New Pompeii (New Pompeii #1) by Daniel Godfrey

New Pompeii (New Pompeii #1)

In the near future, energy giant Novus Particles develops the technology to transport objects and people from the deep past to the present. Their biggest secret: New Pompeii. A replica of the city hidden deep in central Asia, filled with Romans pulled through time a split second before the volcano erupted.

Historian Nick Houghton doesn't know why he's been chosen to be the company's historical advisor. He's just excited to be there. Until he starts to wonder what happened to his predecessor. Until he realizes that NovusPart have more secrets than even the conspiracy theorists suspect.

Until he realizes that NovusPart have underestimated their captives...  

My Review:

Historian and not yet doctor Nick Houghton gets recruited by a mysterious energy company called Novus Particles in this thriller by Daniel Godfrey. Once recruited, he is flown to an undisclosed location where he is to help with the language and culture of the Romans in a replica town of Pompeii. The inhabitants have been pulled forward in time (right before Pompeii's complete destruction) without knowing that their world was about to be destroyed... NovusPart hopes to use this New Pompeii for trading and money making purposes.. But the Roman culture is very different from the 'outsiders' who've arrived to study and exploit them. Roman culture is very brutal and the author does a great job contrasting our world with theirs. Soon, some Romans start wondering about things that aren't the same anymore (namely large chickens and orange carrots, not to mention the missing sea).. they want answers and will stop at nothing to get them.

I wasn't expecting such a good book when I purchased it. There is a story within the story here as well, and it wasn't until the end that I saw how the author brought these two stories together. The idea of pulling people forward in time was pretty cool. The technology has its limitations however which makes it more interesting.

The characters were believable and and the author recreated Pompeii very well in his story. Even though it's been a few years since I've been to Pompeii, certain memories were able to be awakened.
The book had me almost biting my nails at times.

'New Pompeii' is definately worth reading if you are a fan of historical thrillers. The author did a great job bringing this town and the Roman culture alive. Fans of Sci-Fi will also enjoy the unique take on time travel and its possible paradoxes. Happy reading! 

Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman

Neverwhere






Under the streets of London lies a world most people could never dream of.

When Richard Mayhew helps a mysterious girl he finds bleeding on the pavement, his boring life changes in an instant. Her name is Door, she’s on the run from two assassins in black suits and she comes from London Below.

His act of kindness leads him to a place filled with monsters and angels, a Beast in a labyrinth and an Earl who holds Court in a Tube train.

It is strangely familiar yet utterly bizarre.

[This special edition presents Neil Gaiman’s preferred text for his extraordinary modern classic, illustrated for the first time (by Chris Riddell)

My Review:

Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman is a modern Fantasy tale about a young man named Richard Mayhew, who recently moved to London, and who is about to get himself into a world of trouble!

While walking with his fiancée, he stumbles across a beaten and bloody girl laying on the pavement. From the moment he decides to do 'the right thing' and helps this girl (named Door), his life is turned upside down. Richard finds himself nearly invisible to regular Londoners and finds out that his apartment is being renting out (with himself still in it) and that nobody at work ever remembers him being there. His journey to help Door will send him deep into the bowels of London Below. A London very different to one on the streets above.

I purchased the illustrated version of this book which was illustrated by Chris Riddell. I looked forward to his drawings and doodles on almost every second page. Without the illustrations, I would have given this book 4 solid stars, but the drawings brought the story to life and made the book that much more enjoyable to me.

This fantasy (which is directed at adults) was a very fun read and Neil Gaiman's humor shows throughout this book. A good example are the two evil assassins, Mr. Coup and Mr. Valdemar. Their banter and conversations brought a smile to my face even though I ended up hating them more and more. Both characters behave more like rabid animals, in that they live to kill and destroy. Mr. Croup is definitely the 'brains' of the operation, and his weirdness is accentuated by the fact that he also has a love for fine china.

Richard's journey takes him to strange angels, a court held in a moving subway train, and to a horrendous beast in a labyrinth.

This was (at the time) the first book of Neil Gaiman that I've read, and it has since put me on the path of reading other books by this awesome author!

This adult-oriented fantasy book is a fantastic read even without the illustrations. It's a tale of endurance, revenge, love, and double-crosses. I highly recommend this read to all of you which love urban fantasy. Get the illustrated version to add a bit more 'magic' to the experience.

Happy reading!!

A Gathering of Shadows by V.E. Schwab

A Gathering of Shadows (Shades of Magic #2)



It has been four months since a mysterious obsidian stone fell into Kell's possession. Four months since his path crossed with Delilah Bard. Four months since Prince Rhy was wounded, and since the nefarious Dane twins of White London fell, and four months since the stone was cast with Holland's dying body through the rift--back into Black London.

Now, restless after having given up his smuggling habit, Kell is visited by dreams of ominous magical events, waking only to think of Lila, who disappeared from the docks as she always meant to do. As Red London finalizes preparations for the Element Games--an extravagant international competition of magic meant to entertain and keep healthy the ties between neighboring countries--a certain pirate ship draws closer, carrying old friends back into port.

And while Red London is caught up in the pageantry and thrills of the Games, another London is coming back to life. After all, a shadow that was gone in the night will reappear in the morning. But the balance of magic is ever perilous, and for one city to flourish, another London must fall.

My Review:

A Gathering of Shadows by author V.E. Schwab is the second book in the Shades of Magic trilogy.

In this book we get to see what Lila has been up to since she parted ways with Kell. We see Prince Rhy and Kell dealing with the repercussions of the Black Night and their actions in the previous book.

The Element Games, an international competition pitting the some of the best magicians against each other becomes the center stage for this story.

I love the world that V.E. Schwab has created and her world building and character development is among some of the most entertaining I’ve read. Unfortunately, this book didn’t give me the elements that I was hoping that it would (thrills and action). After being floored by the author’s first book, this sequel left me pretty disappointed.

The book started off with Lila and her life aboard a pirate ship. Now, I love pirate stories, but unfortunately the book didn’t go that direction either. Once she enters Red London, she tries to come up with a way to get herself into the Element Games. The Games were much too long and detailed for my taste. I didn’t quite care who was throwing sand around a wall of fire, etc. The most interesting parts were naturally, anything to do with Black or White London. A certain nemesis (who is to remain unnamed), also didn’t receive the time in the spotlight that they deserved.

I felt this book moved a lot slower than the first book, and while we did get to find out more about certain characters, the book left me wanting more action and more thrills.

After reading this book, I have decided to hold off reading the next (and last) book in this trilogy for now. I’ll get around to it eventually...

Happy Reading!

Threads of Suspicion (Evie Blackwell Cold Case #2) by Dee Henderson

Threads of Suspicion (Evie Blackwell Cold Case #2)

 

 

 

Evie Blackwell's reputation as a top investigator for the Illinois State Police has landed her an appointment to the governor's new Missing Persons Task Force. This elite investigative team is launched with plenty of public fanfare. The governor has made this initiative a high priority, so they will have to produce results--and quickly.

Evie and her new partner, David Marshal, are assigned to a pair of unrelated cases in suburban Chicago, and while both involve persons now missing for several years, the cases couldn't be more different. While Evie opens old wounds in a close-knit neighborhood to find a missing college student, David searches for a private investigator working for a high-powered client.

With a deep conviction that "justice for all" truly matters, Evie and David are unrelenting in their search for the truth. But Evie must also find answers to the questions that lie just beneath the surface in her personal life.

 

 

 

 

 

 

My Review:

 

The second book in the Evie Blackwell Cold Cases series by Dee Henderson, titled 'Threads of Suspicion', is a fantastic cold case mystery!

As mentioned in previous reviews, I usually don't jump into a series without reading the books in order, but as I received this book from NetGalley and the publisher (Baker Publishing Group) in exchange for an honest review, I didn't have much choice.
This book was one of three books that I recently took with me on my summer vacation. I'm very glad indeed to have taken this gem with me. In my opinion, the perfect companion on the beach and while reading in bed during the excruciatingly hot hours of the day.

As a former member of law enforcement and a prior investigator myself, it isn't all that often that I come across crime books with such wonderful procedural elements in them. The main character, Evie, is an extremely well thought out and complicated individual. In fact, all the characters in this book (including David) were well thought out and the author spent a good amount of time on extensive character development and on the chemistry between characters.

The plot development was also very extensive. However, the procedural elements and many theories in play might seem to slow the book down a bit for some readers. Personally I found the plot to move at just the write pace that a cold case mystery would require!

Even though this book works as a standalone, I couldn't help but feel that reading the first book, 'Traces of Guilt' would have given me more background and character info on our main character, Evie. Since finishing this book, I have added 'Traces of Guilt' to my reading list on Goodreads.

Lately, I have been very reserved in giving a book five stars, unless all the elements were spot on. With this book, it was a quick choice to rate it the full five stars. I believe the great suspense, the character development, the variety of suspects, theories and the extensive procedural elements of this book deserve the five star rating! I highly recommend this book to crime lovers and to folks who enjoy a good law enforcement/procedure book.

At this time, I would like to thank the author, the publisher and NetGalley for allowing me to read and to review this book. It made my vacation that much better!

Happy Reading!!!
 

 

 

Miraculous Mysteries by Martin Edwards (Various Authors)

Miraculous Mysteries

 

Impossible crime stories have been relished by puzzle-lovers ever since the invention of detective fiction. Fiendishly intricate cases were particularly well suited to the cerebral type of detective story that became so popular during the ‘golden age of murder’ between the two world wars. But the tradition goes back to the days of Edgar Allan Poe and Wilkie Collins, and impossible crime stories have been written by such luminaries as Arthur Conan Doyle, G.K. Chesterton, Dorothy L. Sayers and Margery Allingham.

This anthology celebrates their work, alongside long-hidden gems by less familiar writers. Together these stories demonstrate the range and high accomplishment of the classic British impossible crime story over more than half a century.  

 

 

 

 

My Review:

 

Miraculous Mysteries (A British Library Crime Classic) is a smorgasbord of locked room and impossible crime stories. Published by Poisoned Pen Press in association with the British Library and edited by Martin Edwards. Locked room crime stories have long been a favorite of not only British readers, but of mystery lovers around the world.
Martin Edwards did a great job selecting sixteen short impossible crime stories from some of history's best mystery writers. Each story has a biographical note and introductory text written by Mr. Edwards. It gives the reader a chance to know more about the author and the work in question.
After every story, I wanted to put the book down for a bit, but always found myself starting the next story in the book.
My three favorite stories in this book are: 'The Haunted Policeman' by Dorothy L. Sayers, 'The Lost Special' by Arthur Conan Doyle, and 'The Miracle of Moon Crescent' by G.K Chesterton.
This book is akin to a can of Pringles chips.. The old jingle of 'Once you pop, you just can't stop', rings very true for this book.
I particularly love the classic covers that the British Library uses for their crime classics. Certainly a treat for the eyes as well! I have since then, added Silent Nights: Christmas Mysteries, also edited by Martin Edwards to my reading list. I look forward to reading this book from Poisoned Pen Press come Christmas time.
All in all, a very good locked room anthology containing sixteen stories of some of history's best and most influential writers.
I highly recommend this book for crime and mystery lovers!

Happy Reading!!!
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A Darker Shade of Magic by V.E. Schwab

A Darker Shade of Magic (Shades of Magic #1)




Most people only know one London; but what if there were several? Kell is one of the last Travelers—magicians with a rare ability to travel between parallel Londons. There’s Grey London, dirty and crowded and without magic, home to the mad king George III. There’s Red London, where life and magic are revered. Then, White London, ruled by whoever has murdered their way to the throne. But once upon a time, there was Black London...

My Review:

Delicious. Even though not all the ideas in this book are original, the world-building, characters and magical system make up for anything we might have seen or heard before. Victoria (V.E.) Schwab's almost lyrical writing style is very pleasant and the pages seem to turn themselves in this must-read book!

The use of blood-magic, alternate Londons, and the creation of doors to reach these alternate worlds might remind us of plenty of other books, but the author puts her own twist on this, making for a very pleasant and thrilling read.

The characters are believable and well thought out and the two main characters (Kell and Lila) seem to have a chemistry that I hope will continue in future books.
The world building is spot on and the descriptions the author uses to describe the various Londons, placed me right in the action and I was able to 'feel' as if I was there.

White London and the Danes were definitely my favorite and I wish we could have spent a little more time there and found out a little bit more about this monarchal duo. I also wish I'd been given more info on the Holland's character, and of Vitari. I'm hoping that my questions regarding Vitari and Holland will be answered in the subsequent books.

All in all, a very entertaining and lovely dark read. The author succeeded on placing an original spin on ideas that have already happened before in other books. The dark and gritty feel of this story is certain to please readers across a wide range of genres. I look forward to reading the second book in this trilogy, 'A Gathering of Shadows', very soon. Happy Reading!

Iron Fist: The Fury of Iron Fist

Iron Fist Epic Collection: The Fury of Iron Fist








A Himalayan expedition to find the mystical city of K'un-Lun left nine-year-old Daniel Rand's parents dead, but he found the path to the K'un-Lun and there spent a decade training under its immortal inhabitants. He became an unmatched master of martial arts and spiritual control; armed with the shattering power of the iron fist, Daniel left immortality behind to set out into the Western world and avenge his parents' deaths. Packed with wall-to-wall kung fu action, Iron Fist runs a gauntlet through the Kara-Kai death cult, ninja adversaries, and mystic dimensions. COLLECTING: Vol. 1; Marvel Premiere (1972) 15-25, Iron Fist (1975) 1-15, Marvel Team-Up (1972) 63-64

My Review:

He channels his Chi, sends it down his arm, where his fist begins to glow, and then to smolder... to finally become like unto a thing of iron!!!

The awesome origin story of Iron Fist aka Danny Rand! This great volume collects the origin of Danny Rand along with his quest for vengeance for the death of his parents at the hands of a ruthless corporate powerhouse.
This volume collects issues from 1974-1977, a time when things were both simpler and much crazier in comics. The artwork is typical of the time and Byrne is able to shine with his penciling in a way that will leave the reader very happy. Storyline is good and interesting, even if the language of the 70s does irritate somewhat (albeit in a smirk-inducing way).
This origin story is quite different from the Netflix series currently on TV. It works for the comic, while the story on Netflix works for the show. If you've watched the show and think you know Danny Rand... think again! Pick this comic up and see what he's really made of.
Filled with lots of villains and surprise appearances by the X-Men, Wolverine and Spider-Man, this volume is not to be missed. Even Sabretooth had his first appearance in Iron Fist #14!
For lovers of 60s and 70s comics, kung-fu style action and comics from an era which was much simpler, I definitely recommend you pick this book up!
Happy Reading!

Inspector Hobbes and the Bones (Unhuman #4) by Wilkie Martin

Inspector Hobbes and the Bones (Unhuman #4)



There’s going to be trouble. Andy Caplet’s wife goes away, someone is out to get him, and he loses nearly everything in a storm. Amazing both himself and his unhuman friend Inspector Hobbes, he heroically rescues flood victims and uncovers something shocking.
Is Andy being set up for blackmail by the apparently charming young woman who attempts to seduce him, or is something even more sinister afoot? Hobbes certainly believes so, and he’s getting worried.

This is the fourth in Wilkie Martin’s unhuman series of cosy comedy crime fantasies.

My Review:

Wilkie Martin's fourth installment of the Inspector Hobbes series (cosy comedy crime fantasies), titled 'Inspector Hobbes and the Bones', was definitely the quirkiest book I've read in 2017!

I haven't read the previous three books yet, as I received this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Normally, I don't enter a series in mid-swing, but with this one I simply didn't have much choice. Despite myself being thrown in the cold water, the author did a good job of including details from past books (without giving away too much either), and I never felt like I was missing out on too much. If anything, I've been left with a desire to find out more about the origins of the characters and to find out about past cases which were mentioned in this book.

The characters are well thought out and charming. Inspector Hobbes is definitely a smooth operator and loves 'bending' the rules in order to get his man. I felt bad for poor Andy, as he certainly had the universe working against him at every turn in this book. 'The old gal' (Inspector Hobbes' cook), was also a hilarious character but also kind of scary at times. Again, it makes me want to read the previous books to find out more about these characters.

The plot was twisty and filled with lots of hilarious encounters. Again, poor Andy!
I didn't have the feeling that too much had been given away, nor did I see the ending coming before it was there.

I really believe, that readers interested in crime, supernatural elements, the undead, and easy going quirky books will absolutely love this one!! Despite joining the series on book four, I thoroughly enjoyed the story. The book definitely works as a stand-alone as well. Since reading this book, I've purchased the first book in the Unhuman series, 'Inspector Hobbes and the Blood'. I look forward to starting the series at book one, and will certainly leave a review on Goodreads and my blog.

Happy Reading!!! 







 

Our Lady of Fatima: 100 Years of Stories, Prayers, and Devotions by Donna-Marie Cooper O'Boyle

Our Lady of Fatima: 100 Years of Stories, Prayers, and Devotions

 

On May 13, 1917, the Virgin Mary first revealed herself to a trio of shepherd children in Fatima, Portugal. She would appear to them five more times over the course of the year until the great miracle of the sun on October 13, 1917. She brought a message of love and peace that was heard around the world—a sorely-needed antidote to the ravages of World War I. To mark the 100th anniversary of the apparitions, Donna-Marie Cooper O’Boyle provides a one-stop guide to the tradition, history and spirituality of Our Lady of Fatima, including the testimonies of those who have made the pilgrimage and prayers for those who share this devotion.

In Our Lady of Fatima, award-winning author, journalist, pilgrimage host and host of EWTN’s Everyday Blessings for Catholic Moms and Catholic Mom's Café Donna-Marie Cooper O’Boyle offers a mini-Fatima retreat—an “armchair pilgrimage,” if you will. This collection of prayers, testimonies and reflections will bring to life the events of Fatima and help you find ways to apply Mary’s Fatima message to the nitty-gritty details of your daily life.

Each chapter begins with a quote by or about the Blessed Mother before delving into a key aspect of the story of Mary’s appearances to nine-year-old Lúcia Santos and her cousins, Jacinta and Francisco Marto. A prayer, a simple reflection and a doable call to action transform this book from a simple historical retelling into a practical devotional.
The Blessed Mother’s Fatima message is needed now more than ever. The uncertainty of global events can seep into our daily worries, creating fear and anxiety that’s difficult to overcome. Our Lady of Fatima is a welcome remedy for that worry. In it, you’ll find a chance to grow in faith and holiness, as well as a needed dose of inspiration, hope and peace in following its advice and suggestions, and in praying the prayers.

 My Review:

Donna-Marie Cooper O’Boyle has written a beautiful and deeply devotional book in 'Our Lady of Fatima: 100 Years of Stories, Prayers and Devotions'. A must read book, especially in 2017 to celebrate the 100 year anniversary of the start of the apparitions in Fatima, Portugal.

The author tells the story of Lucia, Jacinta and Francisco in parts which are very easy to read and each part includes prayers and devotions that help the reader grow spiritually and to internalize the messages of Our Lady of Fatima.

Of particular interest are the included quotes and writings from church leaders such as St. Pope John Paul II and of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI. It helps the reader to further see the importance of these events that occurred one hundred years ago, on a larger scale, particularly how the messages and petitions of Our Lady of Fatima affect numerous nations.

A significant part of the book is also about Mother Theresa, and her efforts to have a Miraculous Medal present in the Kremlin at the time of the Consecration of Russia to the Immaculate Heart. Of further interest, are the devotions that Our Lady calls all people to, such as the 'Five First Saturdays' devotion. A devotion that has been largely placed aside and forgotten, as many people simply concentrate on the prophesies of Fatima.

This book is a gem that will help anyone to live out the messages of the Blessed Mother of Fatima. It is a book very much directed at a Catholic audience already familiar with either the Catholic Church or some of its doctrines. It is also a very prayerful and devotional book that helps the reader integrate the extremely important messages of Our Lady of Fatima into their daily lives.
I recommend this book for readers who are curious about the apparitions of Fatima, and I extremely recommend this book for those who already know about Fatima. This book will help the reader deepen their faith and help them to integrate their efforts and actions with the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

The Crusader Road by Michael A. Stackpole

The Crusader Road (Pathfinder Tales #21)

When the aristocratic Vishov family is banished from Ustalav due to underhanded politics, Lady Tyressa Vishov is faced with a choice: fade slowly into obscurity, or strike out for the nearby River Kingdoms and establish a new holding on the untamed frontier. Together with her children and loyal retainers, she’ll forge a new life in the infamous Echo Wood, and neither bloodthirsty monsters nor local despots will stop her from reclaiming her family honor. Yet the shadow of Ustalavic politics is long, and even in a remote and lawless territory, there may be those determined to see the Vishov family fail...

My Review:

I've read quite a few Pathfinder Tales already by a variety of authors. I believe that the Pathfinder Setting is very exciting and should be worth a peek from Dungeons & Dragons (Forgotten Realms) fans. I know there is some animosity between D&D and Paizo (Pathfinder) roleplaying systems and each have a fan-base that is usually very supportive of only one of the roleplaying systems. I feel that great fantasy books by good authors rise above their roleplaying settings and are there to give us (hopefully) a good and entertaining experience.

Michael A. Stackpole doesn't disappoint in this exciting frontier tale that takes place in the Echo Wood. These woods have a mind of its own. Add Fey such as sprites, or goblins and blood-thirsty ogres, and things can get very challenging very fast.

The book starts off with an exiled family having to relocate to Echo Wood. They try their best to tame the surroundings so that they can live out their exile in peace. Unfortunately, the peace they seek is very hard and very slow in coming.

The Crusader's Road is a solid fantasy story with good action, but it is also a coming of age story with a dash of young romance. For this, I also recommend this book for our much younger readers as well.

The story moves along at a good pace and none of it seemed too heavy or slow. Action was spread out well. The author's use of  his military knowledge in this book is also very well done. It didn't seem overly martial though. Character development was well done, but I wished we had a bit more insight into certain characters. Naturally, as a fan of magic, I wish the book would have included even more magic in this story.

The author wrote a very fine story here of frontier lawlessness and good old monster bashing fun!

Like so many Pathfinder Tales before, The Crusader Road is a good fantasy story that should attract many readers of the genre. It is certainly a book you might want to give a try even if you are currently only reading Forgotten Realms or Dragonlance books.

I'm sure fantasy readers would be pleased to end up having this book on their shelves at home (or cave). Happy Reading!!

The Defenders of Shannara Trilogy by Terry Brooks

The High Druid's Blade (The Defenders of Shannara #1)

Legend has it that Paxon Leah is descended from the royals and warriors who once ruled the Highlands and waged war with magical weapons. But those kings, queens, and heroes are long gone, and there is nothing enchanted about the antique sword that hangs above Paxon’s fireplace. Running his family’s modest shipping business, Paxon leads a quiet life—until extraordinary circumstances overturn his simple world . . . and rewrite his destiny.

When his brash young sister is abducted by a menacing stranger, Paxon races to her rescue with the only weapon he can find. And in a harrowing duel, he is stunned to discover powerful magic unleashed within him—and within his ancestors’ ancient blade. But his formidable new ability is dangerous in untrained hands, and Paxon must master it quickly because his nearly fatal clash with the dark sorcerer Arcannen won’t be his last. Leaving behind home and hearth, he journeys to the keep of the fabled Druid order to learn the secrets of magic and earn the right to become their sworn protector.

But treachery is afoot deep in the Druids’ ranks. And the blackest of sorcery is twisting a helpless innocent into a murderous agent of evil. To halt an insidious plot that threatens not only the Druid order but all the Four Lands, Paxon Leah must summon the profound magic in his blood and the legendary mettle of his elders in the battle fate has chosen him to fight.




The Darkling Child (The Defenders of Shannara #2)

After taking up his enchanted sword against the dark sorcerer Arcannen, Paxon Leah has become the sworn protector of the Druid order. Now a critical hour is at hand, as a beloved High Druid nears the end of her reign and prepares to pass from the mortal world to the one beyond. There is little time for Paxon to mourn his friend and benefactor before duty summons him. For in a distant corner of the Four Lands, the magic of the wishsong has been detected. Paxon must accompany a Druid emissary to find its source—and ensure the formidable power is not wielded by the wrong hands.

But danger is already afoot in the village of Portlow. Gentle traveling minstrel Reyn Frosch possesses the uncanny gift, and curse, of the wishsong. And now his coveted abilities have captured the malevolent interest of none other than Arcannen—whose quest for power is exceeded only by his thirst for vengeance. The lone survivor of a brutal assault on a notorious pirate city, the sorcerer is determined to retaliate against the Federation’s elite military guard—and use the devastating power of the wishsong as his ultimate weapon.






The Sorcerer's Daughter (The Defenders of Shannara #3)

The daughter of a reviled sorcerer, Leofur is nothing like her dreaded father. When her life-partner, Paxon Leah, leaves on a dangerous mission, Leofur protects Paxon’s sister. When she is abducted Leofur is forced to choose between saving Paxon from a mission gone badly awry, or hiring the services of the best tracker in the world to go after her life-partner’s sister.

My Review:

As you will notice, this book review is a little different than my usual. I've decided to rate this trilogy by master-storyteller, Terry Brooks, in one review (with special emphasis placed on The Sorcerer's Daughter). Each book in this series, which is set in the world of Shannara, has its' own weaknesses and strengths. I will also be looking at the trilogy as a whole as well. For those who are new to the world of Shannara and are looking for a good place to start, this is definitely not it!! I recommend 'The Sword of Shannara' (Book 1) for newbies who wish to jump into this epic and utterly amazing series.

'The High Druid's Blade' (5 stars):

Bold, thrilling, chilling and just Terry Brooks at his best!!
This book received the full five stars from me, due to Terry Brooks' easy to read style, his attention to detail and for weaving a suspenseful tale. The characters are constructed very well and are three dimensional. When Paxon's younger sister is abducted by an evil sorcerer named Arcannen, we feel for the brother-sister duo. High action and wonderful magic with great suspense make for a fantastic read. In my eyes, the trilogy doesn't get any better than this book.

As far as the abduction of Paxon's sister: Fool me once, shame on you.

'The Darkling Child' (3 stars):

Unfortunately, I don't have much praise for the second book in this trilogy. In most parts this book felt drawn out and repetitive. It did have great action, suspense and good magic, but it felt a bit like a repeat of the first book and felt redundant on a few levels. I felt mislead by the title of this book. For those of you who have read 'The Dark Legacy of Shannara' trilogy, we came across a child referred to as a darkling (who was later locked away in the forbidding). I'm sure I'm not the only one who wishes we had a bit more knowledge on what happened to this misunderstood individual. I felt the title awakened a false sense of hope in me.

As far as the second kidnapping of Paxon's sister: Fool me twice, shame on me.

'The Sorcerer's Daughter' (3 stars):

The third book in Mr. Brooks trilogy, was a lot more fun for me to read. We are introduced to a variety of new characters in this book. A Shapeshifter plays a large part in this book which was nice to see. Again, the book had good action and suspense, but I figured out certain things about what was happening behind the scenes maybe a bit before I was supposed to. At a point, it was only suspenseful because I was wanting to see if I was right and not actually because I wanted to know what would happen next. The growing relationship between two particular characters felt quite awkward to me, and I had trouble justifying the actions of those two to myself.
The part I enjoyed the most was the trek (rescue mission) into the Murk Sink (swamp). The description that went into this part was very enjoyable and made me feel like I was right in the middle of this humid, foggy, lightless and dangerous place. Unfortunately though, I felt this was a rewriting of many ideas and scenarios that have happened in the previous two books. Besides the Murk Sink, I didn't really feel that anything amazing happened in this book. Lastly, I was very troubled and unsatisfied by the ending. I believe the interaction of the two individuals at the end of the book was forced and very one-sided. I started to feel for these characters through the previous books and felt betrayed by their actions at the end. This might have been the intention of the author.

As far as the THIRD ABDUCTION of Paxon's sister: (I'm utterly speechless for it having happened a third time...)

Even though I feel the second and third books have some issues with them, taken as a whole this trilogy is very satisfying. Terry Brooks is a master story-teller that is already a part of fantasy history and I've been enjoying his work since the early 90's. 5 stars, 3 stars and another 3 stars should give an average that would normally be rounded up to a 4 star rating. I feel that the trilogy as a whole would be better left with a three star rating however.

As mentioned above, please check out 'The Sword of Shannara' as a good starting point if you are new to this author's Shannara books.
I'm excited and looking forward to the next (and last) trilogy by Mr. Brooks, 'The Fall of Shannara'.
Happy reading!

Abomination (The Pathfinders #1) by Jane Dougherty

Abomination (The Pathfinders #1)

As the end of the world begins, Carla and Tully hurtle through a wormhole five years forward in time, only to find they haven’t missed the Apocalypse after all.

Carla and Tully are picnicking in the quad of their international high school in central Paris when the end of the world begins. They are sucked into a wormhole that spits them out five years later to find that the world is a freezing desolation but still hanging on, waiting for something even worse to finish it off. The something worse turns out to be the Burnt Man and his horsemen. Taken prisoner by the Flay Tribe to their lair in the ruins of a shopping mall, Tully is forced to become a warrior, while Carla joins the other girls as a kitchen slave and comfort woman.
Tully might like the idea of playing soldiers, but Carla knows what is waiting for the girls when the food runs out, and it isn’t pleasant. The supermarket holy man’s vision of the return of the Burnt Man and his demon friends drags Tully back to reality. When the four fiends are reunited, the Apocalypse will really begin. Carla and Tully don’t plan on being there when that happens.
But in this post-Abomination world where only the young and brutal have survived, where food and fuel are running out and the climate is plunging into another final ice age, there is nowhere to run—except down another wormhole, with no idea of what might be waiting for them at the other end.

 

 

My Review:

'Abomination' is the first book in 'The Pathfinders' series by Jane Dougherty. I will start off by saying that I immensely enjoyed this apocalyptic novel. It was dark, gritty, and raw and had me completely pulled into the story. 'Abomination' is a fantastic read which is very well written and the story (even though apocalyptic /post-apocalyptic has been done before), is very original and engrossing.
One of the first things I noticed, was seeing parallel elements from 'Lord of the Flies' by William Golding, and I feel has elements in common with 'The Walking Dead' also. As I've mentioned above, it's simply a very dark and brutal book. I would not hesitate to recommend it to young adults, as that is that is also the intended audience. There is strong language throughout the book, so those who are very sensitive, should be forewarned.

The story starts off quite harmlessly, but things go down the drain very quickly for Carla and Tully, as they are hurtled through a wormhole five years into the future just as the end of the world is beginning. Unfortunately, this just takes them out of the frying pan and into the fire. There they must battle against blood-thirsty youngsters, gangs, mutated animals and against other characters which I will only describe here as supernatural or demonic (i.e. the Burnt Man).
It is a story of adapting oneself to a new environment and dire situations while still trying to hold onto one's values and to rise above the despondency and cut-throat ways of the gangs who have had to live through five years of hell and destruction. Just as in 'Lord of the Flies', any semblance of society has fallen apart and the youngsters are not concerned with growing food or following rules (except their own twisted law), but are only interested in fighting and with attaining/holding onto power.

'Abomination', isn't just about the struggle of humans against nature and other humans, but is a struggle against mutated animals and supernatural forces which wish to destroy the world. These elements, due to spoilers, will not be talked about in this review, but needless to say, 'Abomination' is an action-packed supernatural thriller which borders on horror.

What makes this story believable, are the actions of the characters in the book. The characters act in a very believable and natural way, which pulls us in as the reader and makes us feel for these characters. Furthermore, the author's writing style is easy to read and her descriptions pull the reader in and fully immerse them in this experience.

The book ends with a very good cliffhanger which just makes me want to pick up the second book, 'Devastation', in order to continue the journey with Carla and Tully.
'Abomination' is an action-packed apocalyptic novel which borders on horror. Due to its original take on the end of times, and for the superb writing style of Jane Dougherty, I highly recommend this book to others who enjoy supernatural thrillers. I would absolutely love to see this book get a movie deal or even better, a Netflix series, as I believe the story would find a huge fan-base across wide audiences.

At this point, I also wish to take the time to thank the author for having written this book and for all the hours of great entertainment it has given me. I'm sure future readers of 'Abomination' will not regret picking up this gem! Happy reading!


 

Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency by Douglas Adams

Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency (Dirk Gently #1)

 

What do a dead cat, a computer whiz-kid, an Electric Monk who believes the world is pink, quantum mechanics, a Chronologist over 200 years old, Samuel Taylor Coleridge (poet), and pizza have in common? Apparently not much; until Dirk Gently, self-styled private investigator, sets out to prove the fundamental interconnectedness of all things by solving a mysterious murder, assisting a mysterious professor, unravelling a mysterious mystery, and eating a lot of pizza – not to mention saving the entire human race from extinction along the way (at no extra charge). To find out more, read this book (better still, buy it, then read it) – or contact Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency. ‘A thumping good detective-ghost-horror-whodunnit-time travel-romantic-musical-comedy epic.’

My Review:

Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency by Douglas Adams was a fun read that definitely was written in Mr. Adam's well-known and well-loved writing style. Elements of this book are reminiscent of his other acclaimed Hitchhiker books.

The Story was being weaved together very slowly and might be confusing for some Readers, as the author doesn't really explain certain ideas or their Connections until later in the book. There is certainly a lot of pseudo-science and physics included for those who like this type of jargon. All of this was the intent of the author.

At times very funny, amusing and confusing.

It was a decent and short, fun read.

For those who are familiar with the Netflix title by the same name, the television show is just loosely based on the books. While also entertaining, nothing beats the original work!

I recommend this title to readers, that either have enjoyed the hitchhiker books by Douglas Adams, or for those who like reading quirky and fun sci-fi stories. There was a sprinkling of suspense in this book as well, so something to possibly add to your summer reading list.

The Bedlam Stacks by Natasha Pulley

The Bedlam Stacks


In 1859, ex-East India Company smuggler Merrick Tremayne is trapped at home in Cornwall after sustaining an injury that almost cost him his leg and something is wrong; a statue moves, his grandfather’s pines explode, and his brother accuses him of madness.

When the India Office recruits Merrick for an expedition to fetch quinine—essential for the treatment of malaria—from deep within Peru, he knows it’s a terrible idea. Nearly every able-bodied expeditionary who’s made the attempt has died, and he can barely walk. But Merrick is desperate to escape everything at home, so he sets off, against his better judgment, for a tiny mission colony on the edge of the Amazon where a salt line on the ground separates town from forest. Anyone who crosses is killed by something that watches from the trees, but somewhere beyond the salt are the quinine woods, and the way around is blocked.

Surrounded by local stories of lost time, cursed woods, and living rock, Merrick must separate truth from fairytale and find out what befell the last expeditions; why the villagers are forbidden to go into the forest; and what is happening to Raphael, the young priest who seems to have known Merrick’s grandfather, who visited Peru many decades before. The Bedlam Stacks is the story of a profound friendship that grows in a place that seems just this side of magical.

My Review:

Brilliant. Fantastical. Moving. All three words sum up 'The Bedlam Stacks' by the international bestselling author of 'The Watchmaker of Filigree Street', Natasha Pulley.
This new book, which I am sure will also become an international bestseller, is an absolute tour de force. A beautiful book about a friendship that spans across the years and generations, which not only exposes the soul of the characters, but also leaves the reader feeling like magic could still exist in the unknown and unexplored corners of this world (and science/medicine).

The author spent three months at a language school in Lima, which was funded by the Society of Authors. Not only did this school open up conversations with native Quechua speakers, but opened up a slew of historical resources and allowed the author a special insight into the religion, customs and traditions of the Incan people. A solid research builds the foundation of this book, upon which Ms. Pulley built her story.

The characters in this book are very mysterious at times, and it isn't always clear to discern their motives. This lends the story a greater feeling of mystery and suspense. The characters are extremely three dimensional, and the dialogue seems so authentic, that I felt like I was looking in through a window.

From the beginning pages in England, where a statue seemed to move when nobody was watching, to the final words in the book, I was utterly hooked and absolutely engrossed in this story. The author weaved historical facts and places with the absolute magical in such a way, that every word seemed utterly credible. The pacing of the story was never too slow or too fast. It never felt like there was dialogue or situations that did not contribute to this masterpiece.

A character from the author's previous book 'The Watchmaker of Filigree Street', made a few appearances to my great pleasure. It seems this character was also pivotal in how events turn out in this new book.

Natasha Pulley, in 'The Bedlam Stacks' has shown what an amazing author she truly is. The Bedlam Stacks is a wonderful story of friendship, ancient religion meeting modern times, magic, and the struggles that occur within us. Only absolutely outstanding books receive 5 stars from me, and 'The Bedlam Stacks' counts among one of the best and original stories I have ever read. I am quite certain that this book will reach international bestselling status shortly after being released, as I believe the majority of readers will see what an absolute treasure this book is.

A copy of this digital book was made available to me by the author/publisher and Netgalley. I wish to thank the author at this time for allowing me to read her book ahead of publication, and to thank her for all the hours of entertainment her story has given me.

Nyphron Rising (The Riyria Revelations #3) by Michael J. Sullivan

Nyphron Rising (The Riyria Revelations #3)

Librarian note: alternative cover (omnibus edition).

A PUPPET IS CROWNED. THE TRUE HEIR REMAINS HIDDEN. A ROGUE'S SECRET COULD CHANGE EVERYTHING.

War has come to Melengar and Princess Arista runs a desperate gamble when she defies her brother and hires Royce and Hadrian for a dangerous mission. As the power of the Nyphron Empire grows, so does Royce's suspicion that the wizard Esrahaddon is using the thieves as pawns in his own game. To find the truth, he must unravel the secret of Hadrian's past. 

My Review:

The third installment of the Riyria Revelations, 'Nyphron Rising', is another well-written story in this series. As those of you who have read my reviews of the first two books in this series know, I'm very pleased at the originality that the author has brought to the fantasy genre. True, elves and dwarfs aren't original, but the world the author created is new, and I don't feel that I've seen it or read it all before. The world and political flavor the author created is also unique in many ways.
In this story, we concentrate more on Hadrian's past and the beginning of the Imperial Empire.
There isn't as much fantasy action in this book as there was in the previous book, 'Avempartha'. Unfortunately, magic and wizardry are kept at a minimum in this book, in favor of exploring Hadrian's past, hunting down the true heir, and the political maneuverings of the regents in the new Imperial Empire.
Characters once again, are well thought out, believable and entertaining.
The story begins slower than I would have wished, with the book picking up a bit more speed around page 200.
The book would have received 3 stars from me, but the ending (last 50 pages including cliffhanger) was very well done, and that's why I rate this book a solid 4 stars out of 5.
Again, an intriguing tale from author, Michael J. Sullivan. I recommend this book to those who have read the previous two books in the series, and I look forward to reading and reviewing book four in the series soon.
Happy Reading!!

A Lenten Journey with Jesus Christ and St. Paul of the Cross by Victor Hoagland

A Lenten Journey with Jesus Christ and St. Paul of the Cross

If St. Paul of the Cross, Paul Danei, founder of the Passionists, were to accompany you through Lent Im sure he would come to you as you are and the world you live in as it is. He was never afraid of darkness or dark places, so you may find him a helpful spiritual guide. He trusted in Jesus Christ and his cross, the wisdom and power of God. I'm sure he may bring some of that wisdom to you.

Accept the invitation to journey through Lent with Jesus Christ and one of the great spiritual writers of the Catholic Church, St. Paul of the Cross. Inside you will find an Invitation from St. Paul of the Cross, a short biography of St. Paul of the Cross, a description of the Writings and Spirituality of St. Paul of the Cross, and more. Each day of Lent, weekdays and Sundays, begins with: a Gospel Reading, a Reflection, a selection from the Writings of St. Paul of the Cross, and a Prayer.

May Jesus Christ and the wisdom of St. Paul of the Cross enrich your Lenten Journey, and lead you to God's Holy Easter of Peace, Love and Joy.

My Review:

Father Victor Hoagland C.P., has written a great Lenten companion that is meaningful and helps individuals to find stillness and reflection during Lent.

This book is set up with a short introduction and brief biography of the Passionist's founder, Saint Paul of the Cross. It will helps readers who aren't familiar with this particular saint, to gain a bit of insight into his life and also to experience a bit of the Passionist Order's charism. Following the introduction the book begins with the daily Gospel reading. The Gospel reading for the weekdays during Lent are same readings for each of the Liturgical Years and the only difference comes for the Sunday Gospel readings (A, B, C), in which the reader may choose the Gospel, meditation and prayer for the day.
The daily meditations include the above mentioned Gospel readings for each day, a brief meditation or excerpt from the writings or life of St. Paul of the Cross, and a concluding prayer. The meditations and prayers are also concise and leave a bit of room for pondering the message and to enter into dialogue with God.

This book is a great companion for those wishing to enter into a deeper prayer life and deeper spirituality during the Lenten period.

Nine Princes in Amber (The Chronicles of Amber #1) by Roger Zelazny

Nine Princes in Amber  (The Chronicles of Amber #1)






Amber, the one real world, wherein all others, including our own Earth, are but Shadows. Amber burns in Corwin's blood. Exiled on Shadow Earth for centuries, the prince is about to return to Amber to make a mad and desperate rush upon the throne. From Arden to the blood-slippery Stairway into the Sea, the air is electrified with the powers of Eric, Random, Bleys, Caine, and all the princes of Amber whom Corwin must overcome. Yet, his savage path is blocked and guarded by eerie structures beyond imagining; impossible realities forged by demonic assassins and staggering horrors to challenge the might of Corwin's superhuman fury.' to 'Awakening in an Earth hospital unable to remember who he is or where he came from, Corwin is amazed to learn that he is one of the sons of Oberon, King of Amber, and is the rightful successor to the crown in a parallel world.

 

 

 

My Review:

At the time of writing my review, Roger Zelazny's weird and trippy Fantasy/Sci-Fi book, titled 'Nine Princes in Amber' has a Goodreads review of 4.11 (out of 5) from almost 39,000 reviews. Can all these people be so wrong about a book? It turns out that I don't believe they are. I've rated this book with 4 stars, bringing down the Goodreads rating by a fraction of a fraction. I apologize to Mr. Zelazny's ghost. But, unfortunately, I wasn't able to give it the full 5 stars. Why not? Read on.

Roger Zelazny certainly created one of the most memorable and unique Fantasy/Science Fiction books I have ever read. It differs from other books, by 1.) not being quite sure whether its more fantasy or sci-fi (but seeing as most folks put them into the same genre anyway, it won't bother me), 2.) the author most likely came up with this weird, trippy story while extremely high on some sort of drug, plant, or while at a VERY high altitude, 3.) The author must have dictated this to a six year old who didn't quite grasp the concepts of grammar or punctuation (please no mean comments, as I know, my grammar and punctuation are currently at a 3 year old level), and 4.) The story was so darn unique and original, and interesting!

The story is one of an exiled, amnesiac prince (from another world - or dimension if you please), who goes on a journey to rightfully claim what is his again. Along the way he must find out which of his siblings can be trusted, how to get back to the world he was thrown out of. He also needs to find out why he was exiled, all the while trying no to get killed in a very trippy landscape, where just using one's thoughts can influence events and make one travel long distances. As you'll find out, all roads lead to Amber. 

Elements of this story were confusing to me at times, as unlike the author, I was not drugging myself, smoking plants or reading this book at a VERY high altitude. This however, must be my own fault. I hate taking meds, most drugs are illegal and alas, no mountains in my area.
As I mentioned above, the grammar and punctuation caused me internal distress, as I'd have to read some sentences 5 times before I could decipher the meaning, or in order to place my imaginary punctuation in it, so that it would make some sort of sense. Or, as my punctuation is at the aforementioned 3yr old level, and seeing as the author must have had a 6yr old write this, perhaps it was just too advanced for me. That's the reason I gave this book 4 instead of the full 5 stars. Either way, rereading the sentences just made the book longer for me, and I was somewhat sad to end the book. Luckily for me/us, the author has written many more books in this series.

If you enjoy the genre, enjoy strange and trippy fiction, have no problems placing your own punctuation in books, and wish to read this while at a VERY high altitude, this book will definitely be for you. Happy reading!