A Modern Witch
Debora Geary
Fireweed Publishing (2011)
Kindle Edition
Rated 5 stars of 5 possible
A Modern Witch by Debora Geary is a light-hearted look at the life of Witches and the awesome powerful magic spells they are capable of casting.
Debora Geary sets the hook right away as we discover 28-year-old Lauren has been brought into a witch's chat by the fetching spell that is not supposed to make mistakes. At first, Lauren is convinced that, despite the spell-caster's assurance, there has indeed been a mistake. She is no witch... or is she?
Discover the magical and captivating answer as you watch Lauren gain the knowedge she needs with the help of her new-found friends, who just happen to include a little 4-year-old, story-stealing witchling who needs a tale of his own...
I loved these characters right from the start. The author's well-written prose brought them to life and the situations in which we become acquainted with the characters seem very realistic. Within the world of this story, the reader can even believe in magic for a time...
Recommended for readers of light fantasy, romance, and those looking for something a bit different. The Kindle edition of A Modern Witch was provided to me by the author in exchange for this review. This review has been published on Dragon Views, LibraryThing, Amazon.com and wherever else deemed appropriate by this reviewer.
Showing posts with label Humor. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Humor. Show all posts
Friday, August 5, 2011
Monday, June 20, 2011
A Front for Terrorist Operations?
Electricland
By Ginger Mayerson
The Wapshott Press (2010)
Paperback, 222 pages
Rated 4 stars of 5 possible
The novel, Electricland, is a mystery tale. The story features satirical content, a terrorist organization run by three middle-aged women, an online game called Electricland, and gay romance. But is Electricland just a game, or is it a front for terrorist operations?
The author's attention to detail and sense of fun becomes very apparent in this slim novel. The three female terrorists were often interesting and sometimes even humorous. The Electricland game proved to be interesting too, but I was disappointed to see that very little of this game figured into the actual story. I would have liked to have seen more of the game. While I have to say that gay romance is definitely not my thing, I found that I could easily skim/skip those portions of the story and not lose much in the bargain. Over all, Electricland proved to be a novel that I am glad I have read.
Electricland was provided to me free by the author/publisher in exchange for this review, for which I have not received any financial compensation. This review will appear on Dragon Views, LibraryThing, Amazon.com and other sites deemed appropriate by this reviewer.
By Ginger Mayerson
The Wapshott Press (2010)
Paperback, 222 pages
Rated 4 stars of 5 possible
The novel, Electricland, is a mystery tale. The story features satirical content, a terrorist organization run by three middle-aged women, an online game called Electricland, and gay romance. But is Electricland just a game, or is it a front for terrorist operations?
The author's attention to detail and sense of fun becomes very apparent in this slim novel. The three female terrorists were often interesting and sometimes even humorous. The Electricland game proved to be interesting too, but I was disappointed to see that very little of this game figured into the actual story. I would have liked to have seen more of the game. While I have to say that gay romance is definitely not my thing, I found that I could easily skim/skip those portions of the story and not lose much in the bargain. Over all, Electricland proved to be a novel that I am glad I have read.
Electricland was provided to me free by the author/publisher in exchange for this review, for which I have not received any financial compensation. This review will appear on Dragon Views, LibraryThing, Amazon.com and other sites deemed appropriate by this reviewer.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Suspense and Comic Relief
Oracle's Legacy: Shadows of Fate
R. B. Holbrook
lulu.com (2009),
Paperback, 556 pages
Rated 4 stars of 5 possible
Oracle's Legacy: Shadows of Fate is the follow-up novel to Oracle's Legacy: Children of Sun and is the authors second book. The story continues from where the first book left off. Tightly woven, the story of Ollie Mason and her family continues to hold the reader spellbound as the plot thickens and draws nearer to the climax.
Sometimes it's hard to put a finger on why I like or dislike a book. Oracle's Legacy is a series like that. I've enjoyed reading all three volumes... The characters are developed enough that I either like or dislike them as is supposed to be... and some characters, while not necessarily on the side of good, are still interesting enough that I like them too. The story is a mix of suspenseful scenes with some comic relief, all serving to move the plot along to where book two transitions easily into the third volume of the epic.
Caviat: Lots of violence, yet not unnecessarily violent, given the context of the story. Recommended to readers of epic fantasy who do not mind a fair amount of violence in the book, but should be read following Oracle's Legacy: Children of Sun.
Oracle's Legacy: Shadows of Fate was provided to me free by the author in exchange for this review. This review has been simultaneously posted on Dragon Views, LibraryThing, Amazon.com and wherever else deemed appropriate for this book's content.
R. B. Holbrook
lulu.com (2009),
Paperback, 556 pages
Rated 4 stars of 5 possible
Oracle's Legacy: Shadows of Fate is the follow-up novel to Oracle's Legacy: Children of Sun and is the authors second book. The story continues from where the first book left off. Tightly woven, the story of Ollie Mason and her family continues to hold the reader spellbound as the plot thickens and draws nearer to the climax.
Sometimes it's hard to put a finger on why I like or dislike a book. Oracle's Legacy is a series like that. I've enjoyed reading all three volumes... The characters are developed enough that I either like or dislike them as is supposed to be... and some characters, while not necessarily on the side of good, are still interesting enough that I like them too. The story is a mix of suspenseful scenes with some comic relief, all serving to move the plot along to where book two transitions easily into the third volume of the epic.
Caviat: Lots of violence, yet not unnecessarily violent, given the context of the story. Recommended to readers of epic fantasy who do not mind a fair amount of violence in the book, but should be read following Oracle's Legacy: Children of Sun.
Oracle's Legacy: Shadows of Fate was provided to me free by the author in exchange for this review. This review has been simultaneously posted on Dragon Views, LibraryThing, Amazon.com and wherever else deemed appropriate for this book's content.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Uniquely Twisted
A Decent Ransom: A Story of a Kidnapping Gone Right
Ivana Hruba
Kunati Inc. (2008),
Mobi format for Kindle,
Print Length: 272 pages
Rated 4 stars of 5 Possible
A Decent Ransom begins with a kidnapping which, from the point of view of the kidnappers, appears to get rapidly out of hand. Then, just when the reader thinks he/she has predicted the ending, the story takes a unique twist...
No, I don't wish to spoil that wonderful ending, so I'll just say that after a certain point, you'll be on the edge of your seat while reading this sometimes humorous, always interesting tale. The characters are well developed, the plot engaging enough to keep me turning pages.
While I never lost interest, I did wonder, at times, about the motivations of young Phoebus, hence my 4 star rating of this very worthy effort by a new-to-me author.
Recommended for adult readers who are looking for something different to add to the regular routine reading. An ebook version of this novel was provided to me free by the author in exchange for this review. This review has been posted on Dragon Views, LibraryThing, Amazon.com and at other locations deemed appropriate by the reviewer.
Ivana Hruba
Kunati Inc. (2008),
Mobi format for Kindle,
Print Length: 272 pages
Rated 4 stars of 5 Possible
A Decent Ransom begins with a kidnapping which, from the point of view of the kidnappers, appears to get rapidly out of hand. Then, just when the reader thinks he/she has predicted the ending, the story takes a unique twist...
No, I don't wish to spoil that wonderful ending, so I'll just say that after a certain point, you'll be on the edge of your seat while reading this sometimes humorous, always interesting tale. The characters are well developed, the plot engaging enough to keep me turning pages.
While I never lost interest, I did wonder, at times, about the motivations of young Phoebus, hence my 4 star rating of this very worthy effort by a new-to-me author.
Recommended for adult readers who are looking for something different to add to the regular routine reading. An ebook version of this novel was provided to me free by the author in exchange for this review. This review has been posted on Dragon Views, LibraryThing, Amazon.com and at other locations deemed appropriate by the reviewer.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Role Reversal
My Sparkling Misfortune
Laura Lond
Dream Books LLC (2010)
Print length: 164 pages
Rated 5 stars of 5 possible
My Sparkling Misfortune is a novella-length story aimed at middle school kids who love fantasy, yet also appeals to any age reader. The well-crafted story is told from the point of view of a very unusal protagonist - a villain, who is quick to let us know he is a villain by trade, and that we shouldn't expect him to be going around doing good deeds.
In general, one isn't supposed to like a villain, but the protagonist of this novel starts collecting a fan club almost from the first page and through no fault of his own. The hero-villain role reversal that occurs in this novella makes for good discussion material as well as bringing a new point of interest into the story. Kudos to the author for bringing a most entertaining and unusual story to readers of all ages. My Sparkling Misfortune is the first of a new series, which, if the following books are anything like this first one, should be a big hit with readers young and old alike.
I have to recommend this often humorous, always entertaining novella to those readers looking for a quick, fun read and laughs on almost every page. The PDF document format of My Sparkling Misfortune was received free from the author in exchange for this review.
This review has been simultaneously posted on Dragonviews and LibraryThing.
Laura Lond
Dream Books LLC (2010)
Print length: 164 pages
Rated 5 stars of 5 possible
My Sparkling Misfortune is a novella-length story aimed at middle school kids who love fantasy, yet also appeals to any age reader. The well-crafted story is told from the point of view of a very unusal protagonist - a villain, who is quick to let us know he is a villain by trade, and that we shouldn't expect him to be going around doing good deeds.
In general, one isn't supposed to like a villain, but the protagonist of this novel starts collecting a fan club almost from the first page and through no fault of his own. The hero-villain role reversal that occurs in this novella makes for good discussion material as well as bringing a new point of interest into the story. Kudos to the author for bringing a most entertaining and unusual story to readers of all ages. My Sparkling Misfortune is the first of a new series, which, if the following books are anything like this first one, should be a big hit with readers young and old alike.
I have to recommend this often humorous, always entertaining novella to those readers looking for a quick, fun read and laughs on almost every page. The PDF document format of My Sparkling Misfortune was received free from the author in exchange for this review.
This review has been simultaneously posted on Dragonviews and LibraryThing.
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Roller Coaster Ride
Follow The Money
Ross Cavins
RCG Publishing (2010),
Paperback, 264 pages
Rated 4 stars of 5 possible
Ten inter-connected short stories have been collected between these covers. In addition to my over-all impression of this book, which you will find at the end of this review, I'll attempt to say something about each of the ten stories and rate them individually, as well as giving my rating for the entire book, but first, the stories.
1. "The Drop" - Inept kidnappers, funnier than a barrel of monkeys. Slow start, but builds suspense; is a fine, page-turning story. I absolutely loved the twisted ending. Rated 4 stars.
2. "The Investment" - Pickpocket meets big-time con artist, but can he trust his new partner? This story felt a bit disconnected near the middle, so rated 3 stars.
3. "Sammy's Night Out" - Armed robbery at a convenience store, of the inept gunman type. Predictable ending... Rated 3 stars.
4. "A Loaded Gun" - Grand theft auto plus an evening of crime gone wrong. Story number three with some added detail and from a different point of view. Packed with more laughs than "Sammy's Night Out" Rated 5 stars.
5. "Everybody's Got A Magic Number" Bookie takes the cash from cop involved in story #4. This story is longer, not as funny or as consistently interesting as the others. One doesn't even see the connection to the other stories until late. Rated 3 stars.
6. "Have Fun Tonight" Drunken driver collides with emergency vehicle. Just plain strange, warped humor. Rated 3 stars.
7. "Sweating Brother Bill" Two lusty old ladies - another strange story. Rated 3 stars.
8. "Toe Thumb" Abused wife runs away from deadbeat husband. Morbidly appealing somehow. Rated 4 stars.
9. "For The Road" Breaking and Entering, or How the Grinch stole Christmas. Rated 4 stars.
10. "Channel Ten" Car-jacking and Captain Crunch. Rated 5 stars.
The fun part of reading this story collection was seeing how the stories fit together into one larger story that has its ups and downs like a roller coaster. Trying to predict which characters from the earlier stories would appear again in which of the later stories was also a barrel of laughs, but figuring out who was going to have the money next - ah what suspense, and sometimes very surprising. The hot sex featured in some of these stories does little or nothing to move the plot along. Still, it was a fun read, and I would recommend Follow The Money to adults who do not find offense in the type of material contained here.
Follow The Money was provided to me free by the author in exchange for this review. This review has been simultaneously published on Dragon Views, LibraryThing and Amazon.com.
Ross Cavins
RCG Publishing (2010),
Paperback, 264 pages
Rated 4 stars of 5 possible
Ten inter-connected short stories have been collected between these covers. In addition to my over-all impression of this book, which you will find at the end of this review, I'll attempt to say something about each of the ten stories and rate them individually, as well as giving my rating for the entire book, but first, the stories.
1. "The Drop" - Inept kidnappers, funnier than a barrel of monkeys. Slow start, but builds suspense; is a fine, page-turning story. I absolutely loved the twisted ending. Rated 4 stars.
2. "The Investment" - Pickpocket meets big-time con artist, but can he trust his new partner? This story felt a bit disconnected near the middle, so rated 3 stars.
3. "Sammy's Night Out" - Armed robbery at a convenience store, of the inept gunman type. Predictable ending... Rated 3 stars.
4. "A Loaded Gun" - Grand theft auto plus an evening of crime gone wrong. Story number three with some added detail and from a different point of view. Packed with more laughs than "Sammy's Night Out" Rated 5 stars.
5. "Everybody's Got A Magic Number" Bookie takes the cash from cop involved in story #4. This story is longer, not as funny or as consistently interesting as the others. One doesn't even see the connection to the other stories until late. Rated 3 stars.
6. "Have Fun Tonight" Drunken driver collides with emergency vehicle. Just plain strange, warped humor. Rated 3 stars.
7. "Sweating Brother Bill" Two lusty old ladies - another strange story. Rated 3 stars.
8. "Toe Thumb" Abused wife runs away from deadbeat husband. Morbidly appealing somehow. Rated 4 stars.
9. "For The Road" Breaking and Entering, or How the Grinch stole Christmas. Rated 4 stars.
10. "Channel Ten" Car-jacking and Captain Crunch. Rated 5 stars.
The fun part of reading this story collection was seeing how the stories fit together into one larger story that has its ups and downs like a roller coaster. Trying to predict which characters from the earlier stories would appear again in which of the later stories was also a barrel of laughs, but figuring out who was going to have the money next - ah what suspense, and sometimes very surprising. The hot sex featured in some of these stories does little or nothing to move the plot along. Still, it was a fun read, and I would recommend Follow The Money to adults who do not find offense in the type of material contained here.
Follow The Money was provided to me free by the author in exchange for this review. This review has been simultaneously published on Dragon Views, LibraryThing and Amazon.com.
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Main Character Not Respectable
Nose Down, Eyes Up
Merrill Markoe
Villard (2008)
Hardcover, 320 pages
Rated 4 stars of 5 possible
What if you could really have a two-way conversation with your dog? No, I mean a REAL conversation, you know, where the dog can respond to you and you understand immediately what he's saying, without you having to spend hours figuring out what he means... Nose Down, Eyes Up by Merrill Markoe takes that premise and runs with it, straight into the funniest novel I've read this year.
When Gil discovers that he can understand what his dog is telling the other dogs, he tries to develop the dog, Jimmy, and his advice into a marketable commodity via the internet.
While the premise of this novel is good and the story pretty funny, there were also times I wanted to hit Gil on the head... He was pretty stupid to be getting involved with his ex-wife after she had gotten married to someone else, plus, the way he treated his girl friend kept me from being able to respect him as an honorable person... These things, along with the fact that some of Gil's personal life seemed to have little or nothing to contribute to the story kept me from giving this novel the full five stars.
Nevertheless, read this novel if you want some laughs, but only if you can tolerate some stupidity in the main character. This review has simultaneously been posted on Dragon Views, LibraryThing and Amazon.com.
Merrill Markoe
Villard (2008)
Hardcover, 320 pages
Rated 4 stars of 5 possible
What if you could really have a two-way conversation with your dog? No, I mean a REAL conversation, you know, where the dog can respond to you and you understand immediately what he's saying, without you having to spend hours figuring out what he means... Nose Down, Eyes Up by Merrill Markoe takes that premise and runs with it, straight into the funniest novel I've read this year.
When Gil discovers that he can understand what his dog is telling the other dogs, he tries to develop the dog, Jimmy, and his advice into a marketable commodity via the internet.
While the premise of this novel is good and the story pretty funny, there were also times I wanted to hit Gil on the head... He was pretty stupid to be getting involved with his ex-wife after she had gotten married to someone else, plus, the way he treated his girl friend kept me from being able to respect him as an honorable person... These things, along with the fact that some of Gil's personal life seemed to have little or nothing to contribute to the story kept me from giving this novel the full five stars.
Nevertheless, read this novel if you want some laughs, but only if you can tolerate some stupidity in the main character. This review has simultaneously been posted on Dragon Views, LibraryThing and Amazon.com.
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Relocation, Vampire Style
Still Sucks to Be Me:
The All-true Confessions of Mina Smith, Teen Vampire
By Kimberly Pauley
Mirrorstone (11 May, 2010),
Hardcover, 384 pages
Rated 5 stars of 5 possible.
Coming soon... and every bit as good as her first book. Kimberly Pauley has done it again... Yes, I can say that because I'm one of the lucky recipients of an advance copy of Still Sucks To Be Me, which arrived in my possession on May 6. Kimberly writes in a fast, easy-breezy style that will charm you and keep you turning the pages to see what happens next.
Still Sucks To Be Me takes up where Kimberly's first book, leaves off, and moves the story of MinaHamilton Smith and her family forward, with laughter on almost every page. Kimberly has kept what was good from her first book - those myth and truth snippets at the head of each chapter, plus pages from Mina's notebook, and added some fresh new scenery as Mina and her family relocate, and brought along some new characters and their attendant drama. Most of the action takes place in a small Louisiana town where everyone knows everyone else (and their business). Primarily aimed at the young adult market, Mrs. Pauley's books also appeal to the teens inside the adults we have become.
While you most certainly can read Still Sucks To Be Me alone, why not read both books, for twice the fun? Recommended reading for those looking for something different and fun to read. You won't be sorry!
An advance copy of Still Sucks To Be Me was provided to me free by Kimberly Pauley in exchange for this review, however, long before I was able to get my hands on the advance copy, I pre-ordered the hardcover version because I knew this is one book that belongs in my permanent collection. This review has been simultaneously posted on Amazon.com, Dragon Views, Library Thing and YA Books Central.com
The All-true Confessions of Mina Smith, Teen Vampire
By Kimberly Pauley
Mirrorstone (11 May, 2010),
Hardcover, 384 pages
Rated 5 stars of 5 possible.
Coming soon... and every bit as good as her first book. Kimberly Pauley has done it again... Yes, I can say that because I'm one of the lucky recipients of an advance copy of Still Sucks To Be Me, which arrived in my possession on May 6. Kimberly writes in a fast, easy-breezy style that will charm you and keep you turning the pages to see what happens next.
Still Sucks To Be Me takes up where Kimberly's first book, leaves off, and moves the story of Mina
While you most certainly can read Still Sucks To Be Me alone, why not read both books, for twice the fun? Recommended reading for those looking for something different and fun to read. You won't be sorry!
An advance copy of Still Sucks To Be Me was provided to me free by Kimberly Pauley in exchange for this review, however, long before I was able to get my hands on the advance copy, I pre-ordered the hardcover version because I knew this is one book that belongs in my permanent collection. This review has been simultaneously posted on Amazon.com, Dragon Views, Library Thing and YA Books Central.com
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Strangely Humorous
Maxxed Out
David Collins
William Morrow (2009)
Hardcover, 320 pages
Rated 4 stars of 5 possible
Billionnaire Robert Maxx does not want to be seen as a nice guy. He wants to be seen as a winner. With the scruples of a rat, Maxx does not mind trampling the litte guys on his way to the top. Except that now, his empire, built on a framework of lies, is crumbling. His finances are a mess and he needs a huge loan to acquire Rockefeller Center... and has nowhere to turn.
Maxxed Out examines the day-to-day dealings of big business and portrays one thoroughly unlikeable guy (Robert Maxx) beside a few more likeable characters. While the book isn't particularly long, it is also not fast-paced. The motivations and the lives of the characters are examined in so far as the characters interact with one another. Nearly everyone has a motive to kill Robert Maxx, and at least three people visited him on the last night of his life...
Recommended reading for those who would like a glimpse into the world of big business with a little bit of mystery attached. This review has been simultaneously published on Dragonviews and LibraryThing.
David Collins
William Morrow (2009)
Hardcover, 320 pages
Rated 4 stars of 5 possible
Billionnaire Robert Maxx does not want to be seen as a nice guy. He wants to be seen as a winner. With the scruples of a rat, Maxx does not mind trampling the litte guys on his way to the top. Except that now, his empire, built on a framework of lies, is crumbling. His finances are a mess and he needs a huge loan to acquire Rockefeller Center... and has nowhere to turn.
Maxxed Out examines the day-to-day dealings of big business and portrays one thoroughly unlikeable guy (Robert Maxx) beside a few more likeable characters. While the book isn't particularly long, it is also not fast-paced. The motivations and the lives of the characters are examined in so far as the characters interact with one another. Nearly everyone has a motive to kill Robert Maxx, and at least three people visited him on the last night of his life...
Recommended reading for those who would like a glimpse into the world of big business with a little bit of mystery attached. This review has been simultaneously published on Dragonviews and LibraryThing.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Search For Fun
Search for the Flaming Chalice
By Robert Shaw Kesler
Paperback: 153 pages
Publisher: Thatcher Forest (1998)
Rated: 4 stars of 5 possible
Search for the Flaming Chalice is an anthropomorphic tale of three martins - Carmen, Alger, and Gilbert - on a quest to find the flaming chalice, which will enable them to unleash the power of the purple stone they carry. The humor, magic and adventure combine to create a delightful and sometimes suspenseful tale that will appeal to fantasy fans, both young and old. The more experienced reader will recognize literary allusions to Shirley Jackson's "The Lottery," Shelley's Frankenstein, Rossetti's "Goblin Market," Dante's Inferno, and more embedded within the story. Themes in the novel include friendship, family, courage, persistence, teamwork, and more, which makes the novel not only entertaining for younger readers but also a teaching tool for those a little older.
The main villain of the piece is Attila, an evil sorcerer. I found him a bit weak in characterization, almost a joke at some points and perhaps too easily defeated as well... yet this didn't detract too much from my over-all enjoyment of the story, as too strong a villain would not be appropriate for a children's story.
That said, I hereby give this highly enjoyable tale a strong 4 star rating for being both entertaining and educational. I recommend this book to readers age 8 and up.
This review has been simultaneously published on Amazon.com, Dragonviews, and LibraryThing.
By Robert Shaw Kesler
Paperback: 153 pages
Publisher: Thatcher Forest (1998)
Rated: 4 stars of 5 possible
Search for the Flaming Chalice is an anthropomorphic tale of three martins - Carmen, Alger, and Gilbert - on a quest to find the flaming chalice, which will enable them to unleash the power of the purple stone they carry. The humor, magic and adventure combine to create a delightful and sometimes suspenseful tale that will appeal to fantasy fans, both young and old. The more experienced reader will recognize literary allusions to Shirley Jackson's "The Lottery," Shelley's Frankenstein, Rossetti's "Goblin Market," Dante's Inferno, and more embedded within the story. Themes in the novel include friendship, family, courage, persistence, teamwork, and more, which makes the novel not only entertaining for younger readers but also a teaching tool for those a little older.
The main villain of the piece is Attila, an evil sorcerer. I found him a bit weak in characterization, almost a joke at some points and perhaps too easily defeated as well... yet this didn't detract too much from my over-all enjoyment of the story, as too strong a villain would not be appropriate for a children's story.
That said, I hereby give this highly enjoyable tale a strong 4 star rating for being both entertaining and educational. I recommend this book to readers age 8 and up.
This review has been simultaneously published on Amazon.com, Dragonviews, and LibraryThing.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Secrets Revealed
Deep Secret
By Diana Wynne Jones
Hardcover: 383 pages
Publisher: Tor Books (March 1999)
Rated 4 stars of 5 possible
Rupert Venables is the Junior Magid assigned to Earth and also to the planets of the Koyrfonic Empire. When the Emperor dies without a known heir, Rupert begins his investigation and attempts to find the heir, whom Rupert knows must be there somewhere... Then, to complicate matters, Rupert's senior dies and appoints Rupert the senior, which, of course means that Rupert needs to leave the Koyrfonic empire and search Earth for a suitable magid to fill his old position.
The intense and sometimes humorous tale of Rupert's adventures - and mis-adventures - appeals to fantasy lovers, both young and old. The setting of the story in an alternate England adds a layer of charm to the story, even though the envelope of suspension of disbelief is pushed a bit far in some places. Readers deeply engrossed in the story likely won't notice the unbelievability too much.
Recommended for readers age 10 and up who are looking for a page-turning, fun to read adventure.
This review was simultaneously published on Amazon.com, Dragonviews, LibraryThing and YABooks Central.com.
By Diana Wynne Jones
Hardcover: 383 pages
Publisher: Tor Books (March 1999)
Rated 4 stars of 5 possible
Rupert Venables is the Junior Magid assigned to Earth and also to the planets of the Koyrfonic Empire. When the Emperor dies without a known heir, Rupert begins his investigation and attempts to find the heir, whom Rupert knows must be there somewhere... Then, to complicate matters, Rupert's senior dies and appoints Rupert the senior, which, of course means that Rupert needs to leave the Koyrfonic empire and search Earth for a suitable magid to fill his old position.
The intense and sometimes humorous tale of Rupert's adventures - and mis-adventures - appeals to fantasy lovers, both young and old. The setting of the story in an alternate England adds a layer of charm to the story, even though the envelope of suspension of disbelief is pushed a bit far in some places. Readers deeply engrossed in the story likely won't notice the unbelievability too much.
Recommended for readers age 10 and up who are looking for a page-turning, fun to read adventure.
This review was simultaneously published on Amazon.com, Dragonviews, LibraryThing and YABooks Central.com.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
A Magical Adventure
Pasha and the Lost Mountain
by Gary Webster
T.C.C (The Children's Collective)
Kindle format: 304 kb
Paperback: 222 pages
Publisher: Fullproof Publishing Inc (June 26, 2009)
Rated 4 stars of 5 possible.
Pasha and the Lost Mountain is a magical tale about the adventures of two children and their dogs. The ancient plot of good against evil is depicted in a new series of books aimed at young adults who like a little fantasy in their reading material. This fun and fanciful page-turner appeals to all ages.
While some readers may not appreciate some of the humor in this highly readable novel, the majority of readers will probably like the action and adventure the protagonists experience while on their missions. This author, in his debut novel, has created some lovable and realistic characters.
Recommended for readers of fantasy and fiction ages 10 and up.
This review is simultaneously published on Amazon.com, Dragonviews, and LibraryThing.
by Gary Webster
T.C.C (The Children's Collective)
Kindle format: 304 kb
Paperback: 222 pages
Publisher: Fullproof Publishing Inc (June 26, 2009)
Rated 4 stars of 5 possible.
Pasha and the Lost Mountain is a magical tale about the adventures of two children and their dogs. The ancient plot of good against evil is depicted in a new series of books aimed at young adults who like a little fantasy in their reading material. This fun and fanciful page-turner appeals to all ages.
While some readers may not appreciate some of the humor in this highly readable novel, the majority of readers will probably like the action and adventure the protagonists experience while on their missions. This author, in his debut novel, has created some lovable and realistic characters.
Recommended for readers of fantasy and fiction ages 10 and up.
This review is simultaneously published on Amazon.com, Dragonviews, and LibraryThing.
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Sweet Comfort
The Sugar Queen
By Sarah Addison Allen
Hardcover: 288 pages
Publisher: Bantam (May 20, 2008)
Rated 5 stars of 5 possible
Sweet and bidible, yet shy twenty-seven-year-old Josey Cirrini lives with and cares for her aging mother. Though Josey has outgrown her devilish childhood pranks, everyone remembers the unlikeable child she was and will not let Josey forget that part of herself. To compensate for having no friends and comfort herself, Josey eats all manner of sweets and reads romance novels while hiding in her secret closet each night.
Sarah Addison Allen weaves a spell-binding tale of romance and mystery that will keep you on the edge of your seat and turning page after page to find out just how much Josey doesn't know about the father she idolizes, even though he passed from her life when she was still very young. We also discover why Josey's overbearing and quite unpleasant mother is so bitter.
While being somewhat predictable, The Sugar Queen is a fresh look at romance with a small dose of mystery thrown in and generously laced with humor and compassion. This book is eminently readable and not too sticky sweet despite it's constant references to sugary treats in the names of every chapter as well as in several points throughout the text. Recommended for romance readers as well as those looking for something different.
This review is simultaneously published on Amazon.com, Dragonviews, and Library Thing
By Sarah Addison Allen
Hardcover: 288 pages
Publisher: Bantam (May 20, 2008)
Rated 5 stars of 5 possible
Sweet and bidible, yet shy twenty-seven-year-old Josey Cirrini lives with and cares for her aging mother. Though Josey has outgrown her devilish childhood pranks, everyone remembers the unlikeable child she was and will not let Josey forget that part of herself. To compensate for having no friends and comfort herself, Josey eats all manner of sweets and reads romance novels while hiding in her secret closet each night.
Sarah Addison Allen weaves a spell-binding tale of romance and mystery that will keep you on the edge of your seat and turning page after page to find out just how much Josey doesn't know about the father she idolizes, even though he passed from her life when she was still very young. We also discover why Josey's overbearing and quite unpleasant mother is so bitter.
While being somewhat predictable, The Sugar Queen is a fresh look at romance with a small dose of mystery thrown in and generously laced with humor and compassion. This book is eminently readable and not too sticky sweet despite it's constant references to sugary treats in the names of every chapter as well as in several points throughout the text. Recommended for romance readers as well as those looking for something different.
This review is simultaneously published on Amazon.com, Dragonviews, and Library Thing
Monday, August 24, 2009
Bizarre Excuses
The Cat Ate My Gym Suit
by Paula Danziger
Format: Paperback, 148 pages
Publisher: Yearling (1983)
Rated 3 stars of 5 possible
Marcy Lewis, a girl with a poor self-image and a slight weight problem hates gym class, so she gives her teacher some bizarre and untrue excuses why she can't particpate in the class activities. This book's title is just one of those excuses. Then, along comes Ms. Finney, a new English teacher who does not believe in saluting the flag and teaches her classes using controversial methods that make the more conservative members of the community - including Mr. Stone, the school principal - feel uncomfortable. Marcy's father is also opposed to the methods used by Ms. Finney. The thing is, Ms. Finney not only teaches good English and makes her classes interesting, she also teaches good commuication skills, thinking outside the box, and gives the students a new-found confidence in themselves.
The concept is good, the writing decent, but the humor falls flat all too often, so I'm downgrading the rating of this book to just three stars because I don't feel the story has the impact it could possibly have. Of the suporting cast of characters, Marcy's mother could be a little more aware that she's probably a big part of her daugher's weight problem by serving ice cream whenever Marcy comes home after a bad day at school - of which there are far too many... Mother, of course does realize her contribution to Marcy's excess weight but is rather slow to do anything about it; nor does Marcy ever seem to realize what she is doing to herself.
And then there's the little brother, Stuart. He loves Marcy with the innocence that only very young children seem to have, but he's far too cute and is not just a scene stealer but a complete show-stealer. Too much focus is on little brother. More focus should be on Marcy, since she is the main character and little Stuart only part of a large supporting cast.
Recommended for Paula Danziger fans... and might be usable as a discussion book in junior highschool English classes. Regrettably, it's not for everyone.
by Paula Danziger
Format: Paperback, 148 pages
Publisher: Yearling (1983)
Rated 3 stars of 5 possible
Marcy Lewis, a girl with a poor self-image and a slight weight problem hates gym class, so she gives her teacher some bizarre and untrue excuses why she can't particpate in the class activities. This book's title is just one of those excuses. Then, along comes Ms. Finney, a new English teacher who does not believe in saluting the flag and teaches her classes using controversial methods that make the more conservative members of the community - including Mr. Stone, the school principal - feel uncomfortable. Marcy's father is also opposed to the methods used by Ms. Finney. The thing is, Ms. Finney not only teaches good English and makes her classes interesting, she also teaches good commuication skills, thinking outside the box, and gives the students a new-found confidence in themselves.
The concept is good, the writing decent, but the humor falls flat all too often, so I'm downgrading the rating of this book to just three stars because I don't feel the story has the impact it could possibly have. Of the suporting cast of characters, Marcy's mother could be a little more aware that she's probably a big part of her daugher's weight problem by serving ice cream whenever Marcy comes home after a bad day at school - of which there are far too many... Mother, of course does realize her contribution to Marcy's excess weight but is rather slow to do anything about it; nor does Marcy ever seem to realize what she is doing to herself.
And then there's the little brother, Stuart. He loves Marcy with the innocence that only very young children seem to have, but he's far too cute and is not just a scene stealer but a complete show-stealer. Too much focus is on little brother. More focus should be on Marcy, since she is the main character and little Stuart only part of a large supporting cast.
Recommended for Paula Danziger fans... and might be usable as a discussion book in junior highschool English classes. Regrettably, it's not for everyone.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Retreat into Fantasy
Valdemar universe: The Mage Wars Trilogy
By Mercedes Lackey and Larry Dixon
Series Rating: 4 stars of 5 possible
Book 1: The Black Gryphon
Paperback: 464 pages
DAW (January 1, 1995)
Rated: 5 stars of 5 possible
Book 2: The White Gryphon
Paperback: 400 pages
DAW (March 1, 1996)
Rated: 4 stars of 5 possible
Book 3: The Silver Gryphon
Paperback: 400 pages
DAW (March 1, 1997)
Rated: 3 stars of 5 possible
Roughly 20 years ago, Mercedes Lackey imagined a universe which she called Valdemar, and began writing tales of that universe. Fast-forward about 10 years from the beginning publication of the Valdemar universe tales to the Mage Wars series. These three tales of Valdemar are most definitely not the first and might not even be the best; however, I did find them well worth reading.
The Black Gryphon, Skandranon, awed and amazed me both with his irreverent views of his situation and his irascible temper. Skan's sarcasm was both appropriate to the situation and also funny. At the same time, his brash and over-confident manner leads Skan both into and out of trouble. I found Skan's friend, Amberdrake intriguing... an enigma to most, since he reveals as little of himself as possible.
The White Gryphon takes up the story of Skandranon, Amberdrake and their people ten years after the cataclysm which destroyed the stronghold of the world's most powerful Mage, killing Urtho, creator of the gryphons, and sending his forces into exile. Having built a secure stronghold, the people of White Gryphon soon discover that they've erected their city on land claimed by the Black Kings, who suddenly appear in the harbor aboard a fleet of ships ready for battle. Travel to the homeland of the Black Kings and negotiations for a peaceful alliance account for most of the content of this book, which could have been better thought through... although a who-done-it mystery is included once the people of White Gryphon reach the court of the Black Kings.
The Silver Gryphon begins a dozen years after peace between the people of White Gryphon and the Black Kings has been negotiated. Amberdrake and Skandranon have settled into comfortable lives, but things are not so tranquil for their children. At first, I was disappointed that this third volume deals with the adventures of the next generation rather than directly with Amberdrake and Skandranon... until I realized that intervals between the events depicted in these novels would mean that the heroes of the first and second novels have aged quite a bit; time for someone else to take center stage. This novel does not seem to be as well thought out as the first two, yet it is worth reading.
I can recommend these to fantasy readers of all ages from 13 and up.
By Mercedes Lackey and Larry Dixon
Series Rating: 4 stars of 5 possible
Book 1: The Black Gryphon
Paperback: 464 pages
DAW (January 1, 1995)
Rated: 5 stars of 5 possible
Book 2: The White Gryphon
Paperback: 400 pages
DAW (March 1, 1996)
Rated: 4 stars of 5 possible
Book 3: The Silver Gryphon
Paperback: 400 pages
DAW (March 1, 1997)
Rated: 3 stars of 5 possible
Roughly 20 years ago, Mercedes Lackey imagined a universe which she called Valdemar, and began writing tales of that universe. Fast-forward about 10 years from the beginning publication of the Valdemar universe tales to the Mage Wars series. These three tales of Valdemar are most definitely not the first and might not even be the best; however, I did find them well worth reading.
The Black Gryphon, Skandranon, awed and amazed me both with his irreverent views of his situation and his irascible temper. Skan's sarcasm was both appropriate to the situation and also funny. At the same time, his brash and over-confident manner leads Skan both into and out of trouble. I found Skan's friend, Amberdrake intriguing... an enigma to most, since he reveals as little of himself as possible.
The White Gryphon takes up the story of Skandranon, Amberdrake and their people ten years after the cataclysm which destroyed the stronghold of the world's most powerful Mage, killing Urtho, creator of the gryphons, and sending his forces into exile. Having built a secure stronghold, the people of White Gryphon soon discover that they've erected their city on land claimed by the Black Kings, who suddenly appear in the harbor aboard a fleet of ships ready for battle. Travel to the homeland of the Black Kings and negotiations for a peaceful alliance account for most of the content of this book, which could have been better thought through... although a who-done-it mystery is included once the people of White Gryphon reach the court of the Black Kings.
The Silver Gryphon begins a dozen years after peace between the people of White Gryphon and the Black Kings has been negotiated. Amberdrake and Skandranon have settled into comfortable lives, but things are not so tranquil for their children. At first, I was disappointed that this third volume deals with the adventures of the next generation rather than directly with Amberdrake and Skandranon... until I realized that intervals between the events depicted in these novels would mean that the heroes of the first and second novels have aged quite a bit; time for someone else to take center stage. This novel does not seem to be as well thought out as the first two, yet it is worth reading.
I can recommend these to fantasy readers of all ages from 13 and up.
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Adventure Awaits
The Thief Queen's Daughter
By Elizabeth HaydonHardcover: 320 pages
Publisher: Starscape (June 26, 2007)
Reading level: Young Adult
Rated 4 stars of 5 possible
I seem to have an affinity for choosing middle books of a series... but no matter. This second voume from The Lost Journals of Ven Polypheme stands alone well. Nothing happening here depends on anything that happened in the first volume and though there are hints at what is to come in the third volume, those hints do not overwhelm the plot or readability of this volume.
I seem to have an affinity for choosing middle books of a series... but no matter. This second voume from The Lost Journals of Ven Polypheme stands alone well. Nothing happening here depends on anything that happened in the first volume and though there are hints at what is to come in the third volume, those hints do not overwhelm the plot or readability of this volume.
The title character is a sassy, smart-mouthed kid, but also a resourceful and loyal friend. One should not trust too much in what she says - her mother has taught this girl some terrible things. Still, I could not help but admire the girl's audacity and downright outrageousness.
The Thief Queen's daughter has everything in it a fantasy afficionado could want. Adventure, drama, suspense, humor and (of course) plenty of fantasy. This book is a quick and easy read that I can recommend to fantasy lovers of all ages from 11 on up.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Revealing Insights
Mommies Behaving Badly
Roz Bailey
Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Kensington (September 1, 2007)
Rated: 3 stars of 5 Possible
Some signs are hard to ignore... others you don't see until it's too late...and some guide you right where you need to be.
Ruby takes her stolen car as a sign that she and her family need to move away from the hustle and bustle of New York city. At first she finds it difficult to get to know her new neigbors and her husband is constantly away on business. If it wasn't for her new friend Ariel, another transplanted New Yorker, Ruby would be about ready to give it all up. And then life takes an unexpected turn, leaving Ruby and her children in a far-from-familiar place.
By turns witty and insightful, Roz Bailey's novel is chock full of adventure as she copes with first the move from New York, and then with the ups-and-downs of her new life and new-found fame when she publishes her new novel, which her agent is excited about but her old publisher wants nothing to do with.
Never a dull moment passes while reading this story that takes an honest (if at times, all too revealing) look at marriage and family.
Recommended for readers of chick lit ages 16 and up.
Roz Bailey
Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Kensington (September 1, 2007)
Rated: 3 stars of 5 Possible
Some signs are hard to ignore... others you don't see until it's too late...and some guide you right where you need to be.
Ruby takes her stolen car as a sign that she and her family need to move away from the hustle and bustle of New York city. At first she finds it difficult to get to know her new neigbors and her husband is constantly away on business. If it wasn't for her new friend Ariel, another transplanted New Yorker, Ruby would be about ready to give it all up. And then life takes an unexpected turn, leaving Ruby and her children in a far-from-familiar place.
By turns witty and insightful, Roz Bailey's novel is chock full of adventure as she copes with first the move from New York, and then with the ups-and-downs of her new life and new-found fame when she publishes her new novel, which her agent is excited about but her old publisher wants nothing to do with.
Never a dull moment passes while reading this story that takes an honest (if at times, all too revealing) look at marriage and family.
Recommended for readers of chick lit ages 16 and up.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
A Magical Adventure
Don't Hex with Texas
by Shanna Swendson
Paperback: 304 pages
Publisher: Ballantine Books (April 29, 2008)
Rated: 4 stars of 5 possible
Don't Hex with Texas probably would have gotten a 5 except the first three or four chapters felt forced to me. I don't know if the writing could have taken some revision or if that part of the story just didn't work well. The interest was there, it just seemed too odd somehow to fit with the rest of the book.
The first few pages of Don't Hex with Texas hooked my interest so I couldn't put the book down, despite the awkward feeling of the story I had in those pages and a couple chapters beyond. I was just too swept up in Katie Chandler's adventure to care much about that awkwardness; maybe I wouldn't have had that feeling If I had read the first three books in the series ahead of this.
Coming into the series in the 4th book could put the reader at a disadvantage, but I thought Don't Hex With Texas stands alone well. The characters are well developed, there's enough fantasy to the story to keep it interesting for me, and some romance is thrown in to the mix. In all, Don't Hex With Texas is a blend of madcap comedy and all-around fun that I can recommend to anyone 12 and up.
by Shanna Swendson
Paperback: 304 pages
Publisher: Ballantine Books (April 29, 2008)
Rated: 4 stars of 5 possible
Don't Hex with Texas probably would have gotten a 5 except the first three or four chapters felt forced to me. I don't know if the writing could have taken some revision or if that part of the story just didn't work well. The interest was there, it just seemed too odd somehow to fit with the rest of the book.
The first few pages of Don't Hex with Texas hooked my interest so I couldn't put the book down, despite the awkward feeling of the story I had in those pages and a couple chapters beyond. I was just too swept up in Katie Chandler's adventure to care much about that awkwardness; maybe I wouldn't have had that feeling If I had read the first three books in the series ahead of this.
Coming into the series in the 4th book could put the reader at a disadvantage, but I thought Don't Hex With Texas stands alone well. The characters are well developed, there's enough fantasy to the story to keep it interesting for me, and some romance is thrown in to the mix. In all, Don't Hex With Texas is a blend of madcap comedy and all-around fun that I can recommend to anyone 12 and up.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Vampire Hunters
Once Bitten, Twice Shy
By Jennifer Rardin
Publisher: Orbit (October, 2007)
Paperback: 312 pages
Rating: 5 stars of 5 possible
Action, adventure, romance and suspense are all tucked neatly into one package that's just the beginning of a not-to-be-missed series featuring Jaz Parks; a sometimes sassy, sometimes witty gal who works for the CIA. She's got an unusual talent - sensing the presence of vampires. This talent makes her the highly desired partner of a most unusual assassin. I'll let Jaz tell you about him.
"My boss is Vayl, born in Romania in 1744. Died there too, at the hand of his vampire wife, Liliana. But that's ancient history. For the moment Vayl works for the C.I.A. doing what he does best--assassination. And I help. You could say I'm an Assistant Assassin. But then I'd have to kick your..." (Rardin, 2007)
Written in a lively, friendly style, this fast-paced novel is a gripper and a page-turner. The savvy reader will soon catch on that Jaz is hiding her vulnerablity behind that tough-as-nails exterior personna she displays to the world around her and doesn't want to admit that she's human... or is she? Hints are dropped that something which happened in this gal's past might have changed her.
Romances aren't usually my thing but the sub-category of paranormals is wide open, uncharted reading territory for me. I have a favorable impression though from reading this sample offering, which I recommend to those 16 and up seeking something different than the usual romantic suspense novel.
By Jennifer Rardin
Publisher: Orbit (October, 2007)
Paperback: 312 pages
Rating: 5 stars of 5 possible
Action, adventure, romance and suspense are all tucked neatly into one package that's just the beginning of a not-to-be-missed series featuring Jaz Parks; a sometimes sassy, sometimes witty gal who works for the CIA. She's got an unusual talent - sensing the presence of vampires. This talent makes her the highly desired partner of a most unusual assassin. I'll let Jaz tell you about him.
"My boss is Vayl, born in Romania in 1744. Died there too, at the hand of his vampire wife, Liliana. But that's ancient history. For the moment Vayl works for the C.I.A. doing what he does best--assassination. And I help. You could say I'm an Assistant Assassin. But then I'd have to kick your..." (Rardin, 2007)
Written in a lively, friendly style, this fast-paced novel is a gripper and a page-turner. The savvy reader will soon catch on that Jaz is hiding her vulnerablity behind that tough-as-nails exterior personna she displays to the world around her and doesn't want to admit that she's human... or is she? Hints are dropped that something which happened in this gal's past might have changed her.
Romances aren't usually my thing but the sub-category of paranormals is wide open, uncharted reading territory for me. I have a favorable impression though from reading this sample offering, which I recommend to those 16 and up seeking something different than the usual romantic suspense novel.
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