D.B. Nielsen's Blog: D B Nielsen's Author Blog, page 4

Cover Reveal - SCROLL: Keepers of Genesis II by DB Nielsen

So excited to share the cover reveal of my second novel. The second book in the Keepers of Genesis series. 
For those of you who have waited so long for even just this. The great news is that Pre-Orders will be available very shortly. And then, the release of SCROLL on the 12th March.Thank you so much for your support. It means the world to me.
\

IDENTICAL TWIN SISTERS. POLES APART. LIGHT AND SHADOW. THEIR DESTINIES INTERLOCKED IN A QUEST THAT WILL DETERMINE THE FATE OF HUMANKIND…Seventeen-year-old Saffron Woods is haunted by strange voices as if from a distant past. With the SEED’s sentience awakened, these mystical voices intensify, forcing Saffron to acknowledge that she has also inherited its legacy of dark secrets, intrigue and death. Venturing out alone, Saffron is driven to locate an ancient manuscript charting the location of the only undiscovered Wonder of the Ancient World, the Hanging Gardens of Babylon; gateway to the Garden of Eden. But last seen in the Library of Alexandria, the SCROLL is long thought to be lost.Then Saffron meets the compelling caretaker of Satis House who appears to know more than he is willing to reveal. Knowing she cannot trust him, Saffron is drawn to this rebellious figure who seems to both threaten and protect her. But her feelings for Finn are complicated by the charming yet inscrutable Anakim, Gabriel Chevalier, who offers her his invaluable assistance in locating the elusive manuscript.
Torn between competing passions and facing an increasingly implacable enemy, the Grigori, Saffron struggles to find the SCROLL which holds the secrets to the past and the key to the future…SCROLL is the second book in the Keepers of Genesis series

Reviews that make you LOVE being an author!

5.0 out of 5 stars such an amazing and captivating read, January 11, 2015By feedmeinbooks "feedmeinboos" - See all my reviewsThis review is from: SEED: Keepers of Genesis I (Kindle Edition)Where to even begin with this one.

D.B. Nielsen is a twitter friend of mine. When I first joined twitter and grabbed him as a follower he sent me a link to review his book SEED. I never got around to doing it until recently and let me just say I AM KICKING MYSELF FOR NOT READING IT BEFORE NOW! (of course at the same time I am relieved because the second book doesn't come out til March Now I don't have to as long for my Fi addiction).

The amount of knowledge I gained from this book is astounding. I always enjoy reading a book and coming away knowing something I didn't before. This book is JAMMED packed with history, but it is described in a way that is so easy to follow, and has romance and mystery and that supernatural feel that it all just rolls into one amazing book.

When I finally started the book I couldn't put it down. I finished it in little over a day. Heck I have even went back and restarted the book just to make sure I didn't miss anything, and to get my Fi fixed, she was by far my favorite character. So full of life and laughter. She was so carefree but also serious when it comes to things that impact her life and her family. I loved that. I also loved how she was always there for her twin, Sage (who is the main character, with St. John).

The characters were all really well developed and thought out. They had their purpose within the book and each maintained it well. There wasn't one character that I didn't like, heck I even liked the evil guy Louis.

So kudos to you D. B. Nielsen you have drew me in! I can't wait for the second book!
5.0 out of 5 stars A SPECTACULAR MUST READ!!! (Spoiler Alert!), January 11, 2015By Sissi F - See all my reviewsVerified Purchase(What's this?)This review is from: Seed: Keepers of Genesis I (Volume 1) (Paperback)‘The Seed’ is a unique and super awesome story displaying romance, heroism, courage, & unwavering loyalty, along with history all ingeniously intertwined together to make the perfect adventure story!! This book is full of action-packed cliff-hangers & nail biting moments, that once I started reading it, I couldn't tear my eyes away which resulted in quite a few late nights! It’s an immensely enjoyable read for all – simply fantastic!! (I am probably one of the youngest readers of it, just starting high school this year) So far, I have read it twice!!
It was really intriguing to see the relationship between Sage & Saffron, two twins with opposite personalities & to top it off, the charming yet mysterious St. John. As Sage finds herself dragged more and more into the irresistible charm of St. John, what happens next is unexpected. When St. John reveals to Sage that she is the Wise One that they have been waiting for several ages (millions of years) she plunges into a dangerous ordeal, meddling with things of the past and making dangerous, immortal, & formidable enemies on the way. Will she survive and save those in need of help, or will she perish?
It is simply my favourite among what I have read recently. To give you a clue, I have read those popular series which have been made into movies recently and are quite hot on the book market. Keepers of Genesis is the best, and I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!!

Cover Reveal 16th January 2015

Can you guess what is behind the curtain?Join me when SCROLL Keepers of Genesis II will have its Official Cover Reveal on the 16th of January.

DB Nielsen
PS. Other exciting news is also to be announced. Curios? Great!

#IndieBooksBeSeen: Book Release: Insight Kindling by Chess Desalles

#IndieBooksBeSeen: Book Release: Insight Kindling by Chess Desalles: Insight Kindling: The Call to Search Everywhen series Insight Kindling is the second installment in The Call to Search Everywhen, a YA ti...

Review: Dark Child (the Awakening): The Omnibus Edition

Dark Child (the Awakening): The Omnibus Edition by Adina West

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



This is no ordinary vampire tale - no boring, passive heroines or simply brooding heroes. The main character, Kat, is an intelligent young woman who doesn't just moon about waiting for the hero to rescue her - she does the rescuing. Finding out that she has a hunger for blood and an extraordinary gift to guess a person's blood type, as well as being a quick healer, Kat searches for answers to her mysterious abilities and gets swept up into another world of vampires and shape shifters who live amongst the humans. A taut thriller with a conspiracy plot to boot, West raises questions about the various factions competing to control Kat and her abilities.
The developing love triangle is intriguing - there are certainly aspects of both love interests that makes it hard to choose between - depends on whether you like the sensualist or the sensitive, thinking hero. I can't decide and will have to wait for the next instalment to satisfy my curiosity... Just as well it comes out soon!
Definitely a must read...



View all my reviews

Reviews - The Good, The Bad and The Ugly!

 Well done, DB NielsenThis is a very entertaining paranormal / urban fantasy that kept me hooked from beginning to end. I loved every minute and look forward to reading book 2 in the series when it arrives. Well done, DB Nielsen.


Mark Shaw rated it 5 of 5 stars I randomly chose this book to read and review as part of a challenge to identify up and coming indie authors. Though I've personally written a fiction book myself, I don’t read much fiction, but something about this book reached out to me and i wanted to know more about it and the author. I found the book to be very well written and thought out. I love history and felt i was getting quite the history lesson reading this, so bravo to the writer. You must have put lots of time and effort into researching those ancient periods that you speak so fluently about. Now if i’m to be honest, a few parts went over my head, but i was still able to stay engaged and get through it. Over all, i think you did a damn good job and i look forward to your future work. You represent us indie authors well!......Mark Shaw (less)
 Fantasy Meets Historical FictionI commend db nielsen for this interesting read. I won't give away the story but if you love literature, history and fantasy this is the book for you! the author has obviously done her research! Give this story a try and you'll enjoy it for sure!

 I will start with I'm glad I gave it those few chaptersI am an independent reviewer for Paranormal Romance and Authors that rock. I am giving this lovely read 4.5 Fangs - I'd have given it 5 but it took me a few chapters to get into the book. I will start with I'm glad I gave it those few chapters, every now and then a book surprises me when I don' t think I'm going to enjoy it and all of a sudden I'm hooked! Seeds did just that.
Sage is the focal point of this novel - she has been around the world with her parents as they taught and studied. Her family is uprooted once again just as she is about to graduate from high school and it turns her world upside down. She is funny, intelligent and spirited, this makes the story both interesting and fun.
D.B. Neilson did the research! The story revolves around Babylonian history and myths. I'm a bit of a history buff in the end that is what kept me turning the pages at first. Then the strong characters took over and kept me enthralled throughout.
I would recommend this if you like history, mystery, romance and paranormal fantasy .

Bárbara rated it 5 of 5 starsMy mum always told me, "If a book doesn't teach you anything, then it's not a great book.". And Seed proved me that she was right.The first thing I have to say about this book is that this was without any doubt one of my 5 favorite books I've read this year, I am honestly speechless of how amazing it is.
Also, I've received a free e-copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.
We know we really love a book when we try really hard to explain its history or how much we love it, and that's why I found really difficult to review books I completely loved, so excuse me for any confused thoughts this review might have.
So, let's really start this.
I was in the middle of the Prologue when I started finding this book a really hard put down and this feeling stayed through all the book. I devoured every single page and every single word DB Nielsen wrote, and I couldn't have loved it more!
Sage, the main character of the book, is probably the most accurate character ever: she reads a lot, she's curious and she asks a lot of questions. She's also such a real character, it's completely impossible to dislike her! I love specially two things about Sage Woods: first, the way she reacts about some... complicated things, unlike other female characters of this kind of books she doesn't overreact in general, she gets chocked yet she doesn't freak out (a lot); the other thing I really like it's her and her twin, Fi, relationship. Again, unlike other books where twins are born rivals, their relationship is incredibly natural, they act like what they are: sisters, twins and friends, despite their... differences.
Now, obviously, I will talk about St. John. As any normal excessive reader I've this thing for male-sarcastic-incredibly-hot characters, so I couldn't help but to fall in love with Elijah St. John (Don't you just love his name?!). Giving away a lot of information about him would end up with me spoiling everyone, so I'm not going to say anything more than this.
Probably the only thing that quite bothered me in the whole book was how fast Sage and St. John's relationship grow, yet everything negative I felt about it disappeared when I got a certain explanation.
If you're a curious person and like history and mythology, you should stop reading this and go buy this book. This book taught me so much, it's not even funny!
I would very recommend this book to everyone.
 Must ReadAbsolutely a wonderfully surprising read. This is an artfully written story of mystery, suspense, and takes you on an adventure you will not soon forget. Sage is a intriguing character that will draw you in as she comes to terms with what she if feeling to reveal her most inter emotion; attracting your romantic side. However, this is not just a romance, no sir, you will be thrilled with the “in your face” action of this historical fiction. You will not be disappointed with this read.


English Bibliophile rated it 5 of 5 stars
I don't even know were to start with this book. It is just brilliant. I'm rarely left speechless about a book - I always know what to write in a review but this time? Not a clue! There are just SO many good things about this book! So this time I'm doing something different with this blog - bullet points! My Under Graduate Dissertation supervisor always told me if I'm at a lost of what to put or have way to much to say to bullet point my ideas down so here goes!

 Five StarsLoved it! Can't wait for the second book!

Renita D'Silva rated it 5 of 5 starsYou know that thrill when you discover an author whose every word draws you in and you cannot put the book down? This is one such book and this is one such author. I absolutely adored D.B. Neilsen’s first SEED book, Keepers of the Genesis. I did not want to part from it, did not want it to end. I am so very glad that there are more books in this series with Sage and St. John at the helm and I like that the next book is starring Sage’s twin, Saffron at the helm. Beautifully written, meticulously researched, this book draws you in and keeps a hold on you right up until the last page. Fast paced, with action and romance, history and intrigue, flitting between London, Paris, Rome and ancient Mesopotamia, this book is a delight with something to appeal to every reader. I was transported; felt I was living in so many different worlds. The characters are expertly drawn, I could visualize each and every one. I loved the way the author contrasted the twins’ characters, how they complemented each other. There is just so much to admire in this book. The writing is evocative and stunning, the dialogue pithy and sharp. I especially loved the descriptions of Sage’s visions. The author is brilliant at building atmosphere and suspense. From the first page, I was immediately right there, in the action. The descriptions are very visual and I think it would make a fabulous movie
5.0 out of 5 stars It is just brilliant. I'm rarely left speechless about a book - ..., I don't even know were to start with this book. It is just brilliant. I'm rarely left speechless about a book - I always know what to write in a review but this time? Not a clue! There are just SO many good things about this book! So this time I'm doing something different with this blog - bullet points! My Under Graduate Dissertation supervisor always told me if I'm at a lost of what to put or have way to much to say to bullet point my ideas down so here goes!
- Nielsen is spot on with every historical fact she uses and I love the fact she quotes historical documents from the Babylonian period along with taking us on tours of museum displays. The history and archaeology geek in me lights up every time I turn the page and notice a reference to some period in history! Seriously if your like me and want any historical facts and references to be correct then you won't be disappointed.
- The characters I generally feel like I know them. I feel I could walk down the street and bump into them when I'm down south in Kent or London. Nielsen develops them so well she perfectly sculpts them so they vividly appear in your head as you progress through the book.
- The nephilim! Oh dear lord. You think Lauren Kates Daniel and Becca Fitzpatrick Patch were drool-worthy? You haven't met St.John and Gabriel. They need to make this into a book so I have two version of the men to drool over (yes I am greedy). Nielsen please please get this made into a movie?
- The plot in this book is superb! I literally had to force myself to put the book down so I could get some sleep before work the next day. From the word go Nielsen had be hooked on the book I kept turning the page wanting to know what was going to happen next and what surprises I was going to encounter.

I laughed and cried at this book. It is beautifully written and Nielsen is a wonderful author with such a vivid imagination. If you are a fan of Lauren Kate, Becca Fitzpatrick, P.C. and Kirsten Cast - heck any of the best selling YA authors out there - you will LOVE Nielsen. Seriously this book will make it. It will be a best-selling and be made into a movie!

Nielsen you are wonderful, keep writing beautiful!

Sugar rated it 5 of 5 starsYou know how we, as readers, stress and plead time and time again for more detail in our favorite books? Totally not a problem here. Even in the introductory pages you can tell the author either comes from a strong archaeological/historian background or she really did some serious research; quite possibly both. You never have those annoying little gaps of "What happened between here and here?" or "How did _ know that?" -- I never had to reread sentences/paragraphs and that helps to stay immersed in the story. I also want to point out how beautifully the author blended a circumstance so heavily rooted in ancient times with modern mentions. Honestly, sometimes I cringe when authors namedrop pop culture icons but in this book it actually felt natural and relatable. There's also not too many moments when characters act OOC/unbelievably just for the sake of moving the plot along. Sage and St.John don't feel forced and I seriously appreciate that. I'm really glad I got the opportunity to read this!

((Disclaimer: I did receive a free copy of this book, however my opinions are my own. This review intentionally focuses on the author's writing style and strength of storytelling, if you want to know what the book is about, read it!))
 LOOOOOVED IT... I love books that whisk me away to another place and keep me there for hours on end..
being from London I love how well the author captured different places. Made me feel like I was there again.
the mixture of history, fantasy, love, sisterhood it's all just executed perfectly I would HIGHLY recommend this book to ANYONE

5.0 out of 5 stars Great! Where is the next one!?By B. G. - See all my reviewsReally enjoyed it. Only problem is the rest of the series isn't available yet!

 By far the Best book ive read this yearBy far the Best book ive read this year, and i love to read. Can't wait until the next one comes out. Wonderful Job D B Nielsen

4.0 out of 5 stars ... written for young teenage readers it has a very good story and is really rather sweetBy Huge "Hugereader" (Cambridge, UK) - See all my reviewsI found this by chance and although written for young teenage readers it has a very good story and is really rather sweet
5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing!!!By Ross Palmer-Willmott - See all my reviewsIf you like mystery, romance and paranormal fantasy stories then this book is a must have for your shelf!
Sage is a very well structured character that you cannot help but fall in love with, while reading this book I found myself really growing close to Sage and couldn't help but turn the next page to see what would happen to her! She is witty, book smart and extremely feisty which makes for an exciting and humorous read throughout the story.

This story revolves around ancient Babylon mythology and history which admittedly I knew very little about however D.B. Nielsen writes in such a way that allows readers with no prior knowledge to come away with a very good understanding of the ancient world that the story relates to, just by reading this book I feel like I have taken part in a masterclass of Babylonian history and mythology (I just wished I had this much fun learning history at school!).

The character dynamics between Sage and Saffron were a particular favourite of mine, the twins work very well together on the page with their strong personalities sometimes clashing and making for very funny moments within the story.

This is the first book of a series and I really cannot wait to see where the story is going to take me next!
Rainne Atkins rated it 5 of 5 stars
Wow!! I loved this book.A hard to put down, page turner. Well written, with a thrilling and intelligent storyline and believable characters.
I only have one complaint.... the book ended. ;)
Thank goodness there are more to follow!

I received the book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
5.0 out of 5 stars WOW!!By Rainne - See all my reviewsWow!! I loved this book.A hard to put down, page turner. Well written, with a thrilling and intelligent storyline and believable characters.
I only have one complaint.... the book ended. ;)
Thank goodness there are more to follow!

 A story that begun as a slow burn and now I am hooked to find out what is next... I have to admit that when I got the twit from DB Nielsen inviting to read the book I did not jump to the idea too quickly. The message kept on popping in my twitter account and finally I said to myself, "Why not?" so I put Game of Thrones in the back burner and on my downtime at work and home I begun to read. At first it took me a few pages to get into the story but by the end of chapter 2 I was hooked.
This book has it all, romance, history, and characters that you can relate. You are greatly endeared to Sage and Saffron and what is not to love about St. John or his brother Gabriel. It is a refreshing story of a girl who is falls for her father's young associate but is independent and not a "Bella" waiting for her "Edward" to rescue her. I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series.

Judith rated it 5 of 5 stars  · I have to admit that when I got the twit from DB Nielsen inviting to read the book I did not jump to the idea too quickly. The message kept on popping in my twitter account and finally I said to myself, "Why not?" so I put Game of Thrones in the back burner and on my downtime at work and home I begun to read. At first it took me a few pages to get into the story but by the end of chapter 2 I was hooked.
This book has it all, romance, history, and characters that you can relate. You are greatly endeared to Sage and Saffron and what is not to love about St. John or his brother Gabriel. It is a refreshing story of a girl who is falls for her father's young associate but is independent and not a "Bella" waiting for her "Edward" to rescue her. I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
 STELLAR, CAPTIVATING ANGELIC ROMANCE & HISTORY NOVEL As an avid reader/writer I'm fairly particular about certain genres, but Seed has it all; Angels, Nephilim, Religion, History, language, Romance & Suspense. Seriously, I devoured the book in two days as sleep overtook me preventing my marathon reading of it. I'd read first two of Danielle Trussoni's Angelology series & was left wanting more of same when Divine Providence handed me Seed: Keeper of Genesis I. I was not disappointed in the least. This book will keep you constantly engaged & hungering for more. Characters are well-fleshed out & immediately draw you in. Nielsen's ability to captivate via well-researched Biblical & historical data is readily noticed & appreciated...and I checked, including her use of French. What she has done over & above Trussoni is her well thought out release plan. Nielsen is scheduled to release bk 2 of 4 part series later this year & is already penning bk 3. Ms. Trussoni had 1+ yrs between books 1 & 2 of her trilogy. Seriously, if you're looking for an accurate, romantic, addictive read, buy Seed now! WARNING: make sure you're well-rested with plenty of portable food & drink at hand AND nothing in your agenda but time to read. Brava!

Leslie Kronborg rated it 5 of 5 stars  · Anyone who enjoys an engrossing, finely crafted tale with sound narrative, characterization & plot.Finely crafted paranormal / urban fantasy encompassing mystery, suspense, adventure, action, laced with fantasy and a search for true love.
Well-paced story. An intelligent plot with fascinating historical tidbits underpinning a believable turn of events. The reader is drawn into the unfolding of the clever mystery by an engaging heroine. Because the narrative is in the first person, Sage is able to reveal her emotions in true confessional style, nuanced feelings. d b nielsen's wry observations about the situations in which she has placed Sage are delightful.
Well-rounded individuals with credible traits, which makes the dialogue throughout sound authentic and appropriate to the speakers concerned; from gushing schoolgirl to irascible Professor to enigmatic museum keeper, the conversational tone seems just right.
The heroine Sage is feisty yet vulnerable, bookish but adventurous, passionate about English Literature and Mesopotamian archaeology, thanks to her father's input from age five. She discovers she has been gifted with mysterious powers - being able to "read" ancient artefacts and conjure up, albeit unwittingly, visions from the past. Thus armed, she decides to embark on a quest to uncouple the mythical from the factual in the Babylonian world and discovers what, if any, message the ancients have for us.
The novel can be read as a page turning paranormal/urban fantasy romance-suspense involving other worlds and peoples. It can also be enjoyed for the detailed, informative and atmospheric portrayal of life as lived by academics, with many literary and cultural allusions sprinkled throughout, teasing the lettered to trace its provenance.
 Teens will love this fantasy fictionThe combination of international travel and intrigue that Sage,our Australian school leaver, encounters when she moves with her family to London provides the background to this gripping story. Page by page our heroine delves into the secrets of a Mesopotamian artefact she happens upon whilst visiting her father's work at the British Museum. Her astonishing relationship with the artefact and those who seek to protect it generates a sense of suspense that keeps you guessing to the end of this absorbing tale. Will appeal to teens and young adults in particular.

 A rare find, just like the artifact at the centre of this novel... I stayed up until very very late one night reading this novel. Very difficult to put down once you're immersed, the pages just keep on turning...

For those who mistrust glowing reviews of newly-published novels, let me reassure you that this novel is, truly, exceptional. There's a reason it has so many five star reviews; because it's that good!

Though the protagonist is a teenager, making this suitable as a YA read, this novel will definitely appeal to older readers too. It has all the depth and incredible world building that many YA paranormal novels lack, and the descriptive language is simply beautiful. This author knows how to weave a spell with words, how to pull you into the world she's created and make it real. I loved the English and European settings, the very real bits of history that underpin the plot, and the characters are wonderful. Both the main character/s and secondary characters are well-imagined and believable. Seed is told from the point of view of Sage, an identical twin, and something tells me her sister Saffron's story might be next. In this novel we see Sage go through a complete journey of self discovery, from girlhood to womanhood, and I was in her corner for every minute of the thrilling ride. (Helicopter ride over the Vatican? Bring it on!)

Ross Palmer-willmott rated it 5 of 5 starsIf you like mystery, romance and paranormal fantasy stories then this book is a must have for your shelf!

Sage is a very well structured character that you cannot help but fall in love with, while reading this book I found myself really growing close to Sage and couldn't help but turn the next page to see what would happen to her! She is witty, book smart and extremely feisty which makes for an exciting and humorous read throughout the story.

This story revolves around ancient Babylon mythology and history which admittedly I knew very little about however D.B. Nielsen writes in such a way that allows readers with no prior knowledge to come away with a very good understanding of the ancient world that the story relates to, just by reading this book I feel like I have taken part in a masterclass of Babylonian history and mythology (I just wished I had this much fun learning history at school!).

The character dynamics between Sage and Saffron were a particular favourite of mine, the twins work very well together on the page with their strong personalities sometimes clashing and making for very funny moments within the story.

This is the first book of a series and I really cannot wait to see where the story is going to take me next!

Here is a link to my video review! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oKIk2... 
5.0 out of 5 stars Angels, archaeology, amore!By Tim Chan - See all my reviewsWhen 17 year old Sage Woods lays eyes upon an ancient artefact and the hauntingly handsome Elijah St John, who may or may not be immortal, she is drawn into a quest involving Ancient Mesopotamia, the book of Genesis and an ancient conspiracy from the dawn of man.
The protagonist, Sage Woods, is a worthy peer to the likes of Katniss Everdeen or Tris Prior, in that she is a brave, resourceful and is intellectual, so while she is not as physically capable, she is not a damsel in distress, unlike the insipid Bella Swan.

D B Nielsen weaves an interesting tale filled with archaeological references and biblical allusions. I really enjoyed the hunt for the artefact and the slow unravelling of its true nature. Despite the fact that young adult fiction is not my cup of tea, I find myself liking the characters and the romance, which is a testament to the author's skill. Five out of five! would recommend.

Melody Anisko rated it 4 of 5 starsI am an independent reviewer for Paranormal Romance and Authors that rock. I am giving this lovely read 4.5 Fangs - I'd have given it 5 but it took me a few chapters to get into the book. I will start with I'm glad I gave it those few chapters, every now and then a book surprises me when I don' t think I'm going to enjoy it and all of a sudden I'm hooked! Seeds did just that.
Sage is the focal point of this novel - she has been around the world with her parents as they taught and studied. Her family is uprooted once again just as she is about to graduate from high school and it turns her world upside down. She is funny, intelligent and spirited, this makes the story both interesting and fun.
D.B. Neilson did the research! The story revolves around Babylonian history and myths. I'm a bit of a history buff in the end that is what kept me turning the pages at first. Then the strong characters took over and kept me enthralled throughout.
I would recommend this if you like history, mystery, romance and paranormal fantasy .
 Must Read This novel captured my attention straight away, it's dynamic, fast-moving and extremely captivating. I found it difficult to pull my eyes away, I'd definitely recommend this novel to the people around me. Once you finish the novel you're left wanting more - it's very obvious a lot of research has gone into this novel and if anything adds more value to the novel! I can't wait for the sequels - db nielson has done a phenomenal job for a first novel and I am excited for more! The language she uses is fantastic and very fresh - I must say this was an incredibly exciting novel - FIVE stars! Highly recommended - must read!

5.0 out of 5 stars A supernatural romance... with actual research!By Rachel - See all my reviewsFirstly, I don't read. I can't sit down with a book and bury my nose in it for a few hours or a few days. So I believe it says quite a bit about this novel. It is an engaging read that has kept me glued train ride after train ride. With proper research and a thrilling storyline, it's definitely a book to pick up and dig into.
John rated it 3 of 5 stars
Angels, Babylon, the hanging gardens, and supernatural events keep you intrigued through out this book. This is an easy and enjoyable read that will have your imagination churning.
 EPIC readI couldn't believe how much I enjoyed this novel. I wanted to be a part of this amazing world where angels live and the history of the world has been built and laid upon by these eternal beings. There was a sense of time travel and history making, something about the new and the old, from the Roman Catacombs to modern day London, that really appealed to me. Usually, fantasy novels mould their stories out of worlds suspended from reality - eg. C.S. Lewis, J.K. Rowling - but Nielsen makes this world in its imperfections and rich history come alive. And it is SO convincing! This is a must-read. I cannot recommend this novel enough.

5.0 out of 5 stars Follow the author down the rabbit hole!By Chloe - See all my reviewsThis book is so gripping. I couldn't help but keep turning the pages. The characters read like they are real people, rather than just words on a page.
I found myself reading this and feeling like I was there, stirring up emotions of my own when it came to declarations of love. I have sobbed, laughed and sat in quiet contemplation whilst reading this book.

I really can not wait until the next one comes out. I think this book would transpose easily onto the big screen.

DB Nielsen really does seem to grab the reader and takes them down the rabbit hole with his characters. Thank you so much for brightening my summer up. x

Jacci rated it 4 of 5 starsKeepers of Seed: Genesis I
I commend db nielsen for this interesting read. I won't give away the story but if you love literature, history and fantasy this is the book for you! the author has obviously done her research! Give this story a try and you'll enjoy it for sure!
 Seriously addictive read, what a world DB Nielsen has created! In this day and age where fantasy novels have the range and breadth of vampires, vampires and more vampires, DB Nielsen has offered a far more meaningful, interesting, and perhaps more accessible - angels. The main protagonists are a set of brilliant yet characteristically different twins, and the geographical, historical, and cultural accuracies and information aid in making this story so compelling and enjoyable. DB Nielsen creates a fantasy world that's based on the core that is our society, and so, readers like myself who like to imagine themselves in these worlds, will not have to wait to see the movie or use their imagination to picture Dumbledore. All they need to do is find a job, save up money and go on a Contiki tour and maybe they'll get to meet the Angels too, at the London Museum, or the Roman Catacombs.

Written to appeal to teenagers and young adults, the crux of the novel does not depend on the relationship of the female and male lead characters. It is incredibly interesting even without, and the dynamic of their relationship gives a more meaningful and substantial perspective to romance - one that is based on friendship, support and companionship.

I simply cannot wait for the sequel to see how all the events and doors that DB Nielsen has opened, will pan out.
 One of my favourites! A fantastic novel with history, fantasy, adventure and romance all in one. I was drawn into Sage's world from the page one and I could not put the book down until I reached the end. One of the rare books where you really step into the main character's shoes and feel like you're part of their world. Extremely well written with lots of intriguing characters and suspense. I cannot wait until the next in the series is released. Very highly recommended!

 Amazing !!!!!!!!! one of the best books I've read in a while This book is like a breath of fresh air, excitement in ever page.
I just couldn't put it down, the suspense and romance is a perfect balance between fantasy and
reality. I was hooked from the first page and it really made me feel as though I was part of the journey.
It's nice to be able to read a book and have such a great connection with the characters.
I'm really looking forward to the rest of the series, CAN'T WAIT :-)

 Best read in a long time - highly recommend Seed Had been waiting for a book that would really take me on a journey. Finally Seed was available and did that with intriguing modern day characters drawn into situations with mythological and historical significance. I as unable to put the book down. A gripping tale about Angelic realms, world events and deep secrets. Highly recommend Seed.

 Awesome! May This book is so awesome! It was given to me as a present for Mother's Day and I've finished it today. It was a definite page turner that you just can't put down. Once you read the first chapter, your sure to be hooked! It combines action, history, romance and suspense all in one with a nice balance of fantasy with reality. The story will be a delight for people who actually enjoy accurate, historical and geographical information. The author has a wealth of knowledge and a unique style of writing. I would definitely recommend this book and I can't wait to read the rest of the series!

5.0 out of 5 stars Brilliant!, By Sarah - See all my reviewsBrilliant! Really enjoyed this book, not my usual genre and was pleasantly surprised. Engaging. The mix of history, real life, well formed characters and fantasy was excellent. Can't wait to read the next one!

5.0 out of 5 stars Review of SEED: Keepers of the Genesis1By Dorothy Evans - See all my reviewsThis novel should appeal to anyone who enjoys the Harry Potter style of books, especially teenage girls & young women - but I loved it too & I'm over 70! A historical fantasy set in the ancient Middle East & present-day Europe, it touches on mythology which is familiar to those who've grown up in the Christian tradition-angels,the Garden of Eden etc. It's told through its young heroine, who is a positive role model. It's page-turner.I strongly recommend this as a great addition to this genre. Congratulations to db Nielsen.

1.0 out of 5 stars One Star,By Mr A J Hunt - See all my reviewsLong winded drivel
5.0 out of 5 stars a fire-cracking debut,By Hilda lee - See all my reviewsIt's rare to see a novel written so well that is filled with logic, thrilling adventure and mystery WHILST having a female heroine at its core. Beats The Hunger Games any day!

 Amazingly fresh fantasy!!! An amazing novel grabbed me from the beginning to the very last page. This supernatural fantasy intertwined with history and incredibly detailed real-life locations is truly engaging. Any reader that enjoys fantasy will appreciate wholly developed characters and fully described scenes. Great storytelling, very fresh and unique approach. I highly recommend this book, being the first in the series. And once you read this book, you will be eager for the next book.

Paranormal Romance and Authors That Rock Review

https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1125001883http://www.amazon.com/review/R1CI60WY3JOUNZ
I am an independent reviewer for Paranormal Romance and Authors that rock. I am giving this lovely read 4.5 Fangs – I’d have given it 5 but it took me a few chapters to get into the book. I will start with I’m glad I gave it those few chapters, every now and then a book surprises me when I don’ t think I’m going to enjoy it and all of a sudden I’m hooked! Seeds did just that.
Sage is the focal point of this novel – she has been around the world with her parents as they taught and studied. Her family is uprooted once again just as she is about to graduate from high school and it turns her world upside down. She is funny, intelligent and spirited, this makes the story both interesting and fun.
D.B. Neilson did the research! The story revolves around Babylonian history and myths. I’m a bit of a history buff in the end that is what kept me turning the pages at first. Then the strong characters took over and kept me enthralled throughout.
I would recommend this if you like history, mystery, romance and paranormal fantasy.  Available at  Amazon One thrilling quest, twin sisters and their sweeping and adventurous romances, a perilous rivalry, intriguing exploration of some of Western culture’s greatest mysteries, a magical tale of angels and demons throughout the ages. Incorporating historical facts intertwined with myth, fantasy, fascinating esoterica and love story, SEED is a captivating read which marks the arrival of a wonderful new voice in YA and crossover escapist literature. I had no idea where to begin in my quest, so I decided to simply follow the path of least resistance, working my way around the exhibition. It was like a jigsaw puzzle; reconstructing pieces of the past and trying to find the bigger picture. I didn’t really know what I was looking for, I only hoped that there would be something, some tablet or bas relief, that would be able to shed some light on the artefact and, more importantly, on what I’d seen. I would have sworn that I saw it transform before my eyes in Dad’s office but I didn’t know whether I should doubt myself now. I’d only seen the artefact for a few moments and yet it had felt like it was speaking to me, imparting some ancient knowledge. Of course, I didn’t understand any of it, but I hoped to.Because I was in a reverie, I almost missed the piece altogether. It was a tablet not much more than ten centimetres in length, containing a cuneiform inscription and a unique map of the Mesopotamian world. The symbols on the tablet were an exact copy of some of the symbols I’d seen on the artefact though a little more crudely formed.The cuneiform inscription composed the top section of the tablet whilst, underneath it, was a diagram featuring two concentric circles. The outer circle was surrounded by triangles at what seemed to be random distances. The inner circle held more geometric symbols and cuneiforms. A rectangle in the top half of the inner circle in the centre of the tablet represented Babylon. Assyria, Elam and other cities were also depicted. The tablet and its inscription were by no means complete as it had been reassembled from the broken pieces found by archaeologists. Information was obviously missing but I was elated at finding anything that could tell me more about the artefact.It was because I was so transfixed with my find that I initially failed to notice that I was being scrutinized from across the room. The first I became aware of it was a prickling sensation down my back, the hairs on my neck and arms raised giving me goose bumps. I turned my head round nervously, looking back over my shoulder.He stood at a distance, a young man in his mid-twenties perhaps, taller than average. No mere accident of lighting, his slightly curly locks, the colour of polished brass, formed a halo around a face that was much too beautiful to be called handsome. The only way to describe him was golden. His skin was golden, his hair, which he wore slightly longer than was fashionable, curling into the nape of his neck, was golden and I suspected his eye colour was, if not golden, amber like mine.When I caught him staring at me intently, he neither looked away in embarrassment nor did he pretend to know me. Instead, he continued to assess me with an unblinking, hypnotic gaze. It was I who broke contact first; flushing with embarrassment, I dropped my eyes at once.This can’t be happening! I thought, feeling panicky. Dragging in a deep breath, my eyes skittered back to his. He was still staring at me, his indescribably beautiful face unmoved.My heart fluttered in my chest. I didn’t know what to think – was this some random stalker or had he seen me before around the museum and couldn’t place my face, seeming familiar to him? No serial killer looked the way he did. He was dressed immaculately all in black; a pair of black trousers was topped by a fine woollen black turtleneck. He wore the sleeves rolled up, exposing his sun-kissed skin. And the black only accentuated the perfection of his face. Of course, I had no idea what a serial killer looked like, but I was fairly certain it wasn’t this golden god.As curious as I was, I did the only thing that made sense; I ignored him – or pretended to. Deliberately turning my back on him, I tried to refocus on the tablet in front of me. But I was merely staring blankly, nothing was registering. It was all so unreal.‘It’s not real.’ A low, attractive voice remarked by my side.I almost jumped out of my skin, whirling to face the owner of that voice.‘Sorry if I startled you.’ He smiled, apologetically. ‘I saw you looking at the map of ancient Mesopotamia.’ He nodded in the direction of the display case.I blinked. He was even more stunningly golden up close. He belonged in a museum – he had the kind of face and figure that artists used as a model. Statues should have been made of this man, posing as Apollo, Phaenon or David. I almost envied him his looks; such beauty on a guy wasn’t fair.I had been wrong about the eyes though; they were an impossible jade green flecked with gold and framed by the longest eyelashes on any guy I’d seen. He was also taller than I imagined; a good few inches above six feet. All in all, he was quite a package and way out of my league.I somehow regained my scattered wits to stutter, ‘S-s-sorry?’Great! Now he was going to think I was an idiot! An idiot with a stutter!I almost groaned aloud.
Goodreads: http://goo.gl/tfpbLHTwitter: https://twitter.com/db_nielsenFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/db.nielsen.authorGoogle+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/b/115744644823758983175/+DbnielsenWebsite: https://www.dbnielsen.com/Reviews: https://www.dbnielsen.com/index.php/reviewsa Rafflecopter giveaway

Interview by Mom With A Kindle

If you could have any superpower what would you choose?
Can I say that I’d like to manipulate time? I would really like to be able to time travel or stop time or reverse time – probably because I never seem to have enough hours in the day to do all the things I love and need to do. And I could also go back in time and visit those loved ones that have passed away or tell my younger self not to waste time on people who don’t really matter. Oh, yeah, and tell my younger self to chillax once in a while (I was a bit intense in my youth!)
Tell us your most rewarding experience since being published.Being recognized on Twitter (probably because, at the time, I had no idea how to Tweet!) and the readers’ generosity, their interest, their love of my novel was truly humbling. I think one of the greatest compliments from a reader that I received was that they thought I must have a background in archaeology and history. I may not be an archaeologist or historian but I do have a love for history and romance. 
Please tell us in one sentence only, why we should read your book.Because it’s for all the lovers and believers in beauty and true love and mystical talismans, angels and ancient artefacts.
Favorite food?Smoked salmon or gravlax (served with French champagne), though I’m also really partial to a High Tea (complete with scones/ jam & cream, finger sandwiches and petit fours)
What book are reading now?Aravind Adiga’s The White Tiger
What’s your favorite season/weather?Autumn/ Fall – I love the burst of colours of the leaves on the trees and I appreciate it being neither too hot or too cold (but just right to curl up with a good book).
What was your favorite children's book?P.D. Eastman’s Are You My Mother? was my favourite children’s book. A newly-hatched bird searches for his mother which leads him to a dog, cow, plane and bulldozer, but there’s a happy reunion with his mother when he finally recognizes her.
Beach or Pool?Pool with a sexy cabana boy.
What is one book everyone should read?Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird – the best book ever as it teaches so many important life lessons through the memorable characters of Scout and Atticus.
Any other books in the works? Goals for future projects?Finishing off book three, SWORD, in the KEEPERS OF GENESIS series and then to eventually try writing a futuristic dystopian text (maybe). I have a million ideas for novels but not enough time to write (that is, until I develop my superpower!)
To view the full Blog hosted by Mom With A Kindle

Mythical Books Guest Post - The British Museum

GUEST POST British Museum and FantasyAs the heroine of my novel, Sage Woods observes, history is often more fantastical than fiction – or fantasy for that matter. Perhaps it’s because history feeds our curiosity and wonder – that we can discover much about the human condition whereby, to know ourselves, we need to understand our past, and at the end of our journey, we learn that all human stories are about love and mortality. Perhaps this is why so many Hollywood movies are based on the mystery and mysticism of ancient artefacts and talismans, such as the popular series of Indiana Jones, Lara Croft, The Mummy, the Night at the Museum (a new film instalment has just been released) and, of course, The Lord of the Rings (based on the bestselling novels). Some of these films have even featured landmark museums or archaeologists and historians adventuring all over the globe – which is probably why I love them so much (plus the fact that they often have mythical creatures such as dragons and elves).

My own novel begins with Sage at the British Museum as she discovers her extraordinary link to an ancient artefact that leads to the only undiscovered Wonder of the Ancient World, the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, and to the origins of humankind. And whilst this particular artefact is based purely on fantasy, much of the novel shows the strong link between our mythology and history. So let me take you on a journey of the British Museum that will spark your imagination…


Filled with ancient artefacts, relics and mummies, the British Museum is a popular tourist destination, but it is here that Sage experiences her first paranormal incident. It’s no wonder too … the museum is a mysterious, spooky place where history, myth and legend reside within its walls. The lives of others make for interesting stories and, if you’re interested in history like I am, you can travel through time as you gaze upon the Rosetta Stone and statues of the Pharaohs, the Elgin Marbles taken from the Parthenon, and the Viking ship found buried at the Sutton Hoo…

But if you follow Sage’s journey in the novel, the exhibits described in the museum can actually be viewed, such as the ‘cosmic map’ from ancient Mesopotamia.


This ‘cosmic map’ explains the Babylonian view of the mythological world and is part of the mystery that surrounds Sage’s quest. In fact, this tablet isn’t much to look at – you might miss it if you’re in a rush as it is not much more than ten centimetres tall. But it does contain an interesting cuneiform inscription and a unique map of the Mesopotamian world and the places shown on the map are in approximately the correct positions. Despite giving relatively accurate positioning, it isn’t meant to be geographically accurate, merely a representation of cosmic geography, a representation of a mythical world.

So what key does it hold to Sage’s future? If you’re interested in horoscopes, the Zodiac and astronomy, take a look at some of the exhibits at the British Museum, especially in the areas featuring artefacts from ancient Mesopotamia…

It is here that Sage first meets the young, enigmatic and alluring archaeologist (move over Indiana Jones), St. John Rivers. It is a meeting that will have surprising ramifications for Sage and, in turn, for humankind…

“It was because I was so transfixed with my find that I initially failed to notice that I was being scrutinized from across the room. The first I became aware of it was a prickling sensation down my back, the hairs on my neck and arms raised giving me goose bumps. I turned my head round nervously, looking back over my shoulder … He stood at a distance, a young man in his mid-twenties perhaps, taller than average. No mere accident of lighting, his slightly curly locks, the colour of polished brass, formed a halo around a face that was much too beautiful to be called handsome. The only way to describe him was golden.”

But that’s not all that’s featured at the British Museum.


Sage’s twin sister, Saffron is obsessed with the legend of Tutankhamen’s Curse, the curse of the pharaohs. Of course, no such curse exists, right? But, here’s an interesting fact – in 2004, the British Museum undertook a unique project to unlock the secrets of a 3,000 year old mummy, a priest called Nesperennub, by performing a “virtual unwrapping” using cutting edge CT scanning technology and computer visualisation techniques. So was this part of the legend that spawned The Mummy and its High Priest Imhotep? Fact or fantasy?

Or perhaps if you journey through Rooms 40 and 41, which houses the artefacts from Anglo-Saxon England and one of my favourite exhibits, the Sutton Hoo ship burial, it may remind you of the legends of King Arthur and Merlin, and feel like you wandered onto the set of Game of Thrones.

And what of the fantastical artefact of celestial beings? Yes, angels. Bet you didn’t know that the Mesopotamian Shedu or Lamassu are in fact representations of Cherubim. Compare the biblical description against Saffron’s first experience of these monumental sculptures:

Ezekiel. Verse 10. “I looked at the dome over the heads of the living creatures and above them was something that seemed to be a throne of sapphire. God said to the man wearing linen clothes, ‘Go between the wheels under the creatures and fill your hands with burning coals. Then scatter the coals over the city.’ I watched him go. The creatures were standing to the south of the Temple when he went in, and a cloud filled the inner courtyard. The dazzling light of the Lord’s presence rose up from the creatures and moved to the entrance of the Temple. Then the cloud filled the Temple and the courtyard was blazing with the light. The noise made by the creatures’ wings was heard even in the outer courtyard. It sounded like the voice of God … I saw that each creature had what looked like a human hand under each of its wings.”
And…
“My lips parted in surprise as, immediately forgetting my embarrassment, I looked up at the monumental sculptures towering above me.

The human-headed winged bulls, more than four metres high and equally wide, were carved from a single stone block. The head of the sculpture, the only human element that I could see, had a man’s bearded face with very precisely modelled features. The wide, slightly slanted eyes were quite expressive, framed by thick eyebrows meeting above a prominent nose. The mouth, surmounted by a thin moustache, was curved upward in a kindly smile. Even its carved stone body – depicting that of a bull with the wings of a bird of prey – had been precisely rendered by the sculptor.

The Shedu wore a starred tiara which was flanked by horns and topped by feathers. It was a mystical beast, having not four but five legs – so that it looked as if standing still when seen from the front, and as if walking when seen from the side. It was an awesome sight to behold, these two stone sculptures dwarfing me with their imposing proportions.”

So next time you venture into the British Museum, you may want to look a little closer … a little deeper…

Who knows? You too may meet an angel or magician or vampire on a night at the museum with its curious blend of ancient and modern…


For the full Guest Blog visit MythicalBooks

12 Days of Christmas Blog Stop

Dec 18 - What is on your TBR list for this Holiday Season?
Ho, ho, ho! Happy Holidays! I must admit that I totally love this season. Everything about it is hectic but fun. And the memories last a lifetime. You never forget the aromatic smells – of fruits soaking in brandy, the gingerbread baking, the pine cones and needles on a real fir tree, the basting duck or turkey – and the sights, those glorious visions of Christmas with tinsel and pretty lights festooning the streets, the ‘Santa Claus’ and elves in every kids’ toy and department stores, the nativity scenes in front of the churches as you pass by, the twinkling decorations in your neighbours’ houses visible through their windows and decorating their porches in welcome – there’s so much about this season that brings with it warmth and happiness…
And if, like me, you can get over the craziness of the season – Christmas parties, kids’ concerts, carols in the park, shopping for Christmas presents, braving the roads/ car parking/ overcrowded shops, preparing the delicacies such as Christmas pudding or cake, duck or turkey, cranberry sauce, rice pudding, and so forth – then you might have some time to yourself for READING!!
So, as you’d expect, my TBR list is really looooooooooooonnnnnnnnnnggggggggg, especially as my tastes are slightly eclectic. I like reading everything from Indie books to mainstream bestsellers, history books to biographies. The only thing I don’t read – particularly when I’m writing – are bestselling YA/ NA books that feature angels or Nephilim (I seriously don’t want to be influenced by other great authors and their ideas). But here are some TBR books at the top of my ‘Happy Holidays’ pile…
·         Richard Flanagan’s Man Booker Prize winning novel, The Narrow Road to the Deep North. A novel of the cruelty of war, tenuousness of life and the impossibility of love. Blurb: “August, 1943. In the despair of a Japanese POW camp on the Thai-Burma death railway, Australian surgeon Dorrigo Evans is haunted by his love affair with his uncle's young wife two years earlier. Struggling to save the men under his command from starvation, from cholera, from beatings, he receives a letter that will change his life forever. This savagely beautiful novel is a story about the many forms of love and death, of war and truth, as one man comes of age, prospers, only to discover all that he has lost.” Doesn’t this just sound fascinating? I think, for me, it’s a must read as my grandfather was a British officer during WWII and gave his life for his men in a Japanese POW camp – so it is a novel that resonates strongly with my personal history and I can’t wait to read it.
·         Renita D’Silva’s The Stolen Girl. Blurb: “‘Your mother has been arrested. She stole you.’ For as long as thirteen-year-old Diya can remember, it’s always been just her and her mum, Vani. Despite never staying in one place long enough to call it home, with her mother by her side, Diya has never needed anything else. Then, in an instant, Diya’s fragile world is shattered. Her mother is arrested, accused of abducting Diya when she was a baby… Vani has spent a lifetime looking over her shoulder, determined to make the best possible life for her daughter. Now she must fight for her child, re-opening the door to her own childhood in India and the woman who was once as close to her as a sister. Told through the eyes of Diya, Vani and Aarti, this is a heart-breaking story of friendship and betrayal, love and motherhood, which asks the question; how far would you go to protect your only child?” This book looks to be an enthralling read – and in D’Silva’s deft hands, I’m sure it’s told with great heart.
·         L.A. Starkey’s Deceived (Soul Keepers Series Book 1). Now I know they say: don’t judge a book by its cover – but this cover is eye-catching and makes me want to pick it up and read the book. Blurb: “They say a soul is the immaterial essence, the animating principle, the actuating cause of an individual life. But what if you had to share yours with the one person you hated the most? The soul mate principle states that for every one soul there is another that will recognize its match, hence creating the perfect union. But what if you had two soul mates, which would you choose?
What if your choices had eternal ramification? Deceived, the debut novel in the Soul Keeper Series, is a modern day love story about the implications of having more than one soul mate, and having to choose between the two of them. The decisions of the gods has left the next generation, their heirs, torn between fate and reality, and the balance of the future hangs in anticipation of what’s to come.” I love these kinds of novels that combine fantasy with mystery and romance…
·         Renee N. Meland’s The Extraction List. Another novel I would pick up just based on the cover alone (yes, I know that makes me seem shallow but what the hell – you can’t tell me that you don’t read with your eyes!!!) Blurb: “In a futuristic America where parenting is regulated by the federal government, fifteen-year-old Riley Crane knows exactly where to turn when she finds out her best friend is being abused. Her mother Claire is the writer and spokesperson for the Parental Morality Law, and she seems to have the unwavering support of the White House behind her. Until a knock on the door one evening changes everything. Faced with a government official standing on their porch ready to make Riley the law’s latest victim, both women must rely on Cain Foley, a gifted killer with a tongue as sharp as the knives he carries, to get them out of America alive. Together, they learn that a killer can save a life, and a mother can damn a nation.” Sounds intriguing, doesn’t it? I’ve heard good things about this book – lots of plot twists and nothing predictable. It’s also part of a series – and I love that because I hate it when a good book ends.
·         Eimear McBride’s A Girl is a Half-formed Thing. I’ve been dying to read this novel. The title is completely brilliant. I’d buy the book on the title alone. But the idea of this novel is just amazingly, emotionally stirring. Blurb: “This incredible debut novel tells, with astonishing insight and in brutal detail, the story of a young woman’s relationship with her brother, and the long shadow cast by his childhood brain tumour. Not so much a stream-of-consciousness, as an unconscious railing against a life that makes little sense, and a shocking and intimate insight into the thoughts, feelings and chaotic sexuality of a vulnerable and isolated protagonist. To read A Girl is a Half-formed Thing is to plunge inside its narrator’s head, experiencing her world first-hand. This isn't always comfortable - but it is always a revelation.” Doesn’t that sound just awesome? This book has won a fistful of awards but I think, for me, I can tell the writer wrote with passion – a love for her subject – and that’s why I buy a book.

 So, there’s just a few of the books I’ll be reading this holiday season (with a lovely cup of tea and slice of Christmas cake!)
Have a very Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year…