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.
Showing posts with label book reviews. Show all posts
Showing posts with label book reviews. Show all posts
Saturday, March 24, 2012
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!
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.
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.
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!
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.
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!
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!)
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?
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!
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
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.
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
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Friday, December 30, 2011
Dark Currents (The Emperor's Edge Book 2) by Lindsay Buroker
Type: Novel
Price: $3.99 when purchased, $4.95 now
Genre: Action/Adventure/Fantasy/Steampunk
Grade: A+
This is the sequel to The Emperor's Edge and is just as good if not better. Most of the information in my post for The Emperor's Edge applies here. Many authors these days do not correctly use the story arc, and try to create suspense and a "cliff hanger" at the end of a book to entice you to read the sequel. Lindsay Buroker understands the purpose of the story arc, and that any good story will have a resolution, leaving you fulfilled at the end of a book, and she relies on her strong characters, story line and amazing writing skill to entice you to read the following books. This worked for me, and I could not wait to start reading Deadly Currents as soon as I finished The Emperor's Edge.
In this book, Amaranthe, Sicarius and the crew embark on a new adventure that is even more nail-biting than their first. Along the way the crew become a solid unit (albeit a dysfunctional one) and their interpersonal relationships develop. Most notably is the relationship between Amaranthe and Sicarius which has certainly become a different sort than it was in the first book (I'm not giving anything away though).
I recommend reading The Emperor's Edge before reading this book to enhance your experience, although it is not necessary and the author provides all necessary information without blatantly repeating the first book. Though I enjoyed reading this book immensely, I feel there is very little I need to say about it, because if you read the first book no doubt you are excited to read the second. So, I am going to trust the strength of these books, not my words to have you continue reading, as I go and start reading Deadly Games, the third book in the series.
as always, visit the authors website at www.lindsayburoker.com
Price: $3.99 when purchased, $4.95 now
Genre: Action/Adventure/Fantasy/Steampunk
Grade: A+
This is the sequel to The Emperor's Edge and is just as good if not better. Most of the information in my post for The Emperor's Edge applies here. Many authors these days do not correctly use the story arc, and try to create suspense and a "cliff hanger" at the end of a book to entice you to read the sequel. Lindsay Buroker understands the purpose of the story arc, and that any good story will have a resolution, leaving you fulfilled at the end of a book, and she relies on her strong characters, story line and amazing writing skill to entice you to read the following books. This worked for me, and I could not wait to start reading Deadly Currents as soon as I finished The Emperor's Edge.
In this book, Amaranthe, Sicarius and the crew embark on a new adventure that is even more nail-biting than their first. Along the way the crew become a solid unit (albeit a dysfunctional one) and their interpersonal relationships develop. Most notably is the relationship between Amaranthe and Sicarius which has certainly become a different sort than it was in the first book (I'm not giving anything away though).
I recommend reading The Emperor's Edge before reading this book to enhance your experience, although it is not necessary and the author provides all necessary information without blatantly repeating the first book. Though I enjoyed reading this book immensely, I feel there is very little I need to say about it, because if you read the first book no doubt you are excited to read the second. So, I am going to trust the strength of these books, not my words to have you continue reading, as I go and start reading Deadly Games, the third book in the series.
as always, visit the authors website at www.lindsayburoker.com
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