Review 38: The Blood Guard

The Blood Guard. Roy Carter. Year 2015. [June] Publisher: Two Lions. Pages 279. [Source: NetGalley]

First sentence:  

It wasn’t me who burned down our house.

From Amazon:
When thirteen-year-old Ronan Truelove’s seemingly ordinary mom snatches him from school, then sets off on a high speed car chase, Ronan is shocked. His quiet, nerdy dad has been kidnapped? And the kidnappers are after him, too?
His mom, he quickly learns, is anything but ordinary. In fact, she’s a member of an ancient order of knights, the Blood Guard, a sword-wielding secret society sworn to protect the Pure—thirty-six noble souls whose safety is crucial if the world as we know it is to survive.
Now all those after-school activities—gymnastics, judo, survival training—she made him take, make sense. For suddenly Ronan is swept up in a sometimes funny, sometimes scary, but always thrilling adventure—dashing from one danger to the next, using his wits to escape the Bend Sinister, a posse of evil doers with strange powers. Falling in with two unlikely companions, Greta, a scrappy, strong-willed girl he’s never much liked and Jack, a devil-may-care teenage pickpocket, Ronan is left with only his wits and his mom’s last words of advice: Trust no one.
That’s a lot for an ordinary kid to deal with. But then again, maybe Ronan’s not ordinary at all.

My thoughts:  

This story was an interesting read.  There is a definitive good versus evil feel going on, however you do not really know what is going on aside from the main characters running for their lives from sword wielding crazy people for the better part of the book.  You get tiny snippets of what is going on here and there but it is not until the last I would say quarter of the book that you really get a feel for what the under lying plot actually is.  I am sure that parts were supposed to feel intense but I never really got that edge of your seat intense feeling.  I give the author kudos for a great plot twist at the end!  Surprise turns are always a nice touch.

The Good:  Fun light-hearted read. 

The Bad: Took a little too long to reveal the meaning of what was going on.

Rating 7.5/10

Recommendation:  I think this was a good introduction to a new series and I am quite confident that younger readers will find great enjoyment from reading this.

*I received a digital review copy for free from the author via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*

Review 37: Dream World

Dreamworld. William Charles Krebs. Year 2015. [March] Publisher: Outskirts Press. Pages 536. [Source: Bostick Email]

First sentence:

On her seventeenth birthday, Liz Anderson was thrilled and hopeful; on her eighteenth birthday, she was resigned but still hopeful; on her nineteenth birthday, she was furious and determined.

From Amazon:

The Anderson's are in Ocorlampa. Florida to look at the college for their daughter, Liz. They saw their daughter move into a family home of the Wilson's At the same time a young man, Willie, has come to Florida to settle in so he can go to the local college. He finds a room with an elderly widow. Both of these young people find jobs at "Dream World" where they are destined to meet. Therefore, Liz and Willie, and begin dating. Neither are very experienced in dating, so it is new for them. They fall in love, but Willie gets scared as he is not ready for marriage yet, so he drops Liz without any explanation. Sue, who fancies herself 'the complete woman' pursues Willie. She does not think Liz is right for Willie and they have heated relationship. Liz is puzzled. Willie does not love Sue, and by Christmas has broken up with her, and then sets out to get Liz back. This takes some maneuvering to get Liz back, and signs up to be in the same class in the new term. Another young man, Mike, who is in the class becomes competition for Willie. The three of them end up going to lunch together. There is much lively discussion in class. Mike also got to know Sue. Willie & Mike got into a fight, and Sue claimed they were fighting over her. Read the book to see how it turns out.

My thoughts:

This is the first offering by William Charles Krebs.  The novel was very long and rather drawn out.  I finished reading it however it took me almost a third of the book to actually start caring about what happened to the various characters present in the story.  It was well written but, the pace was inconsistent and choppy, for most of the book it was relatively slow and hard to keep up with due to the slowness.  The story is that about a group of young people in what ends up becoming a love square instead of just a triangle.  The back if the book indicates that there are future novels possible, this would not be a bad thing unless they are over 500 pages as this one was.  I feel like it could have been about 200 pages shorter and left with a minor cliffhanger so to speak and it would have been a much smoother enjoyable read.  I know this seems to be a rather negative review and I do not mean for it to, I just was unable to derive nearly as much pleasure as I had anticipated.  I will gladly read another book by this author especially if it is a continuation of this story.

The Good:  The characters, the premise of the story as a whole.

The Not So Good:  The pacing of the story at times.

The Bad:  The overall length of the book.

Rating 6/10

Recommendation:  Literary fiction fans that like a little bit of romance thrown in for good measue.

*I received a digital review copy for free from the author via Bostick in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*

Review 33: Luxor: The Book of Past Lives

Luxor: Book of Past Lives. Julie Bettendorf. 2015. [April] Outskirtspress. Pages 322. [Source: Bostick]

First sentence: The large white ibis floated languidly on the smooth surface of the Nile, its feathers silhouetted brilliantly by the morning sun.

From Goodreads:  Set against the rich tapestry of ancient Egypt, Luxor: Book of Past Lives is the story of Nebamun and Iramen, two brothers who are embalmers in Egypt during the era of the boy king, Tutankhamun. It is their duty to prepare the many bodies of the dead who land on their embalming table for a journey into the afterlife. Paralleling this ancient tale is the story of two different brothers, Abdul and Karim, who make their living by robbing the ancient tombs of Egypt in the late 1800's, when the theft and sale of artifacts was at its peak. Woven throughout the novel are the mysterious intersections of the brothers' lives, though separated by thousands of years. Luxor: Book of Past Lives is a masterful blend of fiction and historical detail, each chapter offering a window into the past, with details gleaned from countless historical accounts. It is a riveting tale of violence and greed, riches and poverty, and good and evil in the time of the pharaohs and beyond.

My thoughts: This book captured me from the first page.  I enjoyed the back and forth between ancient Egypt and the height of the antiquities trade with the Europeans.  I have always been intrigued and interested in the ancient world; this was a unique look at how the regular guy spent his life.  The inside look at the embalming process was an added bonus, as this was something that I was not overly familiar with.  Another equally nice aspect of the dual story-telling was how the author would weave in what was happening in the past with what was going on in ‘present’.  Following two sets of brothers was also a unique twist.  I would be highly excited and happy if there was another offering by this author.  There were times towards the end where the pace seemed rushed and others where it was slower, however, that did not detract from my enjoyment of the story in the slightest.

Rating 8/10

Recommendation:  Those that enjoy stories told in Ancient Egypt will find enjoyment in this book.

*I received a paperback review copy for free from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*

Review 32: The Hog's Back Mystery

The Hog’s Back Mystery. Freeman Willis Croft. 1933/2015. [July] Poisoned Pen Press. Pages 328. [Source:Publisher]

First sentence:  “Ursula!  I am glad to see you!”

Goodreads.com:  Dr James Earle and his wife live in comfortable seclusion near the Hog’s Back, a ridge in the North Downs in the beautiful Surrey countryside. When Dr Earle disappears from his cottage, Inspector French is called in to investigate. At first he suspects a simple domestic intrigue – and begins to uncover a web of romantic entanglements beneath the couple’s peaceful rural life.
The case soon takes a more complex turn. Other people vanish mysteriously, one of Dr Earle’s house guests among them. What is the explanation for the disappearances? If the missing people have been murdered, what can be the motive? This fiendishly complicated puzzle is one that only Inspector French can solve.
Freeman Wills Crofts was a master of the intricately and ingeniously plotted detective novel, and The Hog’s Back Mystery shows him at the height of his powers.

My thoughts:  This wasn’t my first foray into the world of British mysteries; I have been a long time fan of the great Agatha Christie.  This book had good points and bad points for me.  It was told from the perspective of the Scotland Yard inspector working the case.  There was very minimal action it was definitely written to be a brain buster to see if you could work out what had happened BEFORE the last two chapters of the book where they spell it all out for you.  It was definitely a book to take you back to a much, much simpler time which I appreciated.  I would have to say that the best aspect of this book was the complete lack of forensic options due to the time period, I loved the fact that it was all brain power on the part of the inspector.

Rating 8/10

Recommendation: If you like a lot of action in your books than this is not the book for you.  If you are looking for a more intellectual read where you look for the clues than, yes you should give this book a whirl.

*I received a digital review copy for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*

Review 31: Path of the Horseman

Path of the Horseman. Amy Braun. 2015. [Marchh] CreateSpace. 344. [Source:BookReviewBuzz]

First sentence:  “I couldn’t believe how long it took for them to see me.”

Amazon Book Blurb: The Four Horseman are trapped in the world they desolated. Their only purpose now is to exist amongst the ruins. All of that changes with a small group of survivors... The seal was broken, and Hell was unleashed. Pestilence, Famine, War, and Death rode over the earth, creating a super-virus that turned humans into bloodthirsty monsters, opening a path for demons, decimating nearly all natural life, causing chaos and death throughout the world. Now that their duties have been preformed, the Four Horsemen have disbanded, reduced to human bodies and trapped in the world they destroyed. No longer the Horseman Pestilence, Avery wanders through the waste he created, slaying any undead monsters and demons that cross his path. But when Avery comes across a group of survivors looking for a safe haven, his priorities begin to change. Not that the demons are going to let him stand in the way of their plans. Avery ended the world once, and he refuses to see the demons end it again. But to protect the last of the living, he must seek the help of his brothers, all of whom are content with sitting back and watching the world burn…

My thoughts:  I have long been interested in demons, vampires, zombies, and of course the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse.  I managed to find a well written, entertaining, keep me up all night novel that had all of those components in it!  From the first page to the last I was totally wrapped up in the storyline.  The characters were believable and written in a way that I cared about what happened to them.  I was actually rather happy that the bad guys were bad and the good guys were good it is sometimes tiring when you have to try to figure out if someone is really bad or really good.  This was fairly cut and dry, from the start a fact that I appreciated immensely.  I am hoping that maybe we will get to see more of this story although as of now it is a standalone novel.  The pacing was excellent it never stayed in one place to long, the tone was right for the setting and purpose. 

Rating 8.5/10

Recommendation:  If the apocalypse, vampires, zombies, and demons interest you then check this book out! 

*I received a digital review copy for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*

Review 30: My Lady Viper

My Lady Viper. E. Knight. 2015. [June] Lake Union Publishing. 456. [Source:Netgalley]

First sentence: Dead.  The queen would soon be dead. Her head cropped short to her neck as a spectacle for a crowd on the Tower Green.

Book Blurb From Goodreads:  When Anne Boleyn falls to the executioner’s ax on a cold spring morning in 1536, Anne Seymour knows her family faces peril. As alliances shift and conspiracies multiply, the Seymours plot to establish their place in the treacherous court of King Henry VIII, where a courtier’s fate is decided by the whims of a hot-tempered and fickle monarch.

Lady Anne’s own sister-in-law, Jane Seymour, soon takes Anne Boleyn’s place as queen. But if Jane cannot give King Henry a son, history portends that she, too, will be executed or set aside—and her family with her. In desperation, Lady Anne throws herself into the intoxicating intrigue of the Tudor court, determined to ensure the success of the new queen’s marriage and the elevation of the Seymour family to a more powerful position. Soon her machinations earn her a reputation as a viper in a den of rabbits. In a game of betrayal and favor, will her family’s rise be worth the loss of her soul?

My thoughts:

I enjoyed reading this book; it took me to a period of time that has long fascinated me.  Pair that fact along with actually getting to know a little more about the reign of Jane Seymour it was a huge win.  The author stated that she did take some creative license with certain dates to add something to the story.

There was a certain amount of internal angst with the Anne and her feelings for her husband and another courtier this back and forth for her last a significant portion of the book and it made her feel more relatable because, I think this is something that many, many women go through.

Getting to experience Henry’s going from wife number 2 through wife number 6 was certainly interesting and eye opening.  I know his is a very well documented life but reading it from the perspective of a courtier made the fear of him rather tangible.

I will definitely be looking forward to further opportunity to read more from this author.

Rating 9/10

Recommendation:  If Tudor era literature is right up your alley then I would say this is a good book for you!

*I received a digital review copy for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*

Review 29: Cowboy Valentine

Cowboy Valentine. Mia Hopkins. 2015. [August] Samhain Publishing. 84 Pages. [Source:Netgalley]

First sentence:  At half past midnight, Cora decided to start closing down the shop.

Premise/Plot:  From Amazon - Forget chocolate and flowers. This homegrown honey is all the sweetness he craves.
Small-town life is nothing but a waiting room for eighteen-year-old honor student Corazón Gomez. Work and school leave little time for love, but with a full-ride Ivy League scholarship and a one-way ticket out of the boondocks, who needs it?
The answer appears on Valentine’s Day when her old cowboy crush ambles into the ice cream parlor where she works, inviting her to go on a late-night ride in his truck. For the first time she wavers between staying on the straight and narrow, and going off-road with the handsome heartbreaker.
After four years working on ranches all over the country, Caleb MacKinnon is back on the family farm helping out his mom and brothers while his father fights cancer. The one bright spot: smart, funny, and wickedly sexy Cora.
From the start, they both know this blazing-hot love affair can’t last. But when autumn comes and Cora has to leave for the East Coast, Caleb must find a solution to keep himself—and his heart—from falling apart.
Warning: Contains hard, cherry-poppin’ sex in a pickup truck and a cowboy charmer who talks dirty in two languages.

My thoughts:  Ok where to start.  We have Cora a studious ‘good girl’ she has worked very hard to get out of her small town she meets Caleb the former high school crush.  Now then I will admit that most girls have the fantasy of being swept off their feet by their crush however I can not really imagine going from not seeing someone for 3-4 years to getting in their truck and proceeding to engage in a extremely sexual relationship mind you she is a ‘good girl’ which translates into virgin (not really a spoiler you find out within like 10 pages or so.)  The writing was extremely descriptive in ALL aspects of this book so my hat is off to Mia Hopkins on that!  One huge drawback for me though was that the sex seemed to be at the forefront of the book and the storyline secondary.  But it is a novella so I excuse that due to that fact.  All in all it is a very quick read and a very shall we say fun read as well.

Rating 7/10

Recommendation:  Novella fans will enjoy this.  Romance fans that like lots of steamy sex will definitely enjoy this!

*I received a digital review copy for free from the publisher courtesy of Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*

Review 28: His Blushing Bride

His Blushing Bride. Dani Collins. 2015. [May] Tule Publishing. 115 Pages. [Source: NetGalley]

First sentence:  Piper Tierney saw the email from her parents as she was tidying up the band room, after the final bell.

Premise/Plot:  From Amazon - Piper Tierney is busy wrapping up the school year and planning the music for Marietta’s Wedding Of The Century. She does not need one of her parents’ backpacking hippies under foot. Except the guy they let stay in their house is so much more than the California couch-surfer he resembles. Before she knows it, she’s making time to make time, even though he’s only in town for a couple of weeks.

Taking a break from working on his doctorate in political science, Sebastian Bloom wants to reassure himself his sister isn’t making another mistake with her upcoming wedding to a Marietta rancher. He’s definitely not looking for a bride for himself. Marriage and family are a trap. But Piper is cute, funny, and wants to move on from her ex.

They agree to a no strings affair, but will they wind up tying the knot?

My thoughts:  I enjoyed this novella quite a bit.  This was pretty much a by the books romance with one small difference she’s a virgin looking for no strings attached not typical in my opinion but not bad.  The sex was steamy without being overly graphic in my opinion.  I did enjoy reading Sebastian’s change even while he was fighting his feelings he still did embrace them in the end.  Piper had her own demons to fight and she did conquer them in the end.  Over all it was a satisfying read.

Rating 8/10

Recommendation:  Contempory romance fans will enjoy this novella

*I received a digital review copy for free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*

Review 27: The Gift- Knight's Quest

The Gift-Knight’s Quest. Dylan Madeley. 2015. [May] Matador. 288 Pages. [Source:NetGalley]

First sentence: Derek urged his ride up the path as fast as the horse would go.

Premise/Plot: From Goodreads - Welcome to Kensrik, a world vividly imagined by Dylan Madeley, in which his debut fantasy novel The Gift-Knight’s
Quest is set. His book follows the youngest descendants of two families that have traditionally been enemies: the
Kenderleys, who now rule the world’s largest empire, and the Wancyeks, who have been reduced to common status.

“Chandra had yet to fathom why Jonnecht could not have lived and ruled for many long years, or why it was so urgent that she ascend immediately.”

Chandra never asked to rule Kensrik, but fate took a strange course. Known as a usurper and sorceress by most and traumatised by all that has transpired, she is forced to make use of the few loyal allies she has in order to hold together her restless empire. In an attempt to identify and defeat the conspirators who inadvertently landed her in power, Chandra risks putting the lives of many in mortal danger, as well as her own.

Derek is an aimless wanderer – the youngest in a lineage that has long fallen from nobility. He finds himself summoned by tradition to serve a family historically considered his bitter enemy. As he journeys down the same path a fateful ancestor once travelled, he struggles with personal demons and begins to reconsider his loyalty to the mission.

Duke Lenn found one true cause in love and it cost him everything. His legacy shaped the present in which Chandra and Derek find themselves. Now their choice will shape the future of Kensrik...

The Gift-Knight’s Quest is set in a new and vividly imagined world, written with delicate prose that will allow the reader to explore with their imagination. Inspired by authors such as Michael Moorcock, J. G. Ballard and Roger Zelazny, it will appeal to fans of fantasy and historical fiction.

My thoughts:  This book was very enjoyable to read.  I loved the political intrigue, the descriptions of the characters and places, and most importantly of all, the story!  I will admit to being underwhelmed with the beginning as it was very slow and at times a little tedious to read; however, that was only the first few chapters then the story took off and just kept going.  I am crossing my fingers and hoping that the author is planning on a sequel because I need to know what is going to happen next!!

Rating 8.5/10

Recommendation:  Fantasy fans will LOVE this book

*I received a digital review copy for free  from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*

Review 24: Celtic Viking

Celtic Viking. Lexy Timms. 2015. [April] Dark Shadow Publishing. 162. [Source:Free Kindle Book]

First sentence:  The fog hung in the air like a habit belonging to a monk, as if never meant to depart from the body.

Premise/Plot: From Amazon - In a world plagued with darkness, she would be his salvation.

No one gave Erik a choice as to whether he would fight or not. Duty to the crown belonged to him, his father's legacy remaining beyond the grave.

Taken by the beauty of the countryside surrounding her, Linzi would do anything to protect her father's land. Britain is under attack and Scotland is next. At a time she should be focused on suitors, the men of her country have gone to war and she's left to stand alone.

Love will become available, but will passion at the touch of the enemy unravel her strong hold first?

My thoughts:  This is a new author for me and a pleasure this was!  I loved this book I kept turning the pages as quick as I could.  I have always had a soft spot for this time period and a strong fondness for Vikings.  So that combination was a win-win for me.  The characters were well developed and I rather liked how we went back and forth between his and hers view points and thinking.  I can not wait to see how this will all turn out and will be getting the next book in the series.  Erik and Linzi’s story is extremely compelling and I feel like its going to be challenge after challenge for the next 2 books.  There are a couple of characters that I don’t like but I believe that that is intentional by the author they are typical “villains”.

Rating 9/10

Recommendation – Everyone that loves romance and Vikings should read this book!

Review 23: Block 10

***Content Warning*** This book does contain rape while not described it does happen.

Block 10. Stacy Childs with David Niall Wilson. Narrated by Cory M Snow. 2015. [May] Crossroad Press. 9 hours 50 minutes. [Source:Audioblast]

First sentence:  Luke shambled through the Toulon-Hyères Airport like a zombie.

Premise/Plot: - From Goodreads - Luke Cooper dreamed of flying. He was an Olympic caliber skier with a bright future, when a freak accident ruined his knee and sent him into suicidal depression. A stranger, Dr. Henri de Salvo, gave him a reason to live, and a new set of "wings," thanks to an experimental medical treatment. With new focus, Luke turned to a career in medicine, a career that led him to accept an invitation to a secluded clinic in France where de Salvo continued his cutting edge - if morally questionable work.

Lured by the chance to help other athletes recover their lives, intoxicated by a world of smooth cognac, beautiful women and dark intrigue, Luke finds himself drawn into another world. De Salvo has a shadowed past, and powerful enemies, and the French city of Toulon has it's dark side. Through amazing medical breakthroughs, run-ins with the Corsican mob, and clubs where men fight for big money - and women, he searches for his own path. The question is, will he survive the journey, and can he live up to the age old medical adage, "First, do no harm," while following the message of his own heart - "First, do something..."

My thoughts:  Let’s see.  I enjoyed the narration by Cory Snow I thought he did an excellent with the different voices for the different characters.  I liked the medical part of the story.  I would have preferred more medical and less fighting, mafia, and even sex.  The medical theory was excellent but I felt like it was more secondary then primary to the story.  I will actually read this book to evaluate it in written form vs. audio.  I think some books possibly much different reading instead of listening.  The characters were all very well developed and the plot complicated enough to be enjoyable without being overwhelmingly so. 

Rating 6/10

Recommendation Violent, mafia, sexual content you will like this if you like those things.

*I received a digital review copy for free from the publisher courtesy of Audioblast in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*

Review 20: Man Eaters: The Last Refuge

Man Eaters: The Last Refuge. Thomas Jacob. 2015. [April] CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform. 216 Pages. [Source:Amazon Purchase]

First sentence: The KG-D6 experiment is a success!

Premise/Plot: From Goodreads - The age of man is over. The age of the man eater has begun.

It's Year 3 of the Great Infection and the human race is on the brink of extinction. Seven foot man eaters roam the world, preying on anything that moves.

The Neneks are a tribe of reindeer herders living in the remote Siberian Arctic. Katya, a 15 year old boy, the son of the chieftain, comes of age in the midst of growing threats to his nomadic tribe.

After his father's sudden death, he has to lead the tribe and a ragtag group of American high school survivors across the Tundra safely. Everything is complicated when he falls in love with the beautiful Kiara.

Battling enormous odds, as he fights for his loved ones, he realizes that the greatest danger the group faces might be from the monsters within themselves.

This is a coming of age story set in a post-apocalyptic world.

My thoughts:  This book is a very quick and satisfying read.  I wish it had been longer but it has whet my appetite for more books set in this world.  The characters were believably flawed.  You had villains and no I don’t mean the man eaters I mean the humans; then you had the heroes of the story bringing their people to a relative safety.  Reading this made me both glad to not be living up in the frozen wastelands of Russia and also worried because if something inexplicable like this actually happened I would have no where to hide.

Rating 8/10

Recommendation:  Zombie fans and fans of dystopian apocalyptic futuristic fiction

Review 19: How to Lose a Groom in 10 Days

How to Lose a Groom in 10 Days. Catherine Mann and Joanne Rock. 2015. [April] Tule Publishing. 69 Pages. [Source:Purchased as a free Kindle book on Amazon]

First sentence:  Buying a wedding dress off the clearance rack twenty-four hours before the Big Day had not been Melanie Webb’s brightest idea ever.

Premise/Plot:  From Amazon - He thought their love was a grand slam, until his bride called foul...

After an impulsive courthouse wedding with one of baseball's rising stars, Melanie Webb wonders if she's fallen victim to lust at first sight. She hardly knows Grady Hollis, the Atlanta ball player who swooped into her Florida hometown and charmed the socks--and more!--right off her. She couldn't resist when he proposed under the stars right on the outfield. But when the aftermath means moving to Atlanta and following him around the country for his eight-month a year travel schedule, she gets cold feet.

But Grady has never been a man to give up on a dream and Melanie is everything he ever hoped for in a woman. He knows if only he can convince her to come along for the ride, he'll convince her that their forever can be something special... and sizzling too. The road trip brings them both deeper understanding, surprise revelations and a love every bit as fiery as the passion.

My thoughts:  I loved this story!  The ending brought me to the brink of tears but I got the happy ending which prevented the tears from falling.  This story though short was very well written and executed.  The characters were well developed and believable.  The story of Melanie and Grady I think will hit home with a lot of couples that experienced that whirlwind love.  This is definitely worth the read especially to experience a new author!  Really and truly the only negative I could find was the fact that it was short; I would have loved to see some of the relationship before the marriage.

Rating 9/10

Recommendation:  Contemporary romance fans will love this!!

Review 18: Sailor Man

Sailor Man. Del Staecker. 2015. [April] Hellgate Press. 124 Pages. [Source:Bostick email copy provided by the publisher]

First sentence: “I loved him more than I love my mother and father,” she said with a heartfelt sigh that bridges time.

Premise/Plot: From Goodread’s - SAILOR MAN is the illuminating account of James Preston Nunnally, a teenager who lied about his age to enlist in the Navy, endured combat service in World War Two’s Pacific Theater, and returned home. What sets SAILOR MAN apart, making it an invaluable addition to the canon of World War II, is that it also reveals the lesser known dark side—the psychological trauma so many of these brave young men experienced as a result of their repeated encounters with the horror of war—what we now call Post Traumatic Stress.

My thoughts:  This is a short book.  It was something that I could have read very quickly in a matter of hours I chose to read it over the course of several days because I wanted to think about and absorb what JP went through at such a young age.  I am thankful that we recognize PTSD for what it is and try to help our returning soldiers I wish that it was not something recent but had been happening for much longer back to JP’s time.  I enjoyed reading the letters the most but appreciate that the author expanded and explained more about each set of circumstances. This book has made me wonder just how many other soldiers suffered the same thing and treated it the same way that JP did.  I am truly glad that I had the chance to read this and hope that more do so.

Rating 8/10

Recommendation: Anyone that likes true stories from WWII.

*I received a digital review copy for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review courtesy of Bostick Communications. All opinions are my own.*

Review 17: Mirage

Mirage. Monica Burns. 2015. [June] Samhain Publishing. 318 Pages. [Source: Netgalley eGalley]

First sentence: Good Heavens, you’re a woman.

Premise/Plot:  The hunt for the lost city of Per-Ramesses.  The fulfillment of an ancient and I do mean ancient prophecy.  Learning to trust in spite of a very rocky start.  We will follow Alexandra Tablot and Altair Mazir on the adventure of a lifetime.

My thoughts:  This was an enjoyable read.  It takes us from a brief glimpse of late 19^th century London all the way to the height of the Egyptian archeological period.  We have intrigue, love, sex, and best of all adventure!  We meet Alexandra Talbot American archeologist trying to find her place in the male dominated field.  Then we have Lord Altair Mazir half Bedouin half English. The descriptions in the book were very on point on I could feel myself transported to each scene as I read it.  On the bad side I felt in some ways that the attraction that the two main characters felt was very over the top.  From almost the very beginning they basically wanted to rip each others clothing off and for the time period that just wasn’t done.  Then the first time they do finally give in she is very knowledgeable in what to do and I find that very unlikely.  But, over all I did enjoy the book the extremely steamy scenes between the lovers and the story itself regarding the hunt for the lost city.

Rating 8/10

Recommendation:  If you love late 19^th century period literature then you will enjoy this.  If you like adventure in the desert and looking for lost Egyptian cities then this is for you.

*I received a digital review copy for free from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*

Review 14: Insylum

Insylum. Z. Rider. 2015. [June] Dark Ride Publishing. Pages 122. [Source:Netgalley eArc]

First sentence:  “We’ve made progress,” Dibbock says, but she’s skeptical.

Premise/Plot: From Goodreads - A.J. changed in boot camp, coming out all straight-backed and short-haired. His best friend Nate hardly recognizes him anymore, especially when it comes to the way he acts. His priorities. Now he’s about to ship out to Afghanistan, and despite the rift growing between them, the two decide to have one last hurrah—at Insylum, the extreme traveling funhouse they’ve been waiting for a chance at for years.

They're last in line on the last night of the show. They are the last two to go in.

And they may never come back out.

Warning: Some tentacular activity. (Also body horror. And maggots.)

My thoughts:   I have sat on this review for a few days now trying to untangle the web of my emotions regarding this book.  So it is a horror story and it is horrific to the extreme.  I have read many books and this is the first one that actually made me have a real reaction there was a part of the book that made me feel physically nauseous so kudos to the author and the descriptive writing that she used!  The ending was a little lack luster but made perfect sense in the whole scheme of the book.  I didn’t love this book but I didn’t hate it.  I give credit for the skill in the writing and I will have to read another book to see if said skill continues.  Be prepared when reading this book to be scared, nauseated, and edge of your seat.  I will never be able to go into a haunted/fun house again!

Rating 8/10

Recommendation:  For those that love scares and good descriptive writing.

*I received a digital review copy for free from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*

Review 10: Corr Syl the Terrible

Corr Syl the Terrible. Garry Rogers. 2015. [May] Create Space. 120 Pages. [Source: Bostick]

First sentence: Near the center of the North American continent, among the wooded foothills on the western edge of the great eastern forests, two travelers trotted eastward along the right bank of a small stream.

Premise/Plot:  From Amazon - This Sci-Fi story for teens takes place in the wake of the July war that destroyed the long-standing peace between Humans and Tsaeb. As the story begins, Corr Syl the rabbit warrior questions his place in the world. He longs to run away from the killing and explore the Earth, but a desperate call interrupts his plans. Unidentified Tsaeb traitors have kidnapped Rhya Bright, his friend, fellow warrior—and secret crush. Corr springs into action, tracking down the lynx descendent Able Remington, who betrayed Rhya to protect his own kidnapped family. Able denies any involvement and seems to have fooled everyone, except Corr Syl.

Corr sets out to find Rhya, who has been transported by helicopter. In desperation, he locates and commandeers an ancient warcraft from a nearby museum. Z99, as the ship introduces itself, is sentient and constructed with fantastic technology borne from theories on dark matter and imaginary relationships. The ship proves an invaluable asset as Corr’s journey takes him to Xi'ou, the capital of the Taoso nation. Though ostensibly ruled by the Emperor, the nation’s true power lies in the hands of Ya Zhōu, the Human Minister who commands a network of Tsaeb assassins and spies. His second-in-command is General Yang, a fellow Human under the complete control of an ambitious black widow spider named Lactella. Together, they plan to rule the world through military might.

My thoughts:  I liked this quick short novella.  It was a nice paced read not to fast and not choppy or fragmented.  It has definitely whet my appetite for more of the series.  I am going to pick up the first book Corr Syl the Warrior soon so I can see what happened to the characters previously.  Thankfully with this novella you don’t need to have read the first book to know what was going on in the second!!  Big bonus points for that!!  The characters were well written and well developed the only issue I had was towards the end of the book when the bad guys ending was wrapped up in a paragraph It seemed a little rushed but I am looking forward to another part in this series.

Rating 8.5/10

Recommendation:  Fans of science fiction, alternate reality, animal characters, and/or just a good fast read then this is for you.

*I received a digital review copy for free from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*

Review 9: The Amazing Journey

The Amazing Journey. Author/Illustrator. 2015. [May] Wisdom House Books. 322 Pages. [NetGalley:]

First sentence: During the summer of 2011, I wondered what type of family trip to plan before our oldest son Austin went off to college the following year.

Premise/Plot: From Goodreads.com - The Amazing Journey is the true story of Grady and Austin Hicks, a father and son who travel the world for twenty-eight days before Austin attends college. Austin is the first of three Hicks children who embark on this globe-trotting tradition with their father.

My thoughts:  I do not read many memoirs just to be upfront.  This particular book was a memoir wrapped up inside of a travel guide wrapped up like a season of The Amazing Race.  I can relate to both father and son in this journey of exploring the world.  I leave this book with a new respect for some very old cultures.  One day I hope that I can do half of what I read about in this epic adventure!  It did feel as though it dragged slightly for me but I appreciated what the author was trying to convey about the sights, sounds and experiences that they witnessed.  Hawaii, China, Nepal, Tibet, India, London, and Paris I hope to make it to these locations one day.

Rating 8/10

Recommendation:  Fans of memoirs, travel inspired books, and good old fashioned adventure lovers will enjoy this book

*I received a digital review copy for free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*

Review 8: Checkmate Run

Checkmate Run. Allan Alexander. 2015. [April] Paradigm Shift Press. 483. [Source:Bostick]

First sentence: The single light bulb above the cell door suddenly came to life.

Premise/Plot:  From Amazon - The KGB agents are vicious, and they are closing in... His odds of escaping are bleak... Will he prevail although everything is muddled in a treacherous love triangle? Whom can he trust? The inevitable checkmate could bring him freedom ... or death. Checkmate Run is an adrenaline rush of a story about a precocious young man's deadly struggle to survive the brutal Soviet regime. Alex Loevsky is a medical student and an inspiringly rebellious poet. He becomes enmeshed in a breakneck battle against the rampant cruelty of the totalitarian state, where just the desire to think freely is nearly a crime on par with treason, and being born Jewish is more than a mere hindrance.

My thoughts:  This book left me with several different feelings.  It started rather slow but I am extremely glad that I followed through and finished it to the end!  This was an amazing story following Alex Loevsky a Russian Jew and his trials and tribulations of finding a way to get out of the country that decided to turn it’s back on a whole religion.  I have never read a book set during the Cold War on the communist side of the Iron Curtain.  As I said this book was a sow starter for me but I am glad that I have the philosophy that if I start it I will finish it because for me the 10^th chapter onward was some extremely riveting storytelling.

Rating 7.5/10

Recommendation:  If you enjoy fiction set in the 60’s and 70’s during the cold war then this is for you!

*I received a digital review copy for free from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*

Review 6: Cinderella's Cowboy

Cinderella’a Cowboy. Roxanne Snopek. 2015. [April] Tule Publishing. 120. [Source:NetGalley]

First sentence: A pair of golden-green eyes stared out from between the bale of straw and the wall of Cynthia’s office, then blinked, once.

Premise/Plot: From Goodreads - Chad Anders doesn’t know why mousy Cynthia Henley trips all over her tongue when she’s around him. Nor does he understand his undeniable attraction to this good girl. Wild and sexy is his type, like the dream-girl he caught a glimpse of years earlier he’s never forgotten.
Cynthia’s superpower is invisibility, especially with men. It’s better for everyone that way. Besides, she’s got a cat. She’s okay. But when playboy-rancher Chad hires her, she’s got a chance to shine. Professionally, at least. Until she learns of his fascination with a mysterious dream-girl, who was actually nothing more than a shy teenager on an ill-advised dare all those years ago. Cynthia knows she’s no man’s dream-girl and never will be.
But there’s magic at the ball. Princesses glow in the starlight, princes appear out of nowhere, and, sometimes, they look a lot like cowboys…

My thoughts: I was so in the mood for just this type of story!  A great light hearted romance.  I really sometimes NEED the simple pleasure of reading a story that does not have violence or mystery or graphic sexual scenes (sometimes I do need those things), and today that’s what I got with this story just two people falling in love in a semi-normal manner.  The blurb up above tells what this is about better than I can but just know that it is well worth your time to read this novella!

Rating 9/10

Recommendation:  Anyone looking for a quick light easy read. 

*I received a digital review copy for free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*