town's oldest and most infamous plantation, Ethan is inexplicably drawn to her and determined to uncover the connection between them.
In a town with no surprises, one secret could change everything.
My Thoughts:I decided to read this book because there's a lot of hype...and I wanted to read it before seeing the movie (which I haven't seen yet). I have to admit, the book started very slowly, and I was wondering what all the hype was actually about...because honestly? I wasn't hyped. I was okay, not hyped.
Of course, this book starts out with something agents and editors and "those kind of people" tell authors never to start their books with: a dream. So, right off the bat, this book throws it in the face of convention. I admit, I'm not a fan of starting that way either. Almost feels like cheating, ya know?
Anyhoo. I love the voice of Ethan. I love reading books told from the dude's point of view. It's actually quite refreshing in YA fantasy books, which typically portray perfect female teenagers who never do anything wrong and get perfect grades and are never, ever naughty. I like it when my characters have, well, a little character. Nothing says boring like perfection.
Anyhoo. Ethan's popular, good looking, has his issues at home, has his best friend (whom I love), and his housekeeper/grandma figure who tells it like it is (whom I also love) and likes to dabble in voo doo, is in with with southern belle barbie dolls in his small is-it-even-on-a-map town...but what I like about Ethan is that though he has it all, he questions why he has it all. He's not happy with it all. He wants O.U.T. of that one-trick-pony town.
Let's introduce Lena, the new girl in town. And of course, she is exactly opposite of the little southern belle barbie dolls that Ethan's grown up with. Ethan and Lena have this strange connection, and while she fights it, he fights *for* it.
There's romance, there's snobbery, there's mean-ness, and when I say mean, the women in that town can be incredibly cruel. It's that cruelty that has you rooting for Lena and kinda hoping someone will kick in some barbie doll's teeth (and no, it doesn't get violent like that...words hurt more than ass-kicking).
So while the first 100 pages or so were 'eh' for me (basically, 'eh' means that I can put it down and do other things...which I did...often), the 2nd half of the book more than makes up for it. The 2nd half of the book was 'wow!"...and I *couldn't* put it down. The 2nd half of the book was hype-worthy.
Kami Garci & Margaret Stohl
My Rating: 4 StarsInitial Thoughts: Ends with an "wow!"
Summary (from Goodreads):
Lena Duchannes is unlike anyone the small Southern town of Gatlin has ever seen, and she's struggling to conceal her power, and a curse that has haunted her family for generations. But even within the overgrown gardens, murky swamps and crumbling graveyards of the forgotten South, a secret cannot stay hidden forever.
Ethan Wate, who has been counting the months until he can escape from Gatlin, is haunted by dreams of a beautiful girl he has never met. When Lena moves into the town's oldest and most infamous plantation, Ethan is inexplicably drawn to her and determined to uncover the connection between them.
In a town with no surprises, one secret could change everything.
My Thoughts:I decided to read this book because there's a lot of hype...and I wanted to read it before seeing the movie (which I haven't seen yet). I have to admit, the book started very slowly, and I was wondering what all the hype was actually about...because honestly? I wasn't hyped. I was okay, not hyped.
Of course, this book starts out with something agents and editors and "those kind of people" tell authors never to start their books with: a dream. So, right off the bat, this book throws it in the face of convention. I admit, I'm not a fan of starting that way either. Almost feels like cheating, ya know?
Anyhoo. I love the voice of Ethan. I love reading books told from the dude's point of view. It's actually quite refreshing in YA fantasy books, which typically portray perfect female teenagers who never do anything wrong and get perfect grades and are never, ever naughty. I like it when my characters have, well, a little character. Nothing says boring like perfection.
Anyhoo. Ethan's popular, good looking, has his issues at home, has his best friend (whom I love), and his housekeeper/grandma figure who tells it like it is (whom I also love) and likes to dabble in voo doo, is in with with southern belle barbie dolls in his small is-it-even-on-a-map town...but what I like about Ethan is that though he has it all, he questions why he has it all. He's not happy with it all. He wants O.U.T. of that one-trick-pony town.
Let's introduce Lena, the new girl in town. And of course, she is exactly opposite of the little southern belle barbie dolls that Ethan's grown up with. Ethan and Lena have this strange connection, and while she fights it, he fights *for* it.
There's romance, there's snobbery, there's mean-ness, and when I say mean, the women in that town can be incredibly cruel. It's that cruelty that has you rooting for Lena and kinda hoping someone will kick in some barbie doll's teeth (and no, it doesn't get violent like that...words hurt more than ass-kicking).
So while the first 100 pages or so were 'eh' for me (basically, 'eh' means that I can put it down and do other things...which I did...often), the 2nd half of the book more than makes up for it. The 2nd half of the book was 'wow!"...and I *couldn't* put it down. The 2nd half of the book was hype-worthy.
June 28, 2013
Friday Fun!
It's hot, and soooo humid. No energy to do anything that exerts energy...including thinking. Typing is a stretch. LOL
So, let's do the humor thing on this sultry Friday evening. Enjoy!
THIS IS NOT AS EASY AS IT LOOKS
Cardiovascular Exercise
The older we get the more important it is to incorporate exercise into our daily routine. This is necessary to maintain cardiovascular health and maintain muscle mass.
If you're over 40, you might want to take it easy at first, then do more repetitions as you become more proficient and build stamina. Warning: It may be too strenuous for some.
Always consult your doctor before starting any exercise program!
Scroll Down
NOW SCROLL UP
That's enough for the first day.Great job.Have a cookie.
So, let's do the humor thing on this sultry Friday evening. Enjoy!
THIS IS NOT AS EASY AS IT LOOKS
Cardiovascular Exercise
The older we get the more important it is to incorporate exercise into our daily routine. This is necessary to maintain cardiovascular health and maintain muscle mass.
If you're over 40, you might want to take it easy at first, then do more repetitions as you become more proficient and build stamina. Warning: It may be too strenuous for some.
Always consult your doctor before starting any exercise program!
Scroll Down
NOW SCROLL UP
That's enough for the first day.Great job.Have a cookie.
June 26, 2013
In the Hot Seat with author Chrystalla Thoma
Welcome author Chrystalla Thoma to the hot seat!
Chrystalla is Greek Cypriot (hence the strange name) and likes writing about bratty, angsty boys and spunky girls in fantasy and science-fiction worlds. She writes mainly for a young adult public but not only (heed the warnings!)
She's currently preparing a non-fiction book about dragons, because the truth must out, and is juggling two series ("Elei's Chronicles" and "Boreal and John Grey").
And now that you know a little about amazing Chrystalla, let's get her on the hot seat!
1. Tell us a little about your latest release.
Boreal and John Grey (complete season 1)
During the 13th century In Iceland, epic poems and tales called Edda spoke of the aelfar – the elves. Tall and pale – their name means ‘white’ – these trickster beings brought misfortune and illness, and exchanged healthy children with sickly changelings.
Now the Gates are opening once more between worlds and the elves are back.
Ella Benson, Paranormal Bureau agent, fights all that comes through the Veil – dangerous Shades crossing into our world. But increasingly dangerous creatures are slipping into her city, her work partner has just gone missing, and a mysterious – and, frankly, quite hot — guy saves her life. His name is Finn and, as it turns out, he’s a natural when it comes to fighting the Shades.
When after centuries of peace the Gates between the worlds start opening and our old enemies, the elves, make a comeback, Ella needs a new, temporary partner. Enlisting the mysterious Finn is a no-brainer, until she realizes he is guarding dangerous secrets of his own.
Together with Finn, and the fate of the world on her shoulders, what’s Ella to do but grab her weapons and figure it all out, one way or another.
2. OK, now tell us something about your heroes that we *don't* know...something that's not in the books.
Ella loves carrot cake and hates chicken. Something to do with a chick she kept as a child. She started learning yoga once, to find inner peace, but couldn’t stand it, it choked her. Since then she’s taken up kickboxing because it allows her to let out some of her anger. (Dale: I can relate!)
Finn... is a mystery. Can’t tell you more, you must wait until season 2!
3. Where did you get your inspiration to write the Boreal and John Grey?
I love elves. So I went back to Tolkien’s sources, the old Icelandic epic poems and tales called “Edda” and realized the aelfar (the elves) weren’t as nice and peaceful as he presented them to be. The elves were said to have magic, and sometimes they were mentioned in the same breath as the aesir (the gods), but they were also wicked tricksters who brought misfortune and illness, and exchanged healthy children with sickly changelings.
They were obviously playing with us, not too long ago, observing us and experimenting with us. Why? Well, in my opinion, it’s because they were planning on coming back for more...
4. What's the first book you read that made you catch your breath?Neverending Story, by Michael Ende, and then The Lord of the Rings by Tolkien. Awesome books.
5. If you had a super-power, what would it be?
Speak Japanese. Honestly. Always wanted to learn and found it too hard. It’s a super power to me!
6. When you write, are you a plotter or a pantser?
Mixture of both. I make outlines but then I let the story take me places I hadn’t imagined...
7. When did you first realize that you wanted to become a writer?
As I recall, I was around 11 when I declared my intentions. ;)
8. Do you listen to music when you write? If so, what music do you listen to?
System of a Down, Linkin Park, Guano Apes, Rammstein... (Dale: Linkin Park is great!)
9. What's the most insane thing you've ever tried to do?Write in English (cause my native language is Greek). I do have a degree in English literature, so it’s not like I didn’t know the language, but it took all my courage to start. Now I can’t seem to stop! :D
10. Hot seat questions:a. Beach or mountains? Beach!
b. Summer or winter? Summer.
c. White or dark chocolate? Milk chocolate? (compromise)
d. Coffee or tea? Coffee most definitely
e. Favorite TV show? Supernatural. (Dale: Love that show!)
f. Favorite color? Blue
g. Favorite food? Indian takeaway (chicken malai mango)
h. Cats or dogs? Cats
i. What was the last thing you ate? M&Ms! (Dale: Yum!)
j. Morning person or night owl? Night owl 100%
Read the complete First Season of the series Boreal and John Grey, books 1-5 (The Encounter, The Gate, The Dragon, The Dream and The Truth) at a special price with an Author’s Note at the end.
Where to find the complete season 1 boxset:
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Boreal-John-Grey-Season-ebook/dp/B00DC7R39O
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Boreal-John-Grey-Season-ebook/dp/B00DC7R39O
Excerpt:
The goblin crouched down and drew its huge fist back. Time slowed. She saw it coming at her like a dark wave, about to smash her face.
And here are some other places you can connect with Chrystalla:
Follow Chrystalla on her Fan page on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Author-Chrystalla-Thoma/117863861560579
Like the Boreal and John Grey Page! https://www.facebook.com/BorealAndJohnGrey
Sign up for the Newsletter to receive notices about new releases and events!
http://wordpress.us4.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=5c628688b2063d7937bc9158d&id=561e1f946d
Check out the Rex Rising group on Facebook to follow updates on the series:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/282489681801529/
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Chrystalla is Greek Cypriot (hence the strange name) and likes writing about bratty, angsty boys and spunky girls in fantasy and science-fiction worlds. She writes mainly for a young adult public but not only (heed the warnings!)She's currently preparing a non-fiction book about dragons, because the truth must out, and is juggling two series ("Elei's Chronicles" and "Boreal and John Grey").
And now that you know a little about amazing Chrystalla, let's get her on the hot seat!
1. Tell us a little about your latest release.
Boreal and John Grey (complete season 1)
During the 13th century In Iceland, epic poems and tales called Edda spoke of the aelfar – the elves. Tall and pale – their name means ‘white’ – these trickster beings brought misfortune and illness, and exchanged healthy children with sickly changelings.
Now the Gates are opening once more between worlds and the elves are back.
Ella Benson, Paranormal Bureau agent, fights all that comes through the Veil – dangerous Shades crossing into our world. But increasingly dangerous creatures are slipping into her city, her work partner has just gone missing, and a mysterious – and, frankly, quite hot — guy saves her life. His name is Finn and, as it turns out, he’s a natural when it comes to fighting the Shades.
When after centuries of peace the Gates between the worlds start opening and our old enemies, the elves, make a comeback, Ella needs a new, temporary partner. Enlisting the mysterious Finn is a no-brainer, until she realizes he is guarding dangerous secrets of his own.
Together with Finn, and the fate of the world on her shoulders, what’s Ella to do but grab her weapons and figure it all out, one way or another.
2. OK, now tell us something about your heroes that we *don't* know...something that's not in the books.
Ella loves carrot cake and hates chicken. Something to do with a chick she kept as a child. She started learning yoga once, to find inner peace, but couldn’t stand it, it choked her. Since then she’s taken up kickboxing because it allows her to let out some of her anger. (Dale: I can relate!)
Finn... is a mystery. Can’t tell you more, you must wait until season 2!
3. Where did you get your inspiration to write the Boreal and John Grey?
I love elves. So I went back to Tolkien’s sources, the old Icelandic epic poems and tales called “Edda” and realized the aelfar (the elves) weren’t as nice and peaceful as he presented them to be. The elves were said to have magic, and sometimes they were mentioned in the same breath as the aesir (the gods), but they were also wicked tricksters who brought misfortune and illness, and exchanged healthy children with sickly changelings.
They were obviously playing with us, not too long ago, observing us and experimenting with us. Why? Well, in my opinion, it’s because they were planning on coming back for more...
4. What's the first book you read that made you catch your breath?Neverending Story, by Michael Ende, and then The Lord of the Rings by Tolkien. Awesome books.
5. If you had a super-power, what would it be?
Speak Japanese. Honestly. Always wanted to learn and found it too hard. It’s a super power to me!
6. When you write, are you a plotter or a pantser?
Mixture of both. I make outlines but then I let the story take me places I hadn’t imagined...
7. When did you first realize that you wanted to become a writer?
As I recall, I was around 11 when I declared my intentions. ;)
8. Do you listen to music when you write? If so, what music do you listen to?
System of a Down, Linkin Park, Guano Apes, Rammstein... (Dale: Linkin Park is great!)
9. What's the most insane thing you've ever tried to do?Write in English (cause my native language is Greek). I do have a degree in English literature, so it’s not like I didn’t know the language, but it took all my courage to start. Now I can’t seem to stop! :D
10. Hot seat questions:a. Beach or mountains? Beach!
b. Summer or winter? Summer.
c. White or dark chocolate? Milk chocolate? (compromise)
d. Coffee or tea? Coffee most definitely
e. Favorite TV show? Supernatural. (Dale: Love that show!)
f. Favorite color? Blue
g. Favorite food? Indian takeaway (chicken malai mango)
h. Cats or dogs? Cats
i. What was the last thing you ate? M&Ms! (Dale: Yum!)
j. Morning person or night owl? Night owl 100%
Read the complete First Season of the series Boreal and John Grey, books 1-5 (The Encounter, The Gate, The Dragon, The Dream and The Truth) at a special price with an Author’s Note at the end.
Where to find the complete season 1 boxset:
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Boreal-John-Grey-Season-ebook/dp/B00DC7R39O
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Boreal-John-Grey-Season-ebook/dp/B00DC7R39O
Excerpt:
The goblin crouched down and drew its huge fist back. Time slowed. She saw it coming at her like a dark wave, about to smash her face.
And here are some other places you can connect with Chrystalla:
Follow Chrystalla on her Fan page on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Author-Chrystalla-Thoma/117863861560579
Like the Boreal and John Grey Page! https://www.facebook.com/BorealAndJohnGrey
Sign up for the Newsletter to receive notices about new releases and events!
http://wordpress.us4.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=5c628688b2063d7937bc9158d&id=561e1f946d
Check out the Rex Rising group on Facebook to follow updates on the series:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/282489681801529/
June 19, 2013
Cover Reveal! King's Artesan, by Cas Peace
King’s Artesan (Artesan of Albia, #3) by Cas PeaceSYNOPSIS:
The race for the Staff has begun.
Rykan’s Staff is vital to Sullyan’s survival. In order to retrieve it, Robin Tamsen must cross the Veils into Albia and go to Taran’s village. He arrives too late.
Intent on reviving his own plans for conquest, Sonten forces Taran to reveal the Staff’s location. Outwitting Robin, he besieges the village of Hyecombe and takes possession of the Staff.
If Robin cannot stop Sonten taking the weapon back to Andaryon, Sullyan’s life and the lives of every Artesan are forfeit. Yet it is not just Sonten he must battle, but also one of his own. And the mysterious Albian Baron hasn’t abandoned his plans, either….
AUTHOR LINKS:Website: http://www.caspeace.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cas.peace?fref=ts
Book Songs: http://www.caspeace.com/downloads/songs
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Cas Peace was born in Hampshire UK, in 1957, and has lived there most of her life. Her first career was as a horse-riding instructor, and horses remain very close to her heart. She then spent 13 years working for the British Civil Service before leaving the UK to live in Italy for three years, 1991-1994. She speaks passable but by no means perfect Italian, and loves to return to Italy whenever she can.
Cas's other great loves are anything to do with animals, especially dogs and horses, (she supports many animal charities) and also singing. Cas loves folk songs and along with her husband, who plays guitar, has performed in many a Southern England folk club. Sometimes they even asked her back! She writes folk songs to accompany her fantasy novels, and offers them as free downloads from her website.
June 17, 2013
Book Review: Game, by Barry Lyga
Game (The sequel to I Hunt Killers)
Barry Lyga
Initial Thoughts: OMG. I love this author. Love this series. Love this book. It's a freaking love-fest over here.
My Rating: 5 Stars
Summary (from Goodreads):
I Hunt Killers introduced the world to Jasper (Jazz) Dent, the son of the world's most infamous serial killer.
When a desperate New York City detective comes knocking on Jazz's door asking for help with a new case, Jazz can't say no. The Hat-Dog Killer has the Big Apple--and its police force running scared with no leads. So Jazz and his girlfriend Connie hop on a plane to the big city and get swept up in a killer's murderous game.
Meanwhile, Jazz's dad Billy is watching...and waiting.
My thoughts:Okay, so I fell in love with this author and Jasper in book one, and the love just continues to grow. The character continues his internal battles of what he is or isn't or might be or might not be. He's so afraid of triggering the "thing" that will turn him into his dad, that he doesn't allow himself to be a normal kid. What if that one thing is the trigger that will make him snap? How can he be sure?
His relationships are still strong: his girlfriend Connie, his best friend Howie. Howie is absolutely hysterical in this book. It's much-needed light-heartedness in the midst of the darkness. It's a good fit. Did Connie do some stupid things here? Yup. I have to keep reminding myself that she's 17 years old, and 17 year-olds don't always do what's right or best or logical. But man, I wanted to scream at her, "Don't do it!" And then slap my forehead when she did.
What I didn't like? The ending. I mean really. There are so many loose ends that I just want the next book NOW. It's like a juggler who's doing his juggling thing, and then walks off stage with all his balls in the air. Every major player ended in a very precarious situation at the end of this book. And now I have to watch...and wait.
Barry Lyga
Initial Thoughts: OMG. I love this author. Love this series. Love this book. It's a freaking love-fest over here.
My Rating: 5 StarsSummary (from Goodreads):
I Hunt Killers introduced the world to Jasper (Jazz) Dent, the son of the world's most infamous serial killer.
When a desperate New York City detective comes knocking on Jazz's door asking for help with a new case, Jazz can't say no. The Hat-Dog Killer has the Big Apple--and its police force running scared with no leads. So Jazz and his girlfriend Connie hop on a plane to the big city and get swept up in a killer's murderous game.
Meanwhile, Jazz's dad Billy is watching...and waiting.
My thoughts:Okay, so I fell in love with this author and Jasper in book one, and the love just continues to grow. The character continues his internal battles of what he is or isn't or might be or might not be. He's so afraid of triggering the "thing" that will turn him into his dad, that he doesn't allow himself to be a normal kid. What if that one thing is the trigger that will make him snap? How can he be sure?
His relationships are still strong: his girlfriend Connie, his best friend Howie. Howie is absolutely hysterical in this book. It's much-needed light-heartedness in the midst of the darkness. It's a good fit. Did Connie do some stupid things here? Yup. I have to keep reminding myself that she's 17 years old, and 17 year-olds don't always do what's right or best or logical. But man, I wanted to scream at her, "Don't do it!" And then slap my forehead when she did.
What I didn't like? The ending. I mean really. There are so many loose ends that I just want the next book NOW. It's like a juggler who's doing his juggling thing, and then walks off stage with all his balls in the air. Every major player ended in a very precarious situation at the end of this book. And now I have to watch...and wait.
