C.A. King's Blog, page 8
March 22, 2017
Book Review: Zeeka Chronicles by Brenda Mohammed
I love when authors take old concepts and put an entirely new spin on them. That's exactly what Brenda Mohammed did in Zeeka Chronicles
Just when you thought you knew everything about Zombies, comes this imaginative tale that re-defines their existence.
Set in the future, new technology and scientific breakthroughs open the door to possibilities that are vaguely imaginable in this day and age.
This is a tale of love, lies, revenge and a deadly virus. There is a lot jam-packed into the plot, making for an exciting read.
There were two areas where this book fell short for me.
The first was the dialogue.
Having more than one person speak in the same paragraph can lead to confusion. It also created a situation in which the character speaking constantly needed to say the name of the person they were talking to. That, in itself, comes off as unnatural. I would also suggest the author put extra thought into the way certain characters would speak, especially professionals to each other at work.
The second was the romance.
I don't want to give away any spoilers, but I will say I felt it unrealistic, especially the female lead.
I will be watching for future works by this author. I love the originality and can't wait to see what she comes up with next.
3/5 Stars
Just when you thought you knew everything about Zombies, comes this imaginative tale that re-defines their existence.
Set in the future, new technology and scientific breakthroughs open the door to possibilities that are vaguely imaginable in this day and age.
This is a tale of love, lies, revenge and a deadly virus. There is a lot jam-packed into the plot, making for an exciting read.
There were two areas where this book fell short for me.
The first was the dialogue.
Having more than one person speak in the same paragraph can lead to confusion. It also created a situation in which the character speaking constantly needed to say the name of the person they were talking to. That, in itself, comes off as unnatural. I would also suggest the author put extra thought into the way certain characters would speak, especially professionals to each other at work.
The second was the romance.
I don't want to give away any spoilers, but I will say I felt it unrealistic, especially the female lead.
I will be watching for future works by this author. I love the originality and can't wait to see what she comes up with next.
3/5 Stars
March 21, 2017
Book Review Dirty Business by E.J. Bennett
I wish I could give more than five stars. I am so happy to have found and tried
by E.J. Bennett.
This is one of the best supernatural meets real world books I have read in a very long time. Bennett takes us on a journey that lets us see first hand the effects of interference with death's plans.
Leila, the main character is well developed. I found it impossible not to like her after sharing the trauma she experiences all stemming from an accident.
My one comment to the author would be: I'd like to know what happened to the driver of the other car in more detail.
I am crossing my fingers for a second book so I can find out what happens next. #Cliffhanger endings.
Recommended read for most people!
by E.J. Bennett.This is one of the best supernatural meets real world books I have read in a very long time. Bennett takes us on a journey that lets us see first hand the effects of interference with death's plans.
Leila, the main character is well developed. I found it impossible not to like her after sharing the trauma she experiences all stemming from an accident.
My one comment to the author would be: I'd like to know what happened to the driver of the other car in more detail.
I am crossing my fingers for a second book so I can find out what happens next. #Cliffhanger endings.
Recommended read for most people!
March 6, 2017
Book Review: Dirty Business by Julie Elizabeth Powell
Dirty Business
Puzzles; secrets; riddles; problems ~ there is no doubt, Murder Mysteries are intriguing and, in this case, a bit sexy.
Who knew that the world of online magazines could be a rough and tough business? I certainly wouldn't have thought that. But when dealing with an adult market, I suppose anything is possible.
Gavin and Alex run the sexy magazine literally named Dirty. They and their staff become mixed up in a who-dunnit detective case when models begin to turn up dead.
That isn't the only mystery. We see the plight of an unknown woman trying to escape from a kidnapper, but, in the beginning, we have no idea who she is or who her captor might be.
The clues keep coming and I have to admit I changed my thoughts several times during the novel as to who was guilty. This was one of the harder of the mysteries I have read to solve.
Powell is on my list of authors to check out again in the future! 4/5 stars
Puzzles; secrets; riddles; problems ~ there is no doubt, Murder Mysteries are intriguing and, in this case, a bit sexy.
Who knew that the world of online magazines could be a rough and tough business? I certainly wouldn't have thought that. But when dealing with an adult market, I suppose anything is possible.
Gavin and Alex run the sexy magazine literally named Dirty. They and their staff become mixed up in a who-dunnit detective case when models begin to turn up dead.
That isn't the only mystery. We see the plight of an unknown woman trying to escape from a kidnapper, but, in the beginning, we have no idea who she is or who her captor might be.
The clues keep coming and I have to admit I changed my thoughts several times during the novel as to who was guilty. This was one of the harder of the mysteries I have read to solve.
Powell is on my list of authors to check out again in the future! 4/5 stars
Book Review: The Girl from Berlin: Gruppenfuhrer's Mistress by Ellie Midwood
Having previously read another novel written by midwood, I couldn't help but pick up this one. I must, however, put the same warnings on it for potential readers.
Warning mature subject matter. This book contains scenes of violence, torture, rape, explicit language and hate crimes.
The writing style is true to Midwood's works. It is written in American English depicting individual who are mainly German. For me this works. The story flows nicely and was captivating from beginning to end.
Annalise is a spoiled young girl that at times I'd like to slap. Even so, her story is compelling as we follow her life from a happy childhood to an adult living under the Hitler regime.
While normally I am all for cliffhangers at the end of a book, I found this novel different mainly because of the beginning.
We start out with a snip from the end of the saga with Standartenführer Heinrich Friedmann visiting Austrian SS Gruppenführer Ernst Kaltenbrunner in prison after the war is over. The story then turns back to before the atrocities began. Leaving a cliffhanger at the end leaves a hole between the two events and an unsatisfying feeling.
I admit this is an excellent way to make some readers continue on in the series, but I believe it could alienate some as well.
I definitely want to know what happens next and will be reading more. Midwood is directly responsible for my new found love of historical fiction.
4.5/5 Stars
Warning mature subject matter. This book contains scenes of violence, torture, rape, explicit language and hate crimes.
The writing style is true to Midwood's works. It is written in American English depicting individual who are mainly German. For me this works. The story flows nicely and was captivating from beginning to end.
Annalise is a spoiled young girl that at times I'd like to slap. Even so, her story is compelling as we follow her life from a happy childhood to an adult living under the Hitler regime.
While normally I am all for cliffhangers at the end of a book, I found this novel different mainly because of the beginning.
We start out with a snip from the end of the saga with Standartenführer Heinrich Friedmann visiting Austrian SS Gruppenführer Ernst Kaltenbrunner in prison after the war is over. The story then turns back to before the atrocities began. Leaving a cliffhanger at the end leaves a hole between the two events and an unsatisfying feeling.
I admit this is an excellent way to make some readers continue on in the series, but I believe it could alienate some as well.
I definitely want to know what happens next and will be reading more. Midwood is directly responsible for my new found love of historical fiction.
4.5/5 Stars
March 4, 2017
Book Review: Emilia: The darkest days in history of Nazi Germany through a woman's eyes
Wow! What a powerful book. I hate to have to add a few warnings to it because I honestly would love everyone to take the time to read this story.
Warning mature subject matter. This book contains scenes of violence, torture, rape, explicit language and hate crimes.
If you follow my reviews, you know I don't normally veer towards historical fiction. I decided to take the plunge. I chose an amazing book to wet my feet with.
Society has begun to forget the atrocities of the past. This book is a wake up call - we can never let history repeat itself.
The reader follows Emilia an innocent german born jewish girl from the age of 19 through her life in concentration camps. What happens to her isn't for the faint hearted. Her sheer will to survive is compelling and drove me to read the entire novel in one sitting.
I particularly like the way the book continues after the fall of Hitler and the tables are turned. Hate brings out the worst in everyone.
I'm not an expert in this time period, but there are a few lines which may not ring authentic, they, however, do not interfere with the enjoyment of the writing or the underlying message.
Recommended read for all mature audience! A full 5 stars!Ellie MidwoodEmilia: The darkest days in history of Nazi Germany through a woman's eyes
Warning mature subject matter. This book contains scenes of violence, torture, rape, explicit language and hate crimes.
If you follow my reviews, you know I don't normally veer towards historical fiction. I decided to take the plunge. I chose an amazing book to wet my feet with.
Society has begun to forget the atrocities of the past. This book is a wake up call - we can never let history repeat itself.
The reader follows Emilia an innocent german born jewish girl from the age of 19 through her life in concentration camps. What happens to her isn't for the faint hearted. Her sheer will to survive is compelling and drove me to read the entire novel in one sitting.
I particularly like the way the book continues after the fall of Hitler and the tables are turned. Hate brings out the worst in everyone.
I'm not an expert in this time period, but there are a few lines which may not ring authentic, they, however, do not interfere with the enjoyment of the writing or the underlying message.
Recommended read for all mature audience! A full 5 stars!Ellie MidwoodEmilia: The darkest days in history of Nazi Germany through a woman's eyes
Book Review Dragon My Heart Around: Providence Paranormal College Book Four
D.R. Perry has done it again! I love this series and of course the local dragon shifter is my favourite!
Blaine has his hands full with a feisty female burglar with luck on her side. As luck would have it, he's been put in charge of her punishment. He soon finds out there is more to the story than a simple theft. The tow are left to their own devices to solve the mystery before the game turns deadly and their luck runs out.
The series storyline is getting hot! I can't wait to see where Perry is taking us in the next instalment. Blaine and the gang from Providence Paranormal College are vibrant characters that have a lot to offer potential readers.
The only comment I have is that I find keeping track of who is seelie or unseelie difficult. There are so many supporting characters it can be a bit overwhelming.
Overall a great addition to the series! 4.5/5 stars!Dragon My Heart Around: Providence Paranormal College Book Four
Blaine has his hands full with a feisty female burglar with luck on her side. As luck would have it, he's been put in charge of her punishment. He soon finds out there is more to the story than a simple theft. The tow are left to their own devices to solve the mystery before the game turns deadly and their luck runs out.
The series storyline is getting hot! I can't wait to see where Perry is taking us in the next instalment. Blaine and the gang from Providence Paranormal College are vibrant characters that have a lot to offer potential readers.
The only comment I have is that I find keeping track of who is seelie or unseelie difficult. There are so many supporting characters it can be a bit overwhelming.
Overall a great addition to the series! 4.5/5 stars!Dragon My Heart Around: Providence Paranormal College Book Four
March 3, 2017
Book Review Who Killed Vivien Morse by Diana J. Febry
by Diana J. FebryMy father grew up in England and loved his heritage. I can remember our bookshelf filled with stacks of books. Some, he read to us, sharing his favourite authors - others, were for his enjoyment & most of those were good old-fashioned mysteries.
When I was old enough, I made my way through the shelves. I always enjoyed the well-written who-done-it books, but for some reason never ventured outside my father's collection.
I'm glad I decided to give this book a chance. Not only did it bring back those memories I had stored somewhere deep inside, it was a great story.
If you aren't used to British writing, there are a few places that may trip you up as a reader, but it in no way effects the outcome of the story.
The underlying theme of domestic violence is one I applaud Febry for going after. There are far too many living with abuse and it far too often goes without be noticed.
I enjoyed how this one played out. There are enough clues for you to solve the mystery right along side the detectives and at the same time as them.
The main character Hatherall is well crafted. There are, however, a lot of characters to keep track of - some more memorable than others.
If you are looking for a mystery that keeps you entertained from start to finish, Who Killed Vivien Morse is an excellent choice and recommended!
Happy reading!
January 29, 2017
Book Review: It Hurts to Be Mad: Stop Raging to Survive
Book Review:
by Daniel H. Osborne
Believe it or not, this is a first for me. The genres of non-fiction aren't ones that have captured my attention, unless for research. Self-help is one category that alluded my library - that is until now.
It Hurts to Be Mad: Stop Raging to Survive is an eye-opener. I must admit I had never considered rage to be an addiction before.
Although Osborne's work follows a story line, it is written in disjointed sections. Normally, that would drive me crazy, but here I think it works well to drive home a message.
As a reader you can expect to find a standard three parts to each section: the author's personal experience; the effects; and how to overcome. The same basic principles can be applied to any addiction or negativity found in one's life.
Osborne has a strong message to deliver and he pulls it off. I believe that this book could help many others traverse the long road to recovery.
My one comment is, readers should be aware this work is highly religious and may not be for everyone.
4/5 Stars and A tip of the hat to the author for finding his way through all the adversity.
by Daniel H. OsborneBelieve it or not, this is a first for me. The genres of non-fiction aren't ones that have captured my attention, unless for research. Self-help is one category that alluded my library - that is until now.
It Hurts to Be Mad: Stop Raging to Survive is an eye-opener. I must admit I had never considered rage to be an addiction before.
Although Osborne's work follows a story line, it is written in disjointed sections. Normally, that would drive me crazy, but here I think it works well to drive home a message.
As a reader you can expect to find a standard three parts to each section: the author's personal experience; the effects; and how to overcome. The same basic principles can be applied to any addiction or negativity found in one's life.
Osborne has a strong message to deliver and he pulls it off. I believe that this book could help many others traverse the long road to recovery.
My one comment is, readers should be aware this work is highly religious and may not be for everyone.
4/5 Stars and A tip of the hat to the author for finding his way through all the adversity.
October 3, 2016
A tribute to three amazing stars. Part Three ~ Denise Crosby
As an indie author, I attend various events throughout the year. Library readings, book festivals and comiccons are part of my life. While I enjoy all of them, comiccons are usually my favourite. There is a certain sense of fun that attaches to the vivid cosplay costumes and line-up of attending stars. In the past, I have had brief moments in which I spoke to certain celebrities, but nothing more than small chatter. I should mention Paul Kenny (Canadian Storage Wars) did take a couple of my swag trees to plant from Niagara Falls Comiccon.
Hamilton Comiccon was different - the air was much more relaxed. I knew heading there that three celebrities who had impacted my life were attending, but I never imagined I would actually have the chance to meet and talk to them or that they would take home a copy of my book.
Denise Crosby
Star Trek was a part of growing-up that I will always cherish. My family would sit around the television and watch every episode, faithfully. When Star Trek The Next Generation premiered, it quickly became our favourite. While my mother loved Captain Picard, I found a connection with the character Tasha Yar. Of course, as a horror movie buff, I have to mention her role in Pet Sematary as well. The movie came out during the height of my Stephen King addiction and I have owned a copy ever since.
Meeting Denise Crosby brought back all the warm fuzzy feelings I had during some of the best family moments of my life. With both my parents gone now, I want to thank her for being a part of those special times and bringing the memories back at Hamilton Comiccon. This was a wow moment I will never forget.
Hamilton Comiccon 2016 will go down as my best experience as an author. The fact that all three of these stars have a copy of my book, whether they read it or not, is a feeling I can't begin to describe. One last time, Thank you all for making my life a little more special. The world could use a few more people like these three!
Hamilton Comiccon was different - the air was much more relaxed. I knew heading there that three celebrities who had impacted my life were attending, but I never imagined I would actually have the chance to meet and talk to them or that they would take home a copy of my book.
Denise Crosby
Star Trek was a part of growing-up that I will always cherish. My family would sit around the television and watch every episode, faithfully. When Star Trek The Next Generation premiered, it quickly became our favourite. While my mother loved Captain Picard, I found a connection with the character Tasha Yar. Of course, as a horror movie buff, I have to mention her role in Pet Sematary as well. The movie came out during the height of my Stephen King addiction and I have owned a copy ever since.
Meeting Denise Crosby brought back all the warm fuzzy feelings I had during some of the best family moments of my life. With both my parents gone now, I want to thank her for being a part of those special times and bringing the memories back at Hamilton Comiccon. This was a wow moment I will never forget.
Hamilton Comiccon 2016 will go down as my best experience as an author. The fact that all three of these stars have a copy of my book, whether they read it or not, is a feeling I can't begin to describe. One last time, Thank you all for making my life a little more special. The world could use a few more people like these three!
A tribute to three amazing stars. Part Two ~ Amanda Bearse
As an indie author, I attend various events throughout the year. Library readings, book festivals and comiccons are part of my life. While I enjoy all of them, comiccons are usually my favourite. There is a certain sense of fun that attaches to the vivid cosplay costumes and line-up of attending stars. In the past, I have had brief moments in which I spoke to certain celebrities, but nothing more than small chatter. I should mention Paul Kenny (Canadian Storage Wars) did take a couple of my swag trees to plant from Niagara Falls Comiccon.
Hamilton Comiccon was different - the air was much more relaxed. I knew heading there that three celebrities who had impacted my life were attending, but I never imagined I would actually have the chance to meet and talk to them or that they would take home a copy of my book.
Amanda Bearse
Who doesn't love Marcy from Married With Children? Although, I have to admit, my personal favourite, was her role in Fright Night (1985). Now, she is a film produce & director and let's not forget she teaches a film course in Seattle as well.
Within moments of being in her presence, I could feel what an amazing soul she has - it literally shines that bright. Her passion to help others is refreshing and beautiful. If you have a chance to meet her - don't miss it!
Being a part of the community is important to me. I try to raise a much money as possible for charities. Even though I'm not a big star, every little bit helps. The Brantford Advocacy Transgender Alliance (BATA) is one of the charities I support. Amanda Bearse kindly donated two signed pictures to my assistant for the day (and good friend) Finn Cole to auction-off. I can't thank her enough for her generosity.
Hamilton Comiccon 2016 will go down as my best experience as an author. The fact that all three of these stars have a copy of my book, whether they read it or not, is a feeling I can't begin to describe. One last time, Thank you all for making my life a little more special. The world could use a few more people like these three!
Hamilton Comiccon was different - the air was much more relaxed. I knew heading there that three celebrities who had impacted my life were attending, but I never imagined I would actually have the chance to meet and talk to them or that they would take home a copy of my book.
Amanda Bearse
Who doesn't love Marcy from Married With Children? Although, I have to admit, my personal favourite, was her role in Fright Night (1985). Now, she is a film produce & director and let's not forget she teaches a film course in Seattle as well.
Within moments of being in her presence, I could feel what an amazing soul she has - it literally shines that bright. Her passion to help others is refreshing and beautiful. If you have a chance to meet her - don't miss it!
The fact that she took home two of my books (one for her daughter), was icing on the cake. Saturday night I didn't sleep a wink - I was far too giddy from the day.
Being a part of the community is important to me. I try to raise a much money as possible for charities. Even though I'm not a big star, every little bit helps. The Brantford Advocacy Transgender Alliance (BATA) is one of the charities I support. Amanda Bearse kindly donated two signed pictures to my assistant for the day (and good friend) Finn Cole to auction-off. I can't thank her enough for her generosity.
Hamilton Comiccon 2016 will go down as my best experience as an author. The fact that all three of these stars have a copy of my book, whether they read it or not, is a feeling I can't begin to describe. One last time, Thank you all for making my life a little more special. The world could use a few more people like these three!
