Kelli Lockheart's Blog, page 2
September 25, 2013
Good rates so far, here is a good review :)I was asked an...
Good rates so far, here is a good review :)
I was asked and provided this manuscript by the author herself. When I first received the email, I jumped up and down like Tom Cruise on Oprah's couch- shameful, I know. But I was completely honored and flattered to receive the request. It's a huge thing to receive an author request as they are aware that your review could not be favorable so I am eternally grateful for the opportunity and selection.That being said, the book starts out with a strong prologue of Artemis and Orion and their tale of love. From the get go, you can tell that there is conflict regarding the virgin goddess falling for the immortal hunter. The first word of the novel is Artemis- (insert my delighted sequel of excitement). Any setting with Greek god/goddesses is bound to be chaotically excitable and it just so happens that Artemis is my favorite of the Olympians.
The character of Artemis was very strong but also still held her female vulnerability. I think in general, women enjoy seeing the heroine as someone that they can relate to and the author does a great job of showing her humanity. Making Artemis and Orion actually have a strong love connection makes her story human in the best possible way. For the characters of Aphrodite and Zeus, they briefly made an appearance but it was a positive one none the less. Aphrodite is shown as having a soft but fair stance in all matters love and it makes you realize how truly busy she probably was a goddess. Valentine's Day must have been sheer chaos! Zeus is shown as the hotheaded, egotistical and literal father of the gods although I did find it odd that in this version of events, Aphrodite isn't portrayed as a daughter of Zeus. I would have liked a bit more Olympus action but since this is only the first part of the series, I suspect it won't be the last we see of those characters. The way Aphrodite is painted as a sympathetic character is challenging to the conventional concept and is very creative.
The writing is incredibly smooth-feels more like a storyteller is narrating the story just for you. The general underline of the story paid homage to the gods and their interaction. There was definitely a royal tone regarding the speaking of the characters but it wasn't so unrealistic and cumbersome that it turned you off. It has a good combination of modern speaking so you don't get lost in the dialogue and the humor is appreciated. It keeps true with the original story and being a huge fan of Greek mythology I can enjoy it. I particularly enjoyed unique twist and explanation on how were-animals (werewolf, were-cat etc) were created and quite believable given the setting and the times. What happened to Orion and his death is shocking and well set up the story which moves quickly because it's so good.
The prologue gives you an excellent setup and you feel like you have already started the book before you reach chapter one because you know exactly what's going on in the story. The curse that's brought upon on Artemis and how she breaks it is both lighthearted and epic-this isn't your high school mythology story. You can actually be a grown up and read this story in public!
The erotic portion was tastefully done and I would highly recommend this for someone who wants a bit more steam in their romance novels but isn't ready to get burned. Not only is the erotica subtle, but I never really saw it coming the first time. I believe my reaction was akin to "oh, Oh, Oh!" The author shows a true appreciation for women and our own natural sexuality so feminists you can find something you like too in this book. Those who especially enjoy a strong female character will enjoy this series introduction. Artemis is raw, impatient, emotional but also prideful and the idea that she's a goddess just enhances all of those traits.
The story of how Artemis becomes Alexis is very beautiful. Alexis/Artemis is true to lore while the story gives us a glimpse into the life of Orion. I really liked the concept that you get to know Alexis and Galen better in the later chapters. I do wish there would have been a bit more character development between both Artemis and Orion and Alexis and Galen. I especially didn't feel that I got to know Orion at all whereas you're at least privy to Galen's thoughts.
Although it was short, it actually didn't feel like a short story until the end when you wished there was more because, yes it was just that good. I think it's rare to have Greek goddess story because it's such a huge task to tackle. So many people have retold the story and despite the numerous versions, they're classics for a reason; you can never tire of them. So one of the best things about this introduction is that it didn't try to tell the beloved story all over again, but it brought its own perspective. It brought a sense of humanity and complexity to characters previously reserved for textbooks and opened an endless realm of possibilities story wise.
It is a standalone short novel that ended well but at the same time you realized it was only the beginning of the story. I appreciated that because for a minute I was worried that it was going to end too perfectly. Sometimes, the best things are left unsaid and she does a great job doing that. The novel manages the perfect combo of feeling complete by itself but also interesting enough to want to continue the rest of the series. It's a very pleasant bathroom or bedtime read, which brings to life a unique story of fate and love with a dose of indulgent erotica.
I was asked and provided this manuscript by the author herself. When I first received the email, I jumped up and down like Tom Cruise on Oprah's couch- shameful, I know. But I was completely honored and flattered to receive the request. It's a huge thing to receive an author request as they are aware that your review could not be favorable so I am eternally grateful for the opportunity and selection.That being said, the book starts out with a strong prologue of Artemis and Orion and their tale of love. From the get go, you can tell that there is conflict regarding the virgin goddess falling for the immortal hunter. The first word of the novel is Artemis- (insert my delighted sequel of excitement). Any setting with Greek god/goddesses is bound to be chaotically excitable and it just so happens that Artemis is my favorite of the Olympians.
The character of Artemis was very strong but also still held her female vulnerability. I think in general, women enjoy seeing the heroine as someone that they can relate to and the author does a great job of showing her humanity. Making Artemis and Orion actually have a strong love connection makes her story human in the best possible way. For the characters of Aphrodite and Zeus, they briefly made an appearance but it was a positive one none the less. Aphrodite is shown as having a soft but fair stance in all matters love and it makes you realize how truly busy she probably was a goddess. Valentine's Day must have been sheer chaos! Zeus is shown as the hotheaded, egotistical and literal father of the gods although I did find it odd that in this version of events, Aphrodite isn't portrayed as a daughter of Zeus. I would have liked a bit more Olympus action but since this is only the first part of the series, I suspect it won't be the last we see of those characters. The way Aphrodite is painted as a sympathetic character is challenging to the conventional concept and is very creative.
The writing is incredibly smooth-feels more like a storyteller is narrating the story just for you. The general underline of the story paid homage to the gods and their interaction. There was definitely a royal tone regarding the speaking of the characters but it wasn't so unrealistic and cumbersome that it turned you off. It has a good combination of modern speaking so you don't get lost in the dialogue and the humor is appreciated. It keeps true with the original story and being a huge fan of Greek mythology I can enjoy it. I particularly enjoyed unique twist and explanation on how were-animals (werewolf, were-cat etc) were created and quite believable given the setting and the times. What happened to Orion and his death is shocking and well set up the story which moves quickly because it's so good.
The prologue gives you an excellent setup and you feel like you have already started the book before you reach chapter one because you know exactly what's going on in the story. The curse that's brought upon on Artemis and how she breaks it is both lighthearted and epic-this isn't your high school mythology story. You can actually be a grown up and read this story in public!
The erotic portion was tastefully done and I would highly recommend this for someone who wants a bit more steam in their romance novels but isn't ready to get burned. Not only is the erotica subtle, but I never really saw it coming the first time. I believe my reaction was akin to "oh, Oh, Oh!" The author shows a true appreciation for women and our own natural sexuality so feminists you can find something you like too in this book. Those who especially enjoy a strong female character will enjoy this series introduction. Artemis is raw, impatient, emotional but also prideful and the idea that she's a goddess just enhances all of those traits.
The story of how Artemis becomes Alexis is very beautiful. Alexis/Artemis is true to lore while the story gives us a glimpse into the life of Orion. I really liked the concept that you get to know Alexis and Galen better in the later chapters. I do wish there would have been a bit more character development between both Artemis and Orion and Alexis and Galen. I especially didn't feel that I got to know Orion at all whereas you're at least privy to Galen's thoughts.
Although it was short, it actually didn't feel like a short story until the end when you wished there was more because, yes it was just that good. I think it's rare to have Greek goddess story because it's such a huge task to tackle. So many people have retold the story and despite the numerous versions, they're classics for a reason; you can never tire of them. So one of the best things about this introduction is that it didn't try to tell the beloved story all over again, but it brought its own perspective. It brought a sense of humanity and complexity to characters previously reserved for textbooks and opened an endless realm of possibilities story wise.
It is a standalone short novel that ended well but at the same time you realized it was only the beginning of the story. I appreciated that because for a minute I was worried that it was going to end too perfectly. Sometimes, the best things are left unsaid and she does a great job doing that. The novel manages the perfect combo of feeling complete by itself but also interesting enough to want to continue the rest of the series. It's a very pleasant bathroom or bedtime read, which brings to life a unique story of fate and love with a dose of indulgent erotica.
September 17, 2013
Get "The Goddess Redemption- a Reader Introduction" for F...
Get "The Goddess Redemption- a Reader Introduction" for FREE(a tweet or a FB Post) including exclusive material. You can find the button in the right column in the blog. Thank you
The first part in the Goddess Redemption Series is now Li...
The first part in the Goddess Redemption Series is now Live! You can find the amazon link to it in the right column! Thank you
September 14, 2013
New cover done for the first part in The Goddess Redempti...
New cover done for the first part in The Goddess Redemption! Book will be available very soon.... :)
September 11, 2013
I have completed the outline for all ten parts of my new ...
I have completed the outline for all ten parts of my new series"The Goddess Redemption" I'm so happy with them and so excited! :)
September 9, 2013
Giveaway
Will soon give everyone the opportunity to download a free short-story I finished, its a introduction to my new series "The Goddess Redemption" Stay tuned :)
September 7, 2013
Description to "The Goddess Redemtion Part one: To cast a stone
The Goddess RedemptionPart OneTo Cast a Stone
Artemis, the goddess of the hunt, was in love. Many suitors had tried for her heart and her maidenhead, but they belonged only to Orion, her companion of the hunt. The lovers had tired of hunting regular game and were looking for a greater challenge, one to suit the skills they possessed as gods.The shifters were part man, part beast and all cunning. Some were designed from wolves, some from leopards and tigers, others; she formed from bears, both black and brown. They were the perfect prey, these creatures she created to join the hunt. But what happens when the balance of nature is no longer held in check and the hunters no longer hunt?In this installment of the Redemption series, a cruel twist of fate causes the goddess of the hunt, Artemis, to take the life of her lover, Orion, on the day of their betrothal. As punishment, Zeus locks her away in a stone prison, vowing that she would always search for love and never find it, that her stubbornness and anger rule her and that his death lay at her feet. He strips her of her power and knowledge and casts her in stone. Her punishment is swift and severe.
The goddess of love has other designs for the Huntress and works out a plan for Artemis to redeem herself and come home. What entails is a story of redemption, a story of true change, and a tale of a desire that burns feverishly in every heart. But there is also a deeper lesson to be learned along the journey. Great power should be shown great respect.
Artemis, the goddess of the hunt, was in love. Many suitors had tried for her heart and her maidenhead, but they belonged only to Orion, her companion of the hunt. The lovers had tired of hunting regular game and were looking for a greater challenge, one to suit the skills they possessed as gods.The shifters were part man, part beast and all cunning. Some were designed from wolves, some from leopards and tigers, others; she formed from bears, both black and brown. They were the perfect prey, these creatures she created to join the hunt. But what happens when the balance of nature is no longer held in check and the hunters no longer hunt?In this installment of the Redemption series, a cruel twist of fate causes the goddess of the hunt, Artemis, to take the life of her lover, Orion, on the day of their betrothal. As punishment, Zeus locks her away in a stone prison, vowing that she would always search for love and never find it, that her stubbornness and anger rule her and that his death lay at her feet. He strips her of her power and knowledge and casts her in stone. Her punishment is swift and severe.
The goddess of love has other designs for the Huntress and works out a plan for Artemis to redeem herself and come home. What entails is a story of redemption, a story of true change, and a tale of a desire that burns feverishly in every heart. But there is also a deeper lesson to be learned along the journey. Great power should be shown great respect.
September 2, 2013
Character attributes done for The Goddess Redemption Part One: To cast a Stone
Finished the character descriptions! Next step is to make the cover :)
Alexis (Artemis)
Height: 5’8”
Hair color: Dark brown, straight
Eye color: dark mossy or forest green
Build: Athletic
Skin color: Creamy beige, almost ivory.
Alexis has high cheekbones and strong lines, almost aristocratic, but softer.
She is a very strong character who will be placed in situations which humble her. She is the love interest of the merchant, aka Galen, aka Orion.
Galen
Height: 6’1”
Hair Color: Brown
Eye color: Deep brown
Build: Warrior type, though a bit more slender
Skin color: tan/ sun kissed, warm tones
Galen is a very strong character with a love for life. He is often amused and he is actually very charming.
Aphrodite
Height: 5’6”
Hair color: Blonde
Eye color: Deep blue
Build: Slight and graceful
Skin color: ivory, with a rosy and healthy appearance
Aphrodite is the goddess of love and the center voice of the story, she has marked the path that Artemis must take in order to restore Orion’s life and bring her back into the fold of the gods.
Alexis (Artemis)
Height: 5’8”
Hair color: Dark brown, straight
Eye color: dark mossy or forest green
Build: Athletic
Skin color: Creamy beige, almost ivory.
Alexis has high cheekbones and strong lines, almost aristocratic, but softer.
She is a very strong character who will be placed in situations which humble her. She is the love interest of the merchant, aka Galen, aka Orion.
Galen
Height: 6’1”
Hair Color: Brown
Eye color: Deep brown
Build: Warrior type, though a bit more slender
Skin color: tan/ sun kissed, warm tones
Galen is a very strong character with a love for life. He is often amused and he is actually very charming.
Aphrodite
Height: 5’6”
Hair color: Blonde
Eye color: Deep blue
Build: Slight and graceful
Skin color: ivory, with a rosy and healthy appearance
Aphrodite is the goddess of love and the center voice of the story, she has marked the path that Artemis must take in order to restore Orion’s life and bring her back into the fold of the gods.
