Harmony Kent's Blog, page 135
May 10, 2016
Not Really Gone
Memoir
♠♠♠♠
♠
I bought this book after it was nominated as Book of the Month at my book club (Rave Reviews Book Club), and I am so glad I did. What a great read. This is a memoir that takes a hard, honest look at a difficult past. It is written with insight, integrity, and-to my mind-bravery. It takes a no-holds barred approach to a troubled life without flinching or dressing it up. I also applaud the writer for the attitude of owning what she did and doing her best to make a good life. So many people in a similar situation would have blamed anybody and everybody but themselves. As this amazing woman has shown, we are only victims if we choose to be. This is a moving tribute to her now-deceased grandma who started out being the rock in the stormy sea of life, and ended up showing the writer how to be a rock for herself and her family. The narrative flows in an easy-to-read style, and while it contains difficult material, it carries a message of hope. Five stars from me.
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May 2, 2016
Book Review: A Humble Heart
A Humble Heart:
Book One—The Dark World
BY TIM VANDER MEULEN
Fantasy Fiction
Reviewed on behalf of The Review Board by Harmony Kent.
I received a free PDF copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review.
This is the first book of a trilogy, and not a standalone novel. There is no definitive ending, but more like an intermission in a long and drawn out journey, which I would hope will be concluded in the sequel.
First of all, I like the book cover: Its crossed swords and rearing horse both contradict the title, which creates intrigue for me. I also like the contrast between dark and light. Secondly, I have to mention the book blurb: it is way too long. The blurb leaves me with glazed eyes and little desire to continue on. It reads like a mini-essay.
Okay, then, on to the book itself. We have the complete set up for a fantasy of epic proportions, including magic, dwarves, elves, humans as an endangered species, evil Possessors, and all the rest that you’d expect from a book in this genre.
For a hundred years, the Elves have not known the sting of war. But now, the kingdom of men has been invaded, and two boys are all that remain of humans in the world. Can the divided Elves and Dwarves unite in this fight against an ancient foe, for which war and brutality are a necessity and not just a way of life?
Right off the bat, the narrative introduces a lot of different characters that are hard to keep track of, especially as some of those aren’t revisited until later in the book. Next up, the story is written in third person omniscient, which reads as chronic head-hopping—a big no no for me. The prose is passive in the extreme (lots of wases, weres, and starting sentences with ‘ing’ ending words), and information dumps and back-story insertion interrupt the pacing. For example, right in the middle of a scene where Possessor Gellerick is followed and surrounded by Guardians, just when the tension is mounting, we are given a paragraph with the backstory of the Guardians, which is SO NOT the place for it:
‘The disquietude that had been growing inside him over the last minute now jumped outward, and he swallowed hard … [Great so far, right? But, then …]
Legend claims that the Guardians were descendants of the high ruling Enonethtari of old times. They were peacekeepers of the land, … [And on and on it goes.]
By the time we return to the action, it’s gone well off the boil.
At just under 350 pages, this is a long book, made all the more so by such issues as outlined above, which make this a much more tedious read than it needs to be. I feel let down, as being an avid fantasy fan, I had looked forward to feasting my eyes on this gripping tale—alas, it wasn’t to be. Add to this the numerous filter words and other common technical issues, and I just didn’t enjoy this tome.
If you can overlook all of that type of stuff, though, please do give it a shot, especially if you’re an absolute fantasy fiction aficionado; you might just like it. I give A Humble Heart 6 out of 10 TRB stars, which is one up from a 5, which means ‘flip a coin and take a chance if you dare.’ This equates to 3 out of 5 stars on other rating scales.
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April 30, 2016
Time to get intimate
Monday, May 2nd
Special launch price of just 0.99!
Amazon UK
Amazon US
And we’re on tour!
3 Days with 4 Wills Publishing!
Starts today and runs through Monday!
1 Day fun with Bell Books and Erotica!
Check it out now!
1 Day Mad Book Blast with 35 tour stops! Goddess Fish Promotions!
Fun, Frolics, and Prizes galore!
Click on the badges above to go to the tour pages!
April 29, 2016
A Cover Reveal of Galactic Proportions!
Dear Readers, Writers and Precious Patrons,
Cheers and welcome to this Cover Reveal Celebration of Multigenre Author Y. Correa’s next installment to the Earth 8-8-2 Saga.
The first book, “Earth 8-8-2: The Genesis Project” marked the commencement of a Sci-Fi Mashup of epic proportion.
Could Science Serve as Salvation?
One-fourth Human.
One-fourth God.
One-fourth Superhuman.
One-fourth Vampire.
For Dr. Scott, the combined strengths of each life form represent the answer to the onslaught of malice and tyranny plaguing his Earth. When his creation—Genesis—begins developing, the lines between scientist and father become blurred. Soon the time approaches where Genesis is expected to fulfill her purpose. Does she go along willingly, or will her rapid evolution obliterate everyone’s best laid plans?
In the newest installment, “Earth 8-8-2: Genesis’ Rebellion” Author Y. Correa endeavors to start where the last one ended and continue the adventure that is the Earth 8-8-2 Saga.
What happens when Science’s Instrument of Salvation blazes her own path?
In the second installment of the Earth 8-8-2 saga, Genesis is heartbroken, disillusioned, but most of all … angry: angry that she has no say-so in the narrative of her own purpose. In the absence of choice, the only response that makes sense is rebellion.
As Genesis elicits the intensity of her powers, General Townsen must act quickly to develop a counterbalance to this previous experiment gone askew. Will the General’s army rise effectively against this unlikely nemesis, or will all see the literal overtures of what occurs when powers that be attempt to regulate true evolution?
⇓
Now, without further ado, we are pleased to present you with the cover of “Earth 8-8-2: Genesis’ Rebellion”.
by
April 15, 2016
Wordplay: Therapy Session
It gives me great pleasure today to host Andrew Boyd and his latest book:
Wordplay: Therapy Session!
Facebook|Twitter|Andrew Boyd, Poet
Andrew Boyd is a student of poetry, blogging, and story telling. Andrew became a self-published author on February 27, 2013. He is one who is honest to where he made people mad, yet they respect and respected what he had, have, and has to say.
A two-time kidney transplant recipient, Andrew is one who looks at the world in a way that gives and gave him perspective as to how his life would be shaped due to his medical experiences, as well as helping others by exuding inspiration and compassion to those around him.
He is a graduate of the Class of 1996 from Germantown-Lankenau Motivational Program Annex, where his writing prowess was born in the 10th Grade, and continued on while attending Arcadia University in 1996. After a writing hiatus in 1997, a trip to New York City in March 2010 reignited his passion for writing. While posting several of his writings on social media outlets, he also performs and performed spoken word poetry in the Philadelphia and New York areas. He is currently performing on Black Poetry Cafe’s (BPC) internet radio show “FEVER FRIDAYS”.
Amazon
When the world needs your light, the supply is unlimited. When you need the world’s light, the service is disconnected. Shrouded in darkness, with not even a candle’s flicker to show the way, how does one heal?
Andrew Boyd’s result is to conduct his own Therapy Session. This fifth book in the WORDPLAY poetry series is a chronicle of crepuscules that Andrew has faced throughout his life, some unbeknownst to those who believed knew him best. What he hopes to accomplish through this psychoanalysis is the prescription to understanding, development and sustainable peace.
Excerpt
Hate
Sitting on the floor in front of a crowd,
My legs are crossed Indian Style,
Elbows on the knees.
Head bowed down and temperament apparent,
My microphone will melt with what I will say.
Hate is a strong word: never to be taken lightly.
There are many who do not use the word when
Expressing the feelings they have for others.
I Hate the fact that there is suffering,
I Hate the fact that there are immoral people.
I Hate that those who do the most harm are
The ones worshipping under the steeple.
I Hate how they lie to innocent parties.
I Hate that they rage on another.
I Hate how they do not hold themselves accountable
As they break the heart of their mother.
I Hate how people turned their backs to me.
I Hate that they feel they are seen as priority one.
I Hate that patience to them is a waste of time
Yet they look to me to jump the gun.
I Hate how people say that they are by my side,
Yet their actions speak louder than their words.
I Hate the fact that they lied to me that way
To the point where I show them my flock of birds.
I Hate that I trust some people early:
I Hate that part about myself.
There should be many people walking with shirts
That read “Trusting me is bad for your health.”
I Hate this life that I live:
I can only blame myself.
I Hate that I placed myself in these situations:
I Hate that I cannot see my worth and wealth.
To acknowledge that I Hate myself
Tells me personally that I see more than I care to see.
I need to stop hating the reflection in my mirror,
If I am to change things around and about me.
*Special Thanks to Monica F. Brown and Yasmin Correa for helping me with all things “WORDPLAY: Therapy Session”, from the inside of the covers to the cover itself*
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April 7, 2016
Never Say Never
Hi everyone!
It gives me great pleasure today to welcome back C A Bell with her latest book release, Never Say Never!
This is the sequel to Never Say Goodbye, which was a delightful short erotic paranormal read.
Sometimes white magic can turn dark. Even with the best intentions.
When Angelica placed a protective curse over her granddaughter, Nancy, in a bid to keep her safe from society and her own powers until she was old enough to understand, she had no idea of the consequences.
On the 31st of October, Nancy held her annual Halloween party. Straying away from her usual festivities, she held a séance with the help of her friends and her new Ouija board.
Unaware of the curse and the fact that it was lifted that very night, Nancy summoned a spirit. A man whom she shared a night of passion with and promised to never send back.
Two weeks later and Nancy has honoured her promise, but with Jack unable to leave the house due to a barrier of force holding him back, Nancy goes looking for help. What she’ll discover in the process will send chills up her spine and an ache to her heart.
Time is about to tell just who Jack really was.
Buy Links:
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Never-Say-Nancys-Curse-Book-ebook/dp/B01DWIBH76
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B01DWIBH76
Amazon AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/Never-Say-Nancys-Curse-Book-ebook/dp/B01DWIBH76
Amazon CA: https://www.amazon.ca/Never-Say-Nancys-Curse-Book-ebook/dp/B01DWIBH76
Find out more about C A Bell here:
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April 4, 2016
March Madness Winners!
During March, I had two Rafflecopter prize draws running for an Amazon gift card, as well as a draw for a free ebook of mine for anyone who commented on the relevant posts. The first winners were announced on March 18, and were:
Robyn Fossdal, won the $15 Amazon GC!
Judith Krain won a copy of one of my ebooks of her choice!
Today, I announce the winners of the final March Rafflecopter giveaway and the ebook prize draw!
Sylvia Longstrom, won the $15 Amazon GC!
Natalie Ducie won a copy of one of my ebooks of her choice!
Congratulations to Robin, Judith, Sylvia, and Natalie! And a huge thanks to everyone for taking part.
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April 1, 2016
It’s here! Lilith’s Dominion! By Y Correa
When Lilith fails to comply with the plans of Man and The Creator, she is punished to an existence that costs her the fruits of humanity. Every moment becomes a never ending spin cycle of memories mirroring profound loss, recalcitrant rage, and immeasurable suffering.
During a Halloween party at the Arcadia Chateau, the blue-green eyed brunette Jet leaves an impression which shatters the equilibrium of Lilith’s cloud of darkness. Is this a temporary aggravation or the start of a much needed resurrection—the fire of love in a heart iced with hurt?
Youtube book trailer movie: https://youtu.be/AsXZQbWzFcY
Excerpt:
It is believed that before the Genesis of the human age, Adam had a wife … a first wife; Lilith.
Created from the same ground from which Adam was molded, Lilith proved to be a bit more than his subordinate.
She was his equal.
Legend has it that Lilith was strong willed, independent and unyielding. All of the things that Adam did not want in a wife.
Red hair, sensual curves and red-brown eyes, Lilith was voluptuousness in the form of a woman. Passion, ardent and burning vitality. Lilith considered herself Adam’s compeer in every way—second to none and nothing.
What Adam hated to admit was that Lilith was his weakness, his burning desire, and his fierce, iniquitous poison. As much as he wanted her, he also hated her. It was her authority that continually dominated him, and her lasciviousness that seduced him. He was less of a man when he was around her, yet he also could not feel more empowered.
Adam realized that his obsession with Lilith was a lecherous enthrallment and nothing more, for he could not love her. Neither could he be her master. This was the problem. Adam’s job was to be in control, to be the head. The leader of Lilith and all of their descendants. For this, the Creator had made him.
Yet, around her—Lilith—he was nothing more than a groveling, dribbling, insecure excuse for a man. She had him wrapped around her little finger, and this suited her just fine.
Adam, not so much.
This was not what the Creator had mandated. Not what he intended when making them both. He needed Adam—level headed and trustworthy—to be in charge. However, with the ever present seduction of Lilith, this wouldn’t be possible.
Something must be done.
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The sound of a single long nail clicking against a hardwood table was all that could be heard in the room. Why? Because all of the noise and commotion was in her head.
Voices, memories, flashing thoughts. Chaos! Nothing more and nothing less.
The upsurge of rampant thoughts caused her mouth to slap with thirst—suck her teeth in upheaval. Lilith’s thirst was soon to be quenched, she was certain. She’d already made the preparations. Yet, the riot that was Lilith’s unending trail of assaulting musings would probably never be quelled.
The light of night poked through the monumental stained glass windows. One ray in particular beamed across the room, perpendicular to its point of origin, then ricocheted from a mirror to shine a slender bright stream of yellow-orange light on the table. The thin beacon glowed not too far from where her hand tapped an agitated finger.
The room was enormous and regal, yet devoid of any exuberance. Filled with scarce furnishings—the mammoth hardwood table and the innumerable chairs that surrounded it. Old, decrepit paintings adorned the walls.
The air was stifling, consumed by the scent of mothballs, molded and aged wood.
How did I get here? Lilith’s thought, although in her mind, seemed to echo through the stretch of the empty room.
“Madam, your supper is ready,” squealed Lilith’s faithful attendant, though indubitably pitiful as he was, whilst walking in. The aged, wooden double doors screeched upon his opening them. Then, he closed them, without as much as a glimpse back. His skin had not seen the light of day in so long that it had lost its color. A peculiar shade of tan-gray, wrinkled and rough, was all that remained.
Throughout the years, Demetrius had become an old, dilapidated, fragile corpse of a man—feeble and haggard, yet faithful. Lilith considered that while his situation was different than hers, at least they shared the apathetic hue of their skin color, albeit not her extraordinary good looks.
“Bring it in, Demetrius. Leave it,” replied Lilith as she waved a hand in the air, with little to no regard whatsoever. Completely detached from human emotion and void of fascination. She couldn’t help herself. All her vitality had been lost eons ago.
“Yes, Madam,” responded Demetrius, then nodded his head and bowed out of the room. Seconds later he pulled in a frightened brunette, who was so dismayed that she’d lost all fight and merely shivered and sobbed uncontrollably. Demetrius, grabbed a handful of the girl’s hair and tossed her on the ground in front of Lilith. “Your supper my lady.” he said subserviently, then bowed out of the room once more.
Lilith wasted no time whatsoever and with the blink of an eye had the girl trapped, her fangs sunk into the girl’s main artery. The one located between the thighs—Lilith had long since grown tired of the neck. It was too convenient and she craved a bit of excitement, rare as it was.
Moments later, the girl’s life blood had been drained and all that remained was a naked, pale carcass.
Lilith stood to her feet uneventfully, sighed deeply, dusted her hands and then took a seat once again in her favorite chair.
With that, her mind whirled into its turbulent incongruity yet again.
Buy It Now!
Amazon
Y. Correa is a literary seductress, luring one in with her talent of Romancing the Words, keeping one hypnotized with dynamic characters, and stimulating one with engaging narrative voices, strong plots, and epic conflicts. Her writes are as complex and as distinct as her person; a delightful combination of eclectic and antiquated. Therefore, the mere mention of fitting into one set genre is laughable. The multi-genre decadence is where she showcases her magnificence.
Some of Y. Correa’s works include Historical Fiction “MarcoAntonio & Amaryllis”, Sci-Fi Mashup “Earth 8-8-2: The Genesis Project”, Sci-Fi Fiction series “A.L.O.M” and short stories such as “Ryan”, “Loving … them!” and “The G. Particle”.
Ms. Correa has also been in several short story anthologies and is the Founder/Creator of All Authors Publications and Promotions whose subsidiaries are:
All Authors Magazine
All Authors Graphic Design
All Authors Publishing House
and
All Authors Certificate of Excellence
Links:
“Lilith’s Dominion” on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5129204.Y_Correa
Author Website: http://ycorrea.net
by
March 30, 2016
Charlie Robot Book Review
by Benedict Martin
#RRBC Member
It was amazing!
I’ve never read a book quite like this one, and I have to say that I enjoyed it immensely. Charlie is awoken in the lunch room at work one day by his boss, who tells him that their Android-in-progress has run away, and Charlie ends up standing in for the android at an investors meeting later that day. He starts out mortified at having to pretend to be the robot, which over the coming weeks, turns into annoyance and an increasing urge to come clean. At the same time, some other things are becoming clearer …
The villains are believable, as are the good guys, and of course, there are those plenty who you just struggle to know whether they’re good or bad, and these too are written realistically. I cared about Charlie, and could empathise with his daily struggles to get to grips with his life and the lies and manipulation that surround him. At times, the book had me chuckling aloud, and it certainly held my attention the whole way through.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough, and will be stalking the author now to see what other gems he’s written 
A strong and resounding 5 stars from me!
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Second Chances Book Review
Lincoln Cole
#RRBC Book Club Member
Harmony Kent‘s review
Really liked it
Second Chances is the first book I have read from this author, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The characters are well developed, and I cared what happened to each and every one of them.The book is told from multiple points of view, with each POV shift getting its own chapter, and the narration is in third person close with no head-hopping.With the social issues it explores, and the sensitive way in which this is done, this book is a must read. The author portrays the privileged white lawyer, the poor black girl, and the struggling young alcoholic all with equal authenticity. The only thing that detracted from this is the dialogue; it all felt the same. People from such different backgrounds just wouldn’t enunciate everything in exactly the same way, and many more contractions are used in daily speech than depicted here.
Other issues that marred the read somewhat for me are the numerous hiccups regarding the use of commas, as well as basic spelling errors. There is a huge difference in the following dialogue, just for want of one little comma: ‘Come on Jason’ (as written) versus: ‘Come on, Jason’ (as it should be written); and the same with ‘Thank you for sharing Angelina'; what the author intended to say was, ‘Thank you for sharing, Angelina.’ Also chunks of information got repeated on a number of occasions unnecessarily, and dialogue tags had a tendency to tell what had already been shown. All of which are why I gave 4 stars instead of 5. With a little polishing, this would be a definite 5 star read.
If you enjoy a good, realistic literary fiction read, you will love this book. This is an author I will be reading more of, for sure, and I highly recommend that you give Second Chances a go.
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