Tag Archives: fantasy

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May Book Reviews (Part 2)

Summer has arrived in the Pacific Northwest with beautiful blue skies and wonderful temps. It’s the reward for all the months of endless rain, and I’m taking advantage of it.

I shared five reviews before taking a blog break and have another handful to pass along for the second half of the month. May’s (Part Two) reviews include my 4 and 5-star reads of two memoirs, a murder mystery, a fantasy adventure, and a sci-fi/colonization tale.

Click on the covers for Amazon global links.

*****

You Can Take the Girl from the Prairie by Darlene Foster

This is a lovely memoir about the author’s young life growing up on the Canadian prairie. In her introduction, she describes how her childhood made her the person she is today. And though her story starts with memories of how she felt the world passing her by, the result is a realization that what she had was special—“the freedom, safety, fresh air, homegrown food, friendly neighbors, and grasshoppers. Well, maybe not the grasshoppers so much.”

From that last line, it’s easy to see that humor is part and parcel of this memoir. But there’s also heartbreak and a huge helping of endearing moments of kindness and unabashed love. I was especially moved by Foster’s chapters about sewing, the love of her grandmothers, Bambi the Antelope, and the loss of her brother Tim. The admiration for her father starts the book off and wraps it up in the end. This memoir is less than an hour’s read, and I highly recommend it to readers of all ages who want a feel-good pick-me-up and who love stories about family and rural life.

*****

The Body in the Trench by Judi Lynn

Jazzi and “her Viking” Ansel, along with Jazzi’s cousin Jerod, have plans to fix up and flip an old house. They’ve just started the work when Ansel’s uncle calls – a retaining wall has collapsed into a trench, killing an employee, and he’s worried that one of his sons will be blamed. At the same time, a series of break-ins in a nearby wealthy neighborhood is putting everyone on edge. Between their renovation tasks, amateur sleuths Jazzi and Ansel start asking questions about both cases.

They also plan menus, cook, eat in, and dine out. Foodies will get a kick out of this read since every meal is covered from beginning to end with at least a mention. And every item on the menu sounds mouth-watering. Food “consumes” about 25% of the text, with another 25% dedicated to the renovation project, pets, family, friends, and daily life.

This left about half of the book focused on the plot and investigation, which they conduct in tandem with the police. Jazzi and her cohorts are never in danger, so the focus is mostly on unraveling clues and interviewing the players involved in both cases. There are a lot of potential suspects (characters), and I didn’t know whodunnit until the end.

The pace is moderate, but the characters and the mystery kept me entertained. I do wish that Jazzi and Ansel played a bigger part in ultimately solving the crimes, but with that said, they’re highly relatable characters and easy to root for. I felt as though I knew them well by the end, along with many of the secondary players. This is Book 7 in the series, but I had no trouble reading it as a standalone.

An entertaining cozy mystery that I can easily recommend to foodies and problem solvers who enjoy getting to know the characters while following clues. (Kindle Unlimited).

*****

The Last of the Talons by Sophie Kim

After getting caught in a trap, Lena’s street gang, the Talons, is wiped out. Now under the thumb of the Blackbloods, she’s forced to steal and shred a sacred tapestry for the jewels woven into the design. Her thievery angers Rui, the Emperor of the Dokkaebi, a magical man who steals her away and offers her a challenge—she must kill him within 14 days. At stake is the life of her 8-year-old sister, not to mention her own beheading.

The plot is way more complex than the above summary and it kept me engaged. Time is of the essence, and there are some mysteries to be revealed about what happened to the Talons and why Rui gives her such a strange way to save herself. There’s a strong romantic undercurrent to the story that works at odds with the murderous dynamic. That was fun. My only disappointment was that the ultimate solution seemed completely out of the blue.

The story unfolds in Lena’s POV. She’s a richly developed character, plagued by guilt about the Talons and determined to save her sister at all costs. I understood her murderous agenda even though Rui was my favorite character. Their natural attraction kept me rooting for both of them.

The pace is moderate. Despite the consistent action, there are lots of flashbacks to Lena’s life among the Talons, and the narrative is full of beautiful, but slowing description. The story’s end is satisfying with a few threads left open for book two. Recommended to readers who enjoy a good fantasy.

*****

The Rat in the Python by Alex Craigie

This book is a departure from the thrillers I’ve come to expect from this author. Instead, Craigie ventures into the realm of memoirs with her experience growing up in the UK in the 1950s. The “rat in the python” is the group of baby boomers who created a bulge in the population chain, and therefore there are a lot of “us” boomers who can relate not only to the way it was… but to how much things have changed.

Humor plays a lovely part in the book, though this isn’t as much a book about feelings as it is a collection of memories about the broader aspects of life in the 50s – housing, food, furniture, heat, chores, and more, often told through the eyes of the women who managed the household. A lot of this is relatable to those of us across the pond, but Craigie also shares her perspective on the differences that occurred post WWII.

My memory of childhood is a bit later – in the 1960s. But there was a lot to relate to since progress sometimes takes a while. I remember “the wrangler,” single-pane windows, laundry lines, and the old dial telephones. What also struck me is how dramatically technology has transformed our daily lives. When Craigie puts the trends in perspective, the pace of change becomes mind-numbing.

This afternoon’s read will surely be a trip down memory lane for many boomers as well as eye-opening for younger generations. Highly recommended to readers who have an interest in the details of life in the fifties.

*****

The Name of the Shadow by Mars G. Everson

This is an unusual book, one that’s hard to pinpoint while it lingers in the back of my mind. A utopian colony begins a long slide away from its peaceful, thoughtful existence when a dark creature starts stealing cattle and, in time, colonists. The resulting fear, and the vacuum it creates for a strong man to take control, is deeply tragic for all.

The story unfolds with a clear omniscient narration. The pov starts close to the main characters, particularly the young adults Arlan and Nara. There are some thrilling action scenes in the first half of the story, up until a climactic encounter with the shadow beast. Then the narration backs up and takes a much broader/distant view of events.

The rest of the book reads like a summarized account of what happened as Arlan takes control, determined to change the colony, shape its future, and learn the secrets of the beast. He’s not a likable character, but watching him is like watching a train wreck. It’s hard to look away from his ruinous choices. Despite the omniscient pov, the book has a lot of mysteries, and I enjoyed the way they unraveled and came together, though it’s far from a happily-ever-after ending.

I recommend this read to sci-fi fans who don’t mind ambivalent endings, who enjoy colonization/first-contact books, and who want to try something different. (Kindle Unlimited).

Happy Reading!

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April Book Reviews

Spring is finally making its way up the mountain. No leaves on the trees yet, but the weeds in my gardens are growing like … weeds. I’m trying to read less and write more, but there are so many irresistible books. I have some great reads to share today, including some that gave me book hangovers.

April’s reviews include my 4 and 5-star reads of a crime thriller, a historical romance, a post-apocalyptic tale, and two fantasy novels.

Click on the covers for Amazon global links.

*****

Tuyo by Rachel Neumeier

It’s hard to decide what to rave about first when it comes to this book. I was moping around my house feeling sad all weekend and didn’t know why. Then it occurred to me that I had a severe book hangover. I hadn’t wanted the story to end. I wanted to read on and on and on.

The story is about Ryo, a young man from an unforgiving winter world. He’s left as a sacrifice—a tuyo—to the victor of a battle with the summer country. In his enemy’s hands, he expects to be tortured and slain, but finds himself spared by their leader Lord Aras. Aras has other uses for him, forcing Ryo to rethink old notions about his world.

The driver of the magic and much of the conflict in this story is a form of sorcery that allows the reading and manipulation of thoughts. That’s powerful stuff and a huge advantage for those with the gift/curse. Neumeier manages the power differential with skillful control. She does a superb job of weaving the plot around this ability that strikes fear in most men, including Ryo who struggles to unravel the truth from planted memories. This deftly crafted magic system is logical, complex, and the source of numerous plot twists and turns.

On top of that, the world-building is exceptional. I was charmed by the differences between the winter and summer countries, which were beautifully drawn, but it was the fully developed culture of Ryo’s people that had me mesmerized. It was profound in many ways, hard and tender, occasionally humorous, often dangerous, and rich with tradition and honor. I believed it completely.

It was Ryo’s first-person narration that created the link and revealed the depth of the culture and character-building. The POV is up close and personal, which immersed me in his story and didn’t let go. I think it was the deep connection to this character’s heart and soul that gave me my book hangover. The book works great as a standalone, but there are more stories in this world, which I’m sure to read.

I highly recommend this book to fantasy fans for sure, to readers who enjoy character and culture-driven tales, and to anyone who loves skillfully crafted stories with mesmerizing characters. (Kindle Unlimited)

*****

Once Upon a Time in the Swamp by C. S. Boyack

I think this might be my favorite of Boyack’s books so far. I’m a big fan of The Hat series too but the stories aren’t really comparable. Where The Hat series is a romp, loaded with action and humor, Once Upon a Time in the Swamp is heartbreaking and courageous, written with amazingly realistic worldbuilding, fascinating detail, and a deep pov – all high on my list of reading I enjoy.

The story takes place in a post-apocalyptic world, decades after a 2nd US civil war. Society is rebuilding itself piece by piece without most of the luxuries or technologies we take for granted. People have adjusted and are making do with what they have. Boyak’s careful world-building and attention to detail reflect considerable thought and research. The ingenuity and resourcefulness of his characters is utterly believable and therefore, mesmerizing. It had me completely immersed in the book.

The story is told from the singular first-person point of view of Mari. She returns to her farm from a morning’s hunt for wild turkey to find her husband and child mercilessly slain. Their deaths, and her subsequent brutalization by the killers, set her on a path of revenge. The broken highways take her from Florida to Tennessee, where she meets both danger and kindness and learns the skills she’ll need to exact justice and remake her life. The deep pov made me feel like I was living this story, and I was emotionally swept up in every chapter.

Though there’s an underlying feeling of sorrow and inevitable loss in Mari’s tale, the story isn’t without humor, mostly in the shape of her traveling companions – an ox named Dirt and a dog named Worthless. The kindness and generosity she encounters along the way lend the story’s world a welcome dose of hope for the future. In the end, the tale is full of possibility.

The pace is snappy, the plot straightforward, and the quality of the writing excellent. I had a hard time putting this book down and would love a sequel. Highly recommended to readers who enjoy fabulous world-building, deep povs, and a deftly crafted tale. (Kindle Unlimited)

*****

Haloed by Sue Coletta

This book is a seat-of-your-pants thriller from beginning to end. Sage is a fiction writer, but she can’t focus, and for good reason. A psychopathic serial rapist and killer, who brutalized her in the past, is back. She raises the alarm, but no one believes her, including her sheriff husband, Niko. Why should they? The Romeo Killer was shot dead and buried years ago.

What ensues is a cat-and-mouse game between the killer and Sage. The close calls are nail-biters. Sage makes awful mistakes that almost get her killed, and I wanted to smack her loving but cluelessly dismissive husband upside the head. They’re great characters for keeping up the tension and their 4-year-old son is adorable … and in danger.

The killer is 100% monster. He shares the POV with Sage, Niko, and Niko’s curvy deputy Frankie, all nuanced characters and easy to like. Frankie was one of my favorites with her self-confident personality, loyalty, and bold style. She’s also competent, and I wouldn’t mind seeing her star in her own series.

One of the book’s many strengths is the author’s knowledge of forensic sciences, specifically around bone and body decomposition, key elements in deciphering this read’s crimes. The pace is strong and doesn’t let up and the plot holds together well. I didn’t see the end coming.

Though Haloed is book #5 in the Grafton County Series, it read just fine as a stand-alone. Highly recommended for readers of thrillers and crime novels.

*****

His Judas Bride by Shehanne Moore

Set in the wilds of old-world Scotland, Kara McGurkie is traveling toward her wedding with Ewen McDunnagh, supposedly to establish an alliance between two feuding clans. But that’s only part of her father’s dastardly plot. It’s also the only way Kara can think of to save her 4-year-old son from growing up in a McGurkie dungeon. On the way to wed (and murder) Ewen, she runs into Ewen’s brother, Callm, the Black Wolf of Lochalpin. He’s honorable, tall and handsome, and though he’s attracted to Kara, he’s still pining for his dead wife.

In typical Moore style, the sparks fly as does the romance. Misunderstandings and assumptions abound, complicated by Kara’s secrets, her desperation to save her son, her betrothal to Ewen, and a few days of passion with Callm. Love has some massive roadblocks to overcome.

The narrative is shared by Kara and Callm. One of the things I enjoy about this author is the tight point of view that unfolds in almost a stream-of-consciousness style, particularly for Kara who has a lot churning through her mind. It requires some focus as it moves fast, but wit and sarcasm are plentiful.

One of the differences between this book and other Moore books I’ve read is the depth of emotion in the main characters. Both had a genuine sense of nobility and a willingness to make sacrifices for those they loved. There’s a lot of kindness in this story. Recommended to historical romance readers who like a clever style of writing, a fast pace, complicated characters, and a heartwarming end.

*****

The Palace of Lost Memories by C. J. Archer

Josie is the daughter of a village doctor, a healer in her own right, though women aren’t considered worthy of schooling or the title. Near their home is the mysterious palace of the king, which magically appeared over the span of a few weeks. No craftsman, guard, or servant has been allowed in or out through its gates.

Then a dangerous illness befalls the king’s betrothed. Josie accompanies her father to the palace and uncovers two new mysteries: there is a poisoner on the loose, and everyone in the palace has lost all but the last two months of their memories.

The plot in this first installment of the “After the Rift” 5-book series revolves around the hunt for the poisoner. Questions about what happened to everyone’s memories are explored, but the answers are saved for later in the series. A romantic subplot develops between Josie and Hammer, the captain of the palace guard, a relationship that took its time and which I thoroughly enjoyed.

Josie and Hammer are very likable characters and easy to root for. The story unfolds in Josie’s first-person point of view, so I had an “open book” view of her thoughts and motivations. Hammer is another story, so to speak. He’s complex, and the mystery surrounding his memory loss and past makes him wonderfully intriguing. Teasers abound and serve as a great hook for the next book in the series. Highly recommended to fantasy readers of all ages. (Free on Kindle)

*****

Happy Reading!

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Broken Ties by Jude Itakali: Book Tour

Amazon Global Link

Today I’m delighted to introduce Jude Itakali and his latest book. I know Jude more for his gorgeous poetry and was excited to read his fantasy fiction. Broken Ties is the second book in his Realms of the Mist series. And what a beautiful cover! My review is below, but first, here’s Jude:

DARKNESS, LIGHT, AND LIFE CHOICES

PERSONAL OBSERVATIONS: There is often a line between good and evil. This is very important because it forms the basis for the laws which protect us. But we must avoid becoming zealots, uncompromising and unempathetic. Unfortunately, the world is filled with too many this or that choices with no third option. Personally, when I come across these I’m frustrated, but we cannot avoid them.

It is, for this reason, I have a protagonist from a tribe of death, or a villain with complicated intentions. I throw, or at times ease, most of my characters into these kinds of situations. I want to see if together, we can’t find “another way”.

With epic stakes of a world’s fate, they must often make bitter choices at the expense of personal desires, but maybe they’ll surprise you when you least expect it.

BOOK DESCRIPTION

Kamau, Ninuwe, and Kena, are bound by the trials of their recent past and forced onto a dark and magical quest through the Gifted realms of Africa. They must assemble the God-killer, an ancient weapon that can destroy the Evil One. The problem is; the Evil One has irreversibly merged with Kamau’s once closest and only friend, Irina.

War is brewing. Monsters are slipping into the greater human world. Gods are toying with them. The mission demands sacrifices that seem too costly to pay, and yet they must still navigate a desperate love triangle and allies who blur with enemies.

Will Kamau and his friends find the strength to do whatever it takes?

EXCERPT

“Seeing Kena again invoked a vision Kamau had experienced countless times since his Coming-of-age ceremony; Irina, arguing with a green-eyed shadow on Mountain Nyiragongo, the look of pain in her face as it had told her to sacrifice one of them, and the tear that none had seen as Timothy, Kena’s husband, begged for his life, before Irina had dropped him into the fiery volcano. Pity had diluted Kamau’s anger. What evil choice had Irina faced to make her kill not just his sister, but Timothy as well.

Kena tapped Kamau’s cheek, jolting him out of the memory, “Brooding as ever. And here I was thinking you’d be as excited to see me.”

DIANA’S REVIEW

I’ve read Jude Itakali’s beautiful poetry collection “Crossroads” and enjoyed his rich use of language and sublime imagery. This is the first book of his fantasy fiction that I’ve tried, and I encountered the same vivid descriptions in some entrancing worldbuilding. Though this is partly a contemporary story with modern dialog, it’s primarily set in several magical African realms. It’s full to the brim with flavors of African culture and mythology (real, fantasy, and probably both). Itakali’s imagination is impressive.

Three friends – Kamau, Ninuwe, and Kena – are seeking the parts of a powerful weapon, the God-killer, which they’ll need to destroy the Evil One who has inhabited the body of one of their close friends. Their quest introduces them to both dangerous and helpful magic-wielders, bloodthirsty monsters, fickle gods, and brutal war games. Romance is a secondary plot thread with elements of a love triangle and hints of betrayal.

I didn’t start the series with the first book, Realms of the Mist, but I recommend that approach since this isn’t a stand-alone novel. Beginning with the first will fill in some backstory and help build a connection with the main characters. Kamau is the character I got to know best, and I liked his steadiness, smarts, and nobility. Ninuwe and Kena are also three-dimensional and excellent allies. Since the group moves into new realms throughout the story, there are a lot of characters to keep track of.

The plot has many elements of a quest with new challenges encountered along the way. Accordingly, the pace alternates between high-speed adventure and danger (including some bloody battles), and slower interludes of romance, conversation, and exposition. The story does end with a massive cliffhanger, so be prepared to read onward. Recommended to fans of epic fantasy quests, magical mythology, and amazing world-building set in Africa.

AUTHOR BIO

Jude Itakali is a poet, writer, and fiction author from the suburbs of Kampala, Uganda.

His latest novel, “Broken Ties” is the second in his debut fantasy trilogy, Realms of the Mist, with the third book in production.

Jude’s poetry has been featured in No.1 bestselling anthologies like Hidden in Childhood and Poetry Treasures, as well as his first poetry collection; “Crossroads (Winds of love)”.

When not crunching numbers into a computer, or pursuing infrequent exercise routines, you can find Itakali writing fiction in a small cubicle, or under a tree writing poetry and short stories for his website Tales told different.

BLOG TOUR PERKS

Pdf/epub copies of Broken Ties to three of the most regular participants in the blog tour comments section, as well as a copy of CROSSROADS for each.

You can get Jude’s tour schedule by visiting his blog:

Tales Told Different

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March Book Reviews

It’s been a busy, snowy, March. Good for reading, but I sure have been complaining about the lateness of spring. Then yesterday one daffodil opened. Hoorah! Maybe another will open next week! Well, on to the matter at hand…

I have lots of variety to share with you this month and all but one are available on Kindle Unlimited! March’s reviews include my 4 and 5-star reads of a collection of essays on life and growth, a western romance, a book of syllabic poetry, a “short-story” memoir, a fantasy, and a crime novel.

Click on the covers for Amazon global links.

*****

Grow Damn It! by Cheryl Oreglia

Oreglia’s debut memoir is a beautiful read. It’s personal yet relatable. It’s outrageously funny and heartbreaking, and it’s all about the challenges that life throws at us and how we grow into wisdom and love as a result. It’s one of those books that I might read on my birthday every year, to remind myself of what’s important about this one chance at life.

In a series of essays, the author shares the experiences from her life that shaped her thinking and led to change, appreciation, and a deep well of love. The chaos that comes with family relationships—parents, siblings, spouses, children, and grandchildren—becomes the fodder for growth. And her storytelling is honest and full of wit. As a woman in her 60s, I could relate to almost every experience that comes with aging—from the delights of menopause to corralling grandchildren to watching those we love die.

Which goes to show that not every essay in this book is laugh-out-loud funny. Many involved pain, loss, and regret. They pull on the heartstrings, sharing some tough truths—that life is temporary and things can change at the drop of a hat. Don’t waste it. Oreglia’s wisdom and advice seem to arise through quiet moments of presence when she can take a reflective breath, but she also references the words of other sages, notably John O’Donohue (Anam Cara), and writer Don Miguel Ruiz (The Four Agreements), two of my favorite authors/books.

As Oreglia says, “Show up for your own life.” That’s my new mantra. Highly recommended to readers who enjoy memoirs and the opportunity to reflect on life’s universal lessons, and perhaps grow, damn it. (Kindle Unlimited)

*****

Return to Silverhills by Sandra Cox

This western romance/adventure follows on the heels of Cox’s Silverhills, but can easily be read as a stand-alone novel. Lisa, a young woman who spent part of her life as a slave to a band of Comancheros, arrives at the Wade’s Silverhills ranch, her new home. She’s timid and wary of men, but she wants to do her part, and when the ranch’s longhorns need to be driven to Abilene, Jeff Wade is short on men to get the job done. Lisa volunteers to go along and handle the chuck wagon.

Romance is a solid plot thread in the story, and it’s handled well considering Lisa’s past. The relationship grows against the backdrop of the cattle drive which is full of high-speed adventure as Lisa and the cowboys deal with disastrous weather, floods, native tribes, dangerous stampedes, and some unsavory characters. I could visualize the action well, and it kept me turning the pages.

In addition to the riveting adventure, both the main and secondary characters are distinct, emotionally believable, and well-rounded. Lisa and Jeff share the POV and I liked them both. They’re easy to relate to and root for. Highly recommended to readers who enjoy western adventures with a heartwarming helping of clean romance. (Kindle Unlimited)

*****

Lion Scream by Robbie Cheadle

It’s hard to categorize this book. But it’s not difficult to see it as a testament to the author’s love and concern for the wildlife of her home country South Africa.

In some respects, it’s an educational book about the impact of climate change, ongoing poaching, and the loss of habitat on a wide variety of species. An extensive number of animals are covered from familiar lions and giraffes to lesser-known kudus and dung beetles. For a variety of entries, Cheadle shares her observations from her family’s visits to wildlife preserves. She also provides a short page or two of detail about the animal with supplemental links, primarily to her video clips.

The book is also full of the author’s color photography. The images were in black and white on my kindle and in full color on my iphone, which was much better. I recommend changing devices in order to view the wonderful colors of the animals and their habitats.

And finally, this read is full of syllabic poetry, primarily the double ennead form consisting of three stanzas. The author uses her poetry to further educate and entertain as she describes the characteristics and behaviors of South Africa’s animals as well as the challenges they face. There’s a small section of poems on the environment and a short story at the end of the book. For a variety of her entries, including her short story, she shares the inspiration behind the pieces.

An entertaining and educational read for all ages, including children. Recommended especially to readers who are interested in learning more about South African wildlife. (Kindle Unlimited)

*****

My Father’s House by Patrick Dorn

This 13-page short story by Patrick Dorn is a nostalgic and emotional reflection on his father and the house that the family owned until tragedy tore them apart. I’ve always believed that people and places become emotionally linked over time, particularly during childhood when home and family are almost synonymous. That’s certainly the case here. This is a sad memoir of loss and regret and the tragic consequences of a father’s poor choices. It’s tenderly written, memorable, and well worth picking up.

*****

Princess of Shadows by Colin Alexander

At over 500 pages, this is one of the longer books I’ve read in a while, and once it hooked me, I had a hard time putting it down. A fantasy, it has some engaging worldbuilding—a world where the lack of orbital rotation does away with day and night and creates regions of perpetual light, shadow, and darkness. There are hints that the civilization on the planet descended from Earth, which explains many similarities to medieval societal structures and norms.

Politics and warfare are heavy throughout the book as competing dukes (called dux) vie for control, form alliances, and engage in rebellion. These machinations occupy the first 25% of the book, with little mention of the titular character. I struggled with this start, not particularly connecting with any of the wide array of characters, the majority of them only interested in their own power.

Then the death of the king and most of his family raises the stakes. The pace picks up, and the story, while still loaded with politics and battles, becomes more personal. Aeryn, the 8-year-old surviving princess, becomes the focus of the narrative as every dux and their sons want to wed her (the minute she’s of age) so they can be crowned the new king. Aeryn isn’t about to fill that role, and the story is about her struggle for autonomy and power. Though still a multi-pov novel, her narrative voice plays a greater role.

This is a book where men are in control, men have legitimacy, and men make the decisions. Even as a “Queen,” Aeryn isn’t respected unless there’s a king. I won’t give away how she solves this problem, but I found it a little disappointing since there’s no shift in the worldview regarding the status of women.

At the same time, her determination, courage, defiance, and refusal to conform are rewarding and kept me engaged in the story. She’s a powerful character, well-rounded, and easy to root for. Recommended for fantasy readers who like medieval politics and battles, and stories about strong women who assert their autonomy and authority and buck the system. (Kindle Unlimited)

*****

The Escape by Matthew Slater

Bryan Wattson, a career criminal, escapes from prison after 10 years of incarceration. He joins his best friend Phil, and the two of them pick up where they left off. Except Bryan has a new motive for his illegal activity. Besides getting rich, he wants revenge on the man who set him up and left him for dead.

This is a plot-driven read, high on intrigue and action, and low on emotion. That doesn’t mean the characters are two-dimensional—they’re well-rounded and skillfully drawn with full personalities, especially Bryan and Phil. That said, readers looking for character arcs and emotional shifts won’t find them here.

Bryan and Phill have a tight relationship which I enjoyed even though they’re unrepentant murderers and thieves. I didn’t particularly relate to them or like them, but the skillful writing and fast pace of the story kept me entertained, and I never knew what was coming next. The conclusion wraps up with Bryan’s main objective unresolved—a good hook for the next read in the series. Recommended to fans of fast-paced, plot-driven crime/mob novels. (Kindle Unlimited)

*****

Happy Reading!

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Entering The Zone

Pixabay image by Enrique

I don’t know about you, but for me, the creative process requires a lengthy visit to “The Zone.” If you’re an artist of any kind, you probably know what I’m talking about, surely sense the obsessive urge, the quiver of excitement at the prospect of exploring undiscovered shores. My creative muse resides there, tantalizing and intoxicating, and she demands my undivided attention.

I love each foray into the Zone—despite its consumption of my life. It’s creative gluttony, stuffing my face with words, gobbling down characters, disgorging pathos. When I dive into the Zone, I’m not myself. I’m immersed in my craft, drowning in a taste of pure manna like an addict. The rest of the world fades into the hazy horizon as the Zone awakens that right brain craving.

As a writer, this is especially true during my first draft when a story’s taking shape. Within the Zone, unfamiliar scenes tap from my fingertips and uncooperative characters demand a voice. A fickle wind pushes my plot, requiring vigilance to stay on course. As an adventurer, I’m on my own, trying to make sense of an untold tale before I return to my ordinary life, take a long overdue shower…wash loads of stinky laundry…vacuum blankets of dog hair…make dinner for a gaunt spouse surviving on snack food.

Fortunately, my visits to the Zone are temporary, and I recognize the pattern well enough now that I can plan ahead. “Okay, everybody,” I announce to the family, “I’m heading into the Zone for a few months. See ya.” My eyes droop and I make a pouty face as if I’m going to miss them, but inside I’m giddy as a new mom on a night out. Party time for me and my laptop!

Here’s a typical conversation when I’ve entered the Zone:

Husband: “Blah blah…dinner…blah blah…oil change…blah blah blah?”—long pause—“I might as well live alone.”

Me: “Hmm, what?”

Sad, but true.

With my outline done for the next tale, I’m ready for another jaunt into the Zone. The Weaver’s Tale (my working title) is pure fantasy about a winter that refuses to end. Does that sound familiar to some of you? By the end of February in Oregon, we should be mowing the lawn, not shoveling snow. It’s March, for goodness sake!

Fortunately for us, the seasons still change. My winter’s tale will unfold with spring’s blooming, grow with the weeds in my summer garden, and come to ripeness in autumn. That’s the plan anyway – to emerge from the Zone when the snow begins to fall. Tomorrow, I dive into Chapter One. I can’t wait!

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I’m Traveling Today

I’m on the road today, visiting two blogs. Comments are closed here, but you can catch me at one or both.

First Stop:

Sally Cronin, blogger and writer extraordinaire, is sharing posts from our 2022 archives and today’s my turn. She’s a wonderful supporter of our community, and on the off chance that you haven’t visited her eclectic site, I encourage you to stop by. Today, she’s sharing my post from last summer’s vacation: “Canadian Rockies Haiku.”

Second Stop:

I’m also hanging out at Story Empire with another post on “Writing the End.” This month I’m sharing 7 out of 14 tips for writing a satisfying ending to our stories. If you have the time or interest, I invite you to stop by to check out the post and browse posts on a wide variety of writing-related topics by some talented authors: “Writing the End, Part IV“

Thanks for the visit, and I’ll see you around! Have a beautiful week.

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Interview with a Gargoyle

I’ve never met a gargoyle before, let alone interviewed one, so despite the invite, I’m a little nervous when it shows up at my door. It’s one thing to make it a character in my novella. It’s entirely another to look into those shiny black eyes in person.

The gray monster is the size of a five-year-old but looks like it could bench-press my car. It has horns, claws, and leathery batwings, complete with hooks at the joints. Pointy yellow teeth jut from its thin-lipped muzzle, and I hope it’s friendly.

I’m tempted to call the whole thing off, but behind him, a pretty brown-skinned character is sweeping her long dreadlocks behind her shoulders. She’s wearing an India-print skirt, love beads, and combat boots, and a giant jar of peanut butter is tucked under one arm.  She sticks out her hand. “I’m Tali.”

I reach over the gargoyle and shake her hand at neck height. “It’s nice to meet you in person. Thanks for coming with…”

“Zaahmaazigh,” the creature says.

Tali smiles. “You can just call him Zam.”

“It’s a he?”

“Apparently. Though, to be honest, I haven’t checked.”

I invite them in. Zam waddles past me and claws his way onto my sofa. Tali plops down next to him and opens her jar. “He’s always hungry. He loves Girl Scout cookies, but since he eats with his mouth open, crumbs get everywhere. This will hold him over without the mess. I think.”

The gargoyle digs his clawed fingers into the peanut butter and smears it into his mouth, mostly.

“Well, let’s get started.” I peel my gaze from the spectacle and open my notepad, ready to write his answers.  “Thanks for dropping by, Zam. Can you tell me a little about yourself?”

“Oh, sorry!” Tali tucks a stray dread behind her ear.  “I can understand him a little, but yes or no questions work best.”

I look down at my useless questions, unsurprised. “Okay, Zam, let’s start here. From what I understand, you were a prisoner of the serpent god Damballah.”

“Sss.”

Tali translates, “That means yes.”

“And it was a voodoo prayer written in the margins of your mother’s Bible that freed you into our time.”

“Sss.”

“1972, actually,” Tali clarifies.  “The book was hidden in a cottage next to a lighthouse. I read the passage, and the next thing I know, Zam shows up. He freaked me out. And Daballah was worse. That’s one scary god you do not want to cross.”

“Uff.”

“That means no.” She shrugs as Zam shoves his whole hand into the jar and licks his knobby knuckles. “I think Zam’s grateful for everything that happened. Speaking for myself, I could have done without the whole psycho ordeal.”

“So, Zam,” I ask, “did you enjoy being the star of the story?”

“Sss. Algae Eeggh sauv Zaahm.”

“Aww.” Tali rubs the gargoyle’s head between his horns. “He calls me Algae. And that Egg sound is Greg.  He’s saying we saved him.  But he saved us too. It’s a cool story when it isn’t terrifying.”

“Sauv boag.”

“Yup, we saved the boat too. We think. Time travel can get tricky.”

I watch Zam’s long tongue polish the inside of the jar. “Well, I don’t want you two to give too much away.  Let’s see…. Here’s a question. Can you actually fly with those wings?

The gargoyle’s wings twitch but remain folded against his back. He eyeballs my kitchen. “Oood?”

“No more food.” Tali hustles to her feet and clutches Zam’s hand. “We should go before he raids your fridge. Or asks Damballah to suck us all into a nightmare adventure. You wouldn’t believe the potential for disaster, and once he starts….”

The creature’s lower jaw juts, and his eyes narrow into obsidian slits. A guttural growl rumbles from his chest. Tali crouches and whispers into one of his flattened ears, “I have Thin Mint cookies in the bug for the trip back to Harbor Pointe.”

Zam’s long ears perk up. He leaps from the sofa, and his hand rips from Tali’s grasp. His black wings flap, knocking over a lamp and upending a chair as he scrambles for the door. “Oogeez!”

“Hey, a new word!” Tali tosses me a grin and scurries after him. “Zam, wait!”

They’re gone in a flash, and I’m sitting on the sofa, wondering what just happened. As Tali’s VW bug chugs down the driveway, I right the furniture and throw the empty jar into the recycling bin. Back to editing. Now I know why this book is so out of control.

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December Book Reviews (Part Two)

According to my new blogging schedule developed by my muse, today I’m supposed to share a blog post from our community that made me marvel, laugh, cry, cheer, or gasp at its beauty. But… I HAVE to share the rest of my December reviews of blogger books before any more time flies by.

December’s second bunch of reviews includes my 5-star reads of a memoir, a poetry collection, a paranormal fantasy, a military thriller, and an anthology of short crime stories.

Click on the covers for Amazon global links.

*****

Fifteen First Times: Beginnings: A Collection of Indelible Firsts by D.G. Kaye

Kaye’s memoir Fifteen First Times reads like a conversation over a glass of wine with a bunch of besties. As I was reading, I could imagine the groans, laughter, and tender moments many women share in common as they navigate their teens and young adulthood—first kiss, first love, first car, a broken heart, the angst of menstruation, the first hair coloring disaster, and the first death that woke us up to the impermanence of life. Fifteen firsts.

I couldn’t relate to all of Kaye’s experiences. I never had a thing about shoes, for example, and didn’t have the privilege of travel, but I could relate very well to the journey of self-discovery, to struggles with self-esteem, and to finding a home within ourselves.

What struck me the most about Kaye’s recollections is how humor and a bold, flamboyant approach to life helped her overcome challenges and become the confident woman she is today. She ends the memoir by highlighting the importance of laughter in her life and in her relationship with her late husband. It’s a touching thread that connects her memories and heartfelt conclusion to her book of firsts. An entertaining two-hour read, highly recommended to fans of memoirs. (Kindle Unlimited.)

*****

The Sheltering by Khaya Ronkainen

At the end of Ronkainen’s book of poetry, she shares a poetic piece of prose entitled “All I hope to say.” It’s a beautiful reflection on her reason for writing poetry – to record her life and grief, to let future generations know that this too shall pass, and to preserve beauty and create. It’s a lovely summation of her collection.

The book reads like a chronological story, beginning with the Covid years, moving through the death of loved ones and friends, and then into the current war. It’s poignant and full of the pain of grief and loss and the stress of living in a troubled world. The title “The Sheltering” felt appropriate, suggesting both the act of isolating and retreating, but also as a means of self-care and contemplation.

The poetry finally, quietly, and gracefully emerges back into nature’s sunlight, tentatively testing life’s waters. I felt the poet’s renewal and healing, and breathed the fresh air captured in one of her final poems:

Static Apnoea

Astonished I froze, facing a whale.
Eyes adjusted and focused, I became
nervous, for I came without a song.
Eyes adjusted and focused, she gave
me a gentle prod, lifted her head above
water to suck air through a blowhole.
She was showing me how to breathe.

This is a heartfelt and beautiful collection of about sixty free-form poems that I read over several days. Highly recommended.

*****

Shadow Walker (Shadow Walker #1) by Jina S. Bazzar

Melaina has a secret—her affinity (magic ability) is forbidden. She’s a shadow walker, capable of drawing the shadows around her and turning into a winged beast. Fearful of discovery, she tries to live a normal life by avoiding the nine magic houses that wield immense power and wealth. To support her aunt and brother, she worked as a thief, but now she has a chance at a real job. Only it turns out that the job is her worst nightmare. One of the houses wants her to steal from the others. If she fails, her aunt and brother will pay the price.

This isn’t the first series that I’ve read from this author and like her others, it’s got a deeply imagined world, a complex and fast-paced plot, and some kick-ass characters, particularly the main character. Bazzar’s female leads are all tough, skilled, and smart, and Melaina is no exception. While she has a conscience and big heart, she doesn’t back down from a confrontation.

There are a fair number of characters in the novel, but they aren’t hard to keep straight, especially the secondary characters who are fully developed with distinct personalities. Their relationships with Melaina are interesting, and I’m curious about where they’ll go. The book is not a standalone, and it ends without a great deal of resolution, but the series is complete, so readers don’t have to wait. Highly recommended to urban fantasy readers who enjoy complex plots and strong female leads. (Kindle Unlimited.)

*****

The Culmination: a new beginning by Gwen M. Plano

Just like the 2nd book in this series, this one (the 3rd) starts where the last left off. Admiral Joseph Parker and his soulmate, Julie underwood, have been shot and are recuperating in the hospital. Their lives are still at risk as their team’s efforts start zeroing in on a secret cabal working to destabilize the world with an assassination and nuclear missile launch.

At the 20% mark, the book makes a dramatic shift to the world theater. New main characters, primarily the US Vice President Margaret Adler and the Russian Prime Minister Ivan Smirnov take center stage. A meeting of world leaders to address nuclear arsenal reductions ends with a tenuous alliance, an unexpected romance, plans to address Syria, and a worldwide threat to peace.

World politics, including military strategies and governmental negotiations, continue through the end of the book. Cajoling and strong-arming are balanced by logic, honor, and an altruistic desire to do the right thing. This read made me long for this fictional world where most political choices aren’t tied to greed and power.

The strong romantic subplot breaks up the fast-paced narrative and political/military action. The characters are engaging, smart, and resourceful, and perhaps a little too good to be true. It was interesting to see what might happen if the US, Russia, and the Middle East could cooperate with each other with the best interests of the world in mind. Highly recommended to fans of political thrillers.

*****

Undercover: Crime Shorts by Jane Risdon

I read this collection of six short stories (and an extract from the author’s book) in a little over 2 hours and found it highly engaging. Each story centers on a crime—theft, murder, revenge—most premeditated, some accidental or imaginary. And few criminals get caught, at least not by the police.

The stories are all unique with well-developed characters, great suspense, and satisfying conclusions. A few of my favorites were “Murder by Christmas” with its twisted plot, “The Honey Trap” for riling me up, and “The Look” which satisfied my desire for revenge after “The Honey Trap.” Lol. A highly recommended anthology for fans of crime and suspense stories.

And a 2022 Reading Round-up!

My 2022 Goodreads Challenge results. I love browsing the covers and remembering a year filled with great reads.

I think that’s all of them! Happy Reading in 2023!

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November Book Reviews (Part Two)

Wishing you all a wonderful winter as we head toward the solstice and the return of the light. I’m finishing off autumn with more books and reviews from November! I hope you find a few to enjoy over the holidays.

To all my blogger friends in the southern hemisphere… have a wonderful start to your summer, and I hope you find some beach reads!

November’s reviews (part two) include my 4 and 5-star reads of a romance/thriller mash-up, paranormal short stories, fantasy, and a children’s book.

Click on the covers for Amazon global links.

*****

Secrets, Lies & Alibis (Wounded Hearts, Book 8) by Jacquie Biggar

I can’t believe I’ve finished Book 8 of the Wounded Hearts romance/thriller series. Now that I’m caught up, I’m ready for Book 9 whenever it hits the press. Each of the books features one member of a Seal team that’s returned to civilian life. They’re a close-knit group and characters overlap as they need each other’s help.

In this book, the focus is Adam, who now works for the DEA, and his ex-boss/ex-lover Amanda, who took a demotion and transfer because she’s pregnant. She’s working behind the scenes to wrap up a big drug case, and the cartel would like to see her eliminated. Adam has a new perky partner and is following leads. As things heat up, they all end up in Texas where Adam will risk his life to close the case, and Amanda will have one big surprise to share with him.

The plot holds together well and the characters are distinct and consistent. Though the books can easily be read as stand-alones, I liked reading them in order, tracking the course of the over-arching investigation, and learning how the familiar characters’ lives are going. The book has plenty of romantic drama, but it’s evenly balanced with action and danger, which kept me flipping pages. I read this 2-hour story in one sitting. Highly recommended to readers who enjoy romance/action mash-ups and getting to know characters over a long series. (Kindle Unlimited.)

*****

The Drowned Woods by Emily Lloyd-Jones

In this stand-alone fantasy, Mer is in hiding. She’s the last of the water diviners who once served the realm’s cruel prince. He used her skills to find the wells of his enemies, which he poisoned, killing hundreds of men, women, and children. On the verge of capture, she’s rescued by Renfrew, her handler while in the realm’s employ. No longer beholden to the prince, Renfrew enlists her in a daring heist of treasure that will guarantee her freedom and a comfortable life. How can she resist?

The heist requires assembling a team to destroy the wellspring that protects the prince’s land and where untold treasure is hidden. The journey and magical traps provide plenty of danger, but even more compelling were the secrets and hidden agendas of each character who joins the party.

I particularly liked Mer and Fane, the cursed fighter enlisted to kill the magical boar that protects the wellspring. Their distrust of each other is balanced by their tenuous loyalty. There are hints of a romance that can never be, and that possibility kept me rooting for them. Renfrew and Ifanna, a master thief, were the most distinct and interesting of the secondary characters.

The pace moves along, and there are twists and surprises throughout. The plot tracks well, and the magic was engaging. I’d definitely read more of this author’s work. Highly recommended to fantasy readers.

*****

The Christmas Bird by Robbie Cheadle

After the family dogs destroy a bird’s nest, Stella and her younger sisters discover a surviving Hoopoe chick that they take into their care and raise in a basket. As the bird grows, the sisters must come to grips with the nature of the bird to fly free and start a family of its own. What feels, at first, like a loss becomes a celebration.

Themes of kindness and honoring nature and wild creatures take the forefront of this gentle novelette. The pace moves well and the characters are endearing. In style, the story reminded me of Laura Ingalls’s Little House on the Prairie books. Under an hour’s read, it’s appropriate for young children and middle-grade readers. Highly recommended. (Kindle Unlimited.)

*****

The Raven Spell (Book 1) by Luanne G. Smith

I enjoyed the lyrical writing and wonderful world-building of Smith’s The Vine Witch and was delighted to discover Book One of a completed duology. It’s fantasy and magical realism, the story taking place in 19th century London, where witches and magic are an accepted part of society.

Edwina and her sister Mary are witches who scour the riverbanks for trinkets that they sell in their shop. Mary also collects “corpse lights” the vibrant, shining memories of the newly deceased. Her fetish takes her to hospitals and morgues, as well as to scenes of murder.

When she takes the memories of a private investigator (Ian) who ends up surviving his attack, Edwina attempts to restore them, setting off an investigation that entangles both sisters in a mysterious disappearance and a string of murders.

I enjoyed everything about this book – the solid plot, the quick pace, the twists and slow reveals. The magic is great fun and includes some comic relief provided by a small hairy hearth elf who’s aligned with Ian. There’s also danger and tragedy and a touch of romance. The characters had me rooting for them, particularly Edwina who has some difficult truths to face.

I’m eager to dive into Book Two. Highly recommended to readers of fantasy and magical realism who love beautiful writing. (Kindle Unlimited).

(Note: I did read Book 2, The Raven Song, but struggled with it. My review is here: Something to consider if you’re interested in Book 1.)

*****

The Last Sun Born by Kate Frantz

In a land where only those born beneath the moon are allowed to live, Lewel enters the world during the day. Her infant life is spared at great risk, for with the sun-born comes a dark force called the Absence, capable of destroying the kingdom. And only she can kill it, a battle that may very well demand her life.

Veigo, the king-in-waiting, and his advisor Marrlen, an old woman with the power to cast magic, know the truth of her birth and begin training Lewel to face the Absence. Veigo and Marrlen grow fond of her, and she of them, but intrigue and deception and hatred of her kind run rampant. As a reader, I didn’t know who to trust.

The world-building in this book shines, and I liked the concept of the Absence – the evil twin of the sun born. The characters were complex and nuanced. Lewel and Veigo had fully realized personalities, and their relationship felt genuine to me. I particularly appreciated the way Veigo struggled with his feelings toward Lewel and his duty to the kingdom.

The pace moves along, and the magical elements worked well with the plot. From the description, there’s no indication that there will be a second book, but this one ends on a huge cliffhanger with very few plot lines resolved, so I think it’s a good guess. I suspect it will be worth the read. (Kindle Unlimited.)

*****

Hildie: At the Ghost Shore by Paula Cappa

This 15-minute read includes two short stories: “Hildie” and “Abasteron House.” I thoroughly enjoyed both haunting stories and wanted more of this author’s work the moment I finished. The prose is beautiful and atmospheric, exactly the kind of writing I enjoy.

“Hildie” is a mesmerizing and magical tale with a folklore feel to it. Hildie is a young woman who reads runes, and one day an old man comes seeking information about his daughter. The end is a touching surprise.

“Abasteron House” is where Davida lives with her grandfather. Each day, he walks the dunes alone, his vision peopled with angels that she can’t see. When he dies, she takes over the house and meets his dream people, and they aren’t what she expected.

Highly recommended for dark fantasy and speculative fiction readers looking to fill a few minutes with beautifully written and riveting stories

*****

Between the Darkness and the Dawn by Paula Cappa

In this beautifully written short story, Edward Fane is an employee of the Institute of Perceptual Studies, and he’s traveled to Massachusetts with his instruments to measure ley lines that connect past and future realms. He books a tour of an old manse once inhabited by Nathanial Hawthorne but it’s what he feels as he gazes through the window on the Old North Bridge that captures his attention. On that bridge, he meets the past, and though Nathaniel warns him away from his pursuits, can he forget the lovely woman he meets there? Highly recommended to fans of short stories who enjoy atmospheric writing, and haunting tales.

*****

Happy Reading!

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Gratefulness, Book Tour, and Winners!

November has been a difficult month. While my book tour continued with its final few stops, my private life was focused on my mother’s failing health, letting her know in myriad ways how much I love her, and saying goodbye. She passed peacefully in the evening after my tour ended.

Some bloggers may wonder why I continued with a book tour when my time with my mother was running out. Honestly, replying to comments only took minutes, and I needed small breaks to gather myself and step outside my growing grief. But there was another reason…

The kindness of this blogging community meant the world to me when I needed it most. Your comments were about a book, yes, but the repeated visits to my tour, the tireless commitment of your time, and your generous support transcended anything so mundane. Though most of us have never met in person, I felt your real-life friendship as if you stood by my side. I’m so grateful.

Now for a little fun

The two-month-long book tour is over. Yay!

You’re probably sick of me and my book, but I needed to take a little more blog space to say thank you (again) to all my hosts, to all the bloggers who took the time to visit the posts, to all the readers who picked up the book, and the kind souls who shared reviews.

I hope that you also found some new blogs to follow and some amazing new books to read! If I’ve stuffed your new year with books, I’ve done my job.

Free Book Trailer

As a thank you for hosting me, I offered to put my 28 hosts’ names in a drawing for a Diana-made book trailer. And the winner of a free book trailer is:

Noelle Granger from Sailing Away

$50 Amazon Gift Card Drawing

Every time a visitor left a comment at one of my tour stops, I recorded their name for a drawing for a $50 Amazon Gift Card. Anyone who commented on multiple posts earned multiple entries.

In total, there were 794 visitors who left 4,133 comments on my hosts’ 28 posts. Phew!

I collected all the names in Excel, snipped them into tiny slips of paper (for two hours), and crumpled them into a jar. For a $50 Amazon gift card, the winner is:

Colleen Chesebro from WordCraft Poetry

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Congrats to Noelle and Colleen. I’ll be in touch with you both shortly!

Thanks again to everyone in our wonderful village for making this writer’s journey a pure pleasure.

One Final Writing Truth… #1