Saturday, March 30, 2013

Review: Courage and Other Demons by Jill Daughtery


*Cover and Synopsis from Goodreads

Synopsis:
“It occurred to me as I stared into the darkness that it was probably a good thing it had taken so long for me to see Simon for who he truly was. If I hadn’t fallen in love with that sweet and kind boy, I wouldn’t have gotten on a plane with him to fly halfway across the world; I wouldn’t have trusted him enough to do what he was asking me to do. And as angry as I was, as much as I hated what my life had become, I knew I had to do what Simon and the others were asking me to do. It all came down to one inescapable belief. I would have to kill or be killed. There were certainly other pieces of the puzzle that were more complex and harder to understand, but that one piece was very clear and unrelenting and it drove me forward, even in those moments when giving up seemed like the most sensible choice I could make.”

The end of the world will start in the suburbs of Denver with a faery transfer student from Ireland. If you think that’s totally ridiculous, then you understand how Maggie O’Neill feels. In all of her sixteen years, faeries were something you read about in children’s books. They didn’t actually show up on your doorstep. They didn’t kiss you and make your knees go weak and whisper sweet nothings in your ear. Until Simon Brady, that is. Simon changed everything. He makes her heart race and her skin burn with excitement, but he has also changed her core beliefs about the world and made her see it as a dark and dangerous place filled with monsters that belong only in the lines of faery tales. There is no doubt in Maggie’s mind that she loves Simon, but can she see past who he is and find a place for him in her heart?
*Received a free copy in exchange for an honest review

Helpful Links: Goodreads | Amazon | Website

My Review:

Maggie thinks that she may be falling in love, but when the object of her affection reveals that he belongs to the world of Fey and is indeed a faery, Maggie begins to rethink all that she knows and feels. But it is not just that he is a Faery, but her role in his world that really has Maggie questioning everything.

I have to admit, the story of Maggie O'Neill figuratively swept me off my feet. I was hooked from the prologue and as I read through Courage and Other Demons I was constantly wondering when Jill Daughtery was going to break my heart. I knew it was going to happen, it was spelled out for me in the prologue, I just didn't know when. But that's okay, because I really loved the journey there.

First and foremost Courage and Other Demons is a love story, with some fantasy thrown in, but I'm not complaining, too much! I really did enjoy the way that Jill Daughtery wrote the story of Maggie and Simon. I love the way things grew between them and how their relationship seemed genuine. The problems for me come when the world of Fey enters the story. And it's not any serious problems either. I actually enjoyed the spin that Jill Daughtery put on the feary, but I felt like the world was lacking. I just wanted more. I would have loved it, if she introduced it a little earlier in the book. But I can say, if there is going to be a part 2 then, it should definitely start off with a bang!

So much time was spent on developing the relationship between Maggie and Simon that I felt like the faery took a back burner. But it was nothing that ruined the story for me. In fact this could have been just a love story and I probably would have been happy. I really loved the characters that Jill Daughtery created in Courage and Other Demons. Especially Simon. I really enjoyed his character. He was very well written and easy to fall in love with, thanks to Simon and Jill Daughtery "pulse of my heart" has definitely cemented its place in my heart as one of hell of a heart melting saying! I think I melted every time Simon said it.

I loved Maggie too and really enjoyed watching her grow throughout the story. I know why the book is called Courage and Other Demons! I love it when a character ends the book a different person than when they started. But I didn't like her reaction to the world of Fey. I have to say that I thought she was a bit childish and I felt rather let down by her. Granted she makes me like her again later!

The relationships that Jill Daughtery built in Courage and Other Demons were very realistic. I especially enjoyed the banter between Maggie and her brother and Maggie and her best friend. There banter really added a realistic element to the story. Plus it added some humor to the story. And I love humor!

Overall Courage and Other Demons was a well written story that definitely delivered. It had humor, love, great characters, and a touch of fantasy that left me wanting more. I for one hope there is a book 2! It was a quick and fun read that I devoured in one sitting.





"You can't make yourself invisible and you can't fly, but you are not now, nor have your ever been, ordinary" (kindle, loc. 4127). 

I have to say I chose this moment because I think it shows not only who Maggie really is, but the kind of guy that Simon is. 




Friday, March 29, 2013

Review: Beyond Judgment (Brainrush #3) by Richard Bard


Synopsis:
With Publishers Weekly heralding the first book in his Brainrush thriller series as “terrifically entertaining” and “inventive and compelling,” and the sequel consistently near the top of the Amazon “Top Rated” list since its December 2011 release, Richard Bard now unleashes Beyond Judgment, which sees hero Jake Bronson at the mercy of his hidden past.

Suffering from coma-induced amnesia, Jake Bronson’s quiet existence in Italy is shattered by the arrival of a kill team doing the bidding of an ancient order. But while the assassins hunt Jake down, they unwittingly awaken fragments of his dormant memories and deadly skills. Now, with enemies stalking his every step, Jake is on a race to piece together his broken past and reconnect with lost allies and loved ones, risking everything to reawaken his true self and stop an ancient order from unleashing humanity's ultimate judgment.

*Received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Helpful Links: Goodreads | Amazon | Website

My Review:

Jake Bronson doesn't know who he is. Suffering from amnesia Jake doesn't know that his life is in danger, that everyone's life is in danger, until assassins come knocking on his door and ruin the quiet serene life he thought he knew. But as they try to hunt him, his hidden abilities unleash making him as formidable as a man with all his memories. And as he struggles to discover the truth behind the assassins he discovers that his life hasn't always been so quiet and that the world is in danger and that the worlds only hope lies in his locked memories.

In Beyond Judgment we are quickly swept back up in the dangerous world that Jake has been traveling the last six years. It killed me to see Jake with amnesia, but we get a brief glimpse into what Jake's life could have been like if he never had the accident in the MRI machine all those years ago, but it isn't long before Richard Bard reminds us of the deadly world that Jake really comes from. And once the action starts, it never stops! And I'm not complaining and neither will you.

Jake has been through hell over the last six years. From almost dying from brain cancer, to discovering his new abilities, to unleashing the first pyramid, to being one of the most hunted men in the world, it seems that Jake can never catch a break. But of course he takes it in stride and is always quick to step in harms way to save not only his loved ones but the lives of the innocent, not even amnesia can change these feelings as they are deeply embedded in his moral being. Jake is one of those characters that is easy to love, he never gives up, he is smart as a whip, and deadly as a snake!

I loved the way that Richard Bard wrote this book. It was like getting to know Jake and his friends all over again. As Jake learned about his life, I learned about his life and got to relive those moments with him. It was almost like discovering Jake Bronson for the first time and it was wonderful! I love it when a book reinvigorates your joy and love for a character and that's what Beyond Judgment did for me. Plus it gave me some pretty awesome new characters to love, but I can't tell you who. I can tell you that you won't be disappointed.

But not only did it remind me of why I love Jake, it reminded me of why I love all of his friends, espcially Marshall, Tony, and Ahmed. Throughout the series we have seen this group go through hell, all while trying to live as normal a life as possible, but they are constantly reminded of the danger that is always lurking. Each character plays a pivotal role in the story that is Jake's and I loved each and every one of them, the old and the new!

Of course it wouldn't be a Brainrush novel if we didn't talk about the action. And boy was there action, from start to finish Beyond Judgment sweeps you up in a world so full of action that it will have you feeling like you are in the middle of an action flick! Every moment was so real and believable that I had to remind myself that it was actually all in a book!

This book really has it all. Non-stop action, laughs, mystery, suspense, great characters, and of course adventure. Richard Bard does not disappoint with the third installment in the Brainrush series, giving us a novel with a story that will quickly sweep you away, giving you quite the thrill ride.....or Rush!




There are so many fabulous moments in this book, but unfortunately I can't share all of them with you as they would spoil many great things, and I can't do that! But I will share this moment with you even though you may not completely understand it...until you read it. I think this moment really shows who Jake is.
"Jake ignored it all--including Tony's shouts of dismay when Jake took off in a sprint toward the water. He scooped up Jonesy's backpack, looped it over his shoulder, and dove into the pool." (Paperback, p. 352).




Thursday, March 28, 2013

Feature and Follow #13

8474595901 873f4993f4 Feature & Follow #139


What is Feature and Follow you ask? Why it is this fabulous meme that connects bloggers to other bloggers all while increasing our following. Hosted by two very talented bloggers: Parajunkee and Alison Can Read make sure you join in on the fun and put your name in the Linky!


Q: Tell us about the most emotional scene you've ever read in a book--And how did you react?

A: I think that the earliest emotional scene I remember reading was from Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck. I don't remember the exact scene that tore my heart to pieces all I remember is that being the first book to make me cry, and not a nice quiet cry, the ugly snot cry. I know I broke  when he crushed the mouse with his hand, but I also know that the entire book broke me. I also read a ton of books on WWII when I was in eighth grade that also broke my heart. I don't remember the names of all of them, but they were all true stories, so they made me fall to pieces.


So, what was the most emotional scene from a book that you can remember?




Wednesday, March 27, 2013

Review: Prophecy Girl by Cecily White


*Cover and synopsis from Goodreads

Prophecy Girl (Angel Academy, #1)Synopsis
Amelie Bennett. . . . Ending the world, one prophecy at a time.

I was born to slay Crossworld demons.
Big black flappy ones, little green squirmy ones. Unfortunately, the only thing getting slain these days is my social life. With my high school under attack, combat classes intensifying, and Academy instructors dropping right and left, I can barely get my homework done, let alone score a bondmate before prom.
Then he shows up.
Jackson Smith-Hailey. Unspeakably hot, hopelessly unattainable, and dangerous in all the right ways. Sure, he’s my trainer. And okay, maybe he hates me. Doesn’t mean I’ll ignore the wicked Guardian chemistry between us. It’s crazy! Every time I’m with him, my powers explode. Awesome, right?
Wrong.
Now my teachers think I’m the murderous Graymason destined to bring down our whole race of angelbloods. Everyone in New Orleans is hunting me. The people I trusted want me dead. Jack and I have five days to solve the murders, prevent a vampire uprising, and thwart the pesky prophecy foretelling his death by my hand. Shouldn’t be too difficult.

Getting it done without falling in love. . . that might take a miracle.

*Received a free copy in exchange for an honest review

Helpful Links: Goodreads | Amazon | Website

My Review: 

Amelie loves what she does....slaying Crossworld demons. But her school has turned to a place of danger and secrets. When teachers start dropping like flies and the new trainer wants nothing to do with her, Amelie decides that she must take matters into her own hands. As she investigates the disappearances of her instructors and the mysterious connection she has with the new trainer she get's more than she bargained for when she is accused of being their murderer. In a race against time, Amelie partners with the new trainer Jack to not only prove her innocence but to uncover the truth.

I have to say, form the minute I picked up Prophecy Girl I was hooked. I mean how can you not like a book that has demons, magic, angels, vampires and a ton of awesomeness? Because that's what this book has.

And in all that awesomeness you have wonderful characters like Amelie, who is tough as nails, doesn't know how to follow a rule to save her life and always seems to find trouble. Pretty sure up to the point of the disappearing instructors every incident at the school could be credited to her. And I love it! She is not your perfect lead character. She has flaws....gasp, imagine that, and that just made me love her that much more. She tries to do right, sometimes, but things just never seem to go her way. It's like she is an accident waiting to happen, and then there is the whole being accused of murder. I think Cecily White did a great job making Amelie completely likable and releatable.

Really Cecily White did a great job making all of her characters likable. She had you completely falling in love with the "bad" person before you even knew what hit you. One minute you are all in love with them and then next....BAM! You are hit with a 2x4 and you realize that the character you love isn't so good. And that moment causes you to go over every detail in the book as you look for any hint or clue that you might have missed. And sure enough, Cecily White leaves you small bread crumbs here and there, but they are so minute that as you get wrapped up in the story you forget to analyze everything. And that is just one of the many reasons Prophecy Girl was so good!

Not only do you fall in love with the bad person before you realize they are truly bad, but Cecily White has you questioning all the good guys too. There were times I wasn't sure who to trust! I loved the world that Cecily White built for this series. It is one that is completely believable and is vaguely reminiscent of Hogwarts....only with demon slayers!

Prophecy Girl really does have it all....demons, magic, angels, action, suspense, mystery, comedy, and even some love. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for that next great escape, because I guarantee you that once you pick up this book you won't want to put it down. But you must be prepared to be blindsided because there is no way that you see everything coming!



"Isn't sarcasm the opiate of the masses?"
"You're thinking of religion," he replied. "Sarcasm is the Xanax of the morally bereft." (kindle, loc. 1581).








Character Interview: Eric Cross

Monday I had the great pleasure of nterviewing one of my favorite authors, Steven Montano and today I have the luxury of interviewing one of my favorite characters!

Eric Cross from the Blood Skies series!!! *Squee* I am so excited and if you want to know why he is one of my favorite characters then check out my Character Time post: here


1) You have been through some pretty serious crap in your time fighting the war. How do you keep going after all that you have been through?

That’s not so easy to explain.  I’ve always been…driven, I guess you might say.  By what happened to Viper Squad, by this war.  I was literally given a second chance after the Squad’s last mission, and though I wasn’t sure what to do for a while, meeting Danica and Mike and forming the team gave me a purpose.  Honestly, I’ve been pushing forward for so long, I really don’t know any other way to live.

2) After all the crap that you have been through have you ever thought of walking away and maybe settling some place…..um, nice?

Well, that is something of a dream, isn’t it?  I’ve thought about hanging up my spurs, I guess, but not while the war is still going.  There’s too much to be done, and I feel like the team and I have a lot we can offer.  There are certainly times when it all seems like too much…when it is too much.  But then I think of all the people who’ve suffered, all the lives lost, and that’s all the motivation I need. 

I’m not trying to make myself sound like some sort of hero, or anything, and the idea of settling down is appealing.  But not for me.  Not yet.

*See, this is one of the reasons you are one of my favorite characters, one of my favorite heroes; you don’t act like it!

3) Speaking of crap….do you ever curse Steven for all the challenges and trouble he puts you through? Have you ever wanted to turn the table and put him through hell?

Who’s Steven?

*What? Do you mean to tell me you have yet to meet Steven Montano? *Gets on the phone with Steven* Steven, are you seriously telling me that you haven’t introduced yourself to Eric? Well played man, well played!

4) Do you think that you will ever see the end of The Black?

I hope against hope I will.  I mean that’s the purpose behind all of this.  The trouble is, no one really understands what started it all, or if The Black can end.  I think a lot of folks have resigned themselves to the fact there’s no end in sight, and we just have to do what we can to keep everything together.  I’m fine with that.  There are nights when I go to bed thinking maybe this is all some nightmare…maybe tomorrow I’ll wake up…but I don’t think I ever really believe that.  This is what there is.  We have to make the best of it.

5) When you first started with the Claw, did you ever think that you would survive all that you have?

No.  Not at all.  The life expectancy for warlocks in the Southern Claw isn’t long, and I’ve lived through some incredible circumstances.  I’ve had help, to be sure, but I’ve been extremely lucky.  I think that’s why I can’t really think about quitting.  I seem to have a knack for surviving, and that’s hard to do.  The least I can do is help others.

6) Let’s say that Steven hypothetically gave you a day off, where would you spend it and what would you do if you could do anything?

Still not sure who Steven is, but I do have days off.  The team stays busy, but we try to get out and celebrate, either just eating out together or catching a local performance or a play.  I read a lot.  Plus there’s always things to do around the manor – maintenance, testing equipment, research, that sort of thing.  It may not sound very relaxing, but it’s a nice change of pace from being in the field. 

*Shakes head at Steven*

7) What do you think is next for you in Blood Skies?

Nothing good, I’m sure.  The war to the west is escalating, and we’re having trouble with some insurgents to the east.  I’m sure Pike will have no shortage of work for us in the coming months.  Hopefully we’re up to the challenge.


I am so excited that Cross stopped by today! He truly is an amazing character and I can't imagine anyone else doing his job....so it is on that note that I will admit that I will no longer plot to save him from the clutches of Steven Montano!

Make sure you check him out in the Blood Skies Series: Goodreads | Amazon


Tuesday, March 26, 2013

Jumping on the Bloglovin Bandwagon

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Well as you can see I too am jumping on the Bloglovin bandwagon! I am not getting rid of GFC, but decided to give everyone more options as far as following me goes! So now you can follow me in more ways than one!

Top Ten Tuesday: Books I would Recommend the Most


Top Ten Tuesday is an incredibly awesome meme created by The Broke and the Bookish where bloggers and readers share their top ten's about all things bookish! Don't be shy......join the fun!


I am really excited about this Top Ten Tuesday post! It feels like it has been forever since I have done one and I couldn't be happier with the topic! Now if you have stopped by my TTT posts in the past then you will definitely recognize some of these books from my previous lists! I have some deep rooted love for these books and I would gladly recommend them to anyone who asks!! So here goes nothing, My Top Ten Books I would Recommend the Most!!!

1. The entire Protector Series  by M.R. Merrick as soon as I read Exiled (Protector #1) I was hooked and this series cemented a permanent place in my heart. This series gives me everything I love in a story....great characters, great character development, action, comedy, adventure, magic, creatures, and of course an incredible story that I can get completely lost in. Make sure you take the epic journey into M.R. Merrick's incredible imagination! You will not be disappointed! Books in the series: Exiled | Shift | Release

2. The Harry Potter Series  by J.K. Rowling this is a series I didn't think I would like let alone love, but all it took was picking it up to seal my fate as a never ending Harry Potter fan! I have now read the entire series 7 times and every time I read them I am reminded why this series is one of my favorites! I will carry this series with me until the end of time. This series has it all.....a great story, adventure, mystery, amazing characters, great character development and of course we can't forget magic, lots and lots of magic! J.k. Rowling's world is definitely one you must get to know, if you haven't already! Books in the series: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone | The Chamber of Secrets | The Prisoner of Azkaban | The Goblet of Fire | The Order of the Phoenix | The Half-Blood Prince | The Deathly Hallows

3. The Psion Series by Jacob Gowans I instantly fell in love with this series when I read about Sammy Berhane Jr. and his struggles and his abilities in Psion Beta. This series is so full of action that it reminds of playing a video game! Books in the series: Psion Beta | Psion Gamma | Psion Delta

4. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen I would recommend this book to anyone! Especially those that are romantics and enjoy stories about what it is like to fall in love!

5. Any book from the Dirk Pitt Adventures by Clive Cussler these books are so amazing and promise to give you great characters, action, adventure, and suspense. Dirk Pitt is a combination of James Bond, Indiana Jones and MacGyver! An absolute must read, all of them! (I would list them here, but there are 21 books in the series!)

6. The Stephanie Plum Series by Janet Evanovich this is another series I didn't think I would like or love. But when I was given a free copy of Hard Eight not only did I read it, but I laughed out loud so many times and so hard that it brought tears to my eyes.  The character Stephanie Plum is seriously one of my all time favorite characters!

7. Any book from the Harry Bosch Novels by Michael Connelly Harry Bosch is one of my favorite characters and I have read all of his books. He is a rugged no holds bar Detective in L.A. who will do anything to get to the bottom of the case. Married to his job and putting the bad guys behind bars this series is a must read!

8. Any book in The Chronicles of Nick by Sherrilyn Kenyon as soon as I picked up Infinity I was hooked. The story of Nick is incredible! This series is full of comedy, action, suspense, great characters an incredible story, and loads of magic! Books in the series: Infinity | Invincible | Infamous

9. The Eve Duncan Series by Iris Johansen  is a great series that will leave you on the edge of your seat, will make you bite your nails in suspense and even make you pull your hair out. They are so full of suspense, mystery and great chemistry, they are absolute must reads!

10. The Just Breathe series by Kendall Grey this series is full of great characters, romance, tons of magic, whales, and gives you a little smut with an incredible story! Books in the series: Inhale | Exhale | Just Breathe

Well there you have it! My list of books I would recommend the most! So, what books would you recommend? 




Monday, March 25, 2013

Cover Reveal: Frostbite by Lynn Rush

Today I am happy to be a part of the cover reveal for Lynn Rush's new series Touch of Frost #1! Make sure you add this book to your TBR list!!!



Book Info:

Title: Frostbite (Touch of Frost #1)
Author: Lynn Rush
Date of Release: September 17, 2013
Publisher: Lynn Rush, LLC

Book Blurb:

Amanda gives a whole new meaning to cool… Amanda Smith is sick of getting chased from town-to-town. So when she lands in tiny Trifle, Arizona, she hopes it’s her last move for a long time. Despite hating the smallness of the town, she settles in and finds a best friend, and even a boyfriend. Normality at its finest.
 But for a girl who can shoot snow from her hands and lift a two-ton truck over her head like a bag of feathers—normal is not an option.
 The scientists who murdered her mother come barreling into Amanda’s quiet life. She must decide if she’ll run again or stay and fight. The price of either choice might be her life or the lives of those she’s come to love.

Find it:  Goodreads | Website | Lynn Rush Amazon Page


Author Bio

Driven to write, Lynn Rush often sees her characters by closing her eyes watching their story unfold in her mind. Lynn Rush is a pen name that is a combination of two sources – Lynn, the first name of her mother-in-law, who passed away and Rush – since the author is a former inline speed skater and mountain biker. All of Rush’s books are dedicated to Lynn, her namesake, and a portion of the proceeds benefits cancer research and awareness.


My Thoughts:

I love the color scheme of this cover. I think that it really speaks to the idea of frost and makes me curious to read the story that is between its pages. I love how the cover model appears to have frost on her eyelashes, kind of gives me the chills looking at it! 



Author Interview: Steven Montano

I am so excited....today I had the awesome pleasure of interviewing one of my favorite authors!! I first discovered this author through Twitter, where I quickly became a fan of his witty and hilarious tweets. And not only were his tweets funny and entertaining, he was approachable, nice and he actually responded to my tweets! Great combination. It is actually because of his tweets that I first picked up his book Blood Skies. And that was all it took, I was hooked and totally wrapped up in the dark world that Steven Montano created and I am still enjoying this series!

So enough gushing, on with the interview!!!!


Writing:

1) What attracted you to writing fantasy?

I’ve always been a fan of fantasy.  The notion of the “unknowable” appeals to me: I like thinking there are things in the world that can’t be explained.  That’s very attractive to me, and that’s why I like to write in settings that can’t fully be defined.  Plus monsters are cool – you’ve got to love a genre that lets you make up monsters. ;D

2) When you sit down to write in one of your impressive writing sessions, what does it look like? Do you sit at a desk, do you need silence, and do you listen to music? Give us an insight into one of your sessions.

I actually write in spurts, because I don’t normally get long uninterrupted periods of time to myself, so I’ll squeeze some writing in during a work break or cram a session in between my son’s demands or doing chores around the house.  Sometimes I need music if there are too many distractions; sometimes I’ll have one of my favorite books open for inspiration.  Usually I write at my desk (at work or at home), but every once in a while I’ll use the Notes App on my ITouch or even write longhand.  Variety is the spice of life, as they say.

*A little birdie told me that you even write while you run on the treadmill? What???? I would totally fall flat on my face! That’s talent*

3) The Blood Skies series is a rather long series. How do you manage to keep all the facts straight?

By keeping things simple.  The story may seem convoluted at times, but honestly from my standpoint the plots are very straightforward, and most of the world building info is very simple.  I do take notes regarding some specifics (like places, supporting character names, etc.), and I tend to take excessive notes during the plotting stages, but other than that I’ve never had much trouble keeping things organized.

4) Being an accountant and all do you ever sneak accounting themes into your writing?

LOL. Not at all.  Alan Edwards did that with his novel Curse of Troius, but I try to keep accounting out of the books.  They’re an escape for me – I’d rather keep those two lives compartmentalized. ;D

*I am so glad to hear that…..*

5) I love the Blood Skies series, what else can we expect to see from you in the future?

Why thank you! Well, Blood Skies has five novels left, so we’re only halfway there.  I’m working on The Skullborn trilogy, the first of three trilogies in an epic fantasy series.  The writing style is very different in those (less fancy prose, a lot more characters, more straightforward descriptions), but hopefully people will like it.  I also have a second horror novel called Blood Angel Rising in the works, as well as a few short story ideas.  I’ve got plenty to keep me going for at least another few years.

*Sounds like you got plenty of awesome good stuff cooking! I can’t wait to see what The Skullborn trilogy is all about!*

6) When did you know you wanted to be a writer?

I’ve been making stuff up since I was in grade school, but the notion of being a “writer” didn’t start until I was almost out of high school.  I wrote my first short stories then, published a couple in college, and started writing novels.  I published some Dungeons & Dragons adventures, and when Indie Authorship took off I started in on this Blood Skies nonsense.  I’ve always been happiest when I’m exercising my imagination.  It’s my comfort zone.  Even when it drives me nuts, I just love to tell stories.

*Wow! That is quite the writing journey! Well I am glad you went the Indie route!*

Characters:

1) Okay, I know that this is on more than just my mind, will Cross ever find love?

He already has.  Now, if you mean in a sort of mutual, romantic, non-spirit sort of way…he’s working on it.  But you’ve got to consider how screwed up Cross is (as anyone would be, living in these circumstance and having seen some of the things he has).  He essentially lives through his work, and through his team.  That’s not to say that’s “enough”, but it’s sufficed for him so far, and if he ever does wind up romantically involved (and you should read through the end of Book 5, BTW ;D) it’s going to have to be with someone who’s more or less in the same boat as he is.

*Ok, now I officially want to skip to the end of The Witch’s Eye! (But I won’t)

2) I know that I ask you this after every book, but seriously, do you actually like Cross? I mean you put him through so much crap, I’m afraid you might kill him. I know you say that he can take it. So tell me why? And I promise to stop asking…..maybe.

I do like Cross.  Quite a bit.  He and I have a lot in common, honestly…maybe that’s why I’m so hard on him…
But seriously, I always put my characters through Hell, and have ever since I’ve been writing and running Dungeons & Dragons games.  The sense of heroic accomplishment, to me, is always that much greater when the odds are stacked against you. 
(Plus let’s not forget the well documented fact that I’m an evil bastard. ;D)

*Bastard? No, evil, wicked and twisted….yes!*

3) Have you ever thought of giving Cross a day off?

He’s had days off, but I don’t spent a lot of time documenting them.  In his military days he and Graves got drunk and hung out with prostitutes, or, when he could, he spent time with Snow.  Nowadays he’s so focused on helping his team be safe and successful he spends most of his off days preparing for the next mission.

4) In the Blood Skies series you bring vampires back to the darkness making them something that you definitely won’t fantasize about, where did your idea for them come from?

I don’t know why I decided to go with vampires.  Originally it was just going to be a race of pale-skinned humanoids, sort of like a combination of orcs and dark elves, but at the time I started writing I think Twilight fever was at its height, and I was sick of seeing vampires de-fanged everywhere I looked.  The actual inspiration for my vampires is a combination of dark elves, the vampires from Blade 2 and the Gunmen from the 90s comic book Cyberforce, blended with the inhuman brutishness of Bram Stoker’s Dracula.

*Well it was a great choice*

5) As well as your unique stance on the vampire you put a completely original spin on the witch and mage, it really is almost like having a split personality. I love it and the more I read about it the more intrigued I become. Where did this idea come from?

Thanks!  I always liked the idea of the familiar (or daemon, as explored by Phillip Pullman in His Dark Materials), but I wanted to try and shift the relationship a bit and make it more personal.  I also though the notion of having a quasi-living source of magical energy that had to be literally shaped to form magical effects was kind of cool, especially when you throw in the idea that the power source (the arcane spirits) have their own emotional states…that those states, in fact, are quite volatile, and need to be carefully managed.  I also like the idea of a power source that is actually harmful to the person using it; I explore a similar theme (though in a different way) in City of Scars (my epic fantasy that comes out this summer).

6) Why did you choose to use the term mage instead of warlock or wizard?

I use “mage” to describe the collective or “warlock” and “witch”, as a broader and more generic term.  I know that’s technically not correct, but I thought it was a nice way of saying “magic person” without having to get specific about whether it was a man or a woman.  Plus I just think the word “mage” sounds cool. ;D

7) Would you ever trade places with any of your characters? If so, who and why; if not, why?

No.  I’m good.  So far as the “why”…well… I have a thing for not being eviscerated by gun-toting vampires or dealing with crabby spirits who’ll wind up trying to destroy me…

8) Loving characters as I do, and considering my love for Cross and all his adventures, do you have a favorite Cross moment from the Blood Skies series, one moment that you think really defines Cross? This moment can be from any novel or even one from each.

Wow, good question, and I think I have to go the long route here.  I’ll try not to spoil anything.

Blood Skies: When Cross is sitting alone in the wake of the battle at Rhaine, and decides he has to carry on even though everything seems hopeless.

Black Scars: When he decides to spare Danica during their arena battle.  Again, it’s him fighting his instincts and seeing the bigger picture, and I hope I made clear how difficult it was for him to do.

Soulrazor: When he’s stranded out of time and meets the Soulweaver, and the Soulweaver judges him.  Cross doesn’t actually do much in that moment, but I like the idea of him having his soul bared to him by this strange serpentine creature.

Crown of Ash: At the very end, when he almost takes the easy way out, and doesn’t.

The Witch’s Eye: After the battle at the Black Gate, when he rushes to Shiv’s side after she falls.  I’ll say no more.

Chain of Shadows: I’m only a quarter of the way done with the rough draft, but he’s already had some good ones.  Stay tuned.

*Some of those are my favorite moments too, I will have to see if I agree with your choices for Crown of Ash and The Witch’s Eye.*

Personal:

1) You are very busy and must like to have a full plate. I know there is a lot of caffeine involved, but how do you manage to balance your writing, your job, your family and keep your sanity?

I just try to be as efficient with my time as possible.  Take writing, for example: I know I’m only going to get a few short stints of time to write over the course of the day, so I make each of them count.  I set daily goals for myself, and I try to double them…that way, if I don’t succeed, I’ll likely have hit the true goal.  I try to keep my time organized, and there are quite a few parts of my day that are very routine driven (my workout, my commute, after-dinner chores, getting my son into bed so he doesn’t have a meltdown, etc.), which gives me some flexibility with the rest of my day.  No matter what’s going on, I drop everything around 9:30-10 P.M. so my wife and I can hang out for at least an hour or two before bed.  That time is vital.

*All I can say is wow!*

2) Do you have a particular place that you go for inspiration?

Not on an everyday basis.  I’ll write pretty much wherever I can, and I’ll pop in some music if I find myself getting distracted.  My family and I love to get outdoors and go on hikes, and I tend to take a lot of pictures and use the experience of being close to nature as fuel for my imagination.

3) I know that you like to play video games in all that spare time that you have, so what kind of games do you play and why? (I know that you really don’t have any spare time, but somehow you manage to sneak it in.)

I’m pretty boring when it comes to video games, since I only buy a new one once every 2-3 years.  I like 1st person shooters and RPGs; my favorite game of all-time is Fallout: New Vegas (I can play that game for days), but Rage, any of the Elder Scrolls games, and the new Wolfenstein shooters are all gun.  I’ve only recently gotten back into playing – it’s nice brainless action for someone whose brain usually won’t shut up.

*You share your choice of games with my husband, Fallout is my husband’s favorite as well.*

4) Obviously I like to call myself the devourer, with that in mind, name your top 5 Devours for each category.

Read: The Bas-Lag series by China Mieville.
Movie: Saving Private Ryan
Munchie: Peanut butter
Music: Diorama (an electro-Goth band out of Germany)

5) If you were stranded on a deserted island, with water and food provided, what 5 things (no people or transportation) would you want with you?

A bottle of wine.  A copy of The Scar.  A really fat writing notebook.  A pencil with a crapload of lead inside of it.  My fully-charged iTouch.


Thank you so much for stopping by and for answering my never ending questions!! Excuse me while I go die now!

Steven Montano author of the Blood Skies SeriesAbout the Author:

Steven Montano fell out of the sky one day and landed behind an accountant's desk. Rather than write novels about his experiences in an alternate post-apocalyptic world besieged by vampires, he decided to reconcile accounts and calculate journal entries. He still writes in his spare time. 


Stalk Him: Website | Amazon | Goodreads | Twitter | Facebook

And make sure you check out his incredible series Blood Skies!!



Saturday, March 23, 2013

Review: Detect Me by Selma Wolfe

Detect Me
*Cover and Synopsis from Goodreads

Synopsis:
When Nikki Reed walks into Mark Harrison's office, she's there to sell out. Nikki is finally ready to give up her dream of being a professional artist and get a sensible 9-5 job. Working in marketing probably won't be so bad, especially with a hot boss like Mark.

Only it's Detective Harrison, and Nikki's in the wrong office.

Mark is hot on the trail of notorious art thief Ghost, and when Nikki's art knowledge proves useful, she finds herself dragged along for the adventure.

As she starts to fall for Mark's brilliance and gruff kindness, Nikki knows she has to fight it - Mark is a workaholic who clearly isn't interested in a serious relationship. And while Mark finds himself wanting to investigate Nikki as closely as one of his cases, he knows the consequences could be dire if he gets too close.

Because every detective has a past, and the secrets in Mark’s could prove deadly for both of them.
 Helpful Links: Goodreads | Amazon | Website

*Received free copy from author in exchange for an honest review

My Review: 3.5 Delectably Up to Snuff

Out of work artist Nikki Reed is desperate for a job, on her way to an interview she walks into the wrong office and finds herself face to face with a masterpiece in person, Detective Harrison. Detective Harrison is on the hunt for a notorious art thief and Nikki's expertise is just what he is looking for. As the trail to the art thief get's hot so does the attraction between the two. But not everything is as it seems, Detective Harrison has a secret, one that could put them both in harms way.

First of all I have to say that I loved the easy flow that Detect Me had. It was easy for me to get caught up in the story, especially the chemistry between the two lead characters Nikki and Mark. I think Selma Wofe did a great job of giving me an insight into both of the characters with the way that she told the story from both POV's. And it wasn't an every other chapter thing either, she alternated POV's in the middle of the chapter. And usually that would bug me, but Selma Wolfe did it with such finesse that I found myself loving it! 

I also loved that despite the instant attraction between the two characters there wasn't an instant you are the love of my life moment. The attraction and relationship grew over the period of the story. I found both characters intriguing and really enjoyed getting to know each of them. And I secretly really loved the secrets that Mark was hiding. I loved the tension that it brought to the story. 

However, I am a little confused on how Mark became a detective and wished that more emphasis was given on his past. This is a character that I really want to know and I want to believe in but with his background I have a trouble seeing how he ended up as a detective. And despite loving the story I did have a few technical issues with the moments that involved police officers. I am not an expert in police procedure but I don't think what was written was completely accurate. But I do understand what Selma Wolfe was going for. All in all those moments didn't get in the way of my enjoyment!

Detect Me was a fast paced read that was over in the blink of an eye. It had adventure, suspense, a little mystery and just enough romance to leave me wanting more. Detect Me is perfect for that quick weekend read. 


"Hi? Good morning. I sort of forgot...."
"Pants?" Mark couldn't help suggesting. Nikki glared at him. (pdf., p. 76).

First of all I love this moment because it's funny, and second I love it because it shows their awkwardness around each other!




"Devouring worlds, one book and recipe at a time."

New Blog Design and a New Blog

If you have ever been to my blog before then it is obvious that it has been through a few changes. And not just in the design aspect. 

And I am really excited about the changes that are happening! Especially the design changes! I mean come on look at it....it is pure awesomeness! It just screams me and I couldn't be more happy with it. 

And I have Rachel from Parajunkee Design to thank for the beauty that you see before you! Seriously there are no words to describe how I feel about this blog. It really is my baby and now it looks like my baby! Thank you Rachel you are so completely amazing, not sure if I will ever be able to find the words to express my appreciation for your work!!! Fabulous, awesome, fantastic, amazing, incredible, beautiful, and  sweet, just don't seem to be enough! So thank you again for your incredible talent and patience in dealing with this design newbie!

Now, I mentioned that there were more changes. And there are. Recently I made the decision to split Consuming Worlds into two blogs, separating my book passion from my food passion. 

It took me a while to come to this decision, I loved having both of my passions under the same blog. It was easy, but I wasn't doing either of my passions justice. In order to keep up with my book passion, my food posts got pushed to the side and I found that I was posting less and less recipes. And that is not what I wanted. 

Of course I could have always posted one book and food thing a day, but that would have been a lot of content for one blog. So, I finally made the decision to split them. So, Consuming Worlds will be dedicated to my book passion.

While my new baby, Culinary Brainchild, will be dedicated to all my culinary creations and passion! Make sure you stop by there as well, because Rachel put her fantastic design touch on that blog too! 

"Devouring worlds, one book and recipe at a time."


Thursday, March 21, 2013

Feature and Follow #12

8474595901 873f4993f4 Feature & Follow #139What is Feature and Follow you ask? Why it is this fabulous meme that connects bloggers to other bloggers all while increasing our following. Hosted by two very talented bloggers: Parajunkee and Alison Can Read make sure you join in on the fun and put your name in the Linky!




Q: What is your guilty pleasure as far as reading? Is it a genre, or is it a certain type of book?


A: Okay well I think that I am going to go with romance. I love it when my books have a romantic relationship. Even if the characters never end up together I still love it. I love the tension that it brings to the story. Also, I love, love triangles....adds a lot of tension if it is done right! 


So, do you have a reading guilty pleasure???


Wednesday, March 20, 2013

Review: Everbound (Everneath #2) by Brodi Ashton


Everbound (Everneath, #2)
*Cover and Synopsis from Goodreads

Synopsis:
Nikki Beckett could only watch as her boyfriend, Jack, sacrificed himself to save her, taking her place in the Tunnels of the Everneath for eternity — a debt that should’ve been hers. She’s living a borrowed life, and she doesn’t know what to do with the guilt. And every night Jack appears in her dreams, lost and confused and wasting away.

Desperate for answers, Nikki turns to Cole, the immortal bad boy who wants to make her his queen — and the one person least likely to help. But his heart has been touched by everything about Nikki, and he agrees to assist her in the only way he can: by taking her to the Everneath himself.

Nikki and Cole descend into the Everneath, only to discover that their journey will be more difficult than they’d anticipated — and more deadly. But Nikki vows to stop at nothing to save Jack — even if it means making an incredible sacrifice of her own.

In this enthralling sequel to Everneath, Brodi Ashton tests the bonds of destiny and explores the lengths we’ll go to for the ones we love.

Helpful Links: Goodreads | Amazon  | Website

My Review: 5 Must Devour

Picking up right where Everneath left off we are quickly reminded of Nikki's loss and troubled heart. Nikki will do anything to right the wrong that occurred when Jack took her place in the Everneath--anything. Determined to save Jack from serving her sentence Nikki begs Cole to take her to the Everneath to save the one she loves. And Cole being the sneaky and dark bad boy has his own agenda, but decides to take Nikki to the Everneath, out of the goodness of his heart. As they travel the Everneath they discover that there are many sinister things hiding in the dark. 

As soon as I began Everbound I was reminded of why I felt so deeply for Jack and Nikki, of why I was rooting for them. They have the love that fairy tales are made of. The self-sacrificing kind. 

And I think that is why I love this story so much, it is a love story in the truest sense of the word. Oh, sure it has fantasy, but love is in its roots. In Everneath I fell in love with Jack and his never ceasing love for Nikki. 

But in Everbound, I began to fall for the dark side--Cole. They always say that the dark side is alluring, well if going to the dark side involves Cole; well then bring it on! I thoroughly enjoyed this read as I was quickly swept up in everything Cole. Finally Brodi Ashton gave us a taste of Cole's world, and what a taste it was. The Everneath is definitely a fickle beast and you never really know what's going to happen as you travel through its many layers. I was wrapped up in Brodi Ashton's ability to not only tell a story, but to paint a picture; as I imagined I was traveling through the Everneath. 

I have to admit that I got a little irriatated with Nikki in Everbound, as I did not agree with some of her choices and actions throughout the book. If you have already read the book then you know exactly what I'm talking about; and if you haven't well then you should read it already! So, Nikki irritated me while Cole entranced me. 

Cole is definitely an interesting character and I can honestly say that he is constantly surprising me. I never really know what to expect from him and I absolutely love it!! It really keeps me on my toes, and what Brodi Ashton does at the end of the book well, let's just say that I freaked out. I remember hunching over my book as I read the last few pages saying--No Freaking Way! I couldn't believe it--did Brodi Ashton seriously just do that? I am pretty sure I know where Cole get's his many layers.....

In a love story so deep that one would travel to the depths of hell in the name of love, Brodi Ashton definitely out does herself with Everbound. So if you haven't already read this book or Everneath then you need to get out and do that--NOW! And I for one can't wait to see what Brodi Ashton cooks up for us next in Everneath #3 (no actual title yet).

Favorite Character Moment:

"He grinned and shook his head. " You know what. You're looking at my hair like an addict at a crack carnival." (Hardcover, p. 110).

This is just one of the many parts with Cole that I love. This shows just one of his many layers! Have to say that I love all the layers shown so far.


Sunday, March 17, 2013

Character Time #7: Eric Cross from Steven Montano


Welcome to the First Character Time Blog Hop!! 

So what is Character Time? Character Time is a little feature created by Danielle at Consuming Worlds to spotlight favorite characters. 

Why did I create Character Time? I love characters and have a tendency to have rather strong feelings toward them in one way or another. For me characters are what often drives a book. I don't think you can have a good story without good characters and vice versa. And there is nothing I like more than a character that I can imagine vividly in my mind. One that I can laugh with, laugh at, scream at, or even cry with. 

The idea of Character Time is to spotlight a character from either a book you are currently reading or a book that you have read in the past. You can either love this character, hate them, loathe them, like them or any of the other feelings one may have. You then write a post spotlighting this character. Why you love, hate, loathe, or whatever them and why? This can include links, pictures or whatever you need to explain why you feel the way you feel. 

Note: These characters can be any characters, i.e., main characters, hero/heroine, villain, creature and so on.

If you need any help here are the Character Time's I have done in the past (before I created the feature): Character Time Posts

Once you choose your character and write your post add your name and URL in the Linky and hop to other blogs and check out their characters! Feel free to grab the above picture for your post. This is just a tester picture the badge will change.

My Character Time: Eric Cross from Steven Montano

Have you ever wanted to rescue a character from a book? You know that character that goes through more crap in one book than most characters go through in an entire series?

Well, Eric Cross from the Blood Skies Series is that guy. When I first met Cross, that's what he goes by, he was the unlikely hero, timid, shy, naive and unprepared for the war he was fighting. 

But no matter what sort of crap the author, Steven Montano throws at him he somehow manages to survive. Every. Single. Time. And trust me he goes through a lot of crap. The obstacles he faces would make the strongest men break. 

And Cross just rises above it. No matter what happens; be it loss, injury, torture, or loneliness, he just keeps going. And trust me he knows a thing or two about each of these things in fact he knows each of these things intimately. 

Cross has seen and survived things that no man should have to and that is why I want to rescue him. You see I want to save him from having to endure anymore pain or loss. Because not only do I not know how much more he can take, I don't know how much more I can take. 

But I know that I can't rescue him and deep down I know that is these struggles that make Cross the guy he is. The guy who transformed from the timid, shy, naive, weak Cross, to the strong, dedicated, determined, Cross that everyone turns to and looks up to. 

Cross never backs down from anything or turns his back while other people's lives are in danger. As long as there is a war Cross will be there to fight it. And I know that despite his pain, loss and suffering that the Claw needs him, his team needs him. Plus I need and want him to kick some serious dark butt! 

So, no matter how much I want to rescue Cross I know I can't. They need someone to fight for them, someone strong, dedicated and determined to lead them and give them hope. And that's Cross. He is the hope of his team and sometimes him and his team are the only hope for the Southern Claw. 

But Cross isn't just a soldier. Cross is a deep and caring friend with a big heart who will always be at your side. I know if I ever needed someone who could overcome any and all obstacles even his own death to help me Cross would be him. He would be the guy I call to help me face the darkest day and the darkest creatures.

For more information about this character check out the Blood Skies Series by Steven Montano! Helpful Links: Website | Amazon | Goodreads

"Devouring worlds, one book and recipe at a time."