Book Title: Insight (The Insight Series)
Book Author: Jamie Magee
Genre: Sci-Fi
Quite an interesting take on what people see, or... what they don't see.
As the name of the book indicates, Insight is that little peek into anything - another person, another place, another time. Is it a dream? Is it real?
This book grabs you right at the beginning. You immediately have feelings that you can identify with, and as the story progresses, the twists and turns throw your for a head spin. The characters are perfectly written so that you can "see" right away what the characters themselves are explaining to others as they go along.
The antagonist of this story will give us a nice momentum through the series. This book gives us a glimpse at that, but does more explaining and getting to know characters and forge relationships than it does to really make the guy seem like he's intimating to the point that he's explained to be.
Looking forward to more!
4 out of 5 Bookmarks
Saturday, October 5, 2013
Wednesday, September 11, 2013
Book Series Review of the Elemental Enmity Series by Christie Rich
Book Title(s): Five (#1), Dark Matter (#2), Genesis (#3), Horizon (#4), all in the Elemental Enmity Series
Author: Christie Rich
Genre: Fantasy/Action/Love Story
I'm putting all the books together in one review because I think it would make for a more coherent understanding of the series as a whole, at this point.
This story is a coming of age story, mixed with the bonds of friendship, love, lies, magic, and some chivalry thrown in for good measure.
I enjoyed the series and truly hope the author is going to add on to it, as she seems to indicate she might at the ending.
There were a few problems I had. First, the author was able to aptly describe the countenance of almost every character, except for a couple, which to me, were Rayla the lead female, and Heath one of her suitors and eventually her champion at one point. All I can tell you about Heath is he has a dimple, stands a little taller than Rayla and has dark hair. For some reason I was only able to visualize him as one of the main dwarfs from Lord of the Rings, just taller, braid and all. The ability to describe the architecture and surroundings was beautiful and I was able to completely visualize it. The characters were difficult, though their personalities were defined a little better than their countenance, I was still left scratching my head at times. The characters are in their 20s, which gave their actions merit given their lack of experience at times. And there are quite a few characters to keep up with.
There were questions not answered (MANY!), especially with the final book of the series. I thought the whole "climactic end" would help answer those questions I had and then I read the epilogue, hoping IT would finish that for me, but unfortunately, I really couldn't keep up with it. There were so many questions when I got to the end and it said: "The End (Or Is It?)" I was hopeful that my answers would come in a next book.
Regardless of the "huh?" moments I had, the books had some good story telling, action sequences, tension and overall I was pleased with how the books came together as one cohesive book in total, rather than four separate books. What I mean by that, is that the transitions from one book to the other were seamless, making the storytelling so easy to follow from one book to the next. Usually in a series, the first chapter or two, we're trying to catch those who haven't read the previous books, up to where the current book begins. However with this series the next book, starts off where the last book ended. Love that.
I would definitely recommend the series, just have a better memory than I or take notes, because there are so many Kings, Queens, Lords, Under Lords and other things you may get your characters mixed up, which is what happened with me, quite frequently I'm afraid.
4 out 5 bookmarks for the series
Author: Christie Rich
Genre: Fantasy/Action/Love Story
I'm putting all the books together in one review because I think it would make for a more coherent understanding of the series as a whole, at this point.
This story is a coming of age story, mixed with the bonds of friendship, love, lies, magic, and some chivalry thrown in for good measure.
I enjoyed the series and truly hope the author is going to add on to it, as she seems to indicate she might at the ending.
There were a few problems I had. First, the author was able to aptly describe the countenance of almost every character, except for a couple, which to me, were Rayla the lead female, and Heath one of her suitors and eventually her champion at one point. All I can tell you about Heath is he has a dimple, stands a little taller than Rayla and has dark hair. For some reason I was only able to visualize him as one of the main dwarfs from Lord of the Rings, just taller, braid and all. The ability to describe the architecture and surroundings was beautiful and I was able to completely visualize it. The characters were difficult, though their personalities were defined a little better than their countenance, I was still left scratching my head at times. The characters are in their 20s, which gave their actions merit given their lack of experience at times. And there are quite a few characters to keep up with.
There were questions not answered (MANY!), especially with the final book of the series. I thought the whole "climactic end" would help answer those questions I had and then I read the epilogue, hoping IT would finish that for me, but unfortunately, I really couldn't keep up with it. There were so many questions when I got to the end and it said: "The End (Or Is It?)" I was hopeful that my answers would come in a next book.
Regardless of the "huh?" moments I had, the books had some good story telling, action sequences, tension and overall I was pleased with how the books came together as one cohesive book in total, rather than four separate books. What I mean by that, is that the transitions from one book to the other were seamless, making the storytelling so easy to follow from one book to the next. Usually in a series, the first chapter or two, we're trying to catch those who haven't read the previous books, up to where the current book begins. However with this series the next book, starts off where the last book ended. Love that.
I would definitely recommend the series, just have a better memory than I or take notes, because there are so many Kings, Queens, Lords, Under Lords and other things you may get your characters mixed up, which is what happened with me, quite frequently I'm afraid.
4 out 5 bookmarks for the series
Thursday, August 15, 2013
Tegan's Blood by L.H. Cosway
Book Title: Tegan's Blood (The Ultimate Power Series # 1)
Author: L.H. Cosway
Genre: Paranormal/Fantasy
Tegan's Blood was a freebie and I'm glad I got it. Not only could I truly NOT put it down once I started it, it was a "quick read" for me, which helps when you're dealing with things that life throws at you.
I found the character of Tegan to be very real, going through a very emotional time, suffering the loss of a loved one. It didn't seem contrived to me, what she is feeling is real. Her friends characters are also as real. They act the same way anyone would given the situation that Tegan is currently living through.
I found the story emotionally engaging and I have to say, I was thrown by the character of Ethan. I'm just not understanding him at all. Ethan is not as well written as the other characters, other than knowing his age, looks, and that he "explains" this version of how this author believes that vampires are "made" and dhamphirs are "made". Ethan also comes from a well respected Vampiric family, and this is basically all you get, except that his moods are mercurial. I understood a body guard's character better than Ethan, who is suppose to be a "main" character.
There was quite a bit of mystery, which was fun and I enjoyed the bits and pieces of magic thrown in for good measure. Starting the second in the series... so obviously, I liked it enough to purchase the second... ;)
3.5 out of 5 Bookmarks
Author: L.H. Cosway
Genre: Paranormal/Fantasy
Tegan's Blood was a freebie and I'm glad I got it. Not only could I truly NOT put it down once I started it, it was a "quick read" for me, which helps when you're dealing with things that life throws at you.
I found the character of Tegan to be very real, going through a very emotional time, suffering the loss of a loved one. It didn't seem contrived to me, what she is feeling is real. Her friends characters are also as real. They act the same way anyone would given the situation that Tegan is currently living through.
I found the story emotionally engaging and I have to say, I was thrown by the character of Ethan. I'm just not understanding him at all. Ethan is not as well written as the other characters, other than knowing his age, looks, and that he "explains" this version of how this author believes that vampires are "made" and dhamphirs are "made". Ethan also comes from a well respected Vampiric family, and this is basically all you get, except that his moods are mercurial. I understood a body guard's character better than Ethan, who is suppose to be a "main" character.
There was quite a bit of mystery, which was fun and I enjoyed the bits and pieces of magic thrown in for good measure. Starting the second in the series... so obviously, I liked it enough to purchase the second... ;)
3.5 out of 5 Bookmarks
Thursday, July 25, 2013
A MODERN WITCH SERIES BY DEBORA GEARY
I don't think I've ever commented on the Modern Witch series simply because sometimes, I like to read something and just enjoy it, without having to make notes, or be as vigilant to the "necessaries" for my review.
But, I HAVE to say something about Debora's latest in the series, A Lost Witch. If you're not familiar with the series, I suggest you start it as soon as you can with A Modern Witch. You'll meet a wonderful family of witches and non-witches, loving, open, warm and accepting.
With A Lost Witch, the family has a bit of "lost witch" on their hands. I cried so hard throughout this book, because of the love emanating off the pages for the characters of this book and the characters that have been in the series since the beginning. Debora has such a gift with not only this series but she's got companion series as well that work within the Modern Witch series itself.
You will become so wrapped up in the Sullivan family, as well as the aunts, uncles, cousins, friends... that you will literally feel like a member of the family. I LOVE the series, and I just can't keep it to myself anymore. If you like a little whimsy, some fantastical beliefs of a little witchcraft, and well told story of not only individuals but of an accepting family who takes everyone in, and showers them with acceptance and love, go get the first in the series, A MODERN WITCH. If you've already been reading it, Go get A LOST WITCH now... You'll fall in love with the series even more than you already have!
The series for me is 5 out 5 bookmarks.
But, I HAVE to say something about Debora's latest in the series, A Lost Witch. If you're not familiar with the series, I suggest you start it as soon as you can with A Modern Witch. You'll meet a wonderful family of witches and non-witches, loving, open, warm and accepting.
With A Lost Witch, the family has a bit of "lost witch" on their hands. I cried so hard throughout this book, because of the love emanating off the pages for the characters of this book and the characters that have been in the series since the beginning. Debora has such a gift with not only this series but she's got companion series as well that work within the Modern Witch series itself.
You will become so wrapped up in the Sullivan family, as well as the aunts, uncles, cousins, friends... that you will literally feel like a member of the family. I LOVE the series, and I just can't keep it to myself anymore. If you like a little whimsy, some fantastical beliefs of a little witchcraft, and well told story of not only individuals but of an accepting family who takes everyone in, and showers them with acceptance and love, go get the first in the series, A MODERN WITCH. If you've already been reading it, Go get A LOST WITCH now... You'll fall in love with the series even more than you already have!
The series for me is 5 out 5 bookmarks.
Saturday, June 1, 2013
Book Title: Slaves of Valhalla (The Prometheus Wars - Book 2)
Book Title: Slaves of Valhalla (The Prometheus Wars - Book 2)
Author: Luke Romyn
Genre: Historical/Sci-Fi/Mystery
Slaves of Valhalla leaves off directly where Beyond Hades leaves off.... kinda. ;) We still have Greek Mythology, however Norse Mythology is now added as well. The characters are as loveable/laughable as they were in the first book. The ability to laugh and cry in five minutes while reading, is a major feat.
As a woman, in both books I can tell, Mr. Romyn was a "Mr." and not a "Ms.". As I've said before, I do not read the name of the author until I'm finished reading the book. In my Kindles I have books listed by NAME only. I find a title I like, and start reading. Mr. Romyn seems to really like his guns and toys. He really goes into some detail about all the guns and toys, names, makes, models, etc. I mean, in some cases that's necessary. But to the layman... I don't care. You shoot a GUN. It has bullets. I don't need to know when it was made, the model of it and how it fits in your hand. I need to know if it's a pistol or a rifle, simply because I know how each shoots. The caliber of the gun might be good to know, because that indicates the damage the gun might inflict as well as being automatic or semi-automatic. However I really don't like hearing a paragraph about how this gun makes you feel _______ (fill in the blank). I've read a couple other books that go into some really deep detail about the weapons used, and yes, they were written by men too. I'm not saying it's bad, I'm just saying, I can tell the difference. Moving on...
I was able to tell through this book (which was much shorter than the first) that Mr. Romyn's knowledge of Norse Mythology was not as well versed as his knowledge of Greek Mythology, which leads me to wonder why Norse Mythology was used. There were so many other ways the book could have gone, interspersing the Norse Mythology within the story, given the superstitions and Celtic/Pagan Beliefs of the time. Instead, some token comments were made, and had people in the book not mentioned certain things that were indicative of the time and beliefs, you wouldn't have a clue Norse Mythology was even the back drop for the story.
The ending, for me, was a shocker. At first I just sat there, going, "no way". Then after thinking on it, it made sense to me. The "series" seems pretty much finished by the end of this book though. So, I'm wondering why they're marketed as a "series" instead of just "Books 1 & 2" but I'm not the author nor am I the publisher. Unless of course, there's more coming, and I'm thrilled if there are. I just hope the setting under which they're suppose to be has as much detail as the first book, rather than the second book. When you're talking Mythology of any kind, and intertwining it in a story, really put it in there, don't just stick your toe in the water and find it's too cold to jump in all way. If more research is needed, then do it. If you can't get the characters to meld in that time frame, you another time frame. But don't let the book and story suffer because there just isn't enough meat to go with the potatoes.
3.5 out of 5 Bookmarks (Because I really liked the ending.)
Author: Luke Romyn
Genre: Historical/Sci-Fi/Mystery
Slaves of Valhalla leaves off directly where Beyond Hades leaves off.... kinda. ;) We still have Greek Mythology, however Norse Mythology is now added as well. The characters are as loveable/laughable as they were in the first book. The ability to laugh and cry in five minutes while reading, is a major feat.
As a woman, in both books I can tell, Mr. Romyn was a "Mr." and not a "Ms.". As I've said before, I do not read the name of the author until I'm finished reading the book. In my Kindles I have books listed by NAME only. I find a title I like, and start reading. Mr. Romyn seems to really like his guns and toys. He really goes into some detail about all the guns and toys, names, makes, models, etc. I mean, in some cases that's necessary. But to the layman... I don't care. You shoot a GUN. It has bullets. I don't need to know when it was made, the model of it and how it fits in your hand. I need to know if it's a pistol or a rifle, simply because I know how each shoots. The caliber of the gun might be good to know, because that indicates the damage the gun might inflict as well as being automatic or semi-automatic. However I really don't like hearing a paragraph about how this gun makes you feel _______ (fill in the blank). I've read a couple other books that go into some really deep detail about the weapons used, and yes, they were written by men too. I'm not saying it's bad, I'm just saying, I can tell the difference. Moving on...
I was able to tell through this book (which was much shorter than the first) that Mr. Romyn's knowledge of Norse Mythology was not as well versed as his knowledge of Greek Mythology, which leads me to wonder why Norse Mythology was used. There were so many other ways the book could have gone, interspersing the Norse Mythology within the story, given the superstitions and Celtic/Pagan Beliefs of the time. Instead, some token comments were made, and had people in the book not mentioned certain things that were indicative of the time and beliefs, you wouldn't have a clue Norse Mythology was even the back drop for the story.
The ending, for me, was a shocker. At first I just sat there, going, "no way". Then after thinking on it, it made sense to me. The "series" seems pretty much finished by the end of this book though. So, I'm wondering why they're marketed as a "series" instead of just "Books 1 & 2" but I'm not the author nor am I the publisher. Unless of course, there's more coming, and I'm thrilled if there are. I just hope the setting under which they're suppose to be has as much detail as the first book, rather than the second book. When you're talking Mythology of any kind, and intertwining it in a story, really put it in there, don't just stick your toe in the water and find it's too cold to jump in all way. If more research is needed, then do it. If you can't get the characters to meld in that time frame, you another time frame. But don't let the book and story suffer because there just isn't enough meat to go with the potatoes.
3.5 out of 5 Bookmarks (Because I really liked the ending.)
Book Review: Beyond Hades (The Prometheus Wars- Book 1) by Luke Romyn
Book Title: Beyond Hades (The Prometheus Wars - Book 1)
Author: Luke Romyn
Genre: Sci-Fi/Historical/Mystery
This was yet another Indie Freebie. I'm so glad there are so many independent authors finding their way into my Kindle! I'm getting to read MANY different authors and MANY different genres, though I'm sure in the "genre" category it doesn't seem like it on the blog. LOL
I really liked this book.. REALLY liked this book. The characters, wow... The characters are interesting, deeply thought out, funny and inspiring. The bad guys... well, they are GREAT bad guys! Luke Romyn has taken Greek Mythology, a bloke from Australia and a Paleontologist and made a fast paced, emotion packed, rollercoaster ride! Then on top of that, you also get a lesson in history. I LOVE BOOKS THAT DO THIS!
This is a unique book, in many senses of the word. I mean, what would you do if you met Prometheus? How about Zeus? Hades himself? Are they even real? Could our own government know of an existence beyond where they DO exist? Such an intriguing book I had to immediately buy the second book in the series! So, first one's free... second one I actually paid for. I think those that like Greek Mythology, mysteries, and a ticking time clock you have to beat, this is definitely a good read for you!
4 out of 5 Bookmarks
Author: Luke Romyn
Genre: Sci-Fi/Historical/Mystery
This was yet another Indie Freebie. I'm so glad there are so many independent authors finding their way into my Kindle! I'm getting to read MANY different authors and MANY different genres, though I'm sure in the "genre" category it doesn't seem like it on the blog. LOL
I really liked this book.. REALLY liked this book. The characters, wow... The characters are interesting, deeply thought out, funny and inspiring. The bad guys... well, they are GREAT bad guys! Luke Romyn has taken Greek Mythology, a bloke from Australia and a Paleontologist and made a fast paced, emotion packed, rollercoaster ride! Then on top of that, you also get a lesson in history. I LOVE BOOKS THAT DO THIS!
This is a unique book, in many senses of the word. I mean, what would you do if you met Prometheus? How about Zeus? Hades himself? Are they even real? Could our own government know of an existence beyond where they DO exist? Such an intriguing book I had to immediately buy the second book in the series! So, first one's free... second one I actually paid for. I think those that like Greek Mythology, mysteries, and a ticking time clock you have to beat, this is definitely a good read for you!
4 out of 5 Bookmarks
Saturday, May 4, 2013
Book Review: On the Edge of Humanity by S. B. Alexander
Book Title: On the Edge of Humanity (a Vampire SEAL novel)
Author: S. B. Alexander
Genre: Sci-Fi/Paranormal/Mystery/Action/Young Adult
I read the title "A vampire SEAL novel" and thought "gimme a break". Since this was a Freebie from Book Basset, I figured I'd read it just because it gave me something to do.
Josaphine "Jo" and Sam Mason who are fraternal twins, have been in the Foster Care system for years. Their Mother died and their alcoholic father abandoned them. Jo is shy, with beautiful silver eyes, flawless skin and shiny hair. Sam has girls fawning all over him, but he sees nothing but baseball and trouble, usually because he's protecting his sister. She is always being picked on by one person or another, and he has the wrap sheet to prove it.
At their latest Foster Home, Jo is pretty much seen as a "slave" to the "foster mom" so she can go out, or sew or whatever. Her "foster father" has already tried one time to molest her in the short time they've been there, but his wife walked in and nothing happened. Tonight feels different though. She's looking for something to protect herself, because Sam isn't home from baseball practice yet, and finds a wine opener. She pricks her finger trying to see if it's sharp enough to cause harm. She sticks her bleeding finger in her mouth and finds that it tastes like watermelon candy. That freaks her out a bit, but it doesn't stop her from going to her room. As she's getting ready to go to sleep Cliff, her "foster father" enters, drunk, smelly, and tells her she's not getting away this time. Her fear level is spiking, and she tries to protect herself, but it doesn't work, he has a knife and he's using it. In comes her brother, bat at the ready. Cliff puts the knife to his beautiful sister's face, and tells him not to do it, she'd be scarred for life. He does, and Jo has a slash on her face. She and Sam both end up with Cliff's blood all over them and in their mouths. Then she blacks out from the amount of blood she's lost from her stab wounds.
The story from here, gets frenetic at times! Sam and Jo must escape the hospital because for some reason, there's some big burly guy with FANGS chasing them. When back at school some military people show up, they bring Jo to the office to talk to them, but Sam's missing. This is when Jo finds out the truth. She's a vampire going through "adolescence." As it's explained to her, she's also told her father is a member of an elite SEAL team, the same one they're members of, and her father disappeared around the time Jo was attacked.
And now we know how the SEALS are involved... kinda. To get the rest of this intriguing story, you'll have to read it. I'm gladly looking for the second installment. This one had me on the edge of my seat, a lot. But we also find, Jo isn't as powerless as she thinks she is. There were a few strings left hanging at the end of this book and I hope they're covered in the next book... I also hope Sam's best friend and Jo's savior, finds a way to become part of the team he's been wanting to be on since he was a kid. He deserves it. Thank you S. B. Alexander for an entertaining read that left me wanting to see someone serve justice by a Father's Love, and for leaving us some very interesting things to think about for the next book in the series!
4.5 out of 5 Bookmarks
Author: S. B. Alexander
Genre: Sci-Fi/Paranormal/Mystery/Action/Young Adult
I read the title "A vampire SEAL novel" and thought "gimme a break". Since this was a Freebie from Book Basset, I figured I'd read it just because it gave me something to do.
Josaphine "Jo" and Sam Mason who are fraternal twins, have been in the Foster Care system for years. Their Mother died and their alcoholic father abandoned them. Jo is shy, with beautiful silver eyes, flawless skin and shiny hair. Sam has girls fawning all over him, but he sees nothing but baseball and trouble, usually because he's protecting his sister. She is always being picked on by one person or another, and he has the wrap sheet to prove it.
At their latest Foster Home, Jo is pretty much seen as a "slave" to the "foster mom" so she can go out, or sew or whatever. Her "foster father" has already tried one time to molest her in the short time they've been there, but his wife walked in and nothing happened. Tonight feels different though. She's looking for something to protect herself, because Sam isn't home from baseball practice yet, and finds a wine opener. She pricks her finger trying to see if it's sharp enough to cause harm. She sticks her bleeding finger in her mouth and finds that it tastes like watermelon candy. That freaks her out a bit, but it doesn't stop her from going to her room. As she's getting ready to go to sleep Cliff, her "foster father" enters, drunk, smelly, and tells her she's not getting away this time. Her fear level is spiking, and she tries to protect herself, but it doesn't work, he has a knife and he's using it. In comes her brother, bat at the ready. Cliff puts the knife to his beautiful sister's face, and tells him not to do it, she'd be scarred for life. He does, and Jo has a slash on her face. She and Sam both end up with Cliff's blood all over them and in their mouths. Then she blacks out from the amount of blood she's lost from her stab wounds.
The story from here, gets frenetic at times! Sam and Jo must escape the hospital because for some reason, there's some big burly guy with FANGS chasing them. When back at school some military people show up, they bring Jo to the office to talk to them, but Sam's missing. This is when Jo finds out the truth. She's a vampire going through "adolescence." As it's explained to her, she's also told her father is a member of an elite SEAL team, the same one they're members of, and her father disappeared around the time Jo was attacked.
And now we know how the SEALS are involved... kinda. To get the rest of this intriguing story, you'll have to read it. I'm gladly looking for the second installment. This one had me on the edge of my seat, a lot. But we also find, Jo isn't as powerless as she thinks she is. There were a few strings left hanging at the end of this book and I hope they're covered in the next book... I also hope Sam's best friend and Jo's savior, finds a way to become part of the team he's been wanting to be on since he was a kid. He deserves it. Thank you S. B. Alexander for an entertaining read that left me wanting to see someone serve justice by a Father's Love, and for leaving us some very interesting things to think about for the next book in the series!
4.5 out of 5 Bookmarks
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