A. Renee Hunt's Blog, page 8
May 13, 2019
The Difference Between Mars and Venus
A Novel by Iman B. Williams 
I have never been one for chaotic drama. When it ones to romance, I need some death, an alien invasion, maybe even a monster or two, with the male and female surviving and kissing before a sunset! Yeah- now that’s love, baby! But that doesn’t happen in The Difference Between Mars and Venus. Oh no.
In this book, you have chaos, drama and a healthy dose of insanity- what’s wrong with these people!? #element-649ff278-64f8-4cca-85bc-f222907b7219 .waddons-blog-image.hideImage { display: none;}
The Difference Between Mars and Venus, by Imani B. Williams, is the bringing together of Composition 4 (C4) and a specialized, military-grade remote detonator, held by a raged rhesus monkey and a hydra. Oh, I’m sorry- Valerie and Maxwell. These individuals are dealing with highly emotionally, medicine-controlled (or not) issues. They’re unstable, they’re annoying to themselves and others, yet they do their best to handle it all like a BOSS. Well, one does anyway.
When they decide to see one another, neither expect a rash of frenzied emotions to dominate their lives, especially when it comes to dealing with each other’s secrets. Secrets that can actually bring physical damage if ignored.
My feelings concerning The Difference Between Mars and Venus were conflicting, so much that I spoke with the author for almost two hours! We laughed at Valerie’s issues and how she dealt with things and we couldn't even get over Maxwell! When an author writes in a way where you become angry with the characters, they’ve done their job. This book had me putting it down and picking it back up on more than one occasion. I wasn’t sure how to feel!
The book got beneath my skin to the point I could have walked into the book, up to the characters to smacked them silly! And the ending- Oh... My... Goodness! Why? After all the crap they went through, for something like what happened to take place? I was like, “No!”
The Difference Between Mars and Venus is a bi-polarized, impassioned bumper car ride. Nothing about the tale is smooth and easy, so don’t think you’ll be reading something mellow. Also, it is not full of hot, raunchy sex that steals from the story. There’s taste, thank goodness, because if they were nasty... Boom!
Anyway, grab a copy of The Difference Between Mars and Venus when you can, then be nice to the author by sharing a review on Goodreads and Amazon. It’s the right thing to do. I’m off to the next read. Cheers!
The Difference Between Mars and Venus
Written by Iman B. Williams
I have never been one for chaotic drama. When it ones to romance, I need some death, an alien invasion, maybe even a monster or two, with the male and female surviving and kissing before a sunset! Yeah- now that’s love, baby! But that doesn’t happen in The Difference Between Mars and Venus. Oh no.In this book, you have chaos, drama and a healthy dose of insanity- what’s wrong with these people!? #element-649ff278-64f8-4cca-85bc-f222907b7219 .waddons-blog-image.hideImage { display: none;}
The Difference Between Mars and Venus, by Imani B. Williams, is the bringing together of Composition 4 (C4) and a specialized, military-grade remote detonator, held by a raged rhesus monkey and a hydra. Oh, I’m sorry- Valerie and Maxwell. These individuals are dealing with highly emotionally, medicine-controlled (or not) issues. They’re unstable, they’re annoying to themselves and others, yet they do their best to handle it all like a BOSS. Well, one does anyway.When they decide to see one another, neither expect a rash of frenzied emotions to dominate their lives, especially when it comes to dealing with each other’s secrets. Secrets that can actually bring physical damage if ignored.
My feelings concerning The Difference Between Mars and Venus were conflicting, so much that I spoke with the author for almost two hours! We laughed at Valerie’s issues and how she dealt with things and we couldn't even get over Maxwell! When an author writes in a way where you become angry with the characters, they’ve done their job. This book had me putting it down and picking it back up on more than one occasion. I wasn’t sure how to feel!
The book got beneath my skin to the point I could have walked into the book, up to the characters to smacked them silly! And the ending- Oh... My... Goodness! Why? After all the crap they went through, for something like what happened to take place? I was like, “No!”
The Difference Between Mars and Venus is a bi-polarized, impassioned bumper car ride. Nothing about the tale is smooth and easy, so don’t think you’ll be reading something mellow. Also, it is not full of hot, raunchy sex that steals from the story. There’s taste, thank goodness, because if they were nasty... Boom!
Anyway, grab a copy of The Difference Between Mars and Venus when you can, then be nice to the author by sharing a review on Goodreads and Amazon. It’s the right thing to do. I’m off to the next read. Cheers!
The Difference Between Mars and Venus
Written by Iman B. Williams
May 8, 2019
Slumber
Netflix Movie Review 
Another Netflix movie captured my attention. Slumber carried lore that's been pretty popular in previous movies, due to the condition of sleep paralysis and the dreadful Old Hag that sits on your chest. Mostly, I enjoyed it because my current novel has something similar going on- but I digress...
Did Slumber make an impact with me, or did it fizzle into darkness? #element-0502eaa3-6eda-48ef-8122-36fd8e1ae2b3 .waddons-blog-image.hideImage { display: none;}
The story’s about a family, plagued with sleeping walking, sleep destruction and more. They go to see a specialist and agree to undergo a sleep study. When they’re observed, something spectacular explodes across the scene and no one knows what to do to help. The results bring on danger for everyone involved, even the observing scientists! What takes place is unnerving but you can't look away.
The movie is actually a pretty cool watch. It’s not a deep, emotional movie, but it’s creep factor can only lead to one conclusion. Sadly, not everyone comes away safe and sound. It’s one of those movies where you don't really want to know what happens to them. But honestly, you know before it takes place. Sucks, but You Know.
Slumber builds to a crescendo that would makes you think the ending’s going to be a fabulous crash. But it's not. So, as far as entertaining, it was a three point five star movie. Well worth watching, but just know it's not a five. Regardless, be ready for a nightmarish ride.
I’m off to the next read. Cheers! Slumber
Written by Richard Hobley and Jonathan Hopkins
Directed by Jonathan Hopkins
Stars Maggie Q., Will Kemp and Sophia Wiseman
Another Netflix movie captured my attention. Slumber carried lore that's been pretty popular in previous movies, due to the condition of sleep paralysis and the dreadful Old Hag that sits on your chest. Mostly, I enjoyed it because my current novel has something similar going on- but I digress...Did Slumber make an impact with me, or did it fizzle into darkness? #element-0502eaa3-6eda-48ef-8122-36fd8e1ae2b3 .waddons-blog-image.hideImage { display: none;}
The story’s about a family, plagued with sleeping walking, sleep destruction and more. They go to see a specialist and agree to undergo a sleep study. When they’re observed, something spectacular explodes across the scene and no one knows what to do to help. The results bring on danger for everyone involved, even the observing scientists! What takes place is unnerving but you can't look away. The movie is actually a pretty cool watch. It’s not a deep, emotional movie, but it’s creep factor can only lead to one conclusion. Sadly, not everyone comes away safe and sound. It’s one of those movies where you don't really want to know what happens to them. But honestly, you know before it takes place. Sucks, but You Know.
Slumber builds to a crescendo that would makes you think the ending’s going to be a fabulous crash. But it's not. So, as far as entertaining, it was a three point five star movie. Well worth watching, but just know it's not a five. Regardless, be ready for a nightmarish ride.
I’m off to the next read. Cheers! Slumber
Written by Richard Hobley and Jonathan Hopkins
Directed by Jonathan Hopkins
Stars Maggie Q., Will Kemp and Sophia Wiseman
May 7, 2019
God of War 2
Audiobook by Robert E. Vardeman
Narrated by Peter Berkrot
I’ve loved reading Grecian mythology since elementary school. The magic, the giants, the power, all hailing down from Mt. Olympus- I wanted to be a part of it all. I grew up on Hercules movies, tales of Atlantis, and more, so when I began seeing the game commercials for God of War, I wanted to know what it was all about.
It was the commercial with Ellie Goulding singing, Kratos standing atop a large hill, warriors gazing up at him, in ready for battle, that got me. I know you all know it! ( https://youtu.be/1aDhfTGkLTg ) It’s awesome and from then on, I wanted to know the story. When I saw the books, I jumped aboard, but as stated in yesterday's review, I’m a sucky gamer. I can only sit back and watch. The books, on the other hand, gave me a front row seat. God of War, book 1 was amazing. So how was book 2...? This is God of War 2 #element-66037669-bfb8-4614-852c-04de0b130a6d .waddons-blog-image.hideImage { display: none;}
Book two of the GoW franchise was written by Robert E. Vardeman. I don’t know if its just me or what, but this book didn’t seem to fall in line with book one at all. The families were different, with him angered by the loss of his wife and daughter, like the video commercial. In book one, Kratos had lost his wife and was doing his best to survive while raising his son, Atreus. The coloring of his skin was explained as well, leaving me to wonder if book two was actually the actions that preceded book one. You know? Either way, I have to say, book one was better.
This one was great, with Kratos doing his best to exact revenge on the gods, but everyone was stupid. Even Zeus! I’m so used to him being so much better, and mischievous more than paranoid. Since Kratos was returned to the life of a mortal, it was hard for him to get back to those who’d conspired against him. Together, with the Titans, he fights to use the knowledge of The Fates, to get them all back and live the rest of his days in what can only be viewed as peace.
I liked what I read but it just wasn’t the same as the first book. I was entertained because who doesn’t love non-stop action? This one just didn’t do it for me, like book one. Maybe it was the narrator. Berkrot’s got nothing on Alastair Duncan and his amazing accent.
If you’re in to the game franchise, you’ll like this story. Unless you already know it from playing the game. As for me, I’m moving on to the next read. Cheers!
God of War 2
Written by Robert E. Vardeman
Del Rey Publishing & Audible Studios
Narrated by Peter Berkrot
Runtime: 10h 22m
Released January 2000
Narrated by Peter Berkrot
I’ve loved reading Grecian mythology since elementary school. The magic, the giants, the power, all hailing down from Mt. Olympus- I wanted to be a part of it all. I grew up on Hercules movies, tales of Atlantis, and more, so when I began seeing the game commercials for God of War, I wanted to know what it was all about.It was the commercial with Ellie Goulding singing, Kratos standing atop a large hill, warriors gazing up at him, in ready for battle, that got me. I know you all know it! ( https://youtu.be/1aDhfTGkLTg ) It’s awesome and from then on, I wanted to know the story. When I saw the books, I jumped aboard, but as stated in yesterday's review, I’m a sucky gamer. I can only sit back and watch. The books, on the other hand, gave me a front row seat. God of War, book 1 was amazing. So how was book 2...? This is God of War 2 #element-66037669-bfb8-4614-852c-04de0b130a6d .waddons-blog-image.hideImage { display: none;}
Book two of the GoW franchise was written by Robert E. Vardeman. I don’t know if its just me or what, but this book didn’t seem to fall in line with book one at all. The families were different, with him angered by the loss of his wife and daughter, like the video commercial. In book one, Kratos had lost his wife and was doing his best to survive while raising his son, Atreus. The coloring of his skin was explained as well, leaving me to wonder if book two was actually the actions that preceded book one. You know? Either way, I have to say, book one was better.This one was great, with Kratos doing his best to exact revenge on the gods, but everyone was stupid. Even Zeus! I’m so used to him being so much better, and mischievous more than paranoid. Since Kratos was returned to the life of a mortal, it was hard for him to get back to those who’d conspired against him. Together, with the Titans, he fights to use the knowledge of The Fates, to get them all back and live the rest of his days in what can only be viewed as peace.
I liked what I read but it just wasn’t the same as the first book. I was entertained because who doesn’t love non-stop action? This one just didn’t do it for me, like book one. Maybe it was the narrator. Berkrot’s got nothing on Alastair Duncan and his amazing accent.
If you’re in to the game franchise, you’ll like this story. Unless you already know it from playing the game. As for me, I’m moving on to the next read. Cheers!
God of War 2
Written by Robert E. Vardeman
Del Rey Publishing & Audible Studios
Narrated by Peter Berkrot
Runtime: 10h 22m
Released January 2000
May 6, 2019
God of War
The Official Novelization to the game
Written by J.M. Barlog and Narrated by Alastair Duncan
I have always been a fan of the God of War games. Not because I play them, but because I love how the commercials portray the story. I’m not a gamer, but I love watching people play. Listening to this audiobook helped me understand so much more about Kratos and his son, Atreus, but also granted me a greater appreciate for Norse mythology and for some of the best freaking game commercials out there.
This is God of War. #element-f949bfe6-3f6c-4054-bf6e-a1904bcd3b88 .waddons-blog-image.hideImage { display: none;}
Before I go into the book, I must first state, Alastair Duncan has a fantastical voice! Perfect for narration and an accent that was totally dreamy! He brought the characters alive with different voices, grunts and even monsters speaking dead languages. Done.
Okay, Kratos used to live atop Mount Olympus. Not anymore. Now he’s a man, with a son. He’s also a widower, his wife having recently passed on. So he and his son are given a mission, to spread her ashes from the highest peak. Sadly that peak is in a land across a border he’d been protected from. Fay, his dead wife, had a spell cast that blocked his presence in Midgard, but once it fell, anything and everyone knew where to find him.
Truths became secret, secrets were kept and hypocrites abound. Everywhere they turn, various creatures attack them, due to it now being open season on the head of Kratos. The spell that had once protected him, placed a mark or bounty on both their heads. But who’s marked them? Who wants them dead and why?
God of War is non-stop action. From the very first battle, beginning at his home, in his garden to crossing into other realms, speaking to giant serpents in ancient languages- all while teaching his son how to survive in a dangerous world. A world of Norse creatures like Hel-Walkers, Jörmungandr, blue dwarves and more. You can see them all in illustrations on the God of War Wiki, here .
The story is great mythology. I didn’t know there are rules to being a god. I even learned the names of the Fates. It made for great, educational adventure. Especially since I’d only known Ares as the god of war. So when I kept hearing them call Kratos by that moniker, I was confused. Thankfully, it clarifies as the story progresses. But does it really?
If you like to read about gods, dwarves, revenge, family and dedication- Oh, and monsters, God of War is perfect. I liked it because it just piled on the action, never leaving me bored. And as I mentioned earlier, Duncan is storyteller superb. Cheers!
God of War
By J.M. Barlog
Narrated by Alastair Duncan
Audible Audio
9 h 46m
Released August 2018
Written by J.M. Barlog and Narrated by Alastair Duncan
I have always been a fan of the God of War games. Not because I play them, but because I love how the commercials portray the story. I’m not a gamer, but I love watching people play. Listening to this audiobook helped me understand so much more about Kratos and his son, Atreus, but also granted me a greater appreciate for Norse mythology and for some of the best freaking game commercials out there.This is God of War. #element-f949bfe6-3f6c-4054-bf6e-a1904bcd3b88 .waddons-blog-image.hideImage { display: none;}
Before I go into the book, I must first state, Alastair Duncan has a fantastical voice! Perfect for narration and an accent that was totally dreamy! He brought the characters alive with different voices, grunts and even monsters speaking dead languages. Done.Okay, Kratos used to live atop Mount Olympus. Not anymore. Now he’s a man, with a son. He’s also a widower, his wife having recently passed on. So he and his son are given a mission, to spread her ashes from the highest peak. Sadly that peak is in a land across a border he’d been protected from. Fay, his dead wife, had a spell cast that blocked his presence in Midgard, but once it fell, anything and everyone knew where to find him.
Truths became secret, secrets were kept and hypocrites abound. Everywhere they turn, various creatures attack them, due to it now being open season on the head of Kratos. The spell that had once protected him, placed a mark or bounty on both their heads. But who’s marked them? Who wants them dead and why?
God of War is non-stop action. From the very first battle, beginning at his home, in his garden to crossing into other realms, speaking to giant serpents in ancient languages- all while teaching his son how to survive in a dangerous world. A world of Norse creatures like Hel-Walkers, Jörmungandr, blue dwarves and more. You can see them all in illustrations on the God of War Wiki, here .
The story is great mythology. I didn’t know there are rules to being a god. I even learned the names of the Fates. It made for great, educational adventure. Especially since I’d only known Ares as the god of war. So when I kept hearing them call Kratos by that moniker, I was confused. Thankfully, it clarifies as the story progresses. But does it really?
If you like to read about gods, dwarves, revenge, family and dedication- Oh, and monsters, God of War is perfect. I liked it because it just piled on the action, never leaving me bored. And as I mentioned earlier, Duncan is storyteller superb. Cheers!
God of War
By J.M. Barlog
Narrated by Alastair Duncan
Audible Audio
9 h 46m
Released August 2018
May 1, 2019
DumpliN
An Audionovel by Julie Murphy
Narrated by Eileen Stevens
I kept hearing about Dumplin this and Dumplin that! You gotta watch Dumplin on Netflix! But I refused to watch it till I'd read the book. So I grabbed the audio version and dived right in. What did I think about the story that seems to have taken everyone by storm? Keep reading! #element-1fb1c9c8-5342-499c-8457-36eea1c0d6df .waddons-blog-image.hideImage { display: none;}
First, I have to say Eileen Stevens was perfect for voicing these characters. Her voice made each character come to life. I loved hearing the country twang, and change of voices. I even liked hearing Bo call out, "Willow Dean!" every time. It was cute.
Though there's a lot to speak on in this novel, but I can't really dive right in without giving things away. It's about a girl who wants to comfortable in her own skin, but it's hard when the one who fat shames her the most is her own mother. People who were cruel had known Willow forever, so that wasn't really a big deal for the book. You see, it's not about shaming and being embarrassed for being overweight. It's much, much more. It's about accepting the challenge of turning the square challenges of the world into... circles? Yeah, that's good. Let's run with that.
It's also about taking a chance on love. Accepting that, as a big girl, she not only can be loved by someone handsome and considerate, but that she also deserves it. But there's a ton of complexity here, because I felt some of the true purpose of Dumplin was lost. Sorry gang, I can't tell you why without giving a bit away. The story is good and witty and full of realism. But it's also a bit disappointing, since I was expecting something more. Something bigger than what I received.
Afterwards, I asked a friend of mine about a few things and she had no clue what I was talking about. I was shocked, because to me, it was a major event that should have been shared in the movie! Have you watched the movie yet? If you've both seen and read the book, let me know your thoughts. I don't think I'm going to watch it now.
Don't get me wrong, the book's okay, but not as good as I'd hoped. As a matter of fact, I returned my copy of Puddiń, the follow up book, because it doesn't pick up where the first left off. It's not even about Willow Dean! Oh well. You can see for yourself. Who knows; I may check it out on Netflix...
Cheers!
Dumplin
Written by Julie Murphy
Narrated by Eileen Stevens
Published by Balzer & Bray
Audible Audiobooks
Released September 2015
Runtime: 9h 2m
Narrated by Eileen Stevens
I kept hearing about Dumplin this and Dumplin that! You gotta watch Dumplin on Netflix! But I refused to watch it till I'd read the book. So I grabbed the audio version and dived right in. What did I think about the story that seems to have taken everyone by storm? Keep reading! #element-1fb1c9c8-5342-499c-8457-36eea1c0d6df .waddons-blog-image.hideImage { display: none;}
First, I have to say Eileen Stevens was perfect for voicing these characters. Her voice made each character come to life. I loved hearing the country twang, and change of voices. I even liked hearing Bo call out, "Willow Dean!" every time. It was cute.Though there's a lot to speak on in this novel, but I can't really dive right in without giving things away. It's about a girl who wants to comfortable in her own skin, but it's hard when the one who fat shames her the most is her own mother. People who were cruel had known Willow forever, so that wasn't really a big deal for the book. You see, it's not about shaming and being embarrassed for being overweight. It's much, much more. It's about accepting the challenge of turning the square challenges of the world into... circles? Yeah, that's good. Let's run with that.
It's also about taking a chance on love. Accepting that, as a big girl, she not only can be loved by someone handsome and considerate, but that she also deserves it. But there's a ton of complexity here, because I felt some of the true purpose of Dumplin was lost. Sorry gang, I can't tell you why without giving a bit away. The story is good and witty and full of realism. But it's also a bit disappointing, since I was expecting something more. Something bigger than what I received.
Afterwards, I asked a friend of mine about a few things and she had no clue what I was talking about. I was shocked, because to me, it was a major event that should have been shared in the movie! Have you watched the movie yet? If you've both seen and read the book, let me know your thoughts. I don't think I'm going to watch it now.
Don't get me wrong, the book's okay, but not as good as I'd hoped. As a matter of fact, I returned my copy of Puddiń, the follow up book, because it doesn't pick up where the first left off. It's not even about Willow Dean! Oh well. You can see for yourself. Who knows; I may check it out on Netflix...
Cheers!
Dumplin
Written by Julie Murphy
Narrated by Eileen Stevens
Published by Balzer & Bray
Audible Audiobooks
Released September 2015
Runtime: 9h 2m
Dumpliń
An Audionovel by Julie Murphy
Narrated by Eileen Stevens I kept hearing about Dumplin this and Dumplin that! You gotta watch Dumplin on Netflix! But I refused to watch it till I'd read the book. So I grabbed the audio version and dived right in. What did I think about the story that seems to have taken everyone by storm? Keep reading! #element-1fb1c9c8-5342-499c-8457-36eea1c0d6df .waddons-blog-image.hideImage { display: none;}
First, I have to say Eileen Stevens was perfect for voicing these characters. Her voice made each character come to life. I loved hearing the country twang, and change of voices. I even liked hearing Bo call out, "Willow Dean!" every time. It was cute.
Though there's a lot to speak on in this novel, but I can't really dive right in without giving things away. It's about a girl who wants to comfortable in her own skin, but it's hard when the one who fat shames her the most is her own mother. People who were cruel had known Willow forever, so that wasn't really a big deal for the book. You see, it's not about shaming and being embarrassed for being overweight. It's much, much more. It's about accepting the challenge of turning the square challenges of the world into... circles? Yeah, that's good. Let's run with that.
It's also about taking a chance on love. Accepting that, as a big girl, she not only can be loved by someone handsome and considerate, but that she also deserves it. But there's a ton of complexity here, because I felt some of the true purpose of Dumplin was lost. Sorry gang, I can't tell you why without giving a bit away. The story is good and witty and full of realism. But it's also a bit disappointing, since I was expecting something more. Something bigger than what I received.
Afterwards, I asked a friend of mine about a few things and she had no clue what I was talking about. I was shocked, because to me, it was a major event that should have been shared in the movie! Have you watched the movie yet? If you've both seen and read the book, let me know your thoughts. I don't think I'm going to watch it now.
Don't get me wrong, the book's okay, but not as good as I'd hoped. As a matter of fact, I returned my copy of Puddiń, the follow up book, because it doesn't pick up where the first left off. It's not even about Willow Dean! Oh well. You can see for yourself. Who knows; I may check it out on Netflix...
Cheers!
Dumplin
Written by Julie Murphy
Narrated by Eileen Stevens
Published by Balzer & Bray
Audible Audiobooks
Released September 2015
Runtime: 9h 2m
Narrated by Eileen Stevens
I kept hearing about Dumplin this and Dumplin that! You gotta watch Dumplin on Netflix! But I refused to watch it till I'd read the book. So I grabbed the audio version and dived right in. What did I think about the story that seems to have taken everyone by storm? Keep reading! #element-1fb1c9c8-5342-499c-8457-36eea1c0d6df .waddons-blog-image.hideImage { display: none;}
First, I have to say Eileen Stevens was perfect for voicing these characters. Her voice made each character come to life. I loved hearing the country twang, and change of voices. I even liked hearing Bo call out, "Willow Dean!" every time. It was cute.Though there's a lot to speak on in this novel, but I can't really dive right in without giving things away. It's about a girl who wants to comfortable in her own skin, but it's hard when the one who fat shames her the most is her own mother. People who were cruel had known Willow forever, so that wasn't really a big deal for the book. You see, it's not about shaming and being embarrassed for being overweight. It's much, much more. It's about accepting the challenge of turning the square challenges of the world into... circles? Yeah, that's good. Let's run with that.
It's also about taking a chance on love. Accepting that, as a big girl, she not only can be loved by someone handsome and considerate, but that she also deserves it. But there's a ton of complexity here, because I felt some of the true purpose of Dumplin was lost. Sorry gang, I can't tell you why without giving a bit away. The story is good and witty and full of realism. But it's also a bit disappointing, since I was expecting something more. Something bigger than what I received.
Afterwards, I asked a friend of mine about a few things and she had no clue what I was talking about. I was shocked, because to me, it was a major event that should have been shared in the movie! Have you watched the movie yet? If you've both seen and read the book, let me know your thoughts. I don't think I'm going to watch it now.
Don't get me wrong, the book's okay, but not as good as I'd hoped. As a matter of fact, I returned my copy of Puddiń, the follow up book, because it doesn't pick up where the first left off. It's not even about Willow Dean! Oh well. You can see for yourself. Who knows; I may check it out on Netflix...
Cheers!
Dumplin
Written by Julie Murphy
Narrated by Eileen Stevens
Published by Balzer & Bray
Audible Audiobooks
Released September 2015
Runtime: 9h 2m
April 30, 2019
Second Hand Curses
An Amazing Audio-tale by Drew Hayes 
I thought I was taking a chance on Second Hand Curses, by Drew Hayes, but instead, I found myself wondering why I'd never found the book before! It was free, funny, and so original in its storyline that I am hoping there will be more. Many more! #element-f61cc42d-daa7-42eb-8f17-96742bd8cd29 .waddons-blog-image.hideImage { display: none;}
Second Hand Curses is freaking hilarious! It's a book of three books. Sorta. It's about three characters who take on a type of Robin Hood business, but they collect payment. And instead of robbing the rich to give to the poor, they help those who've been plagued by curse, trick or bamboozle.
Jack, the leader is known for jumping candlesticks, planting beanstalks and killing giants. His friends call themselves the Bastard Champions, but they find their gallant rescues and more are leading to one source: THE fairy godmother of the land. She's been up to no good for a long time, and they aim to stop her. But the closer they get to her, the further away she appears to be. It's like she's two steps ahead of every move they make!. Are they chasing her or being lured?
This book is so darned funny. I loved it from the very beginning, when Cinderella is admitting to the Bastard Champions that she'd ben fooled by her bippity boppity boo'ing god mother. When they help her, they find they need to help someone else. And so on, until they realize they have to go to a distant land in order to finally get what they want.
Second Hand Curses was left open for a follow up book and I'm so ready to read it. It's silly, but the way it was written, and the use of character voices made it even more adventurous. I love audio dramas and this is one for my library. I won't ever grow tired of this one. Check it out for yourself and let me know what you think.
Cheers!
Second Hand Curses
Written by Drew Hayes
Narrated by Scott Aiello, Marc Vietor and Tavia Gilbert
Published by Audible Originals
Released November 2017
Runtime: 9 h
I thought I was taking a chance on Second Hand Curses, by Drew Hayes, but instead, I found myself wondering why I'd never found the book before! It was free, funny, and so original in its storyline that I am hoping there will be more. Many more! #element-f61cc42d-daa7-42eb-8f17-96742bd8cd29 .waddons-blog-image.hideImage { display: none;}
Second Hand Curses is freaking hilarious! It's a book of three books. Sorta. It's about three characters who take on a type of Robin Hood business, but they collect payment. And instead of robbing the rich to give to the poor, they help those who've been plagued by curse, trick or bamboozle. Jack, the leader is known for jumping candlesticks, planting beanstalks and killing giants. His friends call themselves the Bastard Champions, but they find their gallant rescues and more are leading to one source: THE fairy godmother of the land. She's been up to no good for a long time, and they aim to stop her. But the closer they get to her, the further away she appears to be. It's like she's two steps ahead of every move they make!. Are they chasing her or being lured?
This book is so darned funny. I loved it from the very beginning, when Cinderella is admitting to the Bastard Champions that she'd ben fooled by her bippity boppity boo'ing god mother. When they help her, they find they need to help someone else. And so on, until they realize they have to go to a distant land in order to finally get what they want.
Second Hand Curses was left open for a follow up book and I'm so ready to read it. It's silly, but the way it was written, and the use of character voices made it even more adventurous. I love audio dramas and this is one for my library. I won't ever grow tired of this one. Check it out for yourself and let me know what you think.
Cheers!
Second Hand Curses
Written by Drew Hayes
Narrated by Scott Aiello, Marc Vietor and Tavia Gilbert
Published by Audible Originals
Released November 2017
Runtime: 9 h
April 29, 2019
Dead Moon
Excellent Audio-Novel by Peter Clines 
I got the Dead Moon audiobook free, from Audible.com. I love this subscription. I have the 2 credits monthly for just over $20 and now freebies are included, so I regret nothing. Anyway, now that I've finished with that small plug, I have to tell you, Dead Moon is actually book three in a series by Peter Clines. What did I think? #element-b6dd231e-0dbe-4efa-9741-2b78f4a15650 .waddons-blog-image.hideImage { display: none;}
So in order to have more land space on earth, the dead have been moved to the moon for burials. Good idea. The moon's colonized now so more jobs, less dead and zero possibility of zombie outbreaks, yeah? But what happens when ‘zombie-like’ beings rise up instead? And they don't just want your brains. Well, maybe they do...
The year is 2243, and a new crew has been assigned to teams for what is now considered the largest graveyard in the solar system. When this group of "caretakers" take on their new work positions, they think the jobs are going to be well-earned, easy money, but then they lose contact with a nearby station. Then they receive reports of seeing people walking about in their Sunday bests- without space suits! And why are all the plants turning black and ashen?
These aren’t your run of the mill zombies. They don't kill you by eating you. Well, some do bite, but they kill in another fashion... One that adds you to the fold, but also something so much worse than actually dying and going on walkababout.
Dead Moon is actually number three in a series but it's also stand alone novel. I didn't have any issues reading or understanding what was taking place. The story's written in an excellent manner and the monsters are pretty neat. They’re different, leaving you with an awesome scifi tale that you won't want to end. The characters are sorta likable and Cali, our heroine, is intelligent and has a level head. You definitely like her!
I'm actually curious about the previous books now. I may grab them to see what's really taking place out there, where no one can hear you scream. LOL Below is a clip, right about where the action started. Checkout Dead Moon while I move on to another great read. Cheers!
Dead Moon
Peter Clines
Narrated by Ray Porter
Audible Originals
Released February 2019
Running time: 11h 23m
I got the Dead Moon audiobook free, from Audible.com. I love this subscription. I have the 2 credits monthly for just over $20 and now freebies are included, so I regret nothing. Anyway, now that I've finished with that small plug, I have to tell you, Dead Moon is actually book three in a series by Peter Clines. What did I think? #element-b6dd231e-0dbe-4efa-9741-2b78f4a15650 .waddons-blog-image.hideImage { display: none;}
So in order to have more land space on earth, the dead have been moved to the moon for burials. Good idea. The moon's colonized now so more jobs, less dead and zero possibility of zombie outbreaks, yeah? But what happens when ‘zombie-like’ beings rise up instead? And they don't just want your brains. Well, maybe they do...The year is 2243, and a new crew has been assigned to teams for what is now considered the largest graveyard in the solar system. When this group of "caretakers" take on their new work positions, they think the jobs are going to be well-earned, easy money, but then they lose contact with a nearby station. Then they receive reports of seeing people walking about in their Sunday bests- without space suits! And why are all the plants turning black and ashen?
These aren’t your run of the mill zombies. They don't kill you by eating you. Well, some do bite, but they kill in another fashion... One that adds you to the fold, but also something so much worse than actually dying and going on walkababout.
Dead Moon is actually number three in a series but it's also stand alone novel. I didn't have any issues reading or understanding what was taking place. The story's written in an excellent manner and the monsters are pretty neat. They’re different, leaving you with an awesome scifi tale that you won't want to end. The characters are sorta likable and Cali, our heroine, is intelligent and has a level head. You definitely like her!
I'm actually curious about the previous books now. I may grab them to see what's really taking place out there, where no one can hear you scream. LOL Below is a clip, right about where the action started. Checkout Dead Moon while I move on to another great read. Cheers!
Dead Moon
Peter Clines
Narrated by Ray Porter
Audible Originals
Released February 2019
Running time: 11h 23m
April 24, 2019
The Forest - A Tale of old Magic
Ever since I was a little girl, I have been in love with fairy tales. Tales of lore, magic and mythical beasts. Even the villainous creatures and witches have shared my dreams and nightmares. It’s a world we’ve all grown up with, so when I saw Julia Blake’s blurb on her, at the time new novel, The Forest ~A Tale of Old Magic~, I knew I had to read it.Before I go into details on the story, I have to first commend Blake on her writing skills. The way this book is written, it’s as if I was taken back, through time and space, into a ensorcelled world. The prose, the style- everything about The Forest, Blake graced with true finesse and talent. With my being an Anglophile, anything that works the mythos of English, Scottish, Irish fantasy, I run for it hook, line and sinker. I was not disappointed. #element-3f14a658-0da2-4543-9466-cd6482d20eb9 .waddons-blog-image.hideImage { display: none;}
Okay, so The Forest is a dangerous place. Long ago, a woman foretold of something coming and she had not lied. Periodically, when the white hind is spotted, someone goes missing. Someone dies. In the town of Wyckenwode, there appears to be a curse and three individuals have been chosen. Sally, one of the kindest girls in town; Jack, one born of a wicked temperament and Reuben, a troubled young man. Can they uncover secrets, discover truths, and maybe save themselves?As complimented previously, the characters are written in a way, you develop a caring for them as you would a regular person. Though I felt it began a bit slow, I understood Blake felt you needed to know everything there was to the characters. You're introduced to them, then spoon-feed as you would a true friendship, until you actually know them. You're also receive the town’s history- even history before the town! It’s depths knew no bounds, which is why the pace, structure and ending came about so beautifully.
This isn't my first book by Blake, so when I say this one is unlike any of her previous tales, it's the truth. The Forest ~A Tale of Old Magic~ is one that will keep you turning the pages, until they are no more. Grab a copy. Cheers!
The Forest - A Tale of Old Magic
Written & Published by Julia Blake
358 pages
Released October 2018
The Forest
Ever since I was a little girl, I have been in love with fairy tales. Tales of lore, magic and mythical beasts. Even the villainous creatures and witches have shared my dreams and nightmares. It’s a world we’ve all grown up with, so when I saw Julia Blake’s blurb on her, at the time new novel, The Forest ~A Tale of Old Magic~, I knew I had to read it.Before I go into details on the story, I have to first commend Blake on her writing skills. The way this book is written, it’s as if I was taken back, through time and space, into a ensorcelled world. The prose, the style- everything about The Forest, Blake graced with true finesse and talent. With my being an Anglophile, anything that works the mythos of English, Scottish, Irish fantasy, I run for it hook, line and sinker. I was not disappointed. #element-3f14a658-0da2-4543-9466-cd6482d20eb9 .waddons-blog-image.hideImage { display: none;}
Okay, so The Forest is a dangerous place. Long ago, a woman foretold of something coming and she had not lied. Periodically, when the white hind is spotted, someone goes missing. Someone dies. In the town of Wyckenwode, there appears to be a curse and three individuals have been chosen. Sally, one of the kindest girls in town; Jack, one born of a wicked temperament and Reuben, a troubled young man. Can they uncover secrets, discover truths, and maybe save themselves?As complimented previously, the characters are written in a way, you develop a caring for them as you would a regular person. Though I felt it began a bit slow, I understood Blake felt you needed to know everything there was to the characters. You're introduced to them, then spoon-feed as you would a true friendship, until you actually know them. You're also receive the town’s history- even history before the town! It’s depths knew no bounds, which is why the pace, structure and ending came about so beautifully.
This isn't my first book by Blake, so when I say this one is unlike any of her previous tales, it's the truth. The Forest ~A Tale of Old Magic~ is one that will keep you turning the pages, until they are no more. Grab a copy. Cheers!
The Forest - A Tale of Old Magic
Written & Published by Julia Blake
358 pages
Released October 2018
