Wonderful Reads
Here's the second post.
I just had to tell you about some of the wonderful books I've read recently in addition to some old favourites.
***
Brian Harmon is a recent discovery for me. He's an independent writer of horror /thrillers.
He has written two main series - Rushed and Temple of the Blind and cleverly offers the first ones FREE.
You'll be hooked if you read them!
***
Rushed #1 by Brian Harmon
Eric can't remember the recurring dream that keeps waking him in the middle of the night with an overwhelming urge to leave, yet he spends each day feeling as if he desperately needs to be somewhere. With no idea how to cure himself of this odd compulsion, he decides to let it take its course and go for a drive, hoping that once he proves to himself that there is nowhere to go, he can return to his normal life. Instead, he finds himself hurled headlong into a nightmare adventure across a fractured Wisconsin as the dream reveals itself one heart-pounding detail at a time.
Horror, science fiction, dark fantasy. From the author of The Temple of the Blind. 84,000 words.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Rushed-Book-1...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Rushed-Book-1-B...
My review:
A superb dark story of an unusual journey of Eric, a seemingly ordinary man on a mission delivered by a dream.
It's difficult to say much without giving away too much but it's well written with great humour, dialogue and detailed horror and suspense. The characters are realistic and believable despite the fantasy element and I was hooked from the start.
Highly recommended.
***
Temple of the Blind #1 - The Box by Brian Harmon
When Albert finds a mysterious wooden box waiting for him in the driver's seat of his locked car, he has no idea that it will lead him on an extraordinary and terrifying adventure. Each clue he unravels leads only to more questions as he pieces together a map of the complex, subterranean system that lies beneath the city and the strange labyrinth hidden deep within. Can he discover the meaning behind the box? Or will the endless darkness and the things that lurk unseen within these walls swallow him forever?
Book one of The Temple of the Blind. 52,000 words. Adult content. Horror, dark adventure, suspense, mystery.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Box-Temple-Bl...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Box-Temple-Blin...
My review:
This was a very well written original story filled with mystery, suspense and intrigue. The characters were realistic and fit together well in this unusual tale about a mysterious box.
I don't give spoilers so it is difficult to say too much, however, this is a horror with a difference, something to trigger many questions and wonder about the capabilities of humankind. I will say that I was surprised at the unexpected turn of events and its explicit nature but it did fit in with the story.
Very well done, so good that I am now reading book 2.
***
I've since read all the Temple of the Blind and loved the lot!
I've pre-ordered #4 in the Rushed series. I've also read his short stories too. Brilliant author!
***
Triana Willard is another recent discover, her books captured my imagination...magic in old Japan.
Now, this may seem confusing, but I read The Book of En first because it was on special through Clean Indie Reads (book group on Facebook), but in actuality, it is about Midori before her rise in Autumn Magic. However, personally, I think The Book of En should be read first...it's up to you. I think you'll want to read them both, regardless.
The Book of En by Triana Willard
The exciting prequel to Autumn Magic…
Before she was Lady Green Aki, powerful, rich and refined, she was Midori – a foundling raised by the witch Isala. Midori’s true dreams that show her the future might be the key to a better life, but others have plans to use her talents for their own advantage. Midori is taken from her quiet village and thrown into the aristocratic world of the bustling city Saikyo, where her magical gift will lead her before the great witch Queen herself.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Book-En-T...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Book-En-Triana-...
My review:
A fabulous read about a girl who dreams about the future and those who wish to exploit her gift.
I found this wonderfully descriptive story rich in the Japanese culture, filled with mystery, magic and intrigue. The characters are realistic despite the fantasy feel - both good and bad. Each brought another dimension to this fascinating tale. We follow the changes and how the girl's encounters determined her life and...I don't give spoilers!
Overall, a gripping adventure, the prequel to Autumn Magic, which I am now reading.
Highly recommend to those who enjoy something different and enchanting.
***
Autumn Magic by Triana Willard
Exiled to the last outpost of the Empire…
Wren could not remember the glorious city, and could not regret the quiet way she had been raised. But she knew Sky longed for nothing more than to return to the capital. Obviously, she was willing to do anything, even leave Wren behind, to return there.
When a stranger arrives from the capital, Wren is faced with a decision that will change her life forever as dark forces from across the mountains compel her to act.
Can Wren let her sister go, restore honour to her family, and come to grips with the world of magic unfolding around her?
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Autumn-Magic-...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Autumn-Magic-Tr...
My review:
Having enjoyed reading The Book Of En, I knew I wanted to read this story... I was not disappointed. This was an enchanting tale of Wren and her journey in finding out who she is and where she belongs.
I don't give spoilers but will say that this is a well written compelling read filled with magic, mystery, beautiful imagery and an Eastern culture.
Very well done and highly recommended.
***
This next one is a short story collection, written by an assortment of talented authors, each from the photographic talent of Martin David Porter and Helle Gade.
It's called Reflections, the second collection from the Mind's Eye series, where each author is given a photograph from which to write a story or poem - clever idea, expertly done.
Reflections by Darcia Helle, Maria Savva, Jason McIntyre, J. Michael Radcliffe, Ben Ditmars and Helle Gade.
Do you trust what you see?
Right becomes left.
Up becomes down.
Distorted, unreal.
Your world looks new when you see its...
REFLECTIONS
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Reflections-M...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Reflections-Min...
My review:
Having read the first collection, I knew I would want to read this one. Every story is an imaginative take on the wonderful photographs provided by Martin David Porter and Helle Gade, each author bringing their unique style and delighting the reader.
It's not easy to say too much because I never give spoilers, but there's magic, horror, intrigue, humour, darkness and light (and more) - every tale original, creative and imaginative - amazingly sparked from a photograph.
The poetry too is moving, if sad for the most part, but excellently bringing words together in an almost dreamlike way.
Overall, a brilliant collection - not least the 'real life' tale from Martin David Porter and the squirrel!
Love it - highly recommended.
***
Catherine Cookson has been a long favourite author of mine, although I hadn't realise I'd not read everything, so I loaded some onto my Kindle. This author had a fantastic sense of people and their motives...
The Parson's Daughter by Catherine Cookson
The Victorian Sabbath was not without its difficulties for some of those committed to its observance. Such a one was Nancy Ann Hazel, the young and high-spirited daughter of a country parson. He was a good man and she loved him dearly, but his Sunday sermons could seem long indeed when beyond the church door the sunshine beckoned her into the fields of this pleasant corner of County Durham.
Two older brothers had taught Nancy Ann how to look after herself, so that she could, when necessary, hold her own with the roughest of the village children, even though such escapades might not be considered altogether fitting in a daughter of the vicarage; but they foreshadowed the courage and fortitude she would soon enough have to muster when the greater challenges of a controversial marriage thrust her into womanhood, and when conflict and tragedy alike had to be faced and overcome.
The Parson's Daughter is a major novel spanning the last quarter of the nineteenth century and introduces one of Catherine Cookson's most memorable heroines. Its strong and vibrant narrative will captivate this great storyteller's readers throughout the world.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Parsons-D...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Parsons-Daughte...
My review:
A firm favourite, this author never disappoints. I always love the way the characters are so real and jump off the page. The Parson's Daughter is no exception, and we see Nancy Ann grow from child to girl to woman and live with her through the journey she takes with love, guilt, remorse and many other human emotions.
I also like that, although we are reading Nancy Ann's journey, we also see through eyes of other characters, so to give balance and more depth to the story.
I never give spoilers so it's always difficult to say much, especially when it's such a good story, this time taking place in England in the late 19th century. This author has an abundance of knowledge of the status and wide gap between the rich and poor and the many supposedly civilised notions of what is right and wrong in that era. The arrogance of the rich is astounding, and very real, whereas the poor struggle the same as they do today, as people never change regardless of laws - despite the massive improvements that have been made over the years...attitudes, it could be said, never change.
Overall a fantastic read that pulls the reader from beginning to end.
Highly recommended.
***
Another recent find from Steve LeBel - unusual and funny.
The Universe Builders: Bernie and the Putty by Steve LeBel
Dive into a humorous fantasy world unlike anything you have imagined - a world of gods and goddesses who build universes for a living. Are they all-powerful and all-knowing? Well, not exactly...
As Bernie graduates from God School, he is thrilled to land his dream job as a builder of universes. His first assignment is to build his own universe. Determined but unsure, bright but without confidence, Bernie forges ahead, only to find problems everywhere. Mysterious asteroids, unexplained volcanoes, shifting continents and more lead him to suspect sabotage. But who could sabotage his universe? Only another god could do that...
It’s god vs. god, guile vs. goodness, where only one of them plays by the rules. Bernie must find a way to outwit his vicious foe. If he fails, it will cost him everything.
A fascinating tale of good vs. evil and a young hero on a journey of self-discovery in an original, humorous, fantastic wrapper.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Universe-...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Universe-Builde...
My review:
I was sent this book for review quite some time ago and have only just been able to read it because my list is vast. As a reviewer as well as an author, I don't necessarily know what to expect and this story surprised me - it is an amazing read.
Being a mixture of fantasy, science-fiction and science-fact for the main part, this was fascinating in itself, and yet it was filled with intrigue, good v evil and a touch of romance. It is also steeped in philosophy and myth, intermingled with such topics as bullying, power games, ecology, morality and ethics.
I love the realistic feel of the characters, especially Bernie and his mix of emotions and kind heart.
I don't want to give away its secrets so will say that, in my opinion, this story is original, intelligent, well researched and very clever, and written in such a way as to draw in the reader from the start.
Yes, I am now a fan.
Highly recommended.
***
Okay, Dean Koontz doesn't need my help with promotion, but I loved this story...
The City by Dean Koontz
No.1 New York Times bestselling author Dean Koontz is at the peak of his storytelling powers with this major new novel – a rich, multi-layered story that moves back and forth across decades and generations as a gifted musician relates the ‘terrible and wonderful’ events that began in his city in 1967, when he was ten.
THIS IS THE STORY OF A BOY AND A CITY…
Jonah Kirk’s childhood has been punctuated by extraordinary moments – like the time a generous stranger helped him realize his dream of learning the piano. Nothing is more important to him than his family and friends, and the electrifying power of music.
But now Jonah has a terrifying secret. And it sets him on a collision course with a group of dangerous people who will change his life forever.
For one bright morning, a single earth-shattering event will show Jonah that in his city, good is entwined with malice, and sometimes the dark side of humanity triumphs. But it will also teach him that courage and honour are found in the most unexpected places, and the way forward lies buried deep inside the heart.
If he can just survive to find it…
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-City-Dean...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/City-Novel-Dean...
My review:
Dean Koontz is my favourite author because I love the way he uses his characters to explore mystery - the mystery of the world within which there is something so intriguing if we only take the time to look.
The City has its dark plot, its wonderfully described characters that are so easily brought to life and its delicious mystery of something more. It is sad and it is beautiful and is deeply thought provoking. I would love to have known Amalia more.
This author's work just gets better and better. I don't give spoilers but will say that this story is fantastic and highly recommended
***
Beth M Honeycutt is another newbie for me, but she's a great author.
What Dreams May Come by Beth M Honecutt
Reality is overrated. Or so Ellie Cross has always believed.
Ellie is an ordinary, nothing-special girl who feels invisible most of the time. She’s the kind of girl who would loan her lunch money to anyone, but she’s definitely not the kind of girl to get noticed. Well, except by her mom, who constantly nags her not to be such a dreamer, and the class bully who makes her life miserable. It’s kinda grim for a girl who’s already painfully shy and all-too-aware that she “takes work.”
But Ellie has a best friend, someone she can turn to whenever she has a problem. Well, some might call him an imaginary friend, since they’ve never actually met outside of dreams.
And, sure, Ellie knows it’s kinda weird to have a friend no one else can see, but since her real-world friends currently number one, she figures an imaginary friend can only improve her social life. Even better, since he isn’t real, she can tell dream-guy-Gabe anything, without ever worrying that he’ll ditch her for someone cooler or embarrass her by blabbing her secrets. And so what if she happens to have an itsy-bitsy crush on her reality-challenged friend? Who’s it hurting, really?
But things are about to get complicated, because there’s a new guy in school—a guy with hauntingly familiar eyes. A guy who knows things about Ellie that he shouldn’t have any way of knowing…
This book has been professionally edited and proofread.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/What-Dreams-M...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/What-Dreams-May...
My review:
I was very lucky to receive this book for review despite it being a romance and for a younger audience - as I don't usually read this genre and am far from young.
However, for one, I loved the writing style, which flowed easily from beginning to end. Its humour, too, was excellent. It was the psychological insights that made this story a winner for me because the author truly understood the inner turmoil of being human and the differences between how others see us and how we see ourselves.
I don't give spoilers but will say that this tale is based on a clever idea and is written extremely well, with some beautiful scenes that express what can be difficult emotions without sickly sentimentality.
Very well done and highly recommended.
***
Recommended reads not so recent:
Haunted by Maria Savva
Nigel Price has MURDER on his mind.
He can run but he cannot hide. Nigel's past has come back to haunt him. The truth is, his past has never left him... it follows him without remorse, catching him at every turn. There is no escape.
Regret, guilt, nightmares, despair... these fill his every waking hour and disturb his sleepless nights.
Take a trip inside Nigel's mind, in this dark, psychological thriller with a paranormal twist.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Haunted-Maria...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Haunted-Maria-S...
My review:
I was lucky enough to read this story in advance of publication and I loved it from beginning to end.
I really enjoyed the in-depth character building - so important to a story - where I could see into the minds of each of them, making for great reading. The plot was dark and clever and kept me guessing until the end.
The story gave great insight into the emotions of mankind, where guilt can create an obsessive and insane point of view. We can wonder what we'd do in the circumstances given in the plot and whether conscience is a spark for 'doing the right thing' and if we don't, we have to accept the consequences - these issues are dealt with creatively, yet never once leaving behind reality...cleverly done.
A fantastic read, well written within its many twists and turns, and so far, my favourite story by this talented author.
Highly recommended.
***
Secrets by Darcia Helle
SURVIVAL
Samantha’s monsters aren't under the bed; they’re the people she calls Mom and Dad.
ESCAPE
She makes it out alive, her sanity barely intact.
LIES
She creates a new past that fools everyone, including herself.
HOPE
A life filled with love and security teeters on its base of lies.
SECRETS
When it all comes crumbling down, will Samantha make it out alive?
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Secrets-Darci...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Secrets-Darcia-...
My review:
I won a copy of this book and I was immensely glad I did - it was fantastic. It's extremely well-written and so fast-paced that it was almost mind-blowing, to coin a phrase. The characters are wonderful - both good and bad - and I couldn't wait to see what happened.
Secrets is a true testament to the saying that an easy to read book is difficult to write - a truly amazing talent.
There are many things I'd like to say about it, but I never give spoilers, however, I will say the storyline will have you on the edge of your seat, and that it certainly deals with how secrets can both save lives in the beginning but will destroy them in the end, if we don't take them by the scruff of the neck and shake them loose.
Highly recommended.
***
A Measure of Disorder by Alan Tucker
Jenni Kershaw’s ordinary, eighth grade life becomes a thing of the past when her science class goes on a field trip. Armed with only their notebooks, MP3 players, and wits, Jenni and her classmates are magically transported to another world. Follow Jenni and her class on their extraordinary adventures in their fight to find their way home and discover who — and what — they really are.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Measure-Disor...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Measure-Disorde...
My review:
I knew from the beginning I was going to love this story - well written, great characters and fabulous originality!
It starts with a group of teenagers on a school field trip - ordinary, everyday, yes - until...
I don't give spoilers but will say that this is a delightful, insightful, energising read, in-built with messages about Nature and how things will only become worse for Earth if things don't change. This is cleverly done within a wonderfully imaginative created fantasy world, where descriptions bring it alive - that and the cast of great characters (some unusual, some bad, some good some...unexpected).
Highly recommended - and yes, I am already reading book two in the series.
*****************************************
Well, there they are, some superb reads...time ran out to include them all, but thank you authors for giving me joy with your words.
I just had to tell you about some of the wonderful books I've read recently in addition to some old favourites.
***
Brian Harmon is a recent discovery for me. He's an independent writer of horror /thrillers.
He has written two main series - Rushed and Temple of the Blind and cleverly offers the first ones FREE.
You'll be hooked if you read them!
***
Rushed #1 by Brian Harmon
Eric can't remember the recurring dream that keeps waking him in the middle of the night with an overwhelming urge to leave, yet he spends each day feeling as if he desperately needs to be somewhere. With no idea how to cure himself of this odd compulsion, he decides to let it take its course and go for a drive, hoping that once he proves to himself that there is nowhere to go, he can return to his normal life. Instead, he finds himself hurled headlong into a nightmare adventure across a fractured Wisconsin as the dream reveals itself one heart-pounding detail at a time.
Horror, science fiction, dark fantasy. From the author of The Temple of the Blind. 84,000 words.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Rushed-Book-1...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Rushed-Book-1-B...
My review:
A superb dark story of an unusual journey of Eric, a seemingly ordinary man on a mission delivered by a dream.
It's difficult to say much without giving away too much but it's well written with great humour, dialogue and detailed horror and suspense. The characters are realistic and believable despite the fantasy element and I was hooked from the start.
Highly recommended.
***
Temple of the Blind #1 - The Box by Brian Harmon
When Albert finds a mysterious wooden box waiting for him in the driver's seat of his locked car, he has no idea that it will lead him on an extraordinary and terrifying adventure. Each clue he unravels leads only to more questions as he pieces together a map of the complex, subterranean system that lies beneath the city and the strange labyrinth hidden deep within. Can he discover the meaning behind the box? Or will the endless darkness and the things that lurk unseen within these walls swallow him forever?
Book one of The Temple of the Blind. 52,000 words. Adult content. Horror, dark adventure, suspense, mystery.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Box-Temple-Bl...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Box-Temple-Blin...
My review:
This was a very well written original story filled with mystery, suspense and intrigue. The characters were realistic and fit together well in this unusual tale about a mysterious box.
I don't give spoilers so it is difficult to say too much, however, this is a horror with a difference, something to trigger many questions and wonder about the capabilities of humankind. I will say that I was surprised at the unexpected turn of events and its explicit nature but it did fit in with the story.
Very well done, so good that I am now reading book 2.
***
I've since read all the Temple of the Blind and loved the lot!
I've pre-ordered #4 in the Rushed series. I've also read his short stories too. Brilliant author!
***
Triana Willard is another recent discover, her books captured my imagination...magic in old Japan.
Now, this may seem confusing, but I read The Book of En first because it was on special through Clean Indie Reads (book group on Facebook), but in actuality, it is about Midori before her rise in Autumn Magic. However, personally, I think The Book of En should be read first...it's up to you. I think you'll want to read them both, regardless.
The Book of En by Triana Willard
The exciting prequel to Autumn Magic…
Before she was Lady Green Aki, powerful, rich and refined, she was Midori – a foundling raised by the witch Isala. Midori’s true dreams that show her the future might be the key to a better life, but others have plans to use her talents for their own advantage. Midori is taken from her quiet village and thrown into the aristocratic world of the bustling city Saikyo, where her magical gift will lead her before the great witch Queen herself.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Book-En-T...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Book-En-Triana-...
My review:
A fabulous read about a girl who dreams about the future and those who wish to exploit her gift.
I found this wonderfully descriptive story rich in the Japanese culture, filled with mystery, magic and intrigue. The characters are realistic despite the fantasy feel - both good and bad. Each brought another dimension to this fascinating tale. We follow the changes and how the girl's encounters determined her life and...I don't give spoilers!
Overall, a gripping adventure, the prequel to Autumn Magic, which I am now reading.
Highly recommend to those who enjoy something different and enchanting.
***
Autumn Magic by Triana Willard
Exiled to the last outpost of the Empire…
Wren could not remember the glorious city, and could not regret the quiet way she had been raised. But she knew Sky longed for nothing more than to return to the capital. Obviously, she was willing to do anything, even leave Wren behind, to return there.
When a stranger arrives from the capital, Wren is faced with a decision that will change her life forever as dark forces from across the mountains compel her to act.
Can Wren let her sister go, restore honour to her family, and come to grips with the world of magic unfolding around her?
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Autumn-Magic-...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Autumn-Magic-Tr...
My review:
Having enjoyed reading The Book Of En, I knew I wanted to read this story... I was not disappointed. This was an enchanting tale of Wren and her journey in finding out who she is and where she belongs.
I don't give spoilers but will say that this is a well written compelling read filled with magic, mystery, beautiful imagery and an Eastern culture.
Very well done and highly recommended.
***
This next one is a short story collection, written by an assortment of talented authors, each from the photographic talent of Martin David Porter and Helle Gade.
It's called Reflections, the second collection from the Mind's Eye series, where each author is given a photograph from which to write a story or poem - clever idea, expertly done.
Reflections by Darcia Helle, Maria Savva, Jason McIntyre, J. Michael Radcliffe, Ben Ditmars and Helle Gade.
Do you trust what you see?
Right becomes left.
Up becomes down.
Distorted, unreal.
Your world looks new when you see its...
REFLECTIONS
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Reflections-M...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Reflections-Min...
My review:
Having read the first collection, I knew I would want to read this one. Every story is an imaginative take on the wonderful photographs provided by Martin David Porter and Helle Gade, each author bringing their unique style and delighting the reader.
It's not easy to say too much because I never give spoilers, but there's magic, horror, intrigue, humour, darkness and light (and more) - every tale original, creative and imaginative - amazingly sparked from a photograph.
The poetry too is moving, if sad for the most part, but excellently bringing words together in an almost dreamlike way.
Overall, a brilliant collection - not least the 'real life' tale from Martin David Porter and the squirrel!
Love it - highly recommended.
***
Catherine Cookson has been a long favourite author of mine, although I hadn't realise I'd not read everything, so I loaded some onto my Kindle. This author had a fantastic sense of people and their motives...
The Parson's Daughter by Catherine Cookson
The Victorian Sabbath was not without its difficulties for some of those committed to its observance. Such a one was Nancy Ann Hazel, the young and high-spirited daughter of a country parson. He was a good man and she loved him dearly, but his Sunday sermons could seem long indeed when beyond the church door the sunshine beckoned her into the fields of this pleasant corner of County Durham.
Two older brothers had taught Nancy Ann how to look after herself, so that she could, when necessary, hold her own with the roughest of the village children, even though such escapades might not be considered altogether fitting in a daughter of the vicarage; but they foreshadowed the courage and fortitude she would soon enough have to muster when the greater challenges of a controversial marriage thrust her into womanhood, and when conflict and tragedy alike had to be faced and overcome.
The Parson's Daughter is a major novel spanning the last quarter of the nineteenth century and introduces one of Catherine Cookson's most memorable heroines. Its strong and vibrant narrative will captivate this great storyteller's readers throughout the world.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Parsons-D...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Parsons-Daughte...
My review:
A firm favourite, this author never disappoints. I always love the way the characters are so real and jump off the page. The Parson's Daughter is no exception, and we see Nancy Ann grow from child to girl to woman and live with her through the journey she takes with love, guilt, remorse and many other human emotions.
I also like that, although we are reading Nancy Ann's journey, we also see through eyes of other characters, so to give balance and more depth to the story.
I never give spoilers so it's always difficult to say much, especially when it's such a good story, this time taking place in England in the late 19th century. This author has an abundance of knowledge of the status and wide gap between the rich and poor and the many supposedly civilised notions of what is right and wrong in that era. The arrogance of the rich is astounding, and very real, whereas the poor struggle the same as they do today, as people never change regardless of laws - despite the massive improvements that have been made over the years...attitudes, it could be said, never change.
Overall a fantastic read that pulls the reader from beginning to end.
Highly recommended.
***
Another recent find from Steve LeBel - unusual and funny.
The Universe Builders: Bernie and the Putty by Steve LeBel
Dive into a humorous fantasy world unlike anything you have imagined - a world of gods and goddesses who build universes for a living. Are they all-powerful and all-knowing? Well, not exactly...
As Bernie graduates from God School, he is thrilled to land his dream job as a builder of universes. His first assignment is to build his own universe. Determined but unsure, bright but without confidence, Bernie forges ahead, only to find problems everywhere. Mysterious asteroids, unexplained volcanoes, shifting continents and more lead him to suspect sabotage. But who could sabotage his universe? Only another god could do that...
It’s god vs. god, guile vs. goodness, where only one of them plays by the rules. Bernie must find a way to outwit his vicious foe. If he fails, it will cost him everything.
A fascinating tale of good vs. evil and a young hero on a journey of self-discovery in an original, humorous, fantastic wrapper.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Universe-...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Universe-Builde...
My review:
I was sent this book for review quite some time ago and have only just been able to read it because my list is vast. As a reviewer as well as an author, I don't necessarily know what to expect and this story surprised me - it is an amazing read.
Being a mixture of fantasy, science-fiction and science-fact for the main part, this was fascinating in itself, and yet it was filled with intrigue, good v evil and a touch of romance. It is also steeped in philosophy and myth, intermingled with such topics as bullying, power games, ecology, morality and ethics.
I love the realistic feel of the characters, especially Bernie and his mix of emotions and kind heart.
I don't want to give away its secrets so will say that, in my opinion, this story is original, intelligent, well researched and very clever, and written in such a way as to draw in the reader from the start.
Yes, I am now a fan.
Highly recommended.
***
Okay, Dean Koontz doesn't need my help with promotion, but I loved this story...
The City by Dean Koontz
No.1 New York Times bestselling author Dean Koontz is at the peak of his storytelling powers with this major new novel – a rich, multi-layered story that moves back and forth across decades and generations as a gifted musician relates the ‘terrible and wonderful’ events that began in his city in 1967, when he was ten.
THIS IS THE STORY OF A BOY AND A CITY…
Jonah Kirk’s childhood has been punctuated by extraordinary moments – like the time a generous stranger helped him realize his dream of learning the piano. Nothing is more important to him than his family and friends, and the electrifying power of music.
But now Jonah has a terrifying secret. And it sets him on a collision course with a group of dangerous people who will change his life forever.
For one bright morning, a single earth-shattering event will show Jonah that in his city, good is entwined with malice, and sometimes the dark side of humanity triumphs. But it will also teach him that courage and honour are found in the most unexpected places, and the way forward lies buried deep inside the heart.
If he can just survive to find it…
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-City-Dean...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/City-Novel-Dean...
My review:
Dean Koontz is my favourite author because I love the way he uses his characters to explore mystery - the mystery of the world within which there is something so intriguing if we only take the time to look.
The City has its dark plot, its wonderfully described characters that are so easily brought to life and its delicious mystery of something more. It is sad and it is beautiful and is deeply thought provoking. I would love to have known Amalia more.
This author's work just gets better and better. I don't give spoilers but will say that this story is fantastic and highly recommended
***
Beth M Honeycutt is another newbie for me, but she's a great author.
What Dreams May Come by Beth M Honecutt
Reality is overrated. Or so Ellie Cross has always believed.
Ellie is an ordinary, nothing-special girl who feels invisible most of the time. She’s the kind of girl who would loan her lunch money to anyone, but she’s definitely not the kind of girl to get noticed. Well, except by her mom, who constantly nags her not to be such a dreamer, and the class bully who makes her life miserable. It’s kinda grim for a girl who’s already painfully shy and all-too-aware that she “takes work.”
But Ellie has a best friend, someone she can turn to whenever she has a problem. Well, some might call him an imaginary friend, since they’ve never actually met outside of dreams.
And, sure, Ellie knows it’s kinda weird to have a friend no one else can see, but since her real-world friends currently number one, she figures an imaginary friend can only improve her social life. Even better, since he isn’t real, she can tell dream-guy-Gabe anything, without ever worrying that he’ll ditch her for someone cooler or embarrass her by blabbing her secrets. And so what if she happens to have an itsy-bitsy crush on her reality-challenged friend? Who’s it hurting, really?
But things are about to get complicated, because there’s a new guy in school—a guy with hauntingly familiar eyes. A guy who knows things about Ellie that he shouldn’t have any way of knowing…
This book has been professionally edited and proofread.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/What-Dreams-M...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/What-Dreams-May...
My review:
I was very lucky to receive this book for review despite it being a romance and for a younger audience - as I don't usually read this genre and am far from young.
However, for one, I loved the writing style, which flowed easily from beginning to end. Its humour, too, was excellent. It was the psychological insights that made this story a winner for me because the author truly understood the inner turmoil of being human and the differences between how others see us and how we see ourselves.
I don't give spoilers but will say that this tale is based on a clever idea and is written extremely well, with some beautiful scenes that express what can be difficult emotions without sickly sentimentality.
Very well done and highly recommended.
***
Recommended reads not so recent:
Haunted by Maria Savva
Nigel Price has MURDER on his mind.
He can run but he cannot hide. Nigel's past has come back to haunt him. The truth is, his past has never left him... it follows him without remorse, catching him at every turn. There is no escape.
Regret, guilt, nightmares, despair... these fill his every waking hour and disturb his sleepless nights.
Take a trip inside Nigel's mind, in this dark, psychological thriller with a paranormal twist.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Haunted-Maria...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Haunted-Maria-S...
My review:
I was lucky enough to read this story in advance of publication and I loved it from beginning to end.
I really enjoyed the in-depth character building - so important to a story - where I could see into the minds of each of them, making for great reading. The plot was dark and clever and kept me guessing until the end.
The story gave great insight into the emotions of mankind, where guilt can create an obsessive and insane point of view. We can wonder what we'd do in the circumstances given in the plot and whether conscience is a spark for 'doing the right thing' and if we don't, we have to accept the consequences - these issues are dealt with creatively, yet never once leaving behind reality...cleverly done.
A fantastic read, well written within its many twists and turns, and so far, my favourite story by this talented author.
Highly recommended.
***
Secrets by Darcia Helle
SURVIVAL
Samantha’s monsters aren't under the bed; they’re the people she calls Mom and Dad.
ESCAPE
She makes it out alive, her sanity barely intact.
LIES
She creates a new past that fools everyone, including herself.
HOPE
A life filled with love and security teeters on its base of lies.
SECRETS
When it all comes crumbling down, will Samantha make it out alive?
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Secrets-Darci...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Secrets-Darcia-...
My review:
I won a copy of this book and I was immensely glad I did - it was fantastic. It's extremely well-written and so fast-paced that it was almost mind-blowing, to coin a phrase. The characters are wonderful - both good and bad - and I couldn't wait to see what happened.
Secrets is a true testament to the saying that an easy to read book is difficult to write - a truly amazing talent.
There are many things I'd like to say about it, but I never give spoilers, however, I will say the storyline will have you on the edge of your seat, and that it certainly deals with how secrets can both save lives in the beginning but will destroy them in the end, if we don't take them by the scruff of the neck and shake them loose.
Highly recommended.
***
A Measure of Disorder by Alan Tucker
Jenni Kershaw’s ordinary, eighth grade life becomes a thing of the past when her science class goes on a field trip. Armed with only their notebooks, MP3 players, and wits, Jenni and her classmates are magically transported to another world. Follow Jenni and her class on their extraordinary adventures in their fight to find their way home and discover who — and what — they really are.
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Measure-Disor...
USA - http://www.amazon.com/Measure-Disorde...
My review:
I knew from the beginning I was going to love this story - well written, great characters and fabulous originality!
It starts with a group of teenagers on a school field trip - ordinary, everyday, yes - until...
I don't give spoilers but will say that this is a delightful, insightful, energising read, in-built with messages about Nature and how things will only become worse for Earth if things don't change. This is cleverly done within a wonderfully imaginative created fantasy world, where descriptions bring it alive - that and the cast of great characters (some unusual, some bad, some good some...unexpected).
Highly recommended - and yes, I am already reading book two in the series.
*****************************************
Well, there they are, some superb reads...time ran out to include them all, but thank you authors for giving me joy with your words.
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