Dave Higgins's Blog, page 20

Like a Normal Person

A joyous Day-After-International-Coffee-Day to you all. This is, of course, the day upon which I traditionally drink about the same amount of coffee as I usually do. Many years ago, while at university, I was introduced to cafetière coffee by a few roleplayers. There was a certain macho aspect with people competing to brew and … Continue reading Like a Normal Person

Batu and the Search for the Golden Cup by Zira Nauryzbai & Lilya Kalaus

Nauryzbai and Kalaus blend Kazakh myth with modern pre-teen concerns, creating a middle-grade fantasy about someone who isn’t the chosen one facing an epic quest. Batu isn’t an especially skilled or especially brave boy. However, when Aspara, a hero from Kazakh myth, appears in his room believing Batu is a mighty warrior who will help … Continue reading Batu and the Search for the Golden Cup by Zira Nauryzbai & Lilya Kalaus

Cold Consent

I currently have a stinking cold, which isn’t superbly great. However, the one upside is that taking things easier for a few days has given me time to think, leading to a revelation* that Goths (the aesthetic subculture not the Germanic tribal group) are the solution to the issues Google, Meta, and other internet-centric companies … Continue reading Cold Consent

Primordial World: Book 3 by Baileigh Higgins

Higgins blends spy tropes with man-vs-beast adventure, creating an engaging action thriller. Note: while the author is blessed with a spiffing surname we are unrelated by blood or marriage. This novel is the third in Higgins’ Primordial World series. Possible spoilers for the previous volumes ahead. Having finally defeated their pursuers, Seth and the other … Continue reading Primordial World: Book 3 by Baileigh Higgins

Gabriel by Jim Alexander, David Hill, and Mick Trimble

Alexander blends the immensity of the struggle between Heaven and Hell with the struggles of everyday life, creating a graphic novel where both are meaningful and important. Stewart Gabriel is plagued by visions of ancient Christian history and modern horror, visions that show a monster preying on the citizens of Glasgow. And like most people, … Continue reading Gabriel by Jim Alexander, David Hill, and Mick Trimble

Isn’t It Ironic

Much of the United Kingdom, my part included, is currently experiencing a relative mini-heatwave; which as a friend put it can be an issue if one is hot already. I’ve been keeping my (metaphorical) cool by noting the positives for drying washing and such; however, the boiling away of sleep has finally struck me hard. … Continue reading Isn’t It Ironic

Retrouver by Jordan Elizabeth

Elizabeth evokes the danger and factionalism of zombie stories without the visceral horror, creating a fantasy tale that has something for both action fans and those who like social dilemmas. This novel is the second in Elizabeth’s The Rotters series. Possible spoilers for the previous volume ahead. Being married to the Governor should make it … Continue reading Retrouver by Jordan Elizabeth

Some Climb Anticlockwise

One of my acquaintances commented that bindweed is not something to sing about. While I respect differing opinions, with a topic of such seriousness, one cannot allow error; thus I provide the opposite case. Flanders and Swann, Misalliance: Lest anyone feel this comes from personal preference, my loyalty lies with Clematis, if only for having … Continue reading Some Climb Anticlockwise

The Bow of Destiny by PH Solomon

Solomon blends classic fantasy with a characterful evocation of how even good people aren’t perfect, creating heroes who don’t simply shrug off the trauma and stress of extreme situations. Raised by elves after the death of his parents, Athson spends this time patrolling the wilds around a ranger station. On the heels of an encounter … Continue reading The Bow of Destiny by PH Solomon

Not All Vaginas Are Stoic

And here is your periodic reminder that menstruation is a natural and normal process rather than something sinful or otherwise shameworthy. This time with a jaunty thread about dinosaurs and spaceships.