Welcome!

In this blog I will be reviewing ebooks I have read. I use an amazon Kindle, so much of the information will be geared towards Kindle users, but other ereader users should still find the information helpful. Many of the books I will be reviewing are free or low-cost books published by independent authors, my goal is to get the word out about some amazing authors that I think deserve more props, and to let you know which books are not worth the time reading. I am open to suggestions, about information you'd like me to add or new books I should check out and review.
Contact me at CassandrasBeads@Gmail.com

Friday, April 27, 2012

Hush Money (Talent Chronicles) By Susan Bischoff

Type: Novella
Genre: Paranormal/YA/Fantasy
Price: $0.99
Grade: B+

What would happen if teenagers had secret super powers, and the government started to find out about them? The Talent Chronicles would happen!

This is a really interesting story, and a quite different take on the "teenagers with special powers" theme. It is fantastic yet believable enough to never have you doubting. The story is strongly character driven, but the characters are unique and interesting and you find yourself caring about them. They are also multi-dimensional and not defined only by their super powers, although there are a lot of tertiary characters with powers which can get a tad confusing when trying to remember who can do what. The main characters make the story, and they kept me reading it. Though they are supernatural teenagers trying to hide their abilities, they are still young and still have all the same issues that any normal teenager has, which makes a nice balance between the two aspects of their lives. And their issues are realistic without being too teen-angsty.
At first I thought it was just a cute story, but before long I got engrossed and couldn't put it down. I will admit that the moment I finished this story, I immediately purchased the second book. So it is worth a read, and a great value for the price.



Conspiracy by Lindsay Buroker

Type: Novel
Genre: Action/Adventure/Steampunk
Price: $4.95
Grade: A++

This is the fourth installment of the Emperor's Edge series, of which there will be 6 novels total (plus short stories). This story picks up after where book 3 ended, when the Emperor manged to sneak a message to Amaranthe and her crew.

Though the first book will always be special, I feel that each book in this series gets better, and more exciting. This adventure is non-stop action from page one. The gang finds themselves in some new scenarios that not only add more danger to their already dangerous antics, but will also tickle any steampunk fans out there as they find they need to battle on top of trains, and even in a dirigible! Each book has a secondary point of view character, and this book was Akstyr's turn. I admit that before this book he was not my favorite character. In fact I found him as insufferable as he was supposed to be, but other than that I couldn't ever really feel a connection to him, which seems easy to do with the other characters (even Maldynado). However, in this book not only do we get to get inside his head a bit and understand how his mind is working, but we also get to know him better as an individual, not just as a practitioner who comes in handy to the crew. It helps that at this point he is starting to grow up, and grow as a person, which he is able to do in large part because of the familial bond Amaranthe's crew has provided for him, something which he was severely lacking while living on the streets.

We also get to know our dear Emperor much better in this book, as he gets to be an active character, as well as a no-longer-drugged-out-of-his-mind individual. And you'll find that Sespian is as completely developed and insanely likable as any of Lindsay's other characters.

And, anyone who is rooting for Amaranthe and Sicarius, Or rooting for Amaranthe and Sespian will want to munch on through this story. That is all I am going to say on that part. Although if you have gotten far enough to be rooting for anyone you no doubt have been as anxiously awaiting this book's release. But be warned, it ends with a quite infuriating cliff hanger that makes the wait until book 5 is written, and published, nearly unbearable!

Wednesday, April 25, 2012

The Goblin Brothers Adventures by Lindsay Buroker

Type: Short story collection
Genre: Fantasy, Children's
Price: $0.99
Grade: A

This adorable collection of adventures is not just for children, the goblin brothers will steal the hearts of all ages. It is not only endearing and entertaining, but also has some excellent themes like being true to yourself, being brave, and dealing with bullies to name a few. Two young goblin brothers grow up in a traditional goblin town, learning to fish and forrage, the only problem is that they would rather spend their time making fantastic machines or reading dusty old books than doing "traditional" goblin things. This eaarns them a lot of ridicule from their brethren; however, it also leads them to become unlikely heros many times over, and their eccentricities are what helps them to save the day.

Saturday, March 24, 2012

Fairy Metal Thunder by JL Bryan

Type: Novella
Genre: Fiction/Fantasy/Fairy Tales
Price: Free when purchased, $0.99 now
Grade: B+

Think Fairies are sweet, gentle and cute? Try ripping them off and then see what happens. When a struggling garage band musician stumbles into the realm of Faerie he sees a band of musicians and becomes intranced, both by their music and their instruments, which he then feels the need to liberate from their current owners. All goes well for his garage band when he presents the members with the fairy instruments, they become instant rock stars, but their are serious consequences when the theft is noticed by the queen of fairies.

This book was sweet and delightful with a dark edge. It features traditional fairies, fauns, ogres, elves and unicorns. And the unicorns may be the most interesting Folk in the whole story. I expected it to be a light hearted story, but I was pleasantly surprised to find that it did have more substance than anticipated. The characters are well thought out and distinct, the plot is fast paced and interesting and the dichotimy of the two worlds is very well pulled off. There are other stories in this series and I look forward to seeing how everything turns out.

Wednesday, March 21, 2012

Peacemaker (The Flash Gold Chronicles #3) by Lindsay Buroker

Type: Novella
Genre: Steampunk/Action/Adventure
Price: $2.99
Grade: A

This high action adventure is the most exciting that Kali and Cedar have yet been on. This is the third in the Flash Gold series, and this novella is also the longest. With the longer story our hero and heroine get to go on an even bigger and more deadly adventure, involving air ships complete with pirates, steam powered motorcycles, murder mystery, Flash Gold, and just a touch of romance. This story is impossible to put down, and is so fun. You don't have to be a fan of the steampunk genre to enjoy it, but if you are, you certainly will! These stories have a different setting than most steampunk fiction, and I find it intriguing. Not only does it add variety to the genre, but it makes it easier for different readers to relate (no Victorian London here!) Couple that with a heroine in dirty overalls with a tool belt instead of garter belt who is simply impossible not to love, and a hero that always keeps us guessing, not to mention the powerful story telling, and it all adds up to a recipe for entertainment!
I will admit, that by the third story I was hoping we would finally get to see more developing between our hero and heroine, but unfortunately for them something always gets in their way. I can't wait for the 4th installment of this exciting series.

Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Problems that have arisen due to self publishing.

This is not a review. I have noticed a few things lately in some of the books I have been reading that I feel the need to discuss. Feel free to add any issues I may not have noticed, or tell me that I am being too picky. I also want to preface this by saying that these statements do not reflect any of the books or authors I have reviewed, they reflect the books and authors that I have read and Not reviewed, for various reasons.

One of the greatest things about self publishing is also the worst thing about it, anyone can do it. This means that many authors that maybe would not have been found by traditional publishing companies have been able to enrich our lives with their wonderful stories. But it also means that many less than wonderful books are also being published.

Self publishing does not mean that you can take something that you wrote in a high school English class and put it, untouched, up on the web and try to sell it, or even give it away. Or rather, you can do this, but you shouldn't. Please make sure that the pieces you are subjecting to us are real, legitimate works, not what you find scratched on an old, yellow piece of loose leaf paper. You should be proud of your work, and not proud in the same way that you would hang it on your fridge for a month then put it in a filing cabinet for the rest of your life. But really, truly proud that you produced such a wonderful piece of work. That is what we want you to share with us.

Possibly the most important And most overlooked aspect with self publishing is the editing process. This is two fold and neither can be ignored. First, after a piece is written it needs to be self edited. If you think this is too difficult, or can't be bothered to edit your own work, then don't publish it, because if it isn't worth your time, it isn't worth ours. And once you think you are done editing your work, put it away for a day, a week or a month, then go back to it and edit it again. Secondly, is professional editing. I understand that self publishing is expensive, and you have to pay for things like editors out of pocket, but if you aren't willing or able to shell out the money for an editor, I promise you it will be reflected in your work, and you can't expect people to spend their money on your work if it is sub-par. Nothing ruins a story quicker than bad editing, misspellings and typos. The latter two are particularly unacceptable. It is also a good idea to have quite a few beta readers (especially ones anal about things like typos, like me) to notice these things before you publish.

Cover art is another cost you will have to shell out if you self publish, but it is worth doing well. Trust me, people Do judge a book by its cover, and an ebook is no exception. Many people make a split second decision about buying/downloading your book by the way it is first presented to them, i.e., the cover. Sometimes simple is better than too complicated, but it still needs to be captivating, so hire a cover artist who has produced some works you like and the money will be worth it.

What is also important to people on the fence about buying/downloading your book is the book description. It's not an easy thing to sum up a whole novel or story in just a few sentences, but it's an important part of making sales. Keep it short, most people won't read more than a paragraph, and careful on the spoilers!

Finally, once someone has read and hopefully enjoyed your book make sure that your readers can find your website or contact info. Having an interactive website or blog is helpful, as is having a newsletter that fans can subscribe to. But keep in mind that without fans, you would not sell any books, so if they contact you, try to be affable and don't ignore them, because then you have lost a potential fan for life.

Sunday, February 26, 2012

In His Eyes - An Anthology

Type: Short Story Anthology
Genre: Fiction
Price: $0.99
Grade: A+


This is a wonderful compilation of short stories that are all about love, romance, and meeting that right person. Every one of these stories is well put together, inventive, interesting and entertaining and many of them have a unique fantasy or sci-fi element. There is something for every reader and this collection is the perfect way to try out authors and their stories, as every one of these short stories is a part of or a companion to a full length novel or a series of books. We get to visit some characters we have read before, like Melody and Raleigh from the Zellie Wells Trilogy by Stacey Wallace Benefiel and Cody and his new girlfriend Megan from Running Wide Open by Lisa Nowak. Each story is told by the point of view of the male in the couple, which lends an interesting perspective and often quite different from the one offered in the full length piece.

Because of this adorable collection I have added many other authors and their works to my To-Read list and I am sure you will too! It’s a steal with 16 stories for only $0.99!

Monday, February 20, 2012

Scattered Pieces by Alice Lynn

Type: Novel
Genre: Fiction/Period Fiction/Drama
Price: $2.99
Grade: B+

Many stories are about what happens when tragedy strikes, but what about the events that happen after a tragedy? This book is a memoir style fiction that follows the life of Katie who is a small child in the 1940s and suddenly one day her little brother disappears, right from her grasp; an event which she will always feel responsible. And it follows her throughout her childhood, teen years and to adulthood in the wake of this life-changing event. It examines the relationships that she has with her parents following the loss of their other child, and her future relationships with friends, teachers and lovers. Though her life has been marred by an unspeakable event it also helps to shape many aspects of her future life, one that like most has its ups and downs but is for the most part a normal, average life. Though it can be a bit lengthy it is an interesting examination of an individual and the effects that certain events can have on many lives. This will be an especially exciting read for anyone interested in psychology or period dramas.

Monday, February 6, 2012

Running Wide Open (Full Throttle) by Lisa Nowak

Type: Novel
Genre: Fiction/YA
Price: $0.99
Grade: A


Cody is a damaged young man who has been let down by everyone he cared about, and he’s learned to just not care anymore. But he finally meets someone who doesn’t let him down, no matter how much Cody puts him through. And Cody finally learns what it feels like to be loved, and accepted, but no sooner does everything fall into place, then it all falls apart. Cody may lose everything, and he becomes a lost little boy again.

This is a touching story about dysfunctional families, teen angst, the importance of love and compassion, overcoming trauma, and race car driving. And believe me, you do not need to be a fan of racing (in fact you can be quite the opposite) to enjoy this story. The characters are richly developed and highly likable and the plot is exciting and believable. The writing style is easy but captivating, and though it is a stand-alone novel (meaning it follows a story arc, and has an actual ending instead of an annoying “cliff-hanger”) I was excited to find out that there is a sequel, and I feel that these characters have more of a story to tell.

Wednesday, February 1, 2012

Glow (Zellie Wells book 3) By Stacey Wallace Benefiel

Type: Novel
Genre: Paranormal/YA
Price: $3.99
Grade: A


This exciting conclusion to the Zellie Wells trilogy gets the whole gang together (and then some) to face their biggest battle yet. With spirits and secret visions and rewinds a-plenty. After Mildred’s body disappears she is never far from the minds of the gang, and no matter what they try to do to stop her, she always seems one step ahead. But Zellie doesn’t know the meaning of the word lose, and she has no intention of walking away anything other then victorious. Along their journey we get to meet other young retroacts and their triggers, we meet Ben’s trigger, Connor, and get to know more about Ben and Christopher’s mothers. Not to mention that Claire and Melody get to have their own budding romances.

This series is sweet, fun, and nail-bitingly exciting. It is appropriate for teens or adults of all ages, and has something for everyone. This series will become addicting, and when you finish this book you will find yourself missing the characters. They became friends along the way. Also, the author is a really nice person, so that should give you more incentive to give her your money, and read her books!

Monday, January 30, 2012

Unlucky In Death by Dan Dillard

Type: Short Story
Genre: Vampire/Paranormal
Price: Free when purchased, now $0.99
Grade: B


What happens when a random guy, walking down the street gets bit by a hippy vampire who doesn’t believe in killing people because he was a vegan in his life? Not only does the random guy wake up a vampire, but he happens to be a hemophobic (afraid of blood), and has yet to grow in his fangs. Well, what any self respecting starving vampire would do, he goes to a shrink, one with late night hours of course.

A cute, campy, funny short story that only takes a few minutes to read.

Saturday, January 28, 2012

Glimmer (Zellie Wells Trilogy book 2) By Stacey Wallace Benefiel

Type: Novel
Genre: Paranormal/YA
Price: $3.99
Grade: A


Normal 16 year old girls are not home schooled pastor’s daughters. Normal 16 year old girls do not find out that their dead grandma is actually alive and apart of a secret society. Normal 16 year old girls do not see glimpses of the future and frequently have to rewind time to save people’s lives. Normal 16 year old girls have not found their soul mate already, but are forced to stay away from him because being with him will assure his certain death. But Zellie Wells is not a normal 16 year old girl.

This second book in the Zellie Wells trilogy is sure to please. It packs more action, mystery, suspense and danger than the first book, and not only are Zellie and her powers maturing, but her relationship with Avery does as well, but that doesn’t mean that all is going well, quite the contrary! It is an easy read, but that does not mean that it won’t keep you on the edge of your seat!

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

Glimpse (Zellie Wells book 1) by Stacey Wallace Benefiel

Type: Novel
Genre: YA, paranormal
Price: Free when purchased, now $0.99
Grade: B+


A sweet, romantic story with an interesting paranormal twist. Teenagers Zellie and Avery have pined after each other for ages and when they experience their first kiss they finally seem to be getting everything they've wanted, until a recurring vision becomes troubling and leads to a whole slew of mysteries to unravel.
The paranormal twist in this story is unique, and not quite expected and makes this story definitely worth checking out. It is backed up by sweet, endearing teenage characters and a plot that though a bit slow and subtle at first, still draws you in and then becomes much quicker paced and more exciting.
An easy but entertaining read, and I look forward to reading the other two books in the series.
*Note, if you plan to read all three books in the series, consider buying the trilogy together, and you will save about a dollar. (I will be reviewing the other books as soon as I finish them!)

Saturday, January 21, 2012

Lily Marin - three short steampunk stories by Paul Kater

Type: Short Story Compilation
Genre: Steampunk
Price: Free
Grade: B+

Lily Marin is a mild mannered singer by day, and crime fighting bad ass by night. She has a slew of interesting gadgets to help her, but she seems to have a few secrets as well. The stories are full of fast paced action, fight scenes and a good amount of criminal butt-kicking.  Lily was not born a superhero, she never expected her life to turn out like that, all she wanted to do was be a better singer. The first two stories show us what Lily can do, or at least what her alter ego the “Masked Woman” can do. The third story answers some of the nagging questions the first two brought up. Namely, how did sweet and gentle singer Lily become a vigilante, and how does she have such super human qualities?

Wednesday, January 18, 2012

The Assassin's Curse by Lindsay Buroker

Type: Short Story
Genre: Action/Adventure/Steampunk
Price: $0.99
Grade: A+

This Emperor's Edge short story features Amaranthe and Sicarius and is nail-bitingly exciting. When Amaranthe sees a potential good deed to be done, she jumps at the idea. When those they are chasing flee to a mysterious island, suddenly Sicarius apprehensive. Though Amarathe is surprised by this reaction she does't let it stop her, but perhaps she should have.
This story is a bit more dark and mystical then the other EE stories, but it works very well. I found this to be my favorite of the EE short stories so far, and I hope it will hold over all EE fans until book 4 comes out! And any Sicarius fans will love this story for a myriad of reasons, of which you will have to find out for yourself!

Monday, January 16, 2012

Shear Desperation:The Chronicles of Shame by Tim Elliott

Type: Novel
Genre: Fiction
Price: $2.99 (on smashwords)
Grade: A


Shear Desperation is a roller coaster of a story, it will have you laughing one minute, and the next you will feel pity, then shame, and possibly a bit of shock now and then. It is a character driven story written in a diary or confessional type style. Bryan, who is a loser by every sense of the term, but also the most endearing character you will ever meet, goes through a myriad of trials when he just wanted to get through his life from day to day. He works in a profession where everyone mistakes him for being gay, has to hear horrific stories from his clients day in and day out, and deal with the most tormenting affliction known to man: unrequited love.  A few small things start to fall into place for Bryan and he thinks that there may be a few rays of hope left in his sad, lonely life, but things always look brightest before the storm, and soon it all comes crashing down around him.

Bryan is the type of guy every girl wants as a best friend, and he is both loveable, and repulsive and completely non-sexual, at least to everyone who Isn’t Bryan. He is a colorful character, who has many hidden depths, and is so true to life that you can picture him being the guy next door. He is backed up by a bevy of colorful characters that only add to the story’s dynamic.  This story is dark and a bit disturbing, but is punctuated by bits of hilarity, like a gay bachelor party complete with the Thriller dance, and a catfish named Steve Buscemi.
Buy this book at https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/horkeytim

Sunday, January 15, 2012

Alexander Death (The Paranormals Book 3) By JL Bryan

Type: Novel
Genre: Paranormal/YA
Price: $4.99
Grade: B


The third book in the Paranormals series takes us further into the lives of Jenny, Seth, Ashleigh, and the other paranormals in their epic, centuries long battle. This book gets even darker than the others, and for a while it isn’t clear where our allegiances are supposed to lie, and who we are supposed to be rooting for, but after many twists and turns, it all becomes clear in the end.

This book is a satisfying conclusion to the series and you’ll leave it glad you read them, and glad to know the characters who have developed so thoroughly throughout the three books. This series has been an interesting twist on the “teens with special powers” idea and I found it new and refreshing.

Vanessa, the Foul Mouthed Dream Catcher, and Fed Up, by Tim Elliott

Type: Short Stories
Genre: Fiction
Price: Free (on smashwords)
Grade: A+


Vanessa, The Foul-Mouthed Dream Catcher

Whatever you think this story is going to be, it isn’t. A delightful, dark, and witty story from new author Tim Elliott. What starts out as a simple, straightforward story, quickly becomes one that makes you pause, contemplate, re-read, and then contemplate some more. The ideas are interesting, and quite possibly true enough that you will be sure to think about them hours, days, or weeks later. I highly recommend everyone check out this story, and keep an eye out for this author in the future.


Fed Up

This story offers a more light-hearted comedy with a unique and intriguing style, and a fascinating look at humanity from some very different perspectives. As the story goes, it gets more whimsical and it seems like there is no guessing which direction it will go in next. Not only will it entertain and release a few chuckles, but it may have you wondering, just a little bit, about a few strange perspectives yourself.

Get both stories for free at https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/horkeytim

Saturday, January 14, 2012

The Girl in the Steel Corset (Steampunk Chronicles) by Kady Cross

Type: Novel
Genre: Steampunk
Price: $7.16
Grade: A


Anyone who has read The Strange Case of Finley Jayne is no doubt intrigued and delighted by Miss Finley Jayne, and this full length novel is sure to please. Finley finds that it is getting more and more difficult to control her “dark side” and begins to wonder what will become of her, when something extraordinary happens, and she finds herself in the one place she Never expected. A whirlwind of events occur and she quickly finds herself caught up in an amazing, and dangerous adventure, and along the way finds out not only more about her parents and her past, but about her strange affliction as well.

This story is rich and exciting, and is impossible to put down! It has lively characters, fabulous gadgets, love triangles galore, and a sprinkling of magic. If you haven’t already, you will fall in love with the strong, tough, fighting Finley and her fabulous steel corset!

Wednesday, January 11, 2012

Impulse Control (Talent Chronicles) by Susan Bischoff

Type: Short Story (50 pages)
Genre: Paranormal/YA
Price: Free
Grade: B+


This is a stand alone short story that is a part of the Talent Chronicles. Suddenly, there are people sprouting up all over the world with special Talents. These people possess a myriad of supernatural skills that the government ultimately fears, and wants to use to it's own gain. So schools are set up to "teach" these children, but what happens when a group of super powerful teenagers is locked away from their friends and family and has every aspect of their life regulated by the government?

This story involves a shapeshifter, a telepath, a girl who can fix anything, and a boy who can make you do whatever he wants you to. And they have children to save.

Encrypted by Lindsay Buroker

Type: Novel
Genre: Fantasy/Action/Adventure/Steampunk
Price: $3.95
Grade: A+


A stand alone novel set in the same world as the Emperor's Edge series, this book will appeal to fantasy, sci-fi and puzzle fiends. With it's usal nail-biting action, fight scenes, mysteries to solve, and loveable characters, this is a book I'd recommend to anyone who has enjoyed Lindsay's work before, or anyone who hasn't.
Though it takes place chronologically before The Emperor's Edge, this book can be read at any point and enjoyed (even if you haven't read EE yet). We get to see some of the Kyatt islands, as well as get to know the peaceful and scientific Kyattese people and the stark contrast they pose with the Turgonians. This book has more elements of science fiction in it than most of Lindsay's books, but die hard fantasy fans will not find it displeasing.
And, if you need extra incentive, we get to see our favorite assassin as a teenager in this story (although that does not make him any less deadly) and find out the origins of his favorite black dagger.

Tommy Nightmare (The Paranormals Book 2) by JL Bryan

Type: Novel
Genre: Paranormal/YA
Price: $2.99
Grade: B+


This is the second book in the Paranormals series, following Jenny Pox, and it is as captivating as the first book. We start off by meeting Tommy, an enigmatic character who we never quite figure out. We also get to see what happens after the events in Fallen Oak and the outbreak of Jenny Pox. Jenny and Seth go through many trials in this story and we see Jenny dealing with a lot, from the emotional ramafications of what she has done, to worrying about the CDC disecting her, all while attempting to finish high school and worry about the future.
Not only do we get to see more of our favorite characters, we get to know more about their circumstances, and their past lives. We also get to meet a bevy of new and exciting paranormals in this book, including Tommy Nightmare, Alexander Death and more. If you enjoyed the first book in the series you will no doubt enjoy this one as well, it is entertaining and engrossing and I look forward to reading the third book, Alexander Death.

Friday, January 6, 2012

Deadly Games (The Emperor's Edge Book 3) By Lindsay Buroker

Type: Novel
Genre: Action/Adventure/Steampunk/Fantasy
Price: $4.95
Grade: A++

This is the third installment in the Emperor's Edge series and like the other books it does not fail to excite and entertain. I found this book to be the most nerve-wracking and nail-biting book yet and I could not put the book down, finishing it in less than a day. I admit that my attachment to the story may be that after three books, and three short stories, I have a lot invested in the characters at this point, but this adventure also seems a touch more dangerous than before (hard to top their other dangerous adventures, I know). The author plans to write a book with each of the crew as a secondary character, the second book was Books's story, and this is Basilard's story, though arguably this is also Sicarius's story. We find out more about both of these characters in this story, about Basilard's history and current mindset and about the changes that Sicarius finds himself going through. The author has mentioned in interviews that Sicarius is never going to become a hero. And I don't think he should, but that does not mean that we don't get to understand him better, and that he doesn't get to change (however slight these changes may be). Amaranthe is going through changes too, mostly learning how to lead the group as well as emotionally adapting to her role as fugative and mercenary while trying to keep her strong moral standing. She is directly responcible for the changes in the other characters too, and Basilard tells Sicarius at one point in the story that Sicarius should stick with Amaranthe, because she keeps him human. Sicarius agrees.

Though it is hard to choose, I would have to say that this is my favorite book of the series thus far, and I anxiously await the next book! Check the author's website for info about new books and release dates:
www.lindsayburoker.com

Thursday, January 5, 2012

The Strange Case of Finley Jayne by Kady Cross

Type: Novella
Genre: Steampunk
Price: Free
Grade: A


Finley finds herself in an awkward position, she has to go home to her parents house and tell them she has just been fired from her job, because she let her "dark side" out. In Victorian London she worries about finding another position, and does not want to be a burden on her family, but she does not have to worry long, for the very next morning a prominant Lady comes around and offers her a position, one that she is not qualified for and which pays more than she ever dreamed of. The job seems like a dream job, but what exactly has Finley gotten herself into?
A startlingly dark steampunk story which is sure to entice and thrill any reader. Finley Jayne is just your average girl, who happens to have a very odd secret. This story is the prequel to The Girl in the Steel Corset in which we will hopefully find out more about Finley's odd secret.  

The Golden Acorn by Catherine Cooper

Type: Novel
Genre: YA/Fantasy
Price: Free
Grade: B+


A delightful book that is not just for children.  Jack Brenin thinks he is a normal boy who moves to a small town, but before he is there long strange things start happening. When he meets the odd neighbors next door things only get stranger. He befriends a talking raven, has mythical creatures attack him, and finds that he must  make an extordinary transforation and embark on a journey that he fears he will never complete.

An adorable and exciting adventure with a swarm of endearing characters, this book will be a delight for people of all ages.

Flash Gold and Hunted by Lindsay Buroker

Flash Gold
Type: Novella (aprox. 52 pages)
Genre: Steampunk/adventure
Price: Free when purchased, $0.99 now
Grade: A


A unique Steampunk story set in the frigid Yukon with a delightful tinkerer, Kali, who makes amazing machines, gadgets, weapons and more with a little help from her stash of Flash Gold, a potent and magical power source that lends her creations an amazing advantage to normal steam powered machines.  Kali has plans to enter her dogless dog sled into a local race, when a  mysterious stranger shows up at her door looking for work. She is wary at first, but he soon shows just how useful he is to have around.

This story blends traditional steampunk elements with new ideas and settings creating an exciting and unusual blend to this impossible to put down story. I highly reccomend it, even to those who are not fans of Steampunk, as there is something for everyone in this story!

The sequel to Flash Gold is Hunted

Hunted
Type: Novella (aprox. 79 pages)
Genre: Steampunk/Adventure
Price: $1.49
Grade: A


This is the sequal to Flash Gold and Kali and Cedar embark on another adventure, where danger waits around ever turn. With Kali's amazing ability to create mechanical devices, modify weapons, and her secret stash of Flash Gold and Cedar's sharpshooting, skill with a katana and amazing tracking skills they seem an unstoppable pair, until they are stuck between two enemies. Will they survive this ordeal, and if they do, what does the future hold for this duo?
These stories (Flash Gold and Hunted) are sure to delight fans of Steampunk, adventure, and action stories, and I have a feeling this is not the last we are going to see of Kali, Cedar, or the Flash Gold!

Tuesday, January 3, 2012

Jenny Pox (The Paranormals, Book 1) by JL Bryan

Type: Novel
Price: Free
Genre: Paranormal/YA
Grade: A


Jenny grows up the ultimate outcast, not only does she have no friends, and is tormented endlessly by the most popular girl in school, but she can't even touch anyone, ever. As a teenager she faces the challenge of surviving high school and high school bullies while knowing that she will never have a normal life, never have a boyfriend never have a first kiss. She can't even pet her dog. There isn't a single person in the world she can touch...or is there?

This is a lovely coming of age type of story with a dark paranormal twist. The author's style is easy and inviting, and sucks you into the story, and has a few hidden surprises along the way. Jenny will steal your heart and you will be rooting for her throughout, the other characters you will love, and some you will love to hate! I am wary about labeling this YA fiction, because there are some explicit scenes, but it is geared mainly towards people in their late teens/early twenties. This is not to say that people of all ages won't enjoy it, and I look forward to reading the other books in the series