 Book blurb (back of book):
Greek myth and forbidden romance meet in this exciting new urban fantasy.
Brooding, leather jacket-wearing Nyx Fortuna looks like a 20-something, and has for centuries now. As the son of the forgotten fourth Fate, Lady Fortuna, he has been hunted his entire life by the three Sisters of Fate that murdered his mother.
Fed up and out for revenge, Nyx comes to Minneapolis following a tip that his aunts have set up a business there. His goal to bring down his mother's killers and retrieve the thread of fate that has trapped him in the body of a twenty year old unable to age or die.
But when a chance meeting with the mysterious, dangerous and very mortal Elizabeth Abernathy throws off his plans, he must reconcile his humanity and his immortality.
Book Level (age range):
This is supposed to be an adult urban fantasy, but it reads like a young adult book with slightly older (by age only) characters. There are a few bad words in it, but nothing that hasn't been printed in a YA novel before, and nothing about this novel or it's characters screams adult.
Overall thoughts:
I loved the premise of this book. I thought the overall story being told was intriguing. However, the main character (who is supposed to be hundreds of years old) is a complete moron, with a very stunted emotional capacity, and the need to repeat himself. I truly enjoyed the story, but I had to beat my head against my desk in order to continue reading through the mess that was this book. The story is good. The mechanics behind the writing, not so much.
In-Depth Review:
I had a few major problems while reading this book.
1) The most jarring thing in books, for me, is to have a story jump from one thing to another with zero transition. I call it a hard transition. It's hard because one moment a character is in a store, talking to a friend and then in the next paragraph, without any explanation, that same character is across town in the middle of a date. Oh, and it may or may not be a week later.
This book is chalk full of hard transitions. It made me put the book down more than a few times in frustration. In fact, It took me almost a month to finish this book, when I usually burn through books in a day or two at most. I will give the author this much though, I kept picking it back up, because despite the issues with how the book was written, there was a good story buried deep inside.
2) Inconsistencies. It's one thing for an author to forget something they said half a book ago, or even a book or two ago in a series. It happens. It's never pretty when it does, but in Strange Fates, it happens a lot. Sometimes, on the same page.
EXAMPLE:
About 75% of the way through the book (Chapter 32) Nyx is telling his friend Talbot that he plans on diving down in Lake Harriet, because he feels called to do so, and he thinks he will find answers there. Talbot grabs a wet suit and does a magic spell over it telling Nyx, "It'll keep you warm enough, but I can't guarantee it will keep the naiads away."
On the same page, just a few lines down as they continue talking through Nyx's plan, Nyx says, "There's something there, I can feel it..." Talbot says, "Like what? Besides some scary Naiads?" Nyx returns with, "I don't know, but I'm going to find out." At which point, Talbot states, "You'll freeze to death."
But literally, only a few lines ago, Talbot has taken care of that with the spelled wet suit. PS - the dive never happens at this point in the story. Once again, there's a build-up for this dive to happen and it doesn't. It's almost like the author has a good case of Attention Deficit Disorder, and forgets where she was going with the story and ends up somewhere else instead. Usually, another hard transition occurs and takes us to an entirely new scene with no explanation of what the hell happened.
The same inconsistencies are present with Nyx throughout every aspect of this book. He comes to a conclusion about one of the bad guys in the story and then abruptly forgets he ever had that thought. Two chapters later, he's come to that conclusion again (seemingly, for the first time). Then, of course, it's all but forgotten, until three chapters later when he comes to the same conclusion all over again, but it's written as if it's the first time he's thought it - again! The same can be said for his love interest. It's very daunting to read, and then read it again, and again... This is one of those literary moments where you want to reach in and shake the shit out of the character, because they couldn't possibly be so stupid.
3) The author really wanted the reader to believe the main character was falling in love with a girl. Only, she forgot to give us reason to believe it. The girl, Elizabeth, never came across as anything more than untrustworthy, at best. She never had a redeeming quality that a person could fall in love with, and she actually gave the main character more reasons to hate her and not trust her than to love her. Another issue with the inconsistencies in the story, was with this love arc. At some point in the story this girl even gives Nyx a libido potion so he'll have sex with her, despite the fact that he hasn't wanted to cross that line. The two characters go off to talk about it, and why she did it, but suddenly the conversation drops away and is forgotten for another hard transition. The next you hear of it is this Nyx kid going, oh well, I don't think she meant anything bad by it. UGGHHH No, because date rape is cool, as long as you like the person! *rolls eyes*
This is far from the realm of believable character attributes, for a character who has supposedly been around for hundreds of years. A character who supposedly reads people well, and understands their nature. This is a kid, who is supposedly smart enough to survive after being hunted down for YEARS, DECADES, CENTURIES even... and he's this stupid? This naive? I'm not buying it, and you won't either.
Summation:
I'm not entirely sure the book was worth reading. While there is a really intriguing story there, and a lovely new take on mythology in the modern day, there are far too many problems with this book to make it an enjoyable read. For the adult audience, that the book is supposedly written for, you will be pulling your hair out! There is nothing adult about this book. If you enjoy young adult books, this might be more up your ally, but you will still have to be able to read past all the inconsistencies, the hard transitions, and the constant repetition. I won't bother with the rest of the series (it's supposed to be a trilogy, from what I've read), and I don't recommend it to other readers of adult urban fantasy without the warnings I've already given. It's a shame, because there really was a good story idea in there somewhere.
| | "A hard rock mix tape of minimum wage magic, dream girls, and that one jackass with his sword in your ribs."
It's 1986. But maybe not the same one you remember.
Quinn Sullivan, fresh from his first year of college, returns for yet another summer to the North Shore of Minnesota, working for minimum wage at an off-season ski resort.
A resort for wizards. Wizards like Quinn.
| Like most "mages" his age, Quinn's got no car, no money, isn't keeping up on his spells, and wants desperately to get the girl. And not just any girl—Emma, a promising alchemist (and lover of rock music) who happens to be Quinn's best friend.
And entirely oblivious to his affections.
Don't worry. Quinn has a plan. Because if Emma wants to study alchemy abroad, she needs one of the rarest metaphysikal artifacts in existence: a solistone. And it costs a whole lot more than a summer's worth of paychecks. But if Quinn can just get his hands on one—even if he has to make it himself—maybe he'll get that chance to show Emma he's more than "just a buddy."
But where does a mage barely out of high school even begin?
Chock full of strange creatures, mystifying spells, small town mystery, and even a tour bus of old ladies, Quinn's quest is a quirky, summertime adventure with a fantasy twist that will make him wish “getting the girl” was his biggest problem.
I have a horrible time writing reviews without giving things away. So, I want to say this, I LOVED the story! When this book comes out this summer, you need to do yourself a favor and grab a copy, then thank me later. :)
The number one rule of thumb in writing is to "write what you know." It was very clear in just reading the first couple chapters that the author put a lot of himself, and his own world into this story, because his descriptions of the environment, the essence of the time, all of it helps to pull you into the story and hold you captive. This is the kind of writing that is often times missing from the paranormal genre. Everyone wants to go bigger, badder, sexier with their novels. Mikel brought it all back down to Earth, stripped away the flash and fanciness, and told the story with authentic characters (people you might actually know), amazing scenery, and a whole lot of heart. Of course, there's a whole lot of paranormal too! ;)
Okay, I've literally had to use the backspace key far too many times to avoid saying things I shouldn't about the story. Instead of ruining things for you, I am going to introduce you to the author of this fabulous book, and let you get a quick peek inside that brain of his.
 This is Mikel Andrews! Q: How long have you been working on Coming of Mage? and what inspired the story?
A: I started Mage about two years ago. It actually started as an entry for a short story contest, focusing on lampshading tropes of fantasy. Quests, mentors, sacred objects and all that. I abandoned the contest gimmicks but the original ideas stayed. And then I thought, Why don't I tackle angsty 80s flicks while I'm at it?
Inspiration definitely came from where I was living. I had just moved to the North Shore of Minnesota and just instantly fell in love. Suddenly I wanted every book I ever wrote to be set there. So peaceful and serene--an unusual destination for a city kid like myself. In a way, I was living a fish-out-of-water story and I wanted to tell that, but--everything's better with wizards, right?Trust me when I say, his love of the place shows in his writing. I've never had a reason to want to go to the North Shore until I read this book! It looked absolutely stunning as described in those pages.)
Q: The story is set in the 1980's, is there any particular reason you chose that time period?
A: Everyone asks this! Apparently 'duh' isn't a suitable answer, so here's the real lowdown: I love the 80s. I was born in them and grew up in them but I wish I could've really enjoyed them, you know? I dig all that retro stuff--cassette tapes, gaudy headphones, Ghostbusters--so maybe writing about the 80s is just my way of going back in time, a la Marty McFly.
Additionally, I have this firm belief that the best Young Adult adventures take place in the 80s. Whether it was the lack of technology or the adventuresome spirit, kids in the 80s really took matters into their own hands. If The Goonies happened today, Mikey would've just called somebody on his cell phone and Mouth would've Instagrammed the pirate ship. And don't get me started on Data...(He just preached to the choir a little bit! The Goonies is one of my all time Favorites.)
Q: I had to laugh when I read that Quinn's prized possession was an "Heroic Autobot Bumblebee" transformer, because I know of your love for all things Transformers from your Facebook/Twitter posts. Clearly, this is a part of yourself you put in the book, how much of yourself do you feel you actually put into the character of Quinn, or the other characters, for that matter?
A: Yeah, really, disclaimer: if you follow me on Twitter you will find out more than you ever wanted to know about Transformers.
Quinn and I are pretty much the same person. I don't have his powers (obviously) but I definitely have all his hang-ups. Likes, dislikes, Star Wars obsession--it's all there. Quinn lost his mother at the same age I lost mine--that was definitely a very real world emotion that I wanted to interject in this fantasy setting. You have all this power--all this life--but some things you can't change; and Quinn has to deal with that as much as I do. And, actually, the Transformer is a nod to the last Christmas present my mom gave me before she passed away: a little yellow Transformer which is still the pride of my collection.
Q: While we're talking a little about Transformers, what are your thoughts on the 4th movie installment coming out?
A: The only bad Transformer movie is the one that doesn't get made. I say bring it on. The storylines are a little weak in the movies but, at the end of the day, it's still cars turning into robots up on the screen. Can't you really go wrong with that?
(Nope, can't argue with you there.)
Q: If you were a character in your story, what abilities would you have? Would you be a Mage? have an affinity for Alchemy?
A: You know, Alchemy is so awesome and I had a lot of fun thinking up spells for Quinn to learn, but I really got into Tristan's character--the magus. A magus is like the middle of the spectrum between a mage and an alchemist. They have a little more power than an alchemist, but not quite a mage, and they can only manipulate their element (which in Tristan's case is plants.) I think being a magus would be the safest bet for me--I need limits!
Q: If you could be given the choice to live your current reality or within the world you created for Coming of Mage, which would you chose and why?
A: Uh, have magic powers in the 80s? Gee, let me think. In all seriousness, though, I think I have a pretty good thing going on in this reality. I might like to visit Quinn, but his world is bound to have some hardships. It's not dystopian or anything, but I can imagine some real big problems arising in a world where the prejudice stems from what kind of magic you use.
Q: Coming of Mage will be available this summer, what do you have planned after its release (future books, etc)?
A: You know, I have some fun events in the pipeline--that's the best part about writing a YA fantasy, right? I get to do the really out-there creative stuff. I bet John Grisham doesn't get to have "Magic Rock Painting" stands at his book signings. As far as the books go, if Mage is a hit--fingers crossed!--I definitely have some sequels planned. Mage is essentially Quinn's memoir of an unforgettable summer, but that's really a microcosm of the world he lives in. The sequels will deal with the road ahead of Quinn, not his Memory Lane. After all, nobody escapes a summer like his without consequences.
(Well, now, I am super excited for the future!)
Q: What type of books do you like to read, and which authors inspire you and your writing? How do they inspire you (imagination, technique, etc)?
A: 'You are what you eat' is also really true with books. Not that I eat books, that'd be weird, but I think you get where I'm going with this. I'm constantly scouring the shelves for really inventive YA and Middle Grade books. I think there's something really unique in a genre that you can use to teach life lessons but also have these over-the-top settings. Too cool. And the more paranormal the better.
Consistently, though, I find myself reading Matthew Stover and Joe Meno. They're definitely not YA, but they each have a really unique voice in storytelling. I read Dean Koontz because the flow and pacing of his novels borders on miraculous. Jeffery Deaver I study for plot twists. And--this may shock you--I read a crazy amount of Star Wars novels.
(Star Wars you say? No way, really? hahaha)
Q: What is the most exciting thing that has happened to you as a result of your writing career, thus far?
A: The easy answer of course is to say the "actually being published" part. When I was in college, I knew I would be published. Arrogantly so. But after I graduated and accepted my position as 'Head Ice Cream Scooper' at a popular ice cream franchise, I started to have my doubts. It's nice to feel believed in again.
But here and now in the thick of it, the most exciting thing is thinking that people in the world that I don't even know are going to be reading my book. As a writer, everyone you show your work to in the early years is someone close to you in some way--so how do you know if you're really doing a good job? It's hard to talk pacing with your grandma when she's thought of you as a superhero since the day you were born.
Having said that, I am super excited for my grandma to read my book. She never doubted.
Q: What is the most important lesson you have learned during the writing process?
A: Humility. Not every idea you have is gold. Story and character has to come first. Use that Cut/Paste function; just because you don't use it now, doesn't mean you can't use it somewhere else later.
Q: If you weren't a writer, and you could make a living at any job you wanted, what would your dream job be?
A: Oh, man, the dream job question. Luckily, I've prepared for this. Again, I hope your sitting down for this revelation: I would design Transformers. How I relax is drawing Transformers and making sure all the parts have somewhere to go. Form follows function. Like when a kid draws me a Transformers picture, I have to fight the urge to be, like, Yeah, right, where did that arm come from? I get pretty into it.
I also met a guy on Twitter who was a 'Brand Guardian' for Transformers at Hasbro. Made sure the integrity of the Transformers was being carried throughout the new shows, toys, etc. That would be a cool job.
And if Paranormal Investigation was more lucrative, I'd be all over it.
Q: Just for Fun - You're being taken to a desert island where you must learn to survive on your own for a certain length of time before you can come back to civilization. Aside from the clothes you are wearing, you are given the option to chose 3 items to bring with you to either aid in your survival or offer sentimental comfort. What would you bring?
A: Uh, you know I moved to extreme northern Minnesota, right? That's pretty much how it went down! But I suppose I would bring a samurai sword, my little yellow Transformer, and a copy of James and the Giant Peach.I want to thank Mikel Andrews for taking the time to answer a few questions. I hope everyone enjoyed getting to know him a little better. His book, Coming of Mage, is set for release in June 2013 by Northstar Press.For more info about Mikel and his book check out these links:Coming of Mage on Facebook
Goodreads
Mikel's website/blog
Mikel on Facebook
Mikel on Twitter
 THIS IS YOUR SPOILER WARNING... I WILL RUIN SHIT FOR YOU IF YOU PROCEED AND HAVEN'T WATCHED THE ENTIRE SERIES YET.Netflix made an original series based on the book by Brian McGreevy. The first 2 minutes of the show start out with a teenage boy having sex with a girl in his car, he cuts himself (on purpose) and rubs the blood on her shoulder, tells her not to use his name, and then he pays her before booting her out of the car. There are quite a few more gratuitous sex scenes throughout the 13 episode series. There's also Famke Jannsen in lingerie. If you're into any of those things, you may make it until the end of the series... Oh, yeah, there's supernatural stuff going on too, but you'll never know quite how super the unnatural shit is, because - screw you - that's why! No, really.
I almost feel like I should end this review here.
And yet, I am compelled to continue, maybe by Roman Godfrey! Sadly, I just had to IMDB to look up that character name, because he wasn't that memorable. In fact, the most memorable thing about his performance was that it was so horrible. So horrible in fact, I'm not sure if the character was supposed to have an accent, or if Bill Skarsgård just couldn't keep up with his American character's speech patterns. Maybe the budget was so low they just stopped doing re-takes to correct it. Also, he reminded me more of Steve Buscemi than his yummy brother Alexander. Which was weird in itself, because he was supposed to be some stud, but I went with it for the sake of the show. It is both fiction and fantasy, after all. I wanted to like this series. I went into this hopeful. I hung in there, not sure whether I like it or not through the entire 13 episodes. I kept hoping it would get better. It didn't. There is something to be said for leaving some things to the imagination, but I feel like FAR too much was left to the viewers' imaginations with this one. There were too many unanswered questions in the end, like why did that bitch have a tail? Was it a tail? Seriously, that was just freaking weird, pointless shit, because it wasn't explained in any way. No wonder the slave kid ran off with her jewelry and the horses. He tapped that ass only to reach back and find she had a wiggly appendage where she shouldn't have one. He got SCARED, people! I would have run too! Oh yeah, my imagination definitely went places with that! There were more unanswered questions though, like, Where did the GIANT girl go? To be sure if she died, someone would have found her rotting, festering, misshapen corpse somewhere. If she lived, she's not that freaking easy to hide away. And by the way, what the hell was up with her giant eyeball? And did it give her x-ray vision, some sort of added color spectrum, or was it just a useless giant marble lulling about on the side of her cheek? Why did she glow? WHY DID SHE GLOW? Inquiring minds want to know, damn it! And yet, they just left us hanging with a "ghostly image" of her on the roadside, as seen by the now bald gypsy/werewolf boy who is on the run again. I wanted to punch people in the face when I saw that part. No, really. That scene did nothing to answer my questions. NOTHING. Why - did - she - glow?Aside from the far too many unanswered questions, it took way too long to hook me, and even then, I wasn't so much hooked as I was watching a train wreck and wondering what the outcome would be. I didn't care about any of the characters. Some of it was entirely too predictable, and my family laughed at me for yelling at the TV about why people were too stupid to see things that were so obvious. Seriously, the constantly evolving hair of a certain character meant nothing to anyone? There's a mystery pregnancy and it never occurs to another character that the super-obsessed cousin with powers of persuasion might have been the one who did it? The one redeeming element of this show - they had the most bad-ass human to werewolf transformation I have seen to date! The eyeballs popping out was a nice, slightly different, semi-over the top touch, but the amazingly intricate detail of the rest of the transformation was just enchanting in a gross sort of way. I even gagged a little at the end of it when the wolf started eating its own recently shed human skin. That was the stuff of awesomeness, and should have been a little gag-worthy, because transforming from a human to an animal shouldn't be a pretty thing! It just shouldn't. Magic be damned!That's it. I was somewhat entertained, left with far too many "what the hell" kind of questions, and mostly disappointed in what could have been a good thing. I did not read the book before hand, so I can't compare. I do know the book's author, Brian McGreevy had a hand in writing the script though, so I'm not sure I'll bother reading the book. I'm thinking I won't find my answers in the pages either. Please, correct me if I'm wrong there! So, if you haven't already, and you want to give this series a chance just know it was a disappointing train wreck of possibilities. Hope will keep you watching once you start, but it will damn you in the end with it's mediocre outcome.PS - Netflix, don't give up on the genre, just pick a better story (and maybe some better actors) next time.
The Blood and Snow series, by Rashelle Workman, are all novelettes. That means they are short, but it doesn't mean they lack any story. After reading the first book in the series, I was hooked and kept on going. So, here's a little bit about them...
| | "Snow White isn't an ordinary girl. She doesn't know that yet.
- Lips red as rubies.
- Hair dark as night.
- Drink your true love's blood.
- Become the Vampire, Snow White.
Every thousand years the Vampire Queen selects a new body, always the fairest in the land, and this time she's chosen Snow White." | From the author about the series:
BLOOD AND SNOW is the fairytale retelling of Snow White. She lives in present day Salem, Mass. Her next door neighbors are 7 brothers who've been adopted by an eccentric, older man they call Professor Pops. The series will be told in 12 volumes. I hope you enjoy reading about Snow, the seven brothers, and the gorgeous Hunter, as much as I've enjoyed writing about them.
| | This is not the Snow White story you grew up with. It's something completely different, yet equally enchanting.
I fell in love with the characters. I flip-flopped back and forth on who Snow's true love would be, and how the story would pan out in the end. I am happy to say that, unlike the stories I usually read, I wasn't able to anticipate everything. I ended up pleasantly surprised with how some of the finer points of the story turned out.
If there was one single thing I would say I wished were different about this series - it would be that I wish they were longer and more detailed. The stories are strong and well put together, but as with any series that I like, there's never enough of it.
I will warn future readers - just go ahead and buy the boxed set 1-12 or the paperback, because they are quick reads and once you start, you won't want to stop until you get to that last page! I promise!
You can find links to all of RaShelle Workman's books below:
Win a copy of Blood and Snow volumes 1-12 by leaving a comment below! One lucky winner will get a paperback copy and another winner will receive the e-book. Last day to enter is March 31. Winners will be announced On April 1, 2013.
| | There were no surprises in Gatlin County.
We were pretty much the epicenter of the middle of nowhere.
At least, that's what I thought.
Turns out, I couldn't have been more wrong.
There was a curse.
There was a girl.
And in the end, there was a grave.
Lena Duchannes is unlike anyone the small Southern town of Gatlin has ever seen, and she's struggling to conceal her power, and a curse that has haunted her family for generations. But even within the overgrown gardens, murky swamps and crumbling graveyards of the forgotten South, a secret cannot stay hidden forever.
Ethan Wate, who has been counting the months until he can escape from Gatlin, is haunted by dreams of a beautiful girl he has never met. When Lena moves into the town's oldest and most infamous plantation, Ethan is inexplicably drawn to her and determined to uncover the connection between them.
In a town with no surprises, one secret could change everything.
| There are two versions of Beautiful Creatures. The book and the movie. I hate to put them both in the same sentence.
I feel that the people who have gone to see the movie, without reading the book, are doing the book a severe injustice. Please, do not watch that movie and think it represents the book well, because it does not.
Sometimes, Hollywood gets it right and brings to life all the best things from the books we love. The Harry Potter series is a prime example of this. While they couldn't possibly cram every detail of those very lengthy books into 2 hour movies, they were able to take the important plots and scenes, the characters and their true essence, and mold them into a world that flowed from the pages of a book to the big screen almost flawlessly.
Then, you have Beautiful Creatures. This book is charming, with characters that breath life into its pages, scenery that makes you feel as though you were there, and a story that tells itself with ease. That book was then turned into an 124 minute long snooze fest. Important supporting characters were plucked away and discarded, in order to give double-duty to other characters. Marian Ashcroft (the librarian) was completely left out, and in her place stood Amma who already had a pivotal role as housekeeper to Ethan Wate & family plus town seer. The very important component of Ethan and Emily's world, their telepathic connection, was completely lost and forgotten in the movie. I won't even begin to tell you the completely FUBAR ending, because I don't want to spoil it for those of you who still want to torture yourself by watching a movie completely rip a beloved book to shreds. *SIGH* Turning Books Into Movies Despite the flop that was the Beautiful Creatures movie, I highly encourage readers to pick up the books! This is a fantastic series with rich settings, wonderful characters, and a beautiful story line that you will not want to put down. It's a shame so much of what I loved about the books was lost in translation with the movie. I do not think I would even be tempted to go see the second movie (if they make it), because it can't possibly go well, considering how the first movie was completely twisted and ruined. If you've already read beyond the first book in the series, you will know exactly what I am talking about!
For those of you who haven't read the books, you can take your chances on this movie if you'd like. Putting the book comparisons out of my mind, I would still say this was a mediocre attempt at a movie (shame considering the talented cast). It was a snooze-fest for me.
| | Reality TV host Ben Harper has a problem: he owes the king of Faerie a favor. So now he has to track down the three parts of a Viking arm-ring, and return them to their place in time. This takes him through the wolf-haunted forests of Viking Age Wessex, the rowdy back streets of Shakespeare's London, and a derelict Georgian country house. Partnered with caustic, shape-changing Raven and guided by a slightly wacky goblin diary, Ben must rediscover his own gifts while facing his doubts and the queen of Faerie's minions, who will do anything to stop him.
The Dragon Ring, the first in the Harper Errant series, is a time travelling mythic adventure that takes you to Old England, and leaves you enchanted.
| *Maggie is an amazing storyteller. I had previously read her pirating love story, **Molly September, and thoroughly enjoyed it. I knew going into this read that it would be vastly different from her other book, but she did not disappoint.
I love delving into a story that I can learn something from. It's clear that Maggie is a history buff, and it shows in the pages of her novels. The historical references intermingled with the fantasy flowed so well together it was hard to tell where they should part ways and become separate entities. That's not an easy feat to accomplish, yet she did it seamlessly. If that weren't enough to snatch you up into the pages, the characters that she created were astounding as well.
The characters are their own stories. They've been so carefully crafted, that they become key figures in your own life as you read the pages. Turning each page of this book was like coming home to dinner with family. You grow to know the characters, and get so involved with the cards they are dealt that you can't simply let go and stop reading.
That being said, I am looking forward to reading the rest of this series (I'm only sorry I haven't been able to get to them sooner). Maggie is a very talented author, and The Dragon Ring has solidified her as one of my favorite Fantasy authors. Book Two: King's Raven The heart of Faerie is the heart of the world.
While Oberon, immortal king of Faerie, lies under a terrible curse, the artistic spirit in the world is slipping away. The King's Raven would do anything to lift the spell, if only it hadn’t also stripped him of his magic and flung him into an iron-bound past with a damaged memory.
The only thing that can save them both is sealed inside a riddle wrapped in a puzzle that spans the centuries. Even with the help of an Elizabethan magus, a Victorian spinster, and a mad reporter, can mortal musician Ben Harper find Raven in time to solve the riddle, stop a witch, and restore the creative heart of the world?
First, he’ll have to find the key.
King’s Raven, second book of the Harper Errant series, sends Ben on a journey from the castles and taverns of Old England to the British Museum on Christmas Eve, and from the Crystal Palace of Victorian London to wintry Dartmoor to a magickal conclusion.
| | *Click on Maggie's name to read an interview I conducted with her previously.
**Click on the book title, Molly September, to read the review for that particular book.
 Shiny new updated cover to match the awesomeness of the book! |  The older cover | I had previously reviewed Atticus For The Undead, from John Abramowitz's legal fiction series, and I have to say he is fast becoming one of my favorite authors. His books pull you in with fantastic characters and fast paced-stories that keep you turning pages late into the night.
In that respect, The Weaver Saga did not disappoint.
Weaver introduces the reader to fifteen-year old Alex Cronlord, who has literally just met the boy of her dreams.Too bad in her dreams, that boy tried to kill her. Unbeknownst to Alex, she can see the future in her dreams, which may just get her out of trouble, or add more to her plate.
We also meet FBI Agents, Moira McBain and Andy Hall, who are investigating a series of arsons across the Dallas, Texas area. Clues will lead them to the Cronlord's house. Where things are not as they appear.
I'm not going to give too much away here, but there's definitely a secret society, kids with powers, and creatures that you'd rather not meet down a dark ally, in a park, or say - you're own driveway with FBI agents looking on!
Alex's story was riveting and kept me on the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen as the pages turned. There's more to this book than one teen-aged girl though. Moira's story was also fascinating. I found myself torn between which character I wanted to know more about. It was that added depth, weaving two stories together to create a larger picture for the reader, that kept me glued to the book (even during a very busy time in life where I should have put it down and gotten to work)! ;)
After falling in love with a book like that, and the characters living on the pages, let me tell you how excited I was when the a copy of the follow up book, The Void, fell into my lap!
 Released in May 2012 The follow up book in The Weaver Saga, The Void, did not disappoint! It was just as fabulous and riveting as Weaver. I found myself reading late into the night when this book was handed to me, and I honestly can't wait for more from Mr. Abramowitz. Not only does his imagination astound me, but his stories flow so well that you sometimes forget it isn't really happening! That euphoric feeling of being sucked from my own reality into someone else's is what makes for amazing reading. I will most definitely continue to follow this author and his books for that very reason.
Now, for those of you who have not read Weaver yet, I would suggest not reading past this point, so as not to spoil a few secrets from the first book!
BACK of the BOOK:
The zombie apocalypse is nigh!
The trouble is, Alex Cronlord is the only person who knows it. She is a Weaver -- one of a group of superhuman children who are able to see the future -- and she can still remember the vision she had just weeks ago of being chased by a shambling undead horde. But that's all she's seen of the coming horror, and lately, her visions have mostly been confusing. Dead bodies in dumpsters, a strange place called "Pinnacle," and no sign of a Xorda anywhere. At least, not at first.
As Alex struggles to make sense of these bits of information, a stitch-faced assassin surfaces with a vendetta against Ainsling Cronlord, Alex's mother. Ainsling is a member of the enigmatic Wells Society, a secret order of women who genetically mutate their own children to turn them into fighters against the Xorda. She is the person who gave Alex her Weaver powers. And she is the person Alex can least afford to trust.
But when the stitch-faced man steps up his campaign against the Cronlord family, Alex begins to realize she may not have a choice. As she learns the disturbing truth behind her recent visions, Alex must decide how far she is willing to go to save the world.
 We've all heard the saying, "once in a blue moon," and we know it's said to refer to something that doesn't happen that often.
Well, this Friday, Aug. 31, 2012, we shall look up into the night sky and see that rare orb in all it's (not really) blue splendor. Since blue moons are such an uncommon occurrence, and this one is gracing us with its presence on a Friday night, we are given a fantastic reason to head out and party! Maybe, even drink a few Blue Moons (there better be some specials, people!)
For those of you poor bastards who probably won't make it out to celebrate tomorrow night, I leave you with my top 5 "Blue Moon Night" reading picks...
Enjoy!
# 5 - Kitty Norville Novels I was perusing books in a Barnes & Noble one day a couple years ago, looking for something new and interesting to read, when a bookish guy walks up and starts a conversation with me. I tell him about reading all of the Anita Blake series by Laurell K. Hamilton, and finishing up Kim Harrison's Hallows series, and how I was looking for something else...
"Have you tried the Kitty Norville books?"
"Kitty who?" I ask.
"Kitty Norville," he goes looking on the shelves behind us and pops a book out, placing it in my hands without hesitation. "Here, you'll thank me, it's an awesome series with a great female lead!"
To that bookish guy in the B&N store: I thank you! Also, I hope your wife wasn't too pissed that we were so chatty... she didn't look very happy! ;)
So, there you have, #5 on my list! | | You can read my review of Destiny Binds here! Also, I'm in love with her book covers! | # 4 Timber Wolves Trilogy Back in Dec. 2011, I did a review of the first book in this YA paranormal series by Tammy Blackwell. I absolutely loved it! It is well written, with amazing characters, and it definitely left me wanting more.
The third book in the trilogy is due to release in Sept. 2012. So, grab the other two now, and get ready for some great reading! | # 3 The Wolves of Mercy Falls This is an amazing, young adult, love story - with a twist! I promise, you will fall in love with the characters and the story line.I also reviewed Shiver for Moonlit Reviews back in January of this year, and you can read that review here!For years, Grace has watched the wolves in the woods behind her house. One yellow-eyed wolf—her wolf—is a chilling presence she can’t seem to live without. Meanwhile, Sam has lived two lives: In winter, the frozen woods, the protection of the pack, and the silent company of a fearless girl. In summer, a few precious months of being human… until the cold makes him shift back again.
Now, Grace meets a yellow-eyed boy whose familiarity takes her breath away. It’s her wolf. It has to be. But as winter nears, Sam must fight to stay human—or risk losing himself, and Grace, forever. | | | | # 2 The Mercy Thompson Series From its strong female lead, to the rest of its stunningly detailed cast of characters, this series will leave you wagging your tail for more! Trust me, if you haven't already, pick it up & see for yourself! | # 1 - The Big Bad Wolf Series Heather Killough-Walden is a mastermind!
Once you start reading these steamy werewolf tales, you will undoubtedly find yourself out in search of a hot, biker-dude with a sexy growl! Good thing it's a blue moon night - might up your chances!
And when you're done with the werewolves, you can move onto Heather's spectacular vampire spin-off, The Kings Series! | | I do hope you enjoy these picks, and in the meantime, happy Blue Mooning! ;) | |
I also have a recently released, YA, werewolf novelette in the
Voices Anthology,
titled
The Voices Within,
so check that out as well!
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 Superbly written, laugh-a-minute book! | Goats Eat Cans
"Somewhat Comical Stories of a Life Mostly Wasted"
Note from author, Steven Novak:
The book that would eventually become, "Goats Eat Cans," began as one of the most popular blogs on a little site called, Myspace nearly seven years ago.
Does anyone out there even remember, Myspace?
Of course you don’t. | So, what's this book about, you ask?
It's not so much what the book is about, as what will happen when you start reading the pages... laughter, and lots of it! Mr. Novak has a stellar wit about him that shines through clearly as you turn the pages. I opened this book up on my Kindle while I was waiting for my boyfriend to get out of the shower one day, and I started reading... and laughing... out loud... no, really loudly! And by the time my boyfriend was finished scrubbing himself down, I'm sure he thought I was freaking crazy. I had tears in my eyes from laughing so hard. THAT is what this book is about! It's about laughing at the misfortune of others (poor Mr. Novak) and knowing it's okay. ;)
Seriously... here's the book blurb, and when you're done reading that, I've included links to where you can purchase the book. If you have any sense of humor at all, this book is 100% for you! So, go grab a copy!!! Oh, and if you're an Amazon Prime member, you can read this book for free for a limited time!
BLURB: Remember the weird kid with the greasy hair and the odd smell you went to school with? You know, the one who never talked to anyone? That creepy little jerk who sat alone at lunch? The oddball who never took a shower in gym class? The one you imagined might one day go on a shooting spree? Believe it or not, that kid grew up. He grew up, he got married, he never shot a single person, he wrote a book, and he even started taking showers after his workouts – most of the time. Goats Eat Cans is his story. Follow along as Steven Novak recounts the sometimes hilarious, sometimes hilariously painful, and sometimes painfully hilarious moments that have made his life so wonderfully frustrating. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, and you might even vomit. No matter what, you won't be able to stop reading. Goats Eat Cans features 55 stories, 55 illustrations, 99 luftballons and enough nonsense to keep you chuckling and giggling for days on end – or hours – or at the very least a few minutes.
| | You can find out more about Steven Novak, his books, and his graphic design at the following websites:
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 It was immediate for Roman. In three thousand years, he’d never lost control of his emotions, or his heart. But the moment he laid eyes on Evelynne Farrow, he knew she was the woman who haunted his dreams. And everything changed.
Everything.
Evie Farrow has always loved a good vampire romance. In fact, she makes a living writing them. While sitting in a coffee shop and working on her next mega-hot book, Evie is approached by a tall, dark, and handsome man who could have been pulled directly from one of her novels.
Unbeknownst to her, Roman D’Angelo is exactly what he appears to be – a vampire, and not just any vampire, but the king of vampires.
Unfortunately, while Roman is both ancient and invulnerable, Evie is flesh and blood. Just as Roman decides that he and Evie have a date with destiny, for reasons of their own, an ancient god and a homicidal vampire take an equally strong interest in her. To make things more complicated, there’s something very special about Evie. Something not quite human.
Can Roman fight off the incredible forces that would have Evie as their own long enough to win her heart, or will destiny betray him, and destroy everything he has ever dreamed of?
Are you intrigued yet? The Vampire King, by New York Times best selling Author, Heather Killough-Walden has just been released! The Kings Series is a spin-off of The Big Bad Wolf Series that put her on the NY Times Best Seller's List!
The Big Bad Wolf Series If you are a fan of adult paranormal romance, and for some reason you have not read The Big Bad Wolf series, I highly suggest you get started immediately!
I am currently reading The Vampire King, and unfortunately wasn't able to finish it before this post was due, but I will be adding a review for the book later this week! So far, so good! Check out the teaser below, and see for yourself! The Vampire King... TEASER... ENJOY  There are two covers for The Vampire King It was another long moment before she spoke again. She seemed to be gauging everything he did and said, working something out in her head.
“What do you want with me?”
That was the question of the century. He had no idea what to tell her that wouldn’t scare the shit out of her. He wanted….
To lay you out on my bed.
“I want to help you,” he said. At least that was the truth, even if by far it wasn’t the whole truth.
Evie’s honey-colored gaze narrowed. She didn’t believe him. It had been a very long time since someone had not believed him. Though he couldn't blame her – he didn’t believe him either.
“You want to help me.” She straightened a little, still visibly trembling but somehow regaining her wits.
Roman knew she didn’t understand. How could she when he didn’t understand himself? He showed her his open hands in a gesture of well-meaning and said, “I don’t know why, but I’m drawn to you. It’s why I was able to save you, Evie.” He took another step forward, unable to help himself. The distance between them was just too far and it was driving him a little nuts. “I was there when danger struck because I couldn’t stand to be far from your side.” He paused when a look of panic floated across Evie’s beautiful face. “I think it has something to do with what you are,” he said softly.
Evie took a step back and Roman’s heart sank. “And what exactly would that be?” she asked, her tone still clearly frightened, despite her obvious strength of character. “Human?”
Roman waited a moment. And then he shook his head. “I don’t believe you really are, Evie.” He paused. “Human.”Available now at Amazon and Barnes & Noble!
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