Sage Nestler's Blog, page 60
August 26, 2016
The Woman in the Jimmy Choo Shoes by L.V. Krause
Title: The Woman in the Jimmy Choo Shoes
Author: L.V. Krause
Rating: 3/5
Synopsis:
Plucky attorney Audrey Blue has to infiltrate the world of the 1% to figure out who’s killing her law firm’s biggest clients. (And who wants her dead.)
What happens when you get in the way of a billionaire-to-be? Audrey Blue, a young attorney at a prestigious Chicago law firm, finds out when she discovers damaging information that could harm her law firm’s biggest clients, who will become billionaires when their financial firm goes public in one short week’s time. Before she knows it, Audrey’s accused of murder, drummed from her firm, and in a race for her life.
To save herself, she must find the real killer, who might be the dangerously charming head of the takeover firm himself. As the debonair financier plans his multi-million-dollar birthday bash, Audrey must infiltrate the world of the wealthy financiers, their trophy wives, and their spoiled kids—who all live in fear of disinheritance—as she spars with the handsome Chicago detective assigned to her case.
Review:
The Woman in the Jimmy Choo Shoes is an interesting chick – lit/ mystery, but it just didn’t hold my attention. The writing was a bit choppy, and I didn’t find myself caring for the characters like I should have. While the premise of this mystery is, in itself, interesting, I think that the novel focused more on the chick-lit side of the novel, while making the mystery a bit hokey. I also found that the storyline had been done before in numerous novels, and I am not sure if this novel would stand out in its genre. This story was yet another story where a woman is under the thumb of a wealthy male, and I found that age old situation to be a bit dry.
However, L.V. Krause did a great job of keeping her novel consistent in terms of details, which can sometimes be sloppy in mysteries. They did well with keeping the characters consistent, and that made the novel readable and a nice beach read. This novel would be nice for women who are looking for a light-hearted novel to pass the time, and I am sure that many of them will want to continue with the other books in the series. Even though it wasn’t my cup of tea, I am sure that it will be popular with any woman who loves a good female based mystery.
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August 25, 2016
Announcement: Brain to Books Con 2017
Hello, Everyone!
I know that this week’s update is a bit late, and I apologize, but it has been a crazy week already! My social work college courses started back up, and that mixed with running the Go Indie Now! Book Box, as well as this blog and finalizing my own novels for publication, I have gotten a bit winded. That being said, I am working on reviewing “The Woman in the Jimmy Choo Shoes”, which I didn’t get to last week, and I promise to have it up in a jiffy. Thank you for bearing with me!
Now, as some of you know, there is an online book con for indie authors called Brain to Books Con. I attended as an author last year and had my own booth, and I ended up winning the Fantasy jackpot which was awesome! This year, however, Go Indie Now! Book Box is going to be a sponsor for the con, and I will be a part of the panel discussions, where I will talk with other authors on camera about topics that the audience votes on. I will also be hosting a blog tour on this blog to feature different authors attending the con, and I am also a genre scout. That being said, we are looking for authors who are preferably not fantasy authors so that we have a more diverse collection of authors to present to our readers. Last year, most of the authors who attended were fantasy authors, and we need more authors to represent the other genres. If this speaks to you, please visit http://braintobooks.com/brain-to-book... and register as an author! This is a great opportunity for you to market your own books while picking up some great new books as well.
Please also invite anyone you know who is a reader and would like to find new books and authors. This con is specifically for readers, and is not a writing convention, so we need all of the readers we can get!
More information will come in February since the con is in April, but preparations are beginning NOW! I am very excited to be a big part of the con this year, and I look forward to seeing all of you at the panel discussions, and in the fairgrounds!
Have a great week!
Ashley
August 24, 2016
Shadow Fall Cover Reveal!
Hello, Everyone!
Yesterday was cover reveal day for “Shadow Fall” by Audrey Grey! I just finished my ARC of this novel, which will be released November 22, and I am IN LOVE. My review will be up soon, but please enjoy a glimpse of its gorgeous cover and teaser text in the meantime:
The asteroid hurtling toward the earth will kill billions.
The Emperor and his Gold Court will be safe in their space station, watching from the stars. The Silvers will be protected underground. But the Bronzes must fight it out at the Shadow Trials for the few remaining spots left on the space station.
When an enigmatic benefactor hands Maia Graystone a spot in the Trials, she won’t just get a chance at salvation for her and her baby brother, Max: She gets to confront the mother who abandoned her in prison, the mad Emperor who murdered her father, and the Gold prince who once loved her. But it’s the dark bastard prince she’s partnered with that will make her question everything, including her own heart. With the asteroid racing closer every day, Maia must trust someone to survive. The question is who?
http://www.blazepub.com/books/shadow-fall/
Author:
Audrey Grey lives in the charming state of Oklahoma, with her husband, two little people, and four mischievous dogs. You can usually find her hiding out in her office from said little people and dogs, surrounded by books and sipping kombucha while dreaming up wondrous worlds for her characters to live in.
Author Links:
Website Facebook Twitter
I highly recommend that you pre-order your copy today, since this is not a book to miss!
August 22, 2016
Summer Author Interview: Anna Kringle
Happy Monday Everyone!
Today’s featured author is the beautiful Anna Kringle! She was kind enough to sit down with me for an interview, and I loved being able to hear more about her work. Enjoy!
Author Interview
1)What is your favorite genre to write, and do you write across different genres?
I really do love to mix and match, but my current favorite is Steampunk. I love the gadgets and fashion and fun quirks for my characters to play with!
2) What has your publishing experience been like?
Exciting, adventurous… a little bewildering at times. But I love it. As a self-published author I’ve gotten to learn business management skills as well as developing my writing. I’ve found it to be very rewarding.
3) What is your advice to aspiring authors?
Honestly, my best advice is to do it. Now. RIGHT now. You’ll never have all the information, and life will never be perfect. But in these moments in between the noise and craziness, you can do it. And you should.
4) What do you hope readers will take away from your writing?
I hope they realize the strength they have for themselves. All my characters, no matter how strong and stunning they appear, are hidden gems; people who are scared, afraid, bitter and broken, just like everyday people. The amazing things happen when we realize that we are able to breathe, to stand, to put something else above ourselves.
I want them to know that happiness comes in the small things, and every so often overflows. And that’s worth fighting for.
5) What are you currently working on?
My current work is A Risky Gamble: Book Two of the Trivial Venture! We’ve jumped aboard with Captain Ithaca and crew for another swashbuckling descent into mayhem, and it’ll be glorious. Keep a lookout this August for it!
Author Bio
Anna is a bubbly fairy princess from a small country town far, far away. Raised around rednecks and obsessively muddy trucks, She was faced with a strange need to fill empty paper with words. So she decided she might as well write stories. With the help of her friendly mice and other neighborhood animals, she has worked very hard to make this hobby a profession, and hopes to make the world a bright and colorful place through her works.
Anna discovers new stories in between slaying dragons and leading the children of her realm on a musical revolt against normality.
Contact Anna
www.facebook.com/annatheauthor
August 20, 2016
The Cheating Wives Club by D.J. Jouett
Title: The Cheating Wives Club
Author: D.J. Jouett
Rating: 3/5
Synopsis:
When women in her hometown become the victims of a vicious killer, Psychiatrist, Lana Reed is pulled into a world of serial killers and cheating wives. As her acquaintances die, she suspects one of her patients. Dr. Reed finds herself struggling with doctor-patient confidentiality. As the murders continue, Lana must decide between her professional ethics and helping the man she loves to solve the heinous crimes. As ME Risa Mercer and Detectives Adam Reed and Colt Layne work to solve the Cheating Wives Club murders, they must also work other cases that challenge the police department and medical examiner’s office. Romance, Love, Suspense, Thriller. Great detective work. A real cliffhanger.
Review:
Before starting The Cheating Wives Club I expected it to be a fun chick-lit novel. But as I got further into the story, I realized how much of an exciting thriller this book was. To my surprise, this novel ended up being a murder mystery, and there is nothing that I love more.
Despite the choppy writing of this novel due to poor editing, the suspense kept me reading. I found it eerie how our main character’s friends were all dying and it saddened me to put myself in her situation. D.J. Jouett clearly had a firm handle on the characters and plot in this novel, and I was interested in the story because it wasn’t one that I felt had been done many times before. If only the novel were touched up a bit more, this book would shine. But I found the writing hard to understand, and the English used to be quite poor. These problems did detract my attention from the story, and I did have to remind myself to look past them.
Overall, this book has an interesting concept and riveting plot, and crime buffs will adore it. However, it would fair much better if the manuscript were re-edited.
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August 19, 2016
Paper Street Books and Comics Box Review
Paper Street Books and Comics is a bi-monthly (you receive a box every two months) box that sends you either a graphic novel, a thriller/horror/fantasy/dystopian book, or both. I purchased the Warrior Box which includes a book, graphic novel, and numerous fandom items and I am IN LOVE with this box. It is basically a fandom cube based on books, and the box introduces you to graphic novels you might have not otherwise tried.
I also love that this box is bi-monthly, because it is perfect for people who might not want to spend the money to have a box every single month. I highly suggest getting the Warrior Box because it is the best value and comes with the most swag, but the book only or graphic novel only boxes are great alternatives as well. Hell, I just adore this box and there is absolutely nothing that I think could be worked on. You will love every box you receive, guaranteed. And Jennifer, one of the co-owners, is a sweetheart which makes getting the box that much better.
August/September Box Review
Item #1 – This Must Be Where Pies Go When They Die Candle by Milk & Jelly
Milk & Jelly is a side business that Jennifer, one of the co-owners, owns and I am in love with this candle. It smells of cherry almond and brown sugar and I can’t stop smelling it. The size is also great, because it is 4 oz., and bigger than the traditional sample size. Jennifer used beeswax in this candle, which is meant to purify the air instead of making the air too thick. I am very happy with how this candle burns, and I will definitely be buying more of her candles from Milk & Jelly. This candle is also based on Twin Peaks, to add that nerd appeal.
Item #2 – What Would Jessica Jones Do? Art Print by Megan Lara
I love this art print. It is a standard picture size and nicely wrapped in cellophane to protect it. The art is just gorgeous, and it goes perfectly on my wall of fandom prints.
Item #3 – Castiel POP Figure Keychain from Supernatural
I have recently gotten pretty heavy into Supernatural, so I was very happy with this keychain. I am also a huge geek for POP figures, so I couldn’t be happier with this item. It is the perfect size to have with you always. I received Castiel, but you could have received Dean as well.
Item #4 – Book Warrior T- Shirt
This t-shirt is adorable, and I love the pink on white. I also buy shirts in a bigger size, and this shirt is perfect as a workout shirt and night shirt. It is very comfortable, and I love how it is exclusive to the box.
Item #5 – Riverkeep by Martin Stewart
This is the book that was included in this period’s box, and I went gaga over it. I didn’t know anything about this book beforehand, which made me like it even more. I love being introduced to new books, and both of this month’s book were wrapped in paper and string like mystery novels. It was adorable.
Item #6 – Plutona by Jeff Lemire, Emi Lenox, and Jodie Bellaire
This was the graphic novel of the month, and I ate it right up. The idea of it is very interesting, and I like how the superheroes involved are different from your classic DC and Marvel superheroes. I love being able to explore new graphic novels away from DC and Marvel and this pick was brilliant.
Overall, this box is great at introducing you to new books and genres, while also sending you items that you most likely would not have bought elsewhere. It is perfect for those who are into many different fandoms, and it sets itself apart from other book boxes. If you have not bought this box yet, then what are you waiting for? It is guaranteed to change your reading experience in so many ways.
August 16, 2016
Cover Reveal: Behind Broken Glass Walls
Hello Everyone!
I am very excited to let you know that today is the day that the cover for my third novel “Behind Broken Glass Walls” releases! This novel is set to release November 1, and will be on sale through Amazon and Barnes and Noble. It is the most challenging piece of work that I have worked on due to its sensitive content, but I am so proud of it. I am very excited to share it with you all, and I hope you love it, and the cover, as much as I do:
I will be releasing more information soon, but please look back at this week’s update to read the synopsis.
*This novel will be published under my pen name.
Much love,
Ashley
August 15, 2016
Weekly Update – 08/15/16- 08/21/16
Happy Monday Everyone!
This week is going to be a big week. Our August Fiction Go Indie Now! Boxes will be shipping, and the special edition version of my novel “Beautiful Nightmare” will be officially releasing on the 20th! Below is the brand new cover for it, and this new version includes fanart, character profiles, setting discussion, and other exclusive content from me.
That all being said, I am also happy to announce for the very first time that my new novel, “Behind Broken Glass Walls” is set to release NOVEMBER 1! This novel is my proudest work, and it will be published under a pen name for privacy purposes. Below is the synopsis:
Abuse. A gun. And her daughter.
You never know how strong you are until you are forced into a situation that tests every ounce of strength that you have. This is what one mothers learns as she finds out that the person who committed a shooting at her daughter’s high school was indeed her daughter. Her feelings are a mix of every emotion, but what bothers her the most is that even though she knows that her daughter took the lives of many others she can’t help but love her with all of her might. It is this love that she has for daughter that makes her feel entirely at fault.
Learn what it means to love a child when everyone else sees her as a murderer and experience what it feels like to love someone who you no longer understand.
What are the limits on your love?
I will also be reviewing the following books this week:
The Woman in the Jimmy Choo Shoes by L.V. Krause
The Cheating Wives Club by D.J. Jouett
I hope that you all have a fun, productive week, and please always know that you are loved!
Much love,
FOR BOOK REVIEW REQUESTS FILL OUT FORM: Book Review Request Form
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Summer Author Tour: Marie Silk
Happy Monday Everyone!
I hope you all had a lovely weekend! This week’s author spotlight is on the deeply talented, Marie Silk. She is a historical fiction author with four books out in her Davenport House series already, and I am absolutely in love with them! If you are interested in series set in the Progressive Era, then I highly recommend her work.
Author Interview
How did you get the idea for “Davenport House”?
I am a fan of Jane Austen and Downton Abbey. I wanted to write an American counterpart during similar times. Inheritance conflicts have been an issue since earliest recorded history—heated even in present day. I believe a reason for this could be that grief and tragedy can bring out the most extreme emotions of the surviving family. This makes for interesting stories in any era.
Have you always loved writing historical fiction, and do you read it as well?
This is the first time that I have written historical fiction. I had a wonderful time researching for these novels. The locations are real places, and readers might be interested to know that the department store in the first book is still famous to this day. It is now the Macy’s store that is known worldwide for its Thanksgiving Day parades. I still read and enjoy historical fiction. The Mandie series was my favorite to read when I was growing up.
How many books are you estimating will be in the series?
There are six books planned for the Davenport House family saga, continuing through WWI and the Great Depression.
Do you only write historical fiction?
I write in many genres. My friends and family know me for writing satire and humor. Writing a serious historical fiction saga was a surprise to others as well as myself.
Why did you pick the era that is the setting for “Davenport House”?
I picked the Progressive Era because I believe the United States was experiencing a peak time of glory. People were mostly recovered from the Civil War by then, and began making great advances in technology. I think it must have been an exciting time to be alive. I also think that the dresses were beautiful, and the way the characters are dressed is an important element of Davenport House.
What do you hope readers will take away from your writing?
I hope that readers will enjoy the contrast of rich and poor, with a bit of the Cinderella feeling. There is a full range of emotions to be explored throughout this saga. I hope that Davenport House might become a real mansion in the minds’ eye, so that the fine dining, marble fireplaces, and lovely dresses can be enjoyed to their fullest.
Author Bio
Marie Silk has enjoyed writing stories and plays since childhood. She frequently travels the globe to learn more about the world and the people in it. Marie is a fan of history, antiques, castles, Jane Austen, and the game of chess. She is the author of the Davenport House family saga.
Book Excerpts
Book 1: Davenport House
Mary Davenport is a 22-year-old idealist who worries that the world in the Progressive Era is leaving her behind. She lives isolated in the Pennsylvania countryside with her affluent and secretive family. When her father dies suddenly, Mary becomes pained with grief and increasingly suspicious of those around her.
A humble servant girl has the chance of a lifetime to become a lady’s companion. Costly dresses, exquisite rooms, and fine dinners are pleasant distractions from what is really happening in the house.
Book 2: A New Chapter
The family saga continues in this sequel to Davenport House, resuming where the first leaves off in the spring of 1915. The family and servants must face their fears amid love and jealousy, grief and moving forward, and threat of imminent War with the World.
The restructure of an upper class family affects all who live on the Pennsylvania estate. 22-year-old Mary Davenport stays occupied with modernizing the house, but insecurities arise when she develops romantic feelings for the first time.
A wealthy socialite persuades one of the ladies to join her on a voyage aboard the exquisite Lusitania. Handsome Ethan is forced to move into the mansion after a fire destroys his home. Tensions rise as Davenport House enters a new chapter with more challenges than anyone is prepared for.
Book 3: A Mother’s Love
The family saga continues in this third book to Davenport House, beginning with a chapter that looks into the past to understand the present.
Motor cars and telephone calls are now part of the modern life at Davenport House. It is summertime in 1915 Pennsylvania and the ladies of the house are making big plans for the year. Clara takes financial matters into her own hands and discovers an unlikely alliance outside of the house. The future becomes uncertain when faiths collide and a sudden outbreak of fever sweeps across the county.
Ethan and his father are absent for days when secrets of the past are found in a letter. The trustee reopens the estate of the late Mr. Davenport with the power to change everything for everyone at Davenport House.
Book 4: Heiress Interrupted
More to the story is revealed in this fourth book to Davenport House. Nellie Whitmore is accustomed to life as a carefree heiress, but her claim to the family fortune is at risk because of a new heir. Nellie is sent to Britain to be married before word spreads of her changing circumstances. What begins as a luxurious voyage becomes a fight for survival when the ship is caught in the midst of the War, forever changing the people who live to tell about it.
Friendship is kept afloat by telegrams between London and Davenport House. Mary Davenport announces exciting news, and the servants prepare for more changes downstairs. Ethan is anxious to move to Philadelphia, but becomes overworked while the estate is in search of a new groundskeeper. Relationships become strained when the unthinkable shakes the foundation of the house, and the ladies are left to evaluate the risks of keeping secrets.
August 14, 2016
Bright Minds Empty Souls by Jennae Cecilia
Title: Bright Minds Empty Souls
Author: Jennae Cecilia
Rating: 3/5
Synopsis:
Bright Minds Empty Souls is a collection of 200+ poems written by Jennae Cecelia. It is for the hopeless romantics, and the people who believe they can make the bad times into great ones. It’s a book made with love about falling in love. Bright Minds Empty Souls is meant to be read when you are happy or sad. It’s for the people who need someone to relate to their pain. It’s inspiration for you to write down your own thoughts and feelings. It’s a book you can read late at night when you are ending a crappy day, or early in the morning when you know a good day is ahead. Bring it to book clubs, share it with your friends, highlight your favorite poems within it, and use it as inspiration to not only follow your dreams but make them reality. This book is for the dreamers.
Review:
Jennae Cecilia’s poems are fairly basic. I didn’t find them to contain a high level of artistry, which is something that I do look for in poetry. Bright Minds Empty Souls ended up being more a collection of thoughts and quotes than a collection of poetry, and while some of the poems were interesting, I didn’t find many of them to be memorable. One example of a poem that I felt was just more of a statement is as follows:
Badass
I wanted to be a badass because you said
you liked a badass.
The writing comes off a bit flat, and some of the poems seem to be superficial and don’t dig down deeper enough, which is what poetry needs to do.
That being said, Cecilia’s thoughts and ideas are promising, and if she were to study poetry and technique a bit more I believe that she could be widely successful. Her thoughts just need to be expanded on and evolved a bit more in order to be groundbreaking and artistic.
FOR BOOK REVIEW REQUESTS FILL OUT FORM: Book Review Request Form
IF BOOK REQUEST WEBSITE IS DOWN EMAIL: peachykeenreviews@gmail.com
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