"Reading is to the mind what exercise is to the body." Sir Richard Steele

Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Review of The Father's Child

The Father's Child

The Father's Child
Mark Adair
Kindle Edition 2010

   John Truman is an introverted college student who just wants to hang out with his friends. Little does he know that he is connected to a 300 year old secret society, New Dawn, who has it's sights on ruling the world. John has no idea that the society has designed and made him. They are just waiting for the time to come to bring John into the fold. First, John's friend George, disappears. Then, John is kidnapped by what appears to be the drug cartel, or is it?
   John's best friend Paul, along with Susan and an FBI agent, go off in search of their friend. They are pulled deeper and deeper into the clutches of the New Dawn society. Will they be able to find John and save him or will they be recruited into the society's clutches?
   This is a thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat and has you guessing until the very end. The storyline is quite good; but there were places where I was lost briefly because of the bouncing around of the characters that tell the story. There were instances where a chapter did not flow smoothly into the next. This caused some confusion for me. The story had twists and turns that are full of suspense. The author takes us into the minds of some true evil masterminds. This is not a book for a casual read. You must keep up with the storyline or you will most definitely be lost. John is a bit naive and can't see what is in front of his face. Paul is the kind of guy that women love to hate. He is a womanizer and sees them for one purpose. He is quite funny in his dialogue and thoughts and does have some crowning moments as the story progresses. All in all this is a fantastic story that takes the reader on a roller coaster ride. If you like action, adventure and thrills, I highly recommend this book.
   I wish to thank the author for providing me with a copy for reading and reviewing purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. I was not compensated in anyway except for receiving the book to review.

I give The Father's Child 4 out of 5 stars

Monday, February 27, 2012

Interview with Jacob Marc Schafer and Review of The Endless Waltz

It is my distinct pleasure to welcome Jacob Schafer to my blog today. Jacob is here to answer some questions about himself and to introduce his debut young teen fantasy novel, The Endless Waltz.



1- How did you go from a BA degree in film to writing fiction?

I feel like this is the only question that is easy for me to answer. I originally wanted to be a film director but most of my ideas were to big to ever realistically be made as a indie film, so I decided that I would just write novels with the hope of one day adapting them to film, but the more I wrote the more I fell in love with writing. I would still love to one day direct and work in film but now writing has become my passion, and I couldn't imagine doing anything else.

2- Tell us a little bit about your book, The Endless Waltz.

It was originally an old film idea I had that got put on hold back in my early college days. I first got the idea when I was looking up at the sky and pictured a ship falling from the clouds. The imagery was so cool in my head that I instantly began coming up with a story that would somehow fit with a falling ship. I started looking into sea mythology, specifically the Flying Dutchman, and Davy Jones Locker, as well as several real life pirates, and in the end I came up with The Endless Waltz. 

3- What made you decide to write for young teens?

I'm a fan of the genre for one, young-adult novels can have great stories without the language and  sex scenes that for some-reason seem "necessary" for an older audience. As I mature as a writer I intend for my content to be a little bit more complex, but still written clean and simple enough for a teenager to pick it up and read for fun.

4- Who has had the most influence on your writing and why?

I wouldn't  say that there's any one person or author that has had a significant influence on my writing. I guess I would say my friends because most of the books I read are recommended from them and occasionally my older brother. One thing that influences me which I don't think influences other writers is video games. Some of the stories in games has really affected me because of the great leaps that have been made in that industry, and now that video games are becoming a more regular household activity I believe they will start influencing artist of every nature in the future, from musicians and filmmakers, to writers like myself.

5- Who is your favorite author and why?

I would probably have to say Ernest Hemingway for some time now. His simplistic writing style and honest storytelling is the the archetype for most of my novels. When I read his novels I feel as though I'm reading about people and not characters and that is the simplest way to separate great writing.

6- Did you help design the cover for your book? If not, did you have any input into the finished product?

I was very active in designing the cover art for my book. I personally cannot draw even the slightest bit but luckily have a friend who is a great artist. I went to school with Nicolette from kindergarten through high school and she went on to study art in San Francisco and we reconnected after college and she agreed to do my artwork. We had several meetings where I went over how I wanted the cover to look especially the Leviathan, and then met several more times as she worked on it to make sure I liked it. She ended up doing an amazing job and I had very little to add as she worked on it. She's already working on the art for my next two books both of which should be out by the end of this year.

7- Who is your greatest supporter?

My wife. She has always encouraged and supported my writing from the very beginning. I value her opinion very highly basically because she's very different from me in many ways and that includes her interest in books. If not for her I feel as though I would get lost in my novels and miss out on the joys of real life, and I think that's crucial for a writer because how can we expect to write something believable and true if we've never experienced them in real life.

8- What does Jacob do for fun and relaxation?

Mostly read ha ha. I try to swim and skateboard when I can but I don't seem to have the time to do anything regularly anymore, and that goes for video games too. I really enjoy going to a coffee shop with my wife and reading with her, that's pretty awesome.

Here are some links:





Review of The Endless Waltz


The Endless Waltz
Jacob Marc Schafer
Published by Jacob Marc Schafer September 27, 2011
ISBN 9780615543604

   Brit de la Cosa has been recently promoted to Captain and is in the process of sailing back to England from the Caribbean. He is anxious to return to his fiancee Isabella and start his new life with her. Along the way, he encounters the infamous Davey Jones who sinks his ship and sends it to the Locker below. After it is determined Bret is still alive, he has to fight off pirates and marines in an attempt to escape the Locker. Along the way, he encounters Roman, the Flying Dutchman and the mighty Leviathan until his final encounter with Davey Jones himself.
   This is a fantastic young teen fantasy read that is sure to please young and old alike. The storyline flows smoothly from the beginning until its ultimate conclusion. Bret is an honorable young man who surely sets a wonderful example to all young teens who read it. Despite the evil he is surrounded with, he manages to stay true to himself and keep his word to those who helped him in his travels, despite the sacrifice it causes to himself. 
   I was a bit confused with the title. It takes some time before it becomes clear as to how the title came about. The romantic in me was thrilled once I discovered the answer. I will not elaborate and spoil it for the readers. The cover art is absolutely fitting of the story and the colors are gorgeous. If you are a fan of pirates, fantasy and mythology, you are sure to love this book. I highly recommend it and will definitely be looking for more from this author in the future. Once I started this book, I could not put it down. It is well worth the read.
   I wish to thank the author for sending me a copy to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. I was not compensated in anyway except for receiving the book to review.

I give The Endless Waltz 4.5 out of 5 stars






Sunday, February 26, 2012

Review of Showstoppers


Showstoppers The Second Emily Castle Mystery
Helen Smith
Tyger Books 2011
Ebook Edition

   Emily Castle has lost yet another job. She is recruited by her neighbor, Victoria, who runs a drama school for children, to help out interviewing perspective parents for the next enrollment of children. Victoria tells Emily about some poisoned pen letters that she has been receiving recently. She feels they are connected to a video that she and a former boyfriend made while in college drama. She insists they have to forget about them until the school performance is over. The problem is, Victoria receives a letter at the school and then all sorts of things start happening on the day of the show.
   This is the second book in the Emily Castle Mystery series. This is a short, fast read that will keep you guessing until the end. Emily and her neighbors are a quirky lot and manage to get themselves mixed up in some mayhem without even trying. In this episode, we find an injured man, a dead man, and a dead dog. Poor Emily has not let go of her own recently deceased dog, and now she has to face another. This episode brings us face to face with the age old feelings of jealousy and what happens when one person thinks they deserve something more then someone else. Will Emily be able to solve the mystery behind the letters before   a catastrophe happens at the school? If you enjoy a fast moving mystery, or just a good read, this is the story for you. It can be easily read in one sitting.
   I wish to thank the author for providing me with a copy for reading and reviewing purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. I was not compensated in anyway except for receiving the book to review.

I give Showstoppers 4 out of 5 stars

Thursday, February 23, 2012

New Paranormal Thriller Author Signed with Seventh Star Press

Seventh Star Press signs on a new paranormal thriller writer, R.J. Sullivan. Follow the link to read all the details and to find out about his upcoming book to be released later this summer.



Wednesday, February 22, 2012

Review of The Last Czar of Stritonoly Book 3



The Last Czar of Stritonoly (The Stritonoly Chronicles, #3)

The Last Czar of Stritonoly
William L.K.
Sci-Fi-Cafe.com 2011
ISBN 9781908387288

   Strito and Princess Becki are set on a course to take over and destroy the Citadel. The Spideron led by the vicious Ramsitt are intent on taking over the Citadel also and destroying everyone there. Barok, an Acidel, had been captured by the Spiderons previously and had been transformed to look like them. The transformation was not a complete success. Now, he no longer looks like them; but does not look like the Acidel either. He is forced by the Spiderons to assist in gaining entrance for them to the Citadel. Will Barok be able to gain access to the Citadel and will his beloved Schroomy recognize him? Gunther has his own agenda and is determined to use the Acidel to get what he wants.
   Just like the other books in the trilogy, this is full of action and adventure. The author has weaved a tale of war, betrayal, deceit, evil. love and forgiveness that is fast paced and full of action until it reaches its awesome conclusion. Princess Becki is just as evil and deceitful as she has been. Barok attempts to make amends for all the misery he has caused. Gunther is evil and has his own agenda and will stop short of nothing to get what he wants. Just like real life, the underdog are the ones to suffer the most when those who are in control, use them for their own gain. If you are into science fiction, I highly recommend this book along with The Eye of the Storm  Book 1 and Barok's Exodus Book 2. This is a fantastic trilogy that is sure to please.
   I wish to thank the author for providing me with a copy for reading and reviewing purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. I was not compensated in anyway except for receiving the book to review.

I give The Last Czar of Stritonoly 5 out of 5 stars


   




Monday, February 20, 2012

Review of Demon Vampire Special Science Report 1192

 
Demon Vampire
Special Science Report 1192
Virgil Allen Moore
Erudite Small Press2011
EBook Edition
 
   Herald Thompson is in New York City on a special assignment for Sillian Industries. He is brought there to study the existence of vampires. He assumes he will prove they do not exist and there is some difficulty in getting him to believe that they do exist. He and many new colleagues will be studying them for the next year. Over the course of the next year, Herald will have to rethink everything he has believed to be true.
   This is a second book in the larger Redgold series. The initial book, Demon Vampire, is quite involved and lengthy. It is important to read that book before reading this one. This story is interesting and very well written. It goes through some of the history of the the vampires and the blood work showing how and why they are different and live a longer existence. There is also two off shoots, if you will, to the story, in which I assume will be further pursued in later books. One involves a young woman who is not a vampire at the time of the story, and the other is with Herald himself. I will be very anxious to see where the story goes from here. Since this is a novella, the story moved faster and pulled me in from the beginning. Herald is a very likable character. Even though he is a bit shy and a loner, he is definitely a male when it comes to one of the subjects in the study. Eada catches his eye from the start and he has difficulty relaxing around her. All in all an excellent read and I highly recommend it. If you read Demon Vampire, you definitely want to read this one.
   I was provided a copy from the author for reading and reviewing purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. I was not compensated in anyway except for receiving the book to review.
 
I give Special Science Report 1192, 5 out of 5 stars

Review of Rise of The Steampunk Empire

Rise Of The Steampunk Empire
 
Rise of The Steampunk Empire
Barnabas Corbin
Double Dragon Publishing 2011
ISBN 9781554049042
 
   A group of astronauts are on a mission when their International Space Station enters an area that causes an anomaly. The crew is concerned; but Colonel John Mitchell is more concerned with maintaining radio contact for his upcoming interview with BBC on Earth. Not long after the first anomaly occurs, more occur, and the ship is plunged back in time to 1832.
   They are captured and held by the First Lord, Lord Desbois, who is a fanatic that is interested in power and is convinced he is doing everything in the name of God. He accuses the crew of being spies and saboteurs and forces them to show him their knowledge from the future in an attempt to gain control of the world. He  uses the knowledge of the future in an attempt to become the reigning power and has no problem with destroying anything or anyone in his path.
   This is a fast reading novella that will make you cringe at the craziness of this man and the way he justifies everything in the name of God. It is scary in the respect that you are able to see what happens when power, money, greed, and technology get in the hands of the wrong person. Especially one who has no idea what he may be unleashing. For that matter, does not care. The storyline was fast paced, but flowed nicely through the eyes of Sarah Phillips, the only female crew member on board the space station. Lord Desbois is a despicable man who puts Hitler to shame. He is not only a bigot; but has no remorse for anything he does. If you are into Steampunk, this is a definite read for you. This was actually my first attempt at Steampunk and I would not be averse to reading more. I just would not make a steady diet of it.
   I wish to thank the author for providing me with a copy for reading and reviewing purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. I was not compensated in anyway except for receiving the book to review.
 
I give Rise of the Steampunk Empire 4 out of 5 stars
 
 

Sunday, February 19, 2012

Review of Secrets

 
Secrets
S.L. Pierce
Sourcebooks Edition 2011
ISBN 9781466337841
 
   Gwen Michaels moved to California two years ago to escape her past hoping no one would discover who and what she was. She was content with her PI business and being married to a great guy. Then, out of nowhere, someone tries to kill her. The killer figures he will be in and out in no time. Little does he know, he has just met his worst nightmare. Gwen does not take kindly to someone trying to kill her. Does he really think he will get away with it?
   Gwen calls Jack following the attempt on her live and goes to pick him up. They check into a flea bitten hotel and Jack's world as he knows it will no longer be the same. After Gwen is finished with her story of who and what she is, Jack is on shaky ground to say the least. Will he be able to trust the woman he fell in love with or will there always be doubts in his mind?
   This is a fast paced read full of murder, betrayal, deception and industrial espionage. Gwen gets back into her training mode and sets out to solve the case of who tried to murder her. A local cop has his eyes set on a promotion and is determined to bring Gwen down in the process. This part could have been left out of the story because the story moved so quickly that it almost didn't work. The story in and of itself was a great read and I highly recommend it. The only real deterrant for me was the massive number of chapters for such a fast moving book. It kinda took away from the flow. Gwen is an awesome character and a strong woman that you just have to love. Jack had difficulty dealing with his new found knowledge of his wife. Understandable. He eventually gets caught up in it all and becomes a major supporter. If you like a fast moving, suspenseful story that will keep you guessing until the end, you won't go wrong with this one.
   I wish to thank the author for providing me with a copy for reading and reviewing purpose. I was not required to write a positive review. I was not compensated in anyway except for receiving the book to read.
 
I give Secrets 4 out of 5 stars
 
 

Saturday, February 18, 2012

Review of Paris My Sweet


Paris My Sweet
Amy Thomas
Sourcebooks February 2012
ISBN 9781402264115

   Amy Thomas is offered a dream job of going to Paris to write ad copy for Louis Vuitton. Even though she has been to Paris before and loves the city, living and working there for an extended period of time is different story. She finds herself a thirty-six year old woman trying to fit in the dating scene in a foreign country where life is just so totally different from New York. Compound that with the fact she is having difficulty mastering the language and she has a real identity crisis. Her saving grace is her love of all things sweet. She travels all over the city and beyond to savor and feed her addiction and cravings.
   This is a wonderfully written memoir of Amy's adventures in Paris with her job at Louis Vuitton and her sampling of sweets during her time there and when she returns to New York for visits. There was not actually alot represented about her ad job with Louis Vuitton. The major portion of the book was her exploring different desserts at various establishments and her new found treasures of sweets. She went into great detail describing them almost with orgasmic descriptions. Sadly, I found nothing that I would just have to sample. Even though I like desserts, I am a very plain dessert person so nothing actually appealed to me. Although very well written descriptions, I found myself glossing over them at times because there was just so much.
   In amidst her sweet cravings, she gives us personal insights into her dating fiascoes and her difficulty in trying to fit in with the language barrier and lack of friends. The storyline is well written and contains a wealth of information considering the length of the book. I had little problem with the storyline except with such lengthy dessert descriptions, it became a bit wordy. I would have liked to seen a key for all the French phrases because I had no clue as to what they meant.
   Something I found quite unique was a listing of all the New York and Paris bakeries at the end along with addresses and phone numbers. The book also contains a map of Paris and New York with the bakeries shown with various desserts depicting location along with a written key telling the reader their names. Very appealing in my eyes. If you enjoy reading memoirs or just like a good story, I most definitely recommend this book. If nothing else, you will be craving desserts and the descriptions alone will have you bouncing off the walls. I think I gained ten pounds just reading about them.
   I wish to thank Sourcebooks for providing me with an a copy for reading and reviewing purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. I was not compensated in anyway except for receiving the book to review.

I give Paris My Sweet 4.5 out of 5 stars

Friday, February 17, 2012

Review of Roll of the Die


Roll of the Die
Roll of the Die
Sean P. Bridges
Smashwords Edition 2011
   Ex-con Riley Toback is trying to make a fresh start in Atlantic City after doing time for armed robbery. He is married and working an honest job in a garage. Life is not great, but he is trying to live an honest one. His no good brother-in-law drags him into a heist that gets botched and causes a ton of problems. Riley ends up on the receiving end when Karim Rashid makes him a proposition that he cannot refuse if he wants to keep his wife alive.
   Riley is forced to be a player in a twisted game of Russian Roulette in Las Vegas. There are six players, six side die,  and six chamber gun with one bullet. Players had to roll the die and the number that comes up is the number of times the trigger is pulled. The survivor of three rounds wins the big cash prize.
   This was a gripping tale of suspense and murder that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Each contestant was given a chapter so the reader knew why that person was in the game. The storyline was very well written and flowed nicely from the beginning to the end. It was one of those stories where once you start reading, you have to continue because you want to know what will happen next. Riley was a piece of work at times and you could still see and hear the con in him. He appears to truly love his wife and is determined to do whatever it takes to save her. The question is, will he get to her in time? If you enjoy a story full of suspense and twists and turns, you will definitely like this one.
   I wish to thank the author for providing me with a copy to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. I was not compensated in anyway except for receiving the book to review.
I give Roll of the Die 5 out of 5 stars
  

Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Press Release from Seventh Star Press



 Michael West's new series with us in urban fantasy, The Legacy of
the Gods, is now at the starting line with Poseidon's Children.

We just opened a pre-order window for a limited edition hardcover version
(only 75 to be issued) of Poseidon's Children that bundles the eBook
version with it in the eVersion of the reader's choice (along with some
collectible extras).

We also unveiled 2 new Matthew Perry illustrations from the book as well.

The press release with the new images and cover art can be found here:
http://seventhstarpress.com/documents/press_releases.html

The pre-order page can be found here:
http://seventhstarpress.com/documents/pre_orders.html

Tuesday, February 14, 2012

Review of Valentine Submission


Valentine Submission
Valentine Submission
Sue Lyndon
Free Kindle Edition 2/2012

   Anne has just been through a very nasty divorce. Reservations for a friend's B&B had been made at the ocean before the divorce, so, Anne decides to keep them because she is in need of some rest and relaxation. She is not sure how Jack will react to her arriving because he is technically her ex-husband's friend. She need not fear because Jack is more then happy to see her. He has difficulty staying at arm's length because he is feeling chemistry for her and he is afraid it is too soon after the divorce.
   Jack is a widow and has decided it is time to move on. Anne was friends with his former wife so she knows that Jack is a Dom. She asks him to teach her about BDSM and the story flies from there. Anne is a bit leery when the teaching begins; but she trusts Jack and is willing to do whatever he asks. As things heat up, Anne realizes she is falling for Jack so she gets scared and leaves without a word. The Dom side takes over and Jack goes after her. He has a special surprise for her on Valentine's Day. If she thinks she can get away so easily, she is sadly mistaken.
   This is a short, fast read that sucks you in from the get go. For such a short read, the storyline is well written and developed. The characters are both endearing, especially Jack. The basics of BDSM and the toys of the trade are introduced. If reading about BDSM is offensive to you, then don't read the book. If you like your storyline a bit risque with Doms, slaves, and toys, then you will definitely like this one. I highly recommend it.
   I received this as a free kindle book from amazon. 

I give Valentine Submission 5 out of 5 stars

Monday, February 13, 2012

Review of The Little Rednecks and a Town Full of Bullies


The Little Rednecks and a Town Full of Bullies Special Edition
The Little Rednecks and a Town Full of Bullies
T. Denise Robinson
Fantasy Island Book Publishing 2011
ISBN 9781908822024

   Joee, Stump, Sarah, and Wheels are different then the other kids in their class and are prime targets for bullying. The four of them band together and have a special bond that they begin to realize is more then just friendship. As the time of their thirteenth birthday draws near, magical powers start to surface, and they will find out what and who they truly are. When it comes down to the wire, Southpaw, Joee's grandpa, has no choice but to tell the kids the truth.
   A school assignment puts the kids in harms way and they are forced to confront some unknown evils. A treasure map takes them to the central part of #7 Coal Mine where the kids look for a special box. If the children find the box, will it answer their questions or will it give them more questions?
   This is a wonderful young teen story that is also quite suitable for adults. The Redneck in the title is not used in a derogatory manner; but is used as a term of respect. The young teens in this story are all handicapped in one form or another; but are fearless in their determination. They have also developed their own way of handling the bullies and take it in stride. Not only are there bullies towards the kids; but there are adults who are bullies in their own right. There are the rich who use their power to intimidate the poor and use them to get richer. The storyline is well written and flows nicely. The author has used a mix of history, a societal issues, mystery, and the paranormal to give the reader an awesome read. If you are into young teen reads and the paranormal, or just like a good story, I highly recommend this book.
   I wish to thank the author for providing me with a copy to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. I was not compensated in anyway except for receiving the book to review.


I give The Little Rednecks 4.5 out of 5 stars

Review of 11:11 Countdown to 2012


11: 11 Countdown to 2012
11:11 Countdown to 2012
Verna Clay
Echelon Press eBook 2011
Smashwords Edition

   Eve Applegate gets a new neighbor who is absolutely gorgeous. She considers herself a bit unattractive and  over- weight so she becomes extremely tongue-tied around him. Theodore Baldwin is not quite what he appears to be. His mission, if you will, is to bring Eve into her "Realization" because the fate of the world is depending on it. According to the Mayan calender, this all must happen before the end of the countdown year of 2012. If not, could the world have the same doomed fate of "Atlantis."
   Eve is just trying to make a better life for herself by working and going to school. Her world is suddenly turned upside down when Theo comes on the scene. He leads her to believe he is writing a book and asks her to read chapters that he has written. This is all in an attempt to win Eve's trust and lead her in the direction she needs to go. Whenever Eve's apartment blows up, she finds herself on a journey that she has a difficult time believing. Can Theo truly be who and what he says he is?
   This is an extremely interesting and fascinating book. The author weaves lots of the Mayan calender history and events into the story through Theo's "book." I found this to be quite unique in the way it was presented. Even though I found it fascinating, I became bogged down sometimes because I really had no clue as to what the history was actually telling me. This in no way, however, deterred from the story. Theo sounds like the kind of man that dreams are made of. Eve has a rather poor self-esteem issue so she is actually insecure. A bit of a loner, she relishes the attention she receives from Theo. During their travels together, Eve grows and becomes more secure in the woman that she truly is. There is obviously some chemistry between these two; but it is not until close to the end that we discover why Theo is fighting it. The storyline is well written and flows nicely throughout. If you enjoy stories that are a bit out of the ordinary, you will surely enjoy this one. I highly recommend it.
   I wish to thank the author for providing me with a copy for reading and reviewing purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. I was not compensated in anyway except for receiving the book to read.

I give 11:11 Countdown to 2012, 4 out of 5 stars
  
  

Sunday, February 12, 2012

Review of A Spy at Home


A Spy at Home
Joseph Rinaldo
EBook Version

   Garrison, a retired CIA operative decides to confiscate over ten million dollars that was earmarked for a rebel band preparing to overthrow the dictator of an African country. He has been using US money for years to support rebels in foreign countries. The CIA has no idea where all the money goes and no one checks into any of it. Between Garrison and his wife, they device a plan to hide the money and the means to get it fairly easily if they have need of it. His wife, Louisa, eventually decides she wants to use the money for doing good and does not always consider all angles when she comes up with the ideas.
   Eventually, the rebels who were to get the money, start making noises and insisting on their money. The CIA becomes involved and Noah convinces them that someone within stole the money. Eventually, the bad guys come knocking on the door, and Louisa is suddenly gone. Now Garrison is left to care for their adopted Downs son, Noah. Having been gone most of their married life and their son's growing up years, Garrison has no clue as to how to care for Noah. Now in his twenties and developing Alzheimers, he finds himself totally out of his league. The only thing he is certain of, he must make plans for Noah in case he should die.
   This book is told in the first person and goes from the time Garrison and Louisa get married and how they find themselves with an adopted son with Downs Syndrome. This is a very interesting story and full of adventure and intrigue. There are some parts that drone on a bit too much when they are going back and forth out of the country in an attempt to juggle the money. Garrison is a great character but he is pretty clueless when it comes to being a family man because he is seldom, if ever around. His wife Louisa, is a bit self righteous and gets a tad nerve racking when she wants the money to go to charities in massive quantities. It is like she does not think things through; but is determined to have her way. She is extremely over protective of Noah; but obviously loves him fiercely. This tends to cause some tension between her and Garrison on occasion. All in all, this was a very good story and I highly recommend it.
   I wish to thank the author for providing me with a copy for reading and reviewing purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. I was not compensated in anyway except for receiving the book to review.

I give A Spy at Home. 4 out of 5 stars


Monday, February 6, 2012

Guest Post with Sherri Hayes & Review of Behind Closed Doors



Does your writing style change much from writing a romance to one involving BDSM?

The simple answer is, yes, it does. Although the biggest difference, writing wise, for me between Finding Anna and my romantic suspense novels is that my BDSM series is written in first person while my other books are in third. It takes getting into an entirely different mindset to write first versus third person. I feel the author’s personality can leak into the wording more in third person than it can in first. Whereas in first person, it’s almost as if you’re an actor playing the part of the character whose voice you’re writing. It’s not only how they say things that are important, but also how they think, speak, and generally interact with the world around them.

Another major difference comes from the genre specifications. Since my BDSM series is classified as erotica, I have a lot more freedom of wording. In romance there is a line most readers don’t want to cross. They want description, but not too much, and as a writer you have to find a balance. The nature of BDSM requires a lot of description in order to explain what is going on. Positioning has even more meaning than in traditional romance. My romantic suspense novels also contain a lot of mystery. I like to take my readers on a journey and keep them guessing till the end. That means juggling things outside their immediate world, setting the stage for the stories climax where all is revealed. Sometimes vague descriptions can work in the authors favor when the want to touch on something, but not giveaway too much.







Behind Closed Doors (Daniels Brothers #1)
Behind Closed Doors
Sherri Hayes
Writers Coffee Shop Publishing House Feb 2012
ISBN 9781612130910
   Elizabeth Marshall has spent the last nine years of her life doing everything that was expected of her. Oh, but life is not always what it appears to be on the surface. Yes, she is married to a handsome, successful attorney, has more clothes then she will ever need, a beautiful home and looking forward to someday having children. Then, six months ago, her world came crashing down. Her husband is dead and she has lost all of her friends. She moves to Springfield to start a new life. The problem is, what goes on behind closed doors does not always stay there.
   Christopher Daniels has spent the last several years of his life as a bachelor after his wife raked him over the coals. He is content with his simple life. Then, Elizabeth Marshall moves in downstairs in the small Victorian house that he lives in. Blasted woman makes him start feeling things he does not want to feel ever again. He knows first hand that women are trouble. Then, someone starts threatening Elizabeth and Chris has a hard time ignoring his feelings for her. He may just have to reconsider.
   This book is the first in the Daniel brother's series. It is a lovely story about two people who are content in being alone; but are unable to deny the feelings that are surfacing when they are around each other. The story started off a bit slow; but picks up nicely after the first couple of chapters. Both of our main characters have issues that they have a hard time getting past because of their broken relationships. This is a story of love, betrayal, abuse, jealousy, and murder. If you are into romance or just like a good story, I highly recommend this book. I will definitely be keeping my eye out for the next book in the series.
   I wish to thank the publisher for providing me with an ARC for reviewing. I was not required to write a positive review. I was not compensated in anyway except for receiving the book to review.
I give Behind Closed Doors 4 out of 5 stars

Wednesday, February 1, 2012

Interview with Xan Marcelles

It is my absolute pleasure to welcome my special guest today, Xan Marcelles, from the band Crooked Fang. I know how my readers just love vampires so, I had to get Xan over here to tell us a little about himself. So, here is the man! Your all jealous, right?


1-Tell us a little bit about Xan Marcelles. Don't hold back now.
Thanks for the invite, Eva.
Xan Marcelles huh? Well first of all, it’s my stage name. Real name’s Gabriel Nez, but I can’t exactly go running around with a dead man’s name. People would start asking questions because dead guys should kind of not be playing in a band and raising hell in a tavern every night.
What’s there to say really? I’m just a dude with fangs. It’s not a big deal except when it is, and when that happens, I take care of my business and go back to pretending it’s all  right and nothing’s gonna change. But I know it will, and I guess I’ll cross that bridge when I get to it.

2-What's it like working with Carrie and Nerine? They look pretty hot in their pics you know!
They are some slave drivers, if you want to know the truth. Nerine picks on my vocabulary and grammar and tries to get me to use the word ‘whom’. Who the hell uses ‘whom’ in America? I’m not wearing tweed.
Carrie actually killed my ass in her first version of my story about ten years ago. I’m still kind of miffed about that.
3-Who came up with the design for the CF symbol and does it have a special significance?
That logo sure is a pretty thing, isn’t it? The dude that thought it up was Carrie’s bitter-half, Lucas Clevenger. He just was taking one of his bath-naps one evening in the tub and wham. It hit him. Crooked Fang didn’t need just a font; it needed a logo, a recognizable symbol that people would know at a glance. He went and saw James Zuniga later that week and they hashed out something off Lucas’s scribbles. The end result is what you see, made with James’s computer skills. Definitely has a vampire vibe, but fitting for a band (or a hood emblem). If you take a closer look, the logo is full of meanings, but I’ll leave that up to the onlookers for interpretation. It’s more fun that way, don’t you think?
The blue is matched to my bass guitar. There’s too much damned black and red in vampire-land lately.
4-This is a curiosity question. Have you ever considered sneaking up on Carrie or Nerine when they are sleeping and taking a little taste?
I’m assuming Carrie has ice or acid running through her veins, so she’s stayed off the menu. Nerine on the other hand, hmm. Not sure if her husband would like his wife full of holes. But yeah. The thought’s crossed my mind.
5-I read an interview with you where you said you were not "sociable or flashy." You were talking about why you don't sing. You may not be flashy but you are "hot!" Does that get you in trouble with the ladies?
Depends on what kind of ‘trouble’ you’re referring to. The good kind or the thrown-in-jail kind? If you’re talking about the good kind, sure. Chicks dig dudes in bands. They seem to like their men tall. My hair gets mixed responses though. Some ladies like it; some tell me I need to get a haircut.
Anyway, I’m not starving for food or company, if that says anything.
6-Xan, you have that "bad-boy" aura about you. Do you think this is why the women go after you?
I’d like to think I’m a nice guy. Maybe I just look mean, but what can I do? It’s my face. Can’t really change it. Another thing is females have this misconception that big guys are invincible, and probably don’t have much in the way of feelings to speak of. Well it’s not true. I can hurt just like any other man.
7-Tell us about your band and how it got started?
Charlie, the owner of Pale Rider, wanted to bring in some business, so he posted an ad for a house band. I answered it, managed to find all the other members, and well, there you go. What attracted me to the Pale Rider gig over others is that Charlie offers room and board in exchange for playing on weekends and most holiday crowds. Not a bad trade in my opinion.
8-You know if you ever get bored with Carrie and Nerine, you are welcome to come visit me in Md. Just saying!
Bored wouldn’t be how I’d describe it, maybe fed-up? Ha. I’ll keep your offer in mind, babe.
Thanks for having me over Eva. Crooked Fang is due out August 2012 from Lyrical Press, but for now people can pick up Blood and Fire, co-written by Carrie Clevenger and Nerine Dorman, on Amazon. Should hit other e-formats in March. Here’s the official blablahblah about that book:
Bassist and all-round slacker Xan Marcelles spends his nights at a remote tavern in Pinecliffe, Colorado. But there’s something else, he’s also a vampire, and although he reckons he has a handle on this secret, he’s not prepared for the day when people he thinks are the FBI drug him and haul him away.

Ashton Kennedy isn’t human anymore and, as a member of a race of beings known simply as Inkarna, exists through the aeons by stealing bodies. At first his mission seems simple enough: break into the stronghold of a rival Inkarna House and liberate an artifact. He doesn’t bank on discovering a vampire, bound and tucked away neatly in a sarcophagus. 

The two unlikely allies are thrown together in a house of mysteries, and have to battle overwhelming odds against an implacable enemy. The question is, can they overcome their differences long enough to make it out alive, or undead? 
Links:
Blood and Fire on Amazon (currently only version available) - http://www.amazon.com/Blood-and-Fire-ebook/dp/B006SD3F2S/
Just My Blood Type, free teaser collab prior to Blood and Fire - http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/68457
Crooked Fang website - http://www.crookedfang.com/
Crooked Fang on Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/CrookedFang
Twitters:
Carrie Clevenger - @carrieclevenger
Nerine Dorman - @nerinedorman
Xan Marcelles - @crookedfang