Michael Loring's Blog, page 7
July 28, 2014
Goddamned Freaky Monsters (The Tome of Bill #5) by Rick Gualtieri
Goddamned Freaky Monsters (The Tome of Bill #5) by Rick Gualtieri
Synopsis:
There are reasons we fear the night. Now he’s trying to stop them.
Three months have passed since the fateful encounter in New York City that ended with the disappearance of Bill Ryder – gamer, geek, and legendary vampire. Now he’s back – reawakened halfway across the globe with no allies, clothing, or clue as to how he got there. The only thing he’s certain of is that his captors plan to use him for their own nefarious ends and don’t care how much blood they spill in the process.
Escape might be the least of his worries, though. Civilization teeters on the brink of chaos. Mythical beasts, once thought the stuff of fantasy, are breaking through the veil, intent on waging war against mankind. At their forefront stands an ancient evil, the last remnant of a people thought long dead, and it’s about to cut a swath of destruction through the world not seen since biblical times.
Bill’s only chance is to reclaim his life, reconcile with his friends, and muster every bit of attitude he can – because if he fails, Hell on Earth will become far more than just a corny saying.
Review:
Goddamned Freaky Monsters is the fifth installment in Author Rick Gualtieri’s Comedy/Supernatural series, The Tome of Bill. Bill has been on vacation, but his return will be far from relaxing.
It’s been three months since the ending of Holier Than Thou and Bill has been rather busy. But now he’s back, and it doesn’t take him long to screw the pooch epically. Now, to face the evil he has unleashed onto the world, he must collect all the powers (and smartassery) he can to save the world… pretty much from himself.
As the fifth installment in the series, Goddamned Freaky Monsters sets the stage for the latter half of the story. Bill has grown up since the beginning of the series, and things have become way too hectic for him to ever go back. His friends are different, his enemies are different, he’s different. The powers that be are stacked against him, but he’s determined to face it head on. His greatest asset? His snarky attitude.
Rick Gualtieri has created a world full of unique characters and creatures. At the beginning of the series there were only vampires, but now there are so many monsters lurking in the shadows that it could fill up a bestiary page for page. Although, they won’t be in the shadows for long…
This remains one of my most favorite series, which is surprising since I don’t usually enjoy vampire stories so much. But it’s hard to resist the charm the author brings to the story and its characters. I’m not even sure what I’m going to do until the next book in the series comes out!
Here’s to hoping it comes out very soon!
Five out of Five stars!
Check out Rick Gualtieri’s website here!
Check out my review for Book 1 here!
Check out my review for Book 2 here!
Check out my review for Book 3 here!
Check out my review for Book 4 here!
July 26, 2014
Sunset Strip (A Story From The Tome of Bill) by Rick Gualtieri
Sunset Strip (A Story From The Tome of Bill) by Rick Gualtieri
Synopsis:
My name is Sally.
For over thirty years I’ve prowled the night, one of the undead. In that time I’ve walked amongst you – a wolf in sheep’s clothing – doing unspeakable things, killing countless people.
Now, on the eve of Armageddon, a chance for redemption presents itself. My past has come looking for me, beckoning me back to the city of my rebirth.
Those who killed me the first time are intent on finishing the job. I’m outnumbered and outgunned, but they’ve got another thing coming if they think I’m outclassed.
Unspeakable horrors, both old and new, await me in the City of Sin, but in the end they’re all going to learn one very painful lesson: payback is a bitch.
Review:
Sunset Strip is a side story to The Tome of Bill series by Rick Gualtieri, spicing up the overall series theme by switching to the POV of Sally The Vampire.
Throughout the series Sally has been the sidekick, the character to appear when needed. But now she’s got an adventure all her own in this book. We finally get to learn her real name, and discover the circumstances around her turning into a vampire and what she was like in her human life and how she became the snarky woman she is today.
It was a rough start to her life, and it’s about to get even rougher as Sally is forced to confront her beginnings in the vampire world. But, outfitted with her less than shiny morality and quick eye-roll, she’s ready to raise some hell in the City of Sin.
The tone of this book is much different from in the previous installments of The Tome of Bill series. Sally is by no means Bill, as in she’s much more willing to leave behind a trail of bodies than he is. This book held more of the usual tone of a vampire horror novel, but laced with the usual humor Author Rick Gualtieri is so well-known for. Sally is quick to snap someone’s neck and then criticize their shoes. In her own right, Sally is a badass!
Once again I’m blown away by this series, even if this is just a side-story. I am absolutely in love with this world, and am so eager to see how it will all tie together. The ending was a very teasing way to lead into the next book, and it definitely has me ready to jump right back into the world of Bill The Vampire!
Five out of Five stars!
July 25, 2014
Holier Than Thou (The Tome of Bill #4) by Rick Gualtieri
Holier Than Thou (The Tome of Bill #4) by Rick Gualtieri
Synopsis:
Bill Ryder – gamer, geek, and legendary vampire – has woman troubles. The girl he wants is deadly to him. The girl who wants him is deadly to everyone else. He’s trapped in the most lethal love triangle he can imagine and it’s only going to get worse.
On the eve of war, The Icon – ancient foe of the vampire race – has arisen. Panic is about to break out within the undead ranks and Bill is caught smack dab in the middle of it. Destiny has placed them on a cataclysmic collision course, but there’s just one small catch: he’s in love with her.
Now he finds himself in a race against supernatural assassins to save the person who’s fated to destroy him. Talk about being damned if you do…
Unsure of his allies and outnumbered by enemies, Bill must dig deep within himself and find the faith to succeed – because if he fails, it’ll be more than just his social life in tatters.
Review:
Holier Than Thou by Rick Gualtieri is the fourth installment in the The Tome of Bill series, bringing the cataclysmic peril of the third book right up to Bill’s doorstep.
It’s been a month since the third book’s epic cliffhanger, and Bill hasn’t come any closer to solving his dilemma. The Icon – the very woman he’s in love with – has risen and threatens all of vampire kind. Unfortunately, that’s only the beginning of his troubles. The Magi are up in arms over the Icon’s appearance, and an attack on Bill’s coven leaves him and his allies severely lacking in man power. Now he’s gotta figure out how to outrun the vampires, Magi, and a group of religious fanatics straight out of an Indiana Jones movie.
All in all, a normal day for Bill The Vampire.
As the fourth book in the series, The Tome of Bill takes a major character development turn for its main character. Things are getting heavy for Bill, and he’s definitely feeling the stress. “When it rains, it pours” is an apt statement for the theme of this installment. But, despite this, Author Rick Gualtieri maintains his signature wit and humor throughout this novel. It just so happens between those funny scenes there’s some awesome action taking place.
I didn’t think I could sincerely love a series as much as I love this one! I’ve been hooked since page one of book one. I can’t imagine giving up any time soon!
Besides, I’m totally in love with Gan!
Five out of Five stars!
Check out Rick Gualtieri’s website here!
Check out my review for Book 1 here!
Check out my review for Book 2 here!
July 23, 2014
The Mourning Woods (The Tome of Bill #3) by Rick Gualtieri
The Mourning Woods (The Tome of Bill #3) by Rick Gualtieri
Synopsis:
Three words: Vampires versus Sasquatch.
Bill Ryder: undead geek, dateless dweeb, and legendary vampire is back in his wildest adventure yet.
A war is brewing between ancient enemies from the dawn of time. If it can’t be stopped, the veil will be lifted and all of humanity’s darkest nightmares will be unleashed to wreak havoc. Bill and his friends are the only chance we have…Lord help us all!
The vampire nation dispatches Bill to a faraway land to broker peace, but it’s not going to be easy. His enemies want him dead. Hell, some of his allies do too. Danger lurks at every turn and in places where he least expects it.
Now Bill must rely on his friends, master his fledgling powers, and use every four-letter word in his arsenal to stop the war, uncover the conspiracy, and solve the mystery that lies at the heart of the Mourning Woods.
Review:
The Mourning Woods is the third installment in Author Rick Gualtieri’s The Tome of Bill series, pitting nerdy vampire Bill against an enemy that has hated his kind’s undead guts since before his greatest grandfather was born.
Being the third book in the series, there is always some worry that it may be the one to ruin it all – but by no means does this apply to the story of Bill and his gangly group of friends. This book was the final factor in my decision to add this entire series forever in my list of all time favorites.
Bill, although still the snarky smartass that he is, has grown throughout the story. He isn’t just jumping head first into things any more. He takes the time to consider the consequences of his actions, worrying about more than just himself in this book – a departure from the previous novels where he was mostly just trying to survive. The fate of the world has fallen into his lap, much against his will, and he tries valiantly not to screw it up.
Although, he’s still Bill… and what’s Bill if not a bit of a klutz?
The wit and humor are still very much so present that made this book’s predecessors so amazing, and even adds an element of serious drama and worldwide peril. The ending to this novel left me utterly shocked, and I’m clamoring to start reading the next book in Rick Gualtieri’s The Tome of Bill series!
Five out of Five stars!
Check out Rick Gualtieri’s website here!
Check out my review for Book 1 here!
July 22, 2014
Scary Dead Things (The Tome of Bill #2) by Rick Gualtieri
Scary Dead Things (The Tome of Bill #2) by Rick Gualtieri
Synopsis:
There are reasons we fear the night. He STILL isn’t one of them.
Bill Ryder: programmer, gamer, and legendary vampire is back!
Six months have passed since a vampire hottie named Sally dragged him kicking and screaming (but mostly screaming) into the supernatural underworld. Since then he’s found himself hounded by enemies and frustrated by his allies. All that and he still can’t work up the nerve to talk to his dream girl. Little does he know his troubles are just starting.
A chance meeting halfway across the world plunges Bill into more insanity than he can shake a stick at. Now he finds himself a marked man in more ways than one. One of the most powerful immortals in the world wants him dead and an ancient vampire princess wants him for entirely different purposes.
However, that might just be the least of his worries as new and powerful forces have begun to emerge from the shadows around him. Are they friend or foe? Considering Bill’s luck, you can bet on the latter.
Bill’s only hope is to marshal his friends, master his powers, and muster enough attitude to stare down the very worst monsters the world can throw at him.
Can Bill survive and prove once and for all that he’s the scariest dead thing of them all?
Review:
Scary Dead Things by Rick Gualtieri is the second in his Comedy/Supernatural series The Tome of Bill, transitioning vampire Bill’s already ruined, but salvaged life into more chaos.
I’ve heard of the old joke, “just one more chapter” before, but never truly understood it until I started reading this book. I found myself up at six in the morning, exhausted, but very unwilling to put down this book. I finally understand that it isn’t a joke, but an actual thing that happens when you’re drawn into such an amazing book – such as everything I’ve read by Rick Gualtieri so far!
Bill, now the leader of his own coven, has been loaded with a whole new slew of issues. Unable to talk to the girl he’s been crushing on for years, leading a coven of vampires who wouldn’t hesitate to tear his head off, being sent off to China, being hounded by an ancient vampire princess, and being hunted by Chinese vampire assassins… Bill has a lot going on in his un-life.
Once again full of the same wit and humor as the previous novel, Scary Dead Things is a phenomenal read. I couldn’t put this book down for longer than an hour. Bill is my new hero! Except for all the beatings, I would give anything to be in his place!
Rick Gualtieri is quickly becoming one of my top favorite authors with his wit, humor, incredible writing capabilities, and master story telling skills. I bow to this author and his The Tome of Bill series!
Five out of Five stars!
Check out Rick Gualtieri’s website here!
July 19, 2014
Bill The Vampire (The Tome of Bill #1) by Rick Gualtieri
Bill The Vampire (The Tome of Bill #1) by Rick Gualtieri
Synopsis:
There are reasons we fear the night. He isn’t one of them.
Meet Bill Ryder: programmer, gamer geek, and hopeless dweeb when it comes to women. All he ever asked for out of life was to collect his paycheck, hang out with his buds, and eventually (someday) ask out the girl of his dreams.
However, then Bill met Sally. She was mysterious, aggressive, and best of all…smoking hot. Bill never stood a chance. Before he knew what was happening Sally had lead him to his death, and that was only the beginning of his troubles.
Now Bill awakes to find himself an undead predator of the night. The only problem is he’s still at the bottom of the food chain.
He’s in way over his head, surrounded by creatures more dangerous, better looking, and a whole lot cooler than he is. Worst of all is the dreaded Night Razor, a master vampire who just can’t stand him. He gives Bill a 90-day deadline to either prove himself or meet a more permanent kind of death, and the deck is definitely stacked against him.
But Bill isn’t exactly average. A vampire like him hasn’t been seen in over five centuries. He’s got a few tricks up his sleeve, unlikely allies to help him out, and an attitude problem that makes him just too damn obnoxious to quit. He may just pull it off… if he doesn’t get his teeth kicked in first.
Review:
Bill The Vampire is the first in Author Rick Gualtieri’s Supernatural Comedy series The Tome of Bill, setting the stage for newly turned nerd vampire Bill.
Before I begin this review, I have to say this… THIS WAS THE GREATEST VAMPIRE NOVEL I HAVE EVER READ! With the influx of vampire stories lurking around, this was the perfect counter. If this doesn’t get turned into a movie I will give up on Hollywood forever.
Bill Ryder is a video game programmer, spending his days playing games (video, board, and role-playing) and trying to think of ways to get laid. He lives with his two friends Ed and Tom, who are both as equally nerdy and excited at the prospect of having a live vampire as a friend. Their interactions were absolutely perfect, reminding me greatly of me and my own friends. I related to those scenes very well, and I laughed out loud more than once while reading.
After being turned as a part of a game a coven of vampires in SoHo were playing, Bill discovers that he’s a legendary type of vampire that can resist being compelled by the older vampires. He uses this to his advantage, scaring the other, meatier members of his coven to ensure his own safety as a fish in a tank of sharks.
His arsenal includes his roommates, a sexy vampire vixen who loathes him, and the ultimate defense against just about anything: a smartass mouth.
In honesty, I was a little apprehensive while going into this novel. I had read a few vampire satires in the past and, although they could elicit a few laughs here and there, they just couldn’t do it for me. But Bill The Vampire hits the mark with precision. I was captured almost instantly after starting, and only put it down for extreme situations – during which I would itch to get back to reading. By the time I was done reading I thought I’d have to massage my facial muscles out of their near-permanent smile.
Bill The Vampire was a fantastic read! I can’t say it enough. I plan to snatch the next book IMMEDIATELY.
Five out of Five stars!
July 17, 2014
Dear Killer by Katherine Ewell
Dear Killer by Katherine Ewell
Synopsis:
Rule One—Nothing is right, nothing is wrong.
Rule Two—Be careful.
Rule Three—Fight using your legs whenever possible, because they’re the strongest part of your body. Your arms are the weakest.
Rule Four—Hit to kill. The first blow should be the last, if at all possible.
Rule Five—The letters are the law.
Kit takes her role as London’s notorious “Perfect Killer” seriously. The letters and cash that come to her via a secret mailbox are not a game; choosing who to kill is not an impulse decision. Every letter she receives begins with “Dear Killer,” and every time Kit murders, she leaves a letter with the dead body. Her moral nihilism and thus her murders are a way of life—the only way of life she has ever known.
But when a letter appears in the mailbox that will have the power to topple Kit’s convictions as perfectly as she commits her murders, she must make a decision: follow the only rules she has ever known, or challenge Rule One, and go from there.
Review:
Dear Killer by Author Katherine Ewell is a psychological thriller about a seventeen-year-old murderer whose morals are put into question when she deviates from her appointed path.
Kit Ward has been raised to be a murderer by her mother since she was nine years old. She receives letters from people all across London requesting to kill certain people, commissioned to carry out the dark actions these people are too afraid to do themselves. She was taught moral nihilism to cope with her murders, but when she kills outside of her letters she begins to question her existence.
Interesting concept, it truly is, but about 20 percent into the book I felt it took a bit of a dive. The author definitely has talent, the psychological aspect of this novel very well written, but I was disinterested in the development of the story and of Kit’s character. I had wished she stayed as she was in the beginning, but after she kills someone who there was no letter for she begins to change for the worst that didn’t quite fit for how her character was set up. Plus, it was kind of hard to believe she was murdering people at ten years old.
Despite all of this, I think the author has great potential and look forward to seeing her improve in her story telling abilities in the future.
Three out of Five stars!
July 14, 2014
I Love Foreign Films
I Love Foreign Films
I did a post some time ago about my love for Found Footage films, and in that vein I thought I’d share yet another type of movie that I greatly enjoy.
Foreign films.
When I say “foreign” I, of course, mean movies that are not made for Americans – i.e. not in English. Growing up I loved watching Anime, always watching the dubbed version of their popular shows such as Dragonball Z and Yu-Gi-Oh. When I got older I stopped watching the dubbed versions of these shows and learned to read the subtitles as fast as they come. From that I found myself attracted to live-action movies; ones that are not (always) adapted from a manga comic. Movies such as Battle Royale, Kung-Fu Hustle, The History Boys, Trollhunter, The Raid, and, most recently, The Raid 2.
I’ve watched and enjoyed movies from many different countries. Britain, Japan, Indonesia, China, and so on. As an American, I’ve noticed not many others in my circle watch these types of films and it saddens me. They’re so limited in their cinematic pleasure. Movies are fantastic, no matter where they come from. Sometimes watching a foreign film spices things up, because it’s a small window into seeing another culture’s idea of entertainment – which, I’ve taken notice, is not really all that different.
People who know me will assume I’m mostly talking about Foreign Horror, but that’s not necessarily true. I enjoy all types of foreign films. Comedy, Action, Romance… and yes, of course, Horror as well. But not every movie I watch is a horror flick, I swear!
One film in particular that I find to be interesting is Paris, je t’aime (Paris, I Love You). It’s an anthology film that is filled with multiple short films that take place in different arrondissements, or “districts.” This film has an ensemble cast full of actors and actress from all over the world. People such as Elijah Wood, Bob Hoskins, Olga Kurylenko, Natalie Portman, Maggie Gyllenhaal, and Steve Buscemi. Those are just some of the most famous names. This movie is chock full of actors, each one as unique as the last. I find it a fascinating film because it spans all genres. My favorite one in particular is the one titled Quartier de la Madeleine (Madeleine District), which stars Elijah Wood and Olga Kurylenko. It’s about an American tourist who stumbles into a female vampire’s feeding. Entranced by her beauty, he tries to garner her attention, only for it to backfire in the best possible way.
Foreign Films are absolutely fantastic in every way. Whether you’re more into comedy, romance, action, horror (like myself), adventure, found footage, intellectual, fantasy, or any other genre of film: I’m certain you can find a magnificent film that just so happens to not be in English.
-Michael
July 8, 2014
Just A Taste (Romance Collection) by Rene Folsom
Just A Taste (Romance Collection) by Rene Folsom
Synopsis:
Just a Taste is a stunning sampler featuring four of Rene’s titles ranging from novellas to full length novels that will begin your journey into the worlds of romance. Everyone loves a good tease every now and then, but just a taste can drive anyone wild.
Shuttered Affections (Cornerstone #1) – Romantic suspense full-length novel and book one of two in the Cornerstone Series
Juliana Petersen’s troubled past haunts her at every turn, leading her to retreat and settle into a quaint college town, fleeing her old life to begin anew. Then one day, her new photography professor crashes into her life, blurring the line between love and lust. As their torrid affair reaches untold heights, Juliana struggles to keep her shuttered emotions, and growing affections, from throwing her into a relationship she isn’t prepared for. With her newfound romance blinding her from the looming shadows of her past, her nightmares become reality, and she is forced to discover her true strength within.
Voices of the Soul (Soul Seers #1) – Paranormal romance novella and book one of six in the Soul Seers Series
Throughout her entire life, Ella has heard voices. Voices inside her head. She’s never given much thought as to why she has this gift… or this curse, depending on which way you look at it. It’s not until she meets the mysterious Jonah that she begins to question her inherited abilities as a Soul Seer. Learning to deal with loss and love, Ella manages to live a seemingly normal life… or so she thought.
Heart You (Roommate Romance #1) – Erotic short story and the first standalone installment in the Roommate Romance Series
Have you ever wanted something you know you shouldn’t? That forbidden fruit. A temptation that will surely lead you down the path of illicit indulgence, and ultimately, pleasure beyond your wildest imaginations. That was the daily torture Samantha put herself through when she thought of her roommate, Kara. Sitting alone on Valentine’s Day, Sam found comfort in sharing her innermost secrets with her trusty journal while lusting over the brown-eyed goddess. At least until Kara comes home with a sizzling hot man and a night full of naughty games that would even make cupid blush.
Bind Me (Roommate Romance #2) – Erotic short story and the second standalone installment in the Roommate Romance Series
Lily had a suspicion her new roommate was the type to always take control, no matter what the situation. It wasn’t until she accidentally peeked in on Chaz dominating another woman, that her suspicions were realized. After witnessing his sexual expertise from a distance and noticing the careful attention he gives to his lovers, Lily wanted nothing more than to have his hands sculpt every inch of her body. To her excitement, Chaz invites Lily to his prestigious art show opening at a local gallery. All it takes is a slinky dress, a pair of kitten heels, and a tiny scrap of lace to drive Chaz wild, causing some very heated moments.
Review:
This is a hot, steamy collection of Rene Folsom’s fantastic works ranging from the beginning in her series of novels, the starter for her serials, and two short stories. Each one of these stories are marvelous, and deserve credit in their own right!
SHUTTERED AFFECTIONS (Cornerstone Series #1)
Before I start my review, I just want to quickly say that this book is meant for mature audiences only and contains explicit sexual content not meant for children. If you’re an adult though, pick this book up NOW.
I’ve stated before that I’m not one who is big into erotica and explicit romance novels, but Author Rene Folsom pulls off yet another exception to that rule for me with her first full length novel Shuttered Affections.
This novel starts off with a scene we ALL know of: trying to find a parking space. It’s truly a frustrating thing to do, and reading it as the beginning of this novel was the first sign that I’d definitely enjoy it. Juliana Peterson was just trying to get to class on time, but thanks to a mysterious parking thief she becomes late. Walking into the classroom she finds that the man who took her spot is her new photography teacher and it’s love/hate at first sight. What follows is a struggle for Juliana, who has been burned before by past relationships that continue to haunt her. She must decide to take the chance with her new sexy teacher or let the chance of a life time pass by.
Rene Folsom is truly a master of writing scenes full of passion. Even I, someone who usually finds the romance genre to be overly done a lot, have to nod in appreciation of Rene Folsom’s talent. I couldn’t help but blush during certain scenes in this novel, and that’s saying something!
Overall, a wonderful read! I seriously recommend this to everyone who enjoys the genre!
VOICES OF THE SOUL (Soul Seers #1)
This is a novella, so, of course, I can’t go too far into explaining the plot of this story without chancing a spoiler. So I’ll keep this review simple.
The story begins with Orella “Ella” Hugh basically explaining her life thus far and how she can hear voices inside her head. When an accident takes her mother, she must learn to survive mostly on her own. Six years later, she meets a man named Jonah who shares her abilities. The two have an instant connection; a rapport that bonds them from the moment they locked eyes. Ella finds that Jonah might be her salvation…or is he?
This story is very steamy, delving into the mind of a rather repressed girl who’s been hiding her true gift her whole life. When she meets someone who she can share her true thoughts with, things start to look up finally. But, of course, there’s a major twist that sends Orella’s perspective of her world into the ground.
Descriptive, witty, and definitely intriguing: Voices Of The Soul by Rene Folsom is a definite read! The first in a long line of novella’s that are worth to attention!
HEART YOU
As stated before, this story is not my usual cup of tea. I’m not normally one to read any kind of erotica, not for any particular reason other than it’s just not my preference. But after having read Heart You by Rene Folsom I was absolutely blown away!
Rene’s ability to create a picture is astounding. Each scene is steamy, flowing from one point to the next fluidly. These characters are very much alive, each touch and kiss worth something. This isn’t just some random smut story, this is the MASTER of all smut stories. Rene Folsom’s writing style is brilliant, each line bringing new depth to the scene unfolding in front of you. I normally don’t like erotica stories, but the ones done by Rene Folsom are an exception!
BIND ME
Once again Rene Folsom proves to be a master of erotica with her second entry into the Roommate Romance series (the first entry being Heart You). Bind Me is the story of a woman who lusts after her roommate who proves to be a master of pleasure. Finally achieving what she has striven for, she undergoes a night she will never forget.
I’m once again brought to mention how I don’t normally enjoy or partake in smut-driven stories, but Rene Folsom has a way with words that makes me forget my usual indifference towards erotica. Her style is very fluent, brilliantly written and out right mind-blowing in her descriptions. The depth this author has brought to her stories has me jealous of her skill. She pens each of her stories with finesse, bringing the characters to life in ways others could not. Rene Folsom definitely has a fan when it comes to me!
OVERALL
This is an amazing collection of stories, starting strong with Mrs. Folsom’s first full length novel and ending on a high note with one of her steamy short reads that leaves you absolutely satisfied (pun completely intended.)
You’re doing yourself a disservice if you don’t pick this up IMMEDIATELY!
Five out of Five stars!
July 6, 2014
The Dark Wife by Sarah Diemer
The Dark Wife by Sarah Diemer
Synopsis:
Three thousand years ago, a god told a lie. Now, only a goddess can tell the truth.
Persephone has everything a daughter of Zeus could want–except for freedom. She lives on the green earth with her mother, Demeter, growing up beneath the ever-watchful eyes of the gods and goddesses on Mount Olympus. But when Persephone meets the enigmatic Hades, she experiences something new: choice. Zeus calls Hades “lord” of the dead as a joke. In truth, Hades is the goddess of the underworld, and no friend of Zeus. She offers Persephone sanctuary in her land of the dead, so the young goddess may escape her Olympian destiny. But Persephone finds more than freedom in the underworld. She finds love, and herself.
Review:
The Dark Wife by Sarah Diemer is a new twist on the age-old story of Hades and Persephone, the Greek Gods believed to be the “King” and Queen of the Underworld.
Out of all the stories from the Greek mythology about the Gods of Mount Olympus, the myth of Hades and Persephone had always been my favorite. The Lord of the Underworld takes the daughter of the Goddess Demeter to be his wife, marking her as the Queen of the Underworld. But, in this novel, things happen a bit… differently.
Hades is a woman, and is by no means what we perceive her to be. She is the light, the kind ruler of the dead. Persephone is the first to see this, the first to acknowledge Hades for who she truly is. A love more powerful than time itself forms between the two Goddesses, and not even the cruelty of Zeus can tear them apart.
In recent months I have found myself fond of re-tellings of classic stories. When I discovered this one, a new version of my favorite Greek tale, I knew I had to read it. And although it was slow to start, a bit weak in its opening (which is why I give this a four star and not the glorious five-star the rest of the novel is) this story was beautiful and heart-warming. All the way to the end I was rooting for Persephone, feeling her pain and strife. When Hades comes into her life, peace and love is finally found. I nearly wept at the end, at the sheer beauty the author was able to produce. The ending was perfect in every way, and I was left wanting nothing more.
Four out of Five stars!
