July 14, 2013 by Caroline Barker

Author post/biog by Tim O’Rourke

Moonbeam (The Moon Trilogy, #2) Hi guys, following our review of Moonbeam (The Moon Trilogy, Book 2) we have a fantastic author post/biog from my favourite author, Tim O’Rourke! We would like to thank Tim for taking the time to write this for A Reader’s Review Blog. We hope you all enjoy this treat as much as we did. Over to you, Tim :-

“I started writing at the age of fourteen. As a kid I had struggled with reading and writing, but after discovering the works of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, I started to write myself. I wrote mainly short stories at first and these were often about ghosts or had some kind of macabre undertone. In fact, Isidor’s ‘Penny Dreadfuls’ which I included at the end of ‘Dead Angels’ (Kiera Hudson Series Two) Book 2 were all written by me between the ages of 14 and 15. I included those stories as Isidor was about 14 when he wrote them deep within the Hollows, so I thought they would be quite fitting.

Just like Isidor, I continued to read and write and it became my passion. I was taught to read by a dear friend, who just like Melody Rose, sat with me for hours and hours as I tried to make sense of the words.

I wrote poems, books and plays all the way through college, although I never tried to get any of my work published at that time. I didn’t have the confidence in myself or my writing. Shoot forward in time twenty or more years, and it wasn’t until my wife pulled a huge box from beneath the stairs and asked, “Tim what’s the point in writing all this stuff if you never share it with anyone?”, that I thought perhaps she had a point. I spent the next few years sending my work out to publishers and agents but without success. It wasn’t until I had written the first ‘Doorways’ book and ‘Black Hill Farm’ book that I decided I wouldn’t send them out to publishers or agents but publish them myself on Amazon. I remember thinking to myself as I hit the upload button on Amazon, that I would be happy if I sold 50 books. To my surprise, I sold more than that. But it wasn’t until I wrote the first Kiera Hudson book (Vampire Shift) that things really changed for me. That book sold really well and still does two years later. Kiera Hudson seemed to connect with people. I get more emails about Kiera then any of my other characters. People really seem to love the character and identify with her on some level. I think it’s because Kiera struggles and each of us do that every single day one way or another.

It’s kind of odd because as a teenager I remember reading that Conan Doyle got tired of writing about Sherlock Holmes – so much so that he killed Holmes off in ‘The Final Problem’. At the time there was a public outcry demanding that Holmes be bought back to life. Now, I’ve not had anything like that and I wouldn’t compare my writing or characters to those created by the genius Conan Doyle, but when I let it be known that there wouldn’t be any more Kiera Hudson books after ‘Vampire Hollows (Kiera Hudson Series One) Book 5, I did get my fair share of emails asking me to write more Kiera books. It was then I realised how fond and attached some people had come to this character. So before publishing ‘Vampire Hollows’ I went back and rewrote the ending, leaving the pages open for more Kiera Hudson adventures. I’m now writing the eighth Kiera Hudson book in the second series and I’m very glad that I am. Unlike Conan Doyle, who really didn’t want to write any more Holmes books, I do want to write more Kiera Hudson books but only if I can think of great adventures for her to have. I do have a third series planned. But like Conan Doyle and his relationship with Holmes, there are plenty of other stories I want to tell other than those about Kiera Hudson. I have so many characters roaming around in my head that want to be let out, that’s why this year, I have taken so time away from Kiera, and written stories about some of those other characters whose stories I want to tell. I absolutely love writing about Sydney Hart and I have plenty more mysteries for her to solve – I can’t wait to start writing them. There is also Winter McCall and Thaddeus Blake from my ‘Moon Trilogy’, who I also love writing about. Thaddeus and Winnie are kind of special to me as I wrote the first draft of ‘Moonlight’ when I was 14. I’ve made some changes to the overall story but it remains pretty much the same. In fact, if you read the first draft it is virtually identical to what you read today – other than Winnie was originally called Frannie. Thaddeus had an identical twin brother in the original story, but that was edited out. Ruby Little was a new character I introduced and I’ve had a lot of fun writing about her.

In ‘Moonbeam’, I really wanted to explore Thaddeus’ back story as I knew it would impact on the rest of the series. Thaddeus is a mystery not only to the reader but to me also. He seems quite allusive not only on the page but inside my head too. I know Thaddeus’ story and how it ends in for him and Winnie and I think the reader will be more surprised by what happens than in any of my other series. Like all of my books, I have been dropping clues since ‘Moonlight’ Book 1 and even more in ‘Moonbeam’ Book 2. At the end of book 3, ‘Moonshine’, I’m hoping the reader will gasp as all the little pieces of the jigsaw slide into place. I’m hoping to have ‘Moonshine’ published by the end of the year.

Between now and then, I will be publishing ‘Dead Push’ (Kiera Hudson Series Two) Book 7 at the end of July, then I’m doing the rewrites for ‘Flashes’. Over the coming months I will be writing the second Samantha Carter book, ‘Dead Lost’ (Kiera Hudson Series Two) Book 8, the final ‘Doorways’ book and working on ‘Pick’ which is a zombie novel I’m writing with my son. There are some more surprises to come, but they wouldn’t be a surprise if I told you about them now!”

TIM O’ROURKE

You can find my review of Tim’s Moonbeam (The Moon Trilogy, Book 2) below or by clicking on the link in the title. Check out our blog over the coming days for a giveaway of Tim’s Moonlight (The Moon Trilogy, Book 1) and also Vampire Shift (Keira Hudson, Series One Book One)! Both books will be paper copies and signed by Tim O’Rourke himself!!! – Caroline Barker, A Reader’s Review Blog

July 14, 2013 by Caroline Barker

Moonbeam (The Moon Trilogy, Book Two) by Tim O’Rourke

Moonbeam (The Moon Trilogy, #2) Wow! Wow! And wow! Tim O’Rourke never ceases to amaze as reading his books provides the reader with shock after shock! Recommended for readers of 17 yrs and over, Moonbeam (Book 2 of The Moon Trilogy) is a very dark paranormal horror that also ticks all of the boxes when it comes to drama, love, action and adventure as well as it’s fair share of gore.

After being acquainted with the characters of Moonlight (The Moon Trilogy, Book One), Thaddeus Blake and Winter McCall – where the setting was, if anything, a little eerie and strange – the reader was provided with a great deal of action as the story unfolded and especially towards the end which is right where Moonbeam takes over. Thaddeus’ mansion is left burning as Thad and Winnie make their way to Scotland in the hope of finding the Moonbeam, as well as trying to escape from the police and the vampires that will be sure to hunt them down.

The Moonbeam is a precious stone believed to destroy all of the vampires and it may be Thad’s only hope in preventing the vampires fom tracking him. Unfortunately, even this precious stone does not come without its history, as Thaddeus is well aware. Thaddeus had the Moonbeam in his possession many years before and it had caused nothing but deep, dark troubles – all of which the reader hears about as the story drifts in and out of the present to Thaddeus’ dark past. It seems that with small doses of happiness, Thad’s life has been overrun with tragedy. As we learn more of Thaddeus’ history the reader cannot help but feel for him deeply, which is a different take of him than we are used to with Moonlight.

Events and settings are not so eerie and strange in Moonbeam as Thaddeus and Winnie have a deeper understanding of each other. Winnie has to come to terms with the events that have taken place and the reader hopes that she can put her trust in Thaddeus to look out for her and protect her. As we begin book 2 the adventure is well under way, not only with Thad and Winnie travelling to Scotland, but with the police following up on Thaddeus’ burning mansion and trying to locate him. Therefore, there is a faster pace throughout Moonbeam. However, the horror is as equal to or even moreso in Moonbeam especially the scenes of Ruby Little (the ghost of Winnie’s best friend) that are very disturbing. You’ll definitely be wanting to pull those bed covers over you when you read this!

As I explained in my review of Moonlight (Book 1 of The Moon Trilogy), at the time I wanted to jump into the story to pull Winnie out – to free her from all danger and from the strange Thaddeus. However, with Moonbeam I wanted to be Winnie, in the knowledge that Thaddeus would protect me from danger and that my feelings towards him were growing stronger. In a short space of time she has come so far with Thad; after him finding her begging on the streets of London, offering her accommodation in return for her to carry out household duties (and occasionally stand in the moonlight!) and then being attacked and watch their home burn to presently making their way to Scotland.

With every one of Tim O’Rourke’s sequels I have read so far they can all be read as stand alone’s as Tim is kind enough and clear enough to provide just enough information for the reader to understand the characters and the events taking place. HOWEVER, the reader will seriously be missing out on sooo much more! I strongly recommend that the earlier books are read to completely follow these characters on their great journey, to see them blossom. And I can promise you that you’ll fall in love with them.

I loved every page of Moonbeam until I reached those dreaded words, ‘To be continued…’, at which point I just wanted to scream, ‘No! How can he do this?!’ Talk about leaving the reader in suspense! ‘That’s a little dramatic!’ I hear you say in regards to my reaction – well, you most probably haven’t read a Tim O’Rourke book. They are frightfully addictive, powerful, exciting, horrific and fun. Believe me, you’ll constantly find yourself rooting for your favourite characters as Tim passes his passion onto the reader!!!

Moonbeam was provided by the author, Tim O’Rourke, for the purpose of a fair and honest review.

Reviewed by Caroline Barker

July 11, 2013 by Caroline Barker

Vampire Shift – The Graphic Novel (Volume One) (Keira Hudson Series One) by Tim O’Rourke and illustrated by Craig Twyman

Vampire Shift - The Graphic Novel (Kiera Hudson Series One) Vol. 1

I always read Tim O’Rourke’s work with the feeling that I am in the story with the characters and witnessing up close all of the events that take place as his novels are so full of life with believable characters. And yet I find that in Vampire Shift – The Graphic Novel (Volume One), with Craig Twyman’s graphics, the story becomes even more real – if that is at all possible!

Tim has this knack throughout his books to make them fun as well as descriptive, providing his readers with very strong imageries. With the help of Craig Twyman he has turned his first Keira Hudson novel into this beautifully illustrated graphic piece of art, keeping in the short, punchy descriptions and even illustrating the subtle points, i.e. car wheels squelching in mud, the flick of a cigarette, etc. This all creates a vivid scene in one’s head as it emphasizes the action, making it more dramatic. The artwork is so good that it captures even the expressions on characters faces and they are so accurate! It is amazing!!!

Vampire Shift – The Graphic Novel illustrates Tim’s clarity in his writing as his descriptions in the novels really do help you to visualise very similar scenes to the ones shown in this book. Craig Twyman has been able to easily take Tim’s descriptions and turn them into another work of art through the use of illustration. It has been carried out in such a way that it is so readable and easy to follow.

On appearance it is very similar to that of a comic book, however I personally always found comics difficult to follow as there were very little explanations and not much dialogue. Here we have the description of characters/events as well as great dialogue and fantastic visuals. The graphics themselves reminded me of storyboards that are used in tv and film to aid the film makers create a scene-by-scene visual. This graphic novel would surely come in handy if Keira Hudson was to ever make it to to our screens!

The first few chapters of Vampire Shift are also available as podcasts via iTunes for FREE! It would be an experience to hear the narrative story, along with the sound effects, (from the podcasts) at the same time as following The Graphic Novel. This would give a sense of the whole atmosphere of the story.

A must-have for any fan, this is great if you would like to recap on some of the details of the story. BUT this is also a fantastic introduction into the Keira Hudson series, with the hope that a new reader would then go on to read the full novels of the series. You can click on the links to find the synopsis to Vampire Shift (Keira Hudson Series One, Book One) and my review (or below for my review), however please take note that this was one of my very first reviews, before this blog was created!

A few weeks back I was very lucky to win a signed copy of the front cover of Vampre Shift – The Graphic Novel after entering one of Tim’s competitions. I have just ordered the signed paperback copy of this Graphic Novel from Tim’s Keira Hudson shop! Go and take a sneaky peek!

I thank Tim for providing me with an e-copy of Vampire Shift – The Graphic Novel (Volume One), and for writing such awesome books. And a thank you to Craig Twyman for bringing Vampire Shift even more alive with his fantastic illustrations!

Reviewed by Caroline Barker

July 11, 2013 by Caroline Barker

Vampire Shift (Kiera Hudson Series One #1) by Tim O’Rourke

Tim O’Rourke’s Vampire Shift (Keira Hudson, series one, book one) has just seen it’s release of a Vampire Shift – The Graphic Novel, illustrated by Craig Twyman! Here is the reblog of my review for the original novel, with my review for the Graphic Novel to be posted shortly! Enjoy! Caroline 🙂

areadersreviewblog

Vampire Shift is a fascinating read. Set in a small, remote town in England with the main buildings being an inn, a police station and a church. It is surrounded by fields, cliffs and the sea. For some reason when visualising the fields and the inn I imagined the setting to be similar of that in ‘An American Werewolf in London’. The only difference being is that this novel is about vampires.

Keira was an interesting character from the beginning, having become a police officer so young and with high ambitions. When she decided to take on the murder cases and those of missing people in the Ragged Cove one of the first places for her to visit was, of course, the police station. With a very limited workforce and the sergeant sitting smoking a pipe and wearing slippers in this remote town, I couldn’t help but imagine ‘Heartbeat’ and…

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July 9, 2013 by Tina Williams

Book Review of The Fall of the Misanthrope. I bitch, therefore I am, by Louise Wise

Louise Wise’s book. The Fall of the Misanthrope is currently available FREE on Amazon for a very short time. Billed as dark chick-lit, it is a modern day Cinderella like story, which also contains a great deal of humour. I reviewed the novel a while ago now when we didn’t have quite so many followers, so I’ve reblogged it in case you would like to check it out. The book is a great read and is in the FINAL of the eFestival of Words. Check out the Amazon links if interested.

Tina 🙂

Amazon UK
Amazon US:

areadersreviewblog

Romancing the Dark Side of Chick-Lit

I read Louise Wise’s sci-fi romance Eden, last year and really liked her voice. I was intrigued by the title of her more recent publication, The Fall of the Misanthrope. I bitch, therefore I am, especially with its billing as a ‘dark chick-lit!’ Misanthrope is a deeply romantic and insightful tale, which deals with difficult issues and the healing power of love. It is also very humorous and made me laugh out loud on more than one occasion!

In the novel,Valerie Anthrope (Miss Anthrope – I loved the pun) is a young woman who runs a financial brokerage. Valerie is not only serious minded and hard working but, she can also be a bit of a bitch. She lives alone and keeps herself to herself, concluding that it is best not to care for anyone. There nevertheless resides within her a deep sadness and…

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July 9, 2013 by Caroline Barker

Update by Caroline

What a week of some fantastic sunshine we have been having here in the UK! It certainly gets you in that holiday mood! We hope that you have been enjoying some fab books in the sun. Let us know what you have been reading 🙂 We would like to give a big, warm WELCOME to our latest followers. Thank you so much for all of your support and interest. We have also reached our first 100 ‘Likes’ on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/AReadersReview. Thank you to all that shared our post and introduced some new followers. You’re very kind and myself and Tina appreciate it very much! You can also find us on Twitter at @areadersreviewb.

So, what have we been up to recently?:-

Since our last update we have posted our review of Hidden Agenda by Peter S. Berman, a fantastic crime/thriller and dramatic courtroom novel where the investigation into the topical case doesn’t stop until the very end! A widower and senior prosecutor at the LA District Attorney’s office (Jeremy Hart) has an affair with a beautiful ex-model who is married to a wealthy and powerful businessman. However, when her abusive husband becomes suspicious and violently attacks her, and later his body is found with two bullet holes in, it doesn’t take too long before the detectives charge Jeremy for the murder. After all he has the motive and no substantial alibi. BUT, is everything as it seems? Did Jeremy kill in order to protect the new woman in his life so they can be together with no fear?

To coincide with the release of ‘The Wolfstone Curse’ we have had our first and exclusive interview to post of author Justin Richards (BBC Consultant on the Dr Who titles!). Along with the interview we also reblogged our review, with Tina’s review to follow shortly. The Wolfstone Curse is suitable for readers of 11yrs+ and follows Peter, whose dad is an archaeologist, and Carys, whose resides in theWolfstone village inn that is run by her mother. When Peter’s dad has work to carry out at Wolfstone, Peter decides to go exploring. During this time Peter discovers the existence of werewolves and the curse that has been bestowed upon them. With an ally in Carys, the two teenagers go on a spectacular adventure of horror! This was an exceptionally fantastic read and I would recommend this to youngsters and adults alike.

As well as The Wolfstone Curse, Templar Publishing have very recently released Emily Diamand’s ‘Ways to See a Ghost’. To coincide with this great release, you can read Tina’s in-depth review. A paranormal horror for those aged 11+ crosses two teenagers; Gray with a father heavily into UFO sightings and conspiracies; and Isis with a mother claiming to be a psychic. As well as it’s dark moments there are some brilliant comedic moments as both of these parents begin dating. Although the mother claims to be a psychic it is in fact her daughter that can see ghosts. However, Isis cannot mention this to her mum when it is the ghost of her little sister that she can see. To mention it would destroy the happiness that her mother has tried to build up since the fatal day. When her mum is invited into an elite pysycic society, there is doubt almost immediately on the intentions of the society’s leader. The whole story connects together with the ghosts that Isis can see and the unexplained sightings Gray and his father experience. Lives are in danger but can Isis and Gray figure it all out in time and prevent any tragedies? (Also reviewed previously by Caroline.)

Lastly, but most certainly not the least, we have posted our review of C.J. Pinard’s ‘Enchanted Immortals 4: The Vixen! An absolutely thrilling urban paranormal series consisting of vampires, shifters, sylphs and the heroes of it all – the Immortals, whose job it is to police mostly the vamps and shifters. In The Vixen we follow the foxy Immortal Kathryn’s story. This is full of tragedy, heartache and love. However, Kathryn is not a force to be reckoned with as she is bold and more than capable of looking after herself with the power of mind-reading. The title and the cover art are excellent in helping describe Kathryn. Meanwhile, there are talks of having a new leadership amongst the vampires, the shifters open up a new club in town and Melina takes time out to contemplate her future. But will she return in time for the Immortals to take their dose of Enchantment in order for them to remain immortal?

THIS WEEK

Tina is planning to post a review of the hot paranormal romance Nalini Singh’s Tangle of Need, #11 in the Psy-Changeling Series very soon! Whilst I am hoping to review Vampire Shift - The Graphic Novel (Kiera Hudson Series One) Vol. 1 Tim O’Rourke’s Vampire Shift – The Graphic Novel (Kiera Hudson Series One) Vol. 1, illustrated by Craig Twyman. This is a brilliant visual for those that have already read the novel and it’s a great introduction for those that are ready to join the Keira Hudson adventure!

Shortly after I will be reading and reviewing Gary Richardson’s short story Ratty’s Bones, concerning an inmate who has spent the last six years in silence during his time inside. However, during the latest meeting with his social worker he suddenly decides to speak about his childhood, upbringing and broken friendships!

Lover At Last (Black Dagger Brotherhood, #11) Towards the end of the week Tina is hoping to review the latest paranormal/urban fantasy Black Dagger Brotherhood book by J.R. Ward – Lover at Last! Moonbeam (The Moon Trilogy, #2) And I’m hoping to post an author post from Tim O’Rourke alongside our review for the paranormal horror Moonbeam (The Moon Trilogy, Book 2)!

Late July/early August we will be hosting a book blog tour for White Chalk by Pavarti K Tyler and to prepare for this I will be reading White Chalk this week and preparing a review ready. Other books I’m hoping to read over the following weeks are, the urban fantasy Boreal and John Grey by Chrystalla Thoma, the fantasy of Brooke Morris’ The Pull and the thriller/horror The One Percenters by John Podgursky!

I hope that we have a little something for you in our ever growing collection. Again, many thanks to all of you for your support. Have a fantastic week 🙂

Caroline and Tina 🙂

July 8, 2013 by Tina Williams

Tangle of Need, #11 in the Psy-Changeling Series, Nalini Singh

Mating Bond versus Unconditional Love

I have been reading Nalini Singh’s Psy-Changeling Series since being bowled over by the first book, Slave to Sensation, which, like all that follow, is a fantastically sexy and phenomenally original read. I love the world that she creates, where the Psy, a race with powerful and sometimes terrifying mind powers, who have rejected emotion, vie against the Changelings and the Humans, in what threatens to culminate in a brutal war of cataclysmic proportions. The series contains palpable sexual tension and passionate lovemaking scenes, which contrast sharply with the political machinations and unspeakable acts of violence from some characters who are true sociopaths. There are also others who fight to defend their own race and foster harmony and some whose motives we are never quite sure of. The central romance in each book is set against the overall story arc, told in the manner of a master storyteller. You are advised to read the series in order for maximum enjoyment.

Tangle of Need follows on after book 10, Kiss of Snow, which covers the romance between Hawke, the alpha of the SnowDancer pack and Sienna, the powerful X Psy, and the battle against some of the Psy. At the heart of Tangle of Need is the romance between two wolf-changelings, the soldier Adria and Riaz, a SnowDancer lieutenant. The journey to their HEA is emotional and it pulls at the heartstrings. Adria has returned to the SnowDancers after a disastrous union with another, where she felt compelled to suppress her natural dominance. This has damaged her self esteem and she hides her true self under a prickly exterior, fearing commitment. Riaz, a lone wolf, has returned from Europe, where he met his true mate, only to be devastated when he finds that she is married to another she is very much in love with.

These two wounded individuals are initially drawn together by an overwhelming physical attraction, despite their initial dislike of each other. There is a hugely sexually charged scene early in the novel, where this attraction is left in no doubt. However, Riaz subsequently rejects Adria when she proposes that they come together for physical pleasure alone. However, constantly thrown together in the course of their work, they begin to form a strong friendship, which soon progresses into ever stronger ties, unable to resist the primal draw that pulls them together. Yet what future do they have when Riaz knows in his heart that Adria will never be his mate and the guilt of betrayal holds him back? Also how will Adria cope with the fear of being second best and coping with yet another dominant male? In this novel Nalini Singh explores the strength of the mating bond versus the free will of true, unconditional, love and she does this beautifully. As usual the lovemaking scenes are supremely hot, especially in this novel, where Adria and Riaz are both powerful dominants.

Riaz and Adria, strong, yet vulnerable individuals are characters whom I really feel for. Adria is a seasoned soldier, but with a gentle and giving side to her nature, which Riaz starts to value more and more as they get to know each other. I loved how once he made up his mind to pursue Adria, after cruelly rebuffing her, he really went for it, despite his initial guilt over betraying his mate. His actions were very romantic and the novel is a real tear jerker before it reaches its conclusion.

There is a lot going on in the tale, apart from the main romance, not least the continuing sickness and disintegration of the Psy-Net and the power play between the Psy Councillors, which not only threaten the Changelings but world peace. In particular, Councillors Ming, Henry Scott and Kaleb make several key appearances and impact on the plot. Into this mix there is also the growing strength of the Pure Psy and the Human Alliance. In terms of the Changelings, we see little of the DarkRiver leopards in this book. Instead we catch up with those in the SnowDancer pack, especially Hawke and Sienna, who we see a lot of. We also meet other characters again, such as the Ghost, Alice, the brilliant researcher from the past who is recovering from being in statis, the Arrows and other factions which reveal themselves, seeking to align with others in the face of the oncoming war. The many sub plots, which exist alongside the central romance, make the book another gripping read and a great addition to the series.

I recommend this book to those who like to read paranormal romance or romance with a Futuristic/Sci-Fi theme. with deliciously sexy scenes, set within a complex world and overall plot which holds your interest and keeps you in suspense throughout. Like all of Nalini Singh’s fans I am also itching to read the latest book in the series, Heart of Obsidian, which is a much anticipated read.

GOLLANCZ FICTION

http://www.orionbooks.co.uk

http://www.gollancz.co.uk

Cover design by Craig Fraser

Photo copyright Aleksej Vasic/Getty Images

http://www.nalinisingh.com/index.php

July 4, 2013 by Tina Williams

Ways to see a Ghost, by Emily Diamand

Teenagers Unite to Combat Evil in Explosive Paranormal Thriller

for ages 11+

If you are seeking an exciting paranormal read which includes everything from murder, mayhem and ghosts to an ancient evil and UFO hunters you cannot do better than read this adventure filled novel by Emily Diamand, which will appeal to young readers and adults alike. Caroline has also reviewed this book and if you would like to have a look at her review too click on the link at the end of this post.

In Ways to See a Ghost, Gray, the teenage son of a UFO conspiracy theorist and Isis, daughter of a charlatan psychic, are thrown together when their parents start dating, after meeting at the scene of a strange death. Both teenagers come from broken homes and whilst Isis lives with her mum, who has parted from her dad some time ago, Gray, whose mum has custody, visits his dad regularly and accompanies him on UFO seeking missions.

After a rocky start, Isis and Gray form a close friendship and uncover the sinister intentions of the charismatic Philip Syndal, the head of an elite psychic society that Isis’ mum has been inducted into. The tale unfolds into one of great intrigue and danger, involving a series of bizarre and ever increasing sinister events, where Isis’ sanity and even her life is under threat. Unlike her mother Isis can really see ghosts, an ability which manifested itself after her little sister Angel died in a car accident. Indeed, Angel’s ghost plays an important role in the story. Isis has never revealed Angel’s existence to her mother for fear that it could traumatize her.

The book is full of strange and sometimes horrific events. Indeed, its opening scene is in the middle of a wheat field where Gray and his dad witness unexplained lights in the sky, which create a series of crop circles which Gray manages to capture on film. There are also references to the many ghosts who seek to communicate with Isis, who is a powerful, albeit unwilling psychic. I enjoyed the descriptions of the paranormal events, which were very vivid and swept me up into the story. As the book progresses, we learn of a connection between the lights seen by Gray and his father and ghosts and events become more and more terrifying before the plot unravels.

I enjoyed all of the characters in the book. Gray and Isis, both strong and likeable characters, form a close bond and their friendship deepens as the book progresses. Whilst Isis is sceptical of the research carried out by Gray’s father to prove the existence of UFOs, Gray is equally sceptical of Isis’ claim that she can see ghosts, until she gives him proof that Angel exists. I loved the character of Angel, who, even as a ghost is a typical precocious and playful three year old, often exasperating her older sister. The way Isis, Gray and Angel interact and work together to try and defeat the evil which manifests itself is one of the most satisfying aspects of the novel. Other characters include Cally, Isis’ mum and Gil, Gray’s dad, who are both a little eccentric, playing their respective parts as a fake psychic and a committed UFO hunter to the full. Gil is a bit of a ‘Jack the lad’ who usually plays the field, but has fallen hard for Cally and Cally, who has been in a dark place since Angel’s death and the breakdown of her marriage, finds that loving Gil has given her a new lease of life.There is also a ghost called Mandeville, who has a key role as the tale unfolds, and Phillip Syndal who runs the elite psychic society, who has many secrets and harbours great evil. A fun character, Stu, a friend of Gil, known as ‘The Keeper’, who holds a lot of information on worldwide conspiracy theories, provides some humour.

The novel covers the usual tensions between parents and teenagers and I found it amusing that the reader sees their parents’ relationship through the eyes of their children, who both find actions such as kissing and hand holding yuk! Some chapters are told in the first person from Gray’s point of view, looking back on events and others in the third person. This is effective in that we are able to view events from multiple perspectives and time frames and adds depth to the story. There is also a mystery person interrogating Gray in his chapters and the author does not reveal to us who this is, which I find fascinating and I am hoping to find this out in the subsequent novel. The book also has an environmental subtext throughout, in its references to the harm man has inflicted on the natural environment.

I recommend this book to young and adult readers who enjoy exciting con temporary tales of the paranormal.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

For Caroline’s review click here

A copy of this book was given to me by the publisher for the purpose of an honest and fair review.

Templar Publishing www.templarco.co.uk

Cover art by Ben Kovar

Publication July 2013

July 2, 2013 by Caroline Barker

Enchanted Immortals 4: The Vixen by C.J. Pinard

Enchanted Immortals 4: The Vixen (Enchanted Immortals, #4) Sexiness, sassiness and sophistication are what you can expect from Kathryn Jones in C.J. Pinard’s fourth instalment in this brilliant urban paranormal Enchanted Immortals series, The Vixen. The Vixen takes the reader on a journey through Kathryn’s past, from the death of her parents and her sleazy, rough life in Chicago, right on through to Kathryn becoming an Immortal.

After leaving Chicago Kathryn settled in LA, but after having a tragic experience and then focusing completely on policing the vampires and shapeshifters, does she then meet the man of her dreams? Although The Vixen concentrates on Kathryn’s character and her story I do love how the various groups, i.e. shapeshifters, vampires, sylphs and Immortals, have their own agendas/stories – but it is the Treaty that all of these species have all made with the Zie Council which bring them all together.

We begin The Vixen with a dramatic and effective prologue which engages the reader from the off. Poor little Kathryn as a youngster, desperate cold and hungry, being led by her mother to a shelter to escape her father. The reader already has a sense that Kathryn’s father is violent and abusive and can therefore understand why her mother is running. However, Kathryn is a scared little girl; scared of her father and scared of running to the unknown. The Vixen has it’s fair share of action and horror and the prologue is no exception to the latter! From this short piece of writing alone, the reader is connected to Kathryn and you have to continue on the journey of this desolate soul.

As with all of the Enchanted Immortals books, The Vixen switched from past to present. C.J. writes in such a way to make the story easy to follow and keeps the excitement flowing as one moment we’re reading about the 1920’s and then present day, back to the 1930’s. The story is constantly keeping pace and going back and forth between the vamps, shifters, immortals, etc, keeping the reader informed on the different events taking place. The reader is reminded of how Kathryn met up with Jonathan, how Thomas became an Immortal and also Tony Bianchi – an investigator with the BSI (Bureau of Supernatural Investigation).

The reader is also reminded of the shifter, Sheena, and what happened to her. For those that do not know and have not read the previous books of the series – this is a revelation and as well as a great recap, making The Vixen well written and informative enough to read as a stand alone. However, I would recommend that all books of the series should be read as they are all fantastic and each book focuses on a different character (please click on the links below to read our reviews):-

Enchanted Immortals – Thomas’ story

Enchanted Immortals 2: The Vortex – Jonathan’s story

Enchanted Immortals 3: The Vampyre – Pascal’s story

Having each book focus on a different character enables the reader to come up close and personal with each one and thus helping to empathise and connect with each character as well as providing a full background for the whole series.

Before reading The Vixen I viewed Kathryn as a more supportive character as Jonathan and Thomas, espeically Jonathan, were seen to be the heroes. In the Vixen Kathryn comes to the fore and I now see her as an equal, especially as she is so bold. The Immortals also have their own superpower: Jonathan is extremely strong; Thomas is very fast; and Kathryn can read minds. This makes all of them individually capable of surviving well on their own. As a team they are extremely powerful.

Poor Thomas is left waiting for news of pregnant Malina as she has left their apartment for a short while to contemplate what to do about her future. Being a sylph, after giving birth she will become a mortal, leaving Thomas and her child to carry on without her once she dies. Malina has experimented with the Enchantment in the hope that she would keep her immortality, however thus far no experiment has worked. Thomas is prepared to become a mortal with her, however this would leave their child, not to mention his best friend, Jonathan, without him. Sylph Serina is put into a difficult situation as Malina stays with her but would rather Serina not mention it until she has had time to think.

Shapeshifters Seth and Malachi are desperate to be released from the Island’s prison. Being cooped up is not doing them all that good, especially when they need to turn and their instinct urges them to hunt. However, after asking for Melina on several occasions, will she finally allow for their release? Not only are Seth and Malachi seeking their release, there is also a discovery that they make. How will this affect them? Has prison helped them learn their lesson, or are they still up to no good? I must admit there was a part of me that felt sorry for Seth. Meanwhile, a new bar, The Polecat, is opening up in town and is run by shapeshifters. The Immortals and BSI go quietly to check it out.

Since the demise of vampire Pascal, Angel is looking for a more suitable leader for the remaining vamps. Brandon has taken it upon himself to lead but it seems to have all gone to his head and the others are quite young to lead. Angel visits an elderly human/ex-vamp, Darius, to discuss her plans. The reader is instantly given the impression that Darius is similar to Samuel L. Jackson in both looks and personality. After I thought this, I smiled to myself when it was mentioned in the book which is an example of how clear C.J. Pinard writes.

Although the end of the story does wrap up quite nicely, the epilogue leaves the reader hoping for more. What becomes of Angel? Will Seth and Malachi revert to their old ways after the revelation they have learnt? The Vixen, unfortunately is meant to be the concluding book of the series and in all honesty the series could be left as it is. However, there are so many characters that could go on to do more that I cannot help but try to persuade C.J. to write another.

There is the novella, BSI: Bureau of Supernatural Investigation, that will be released at a later date. I cannot wait for this as the reader experiences an ‘X-files’ feel when reading about these guys. It is absolutely fantastic stuff – C.J is one of my favourite authors as her work is so full of life, full of different characters, so exciting and action-packed. If you haven’t had a C.J. Pinard experience yet then you have to buy these books. You won’t be disappointed!

At the time of writing this post you can purchase the Kindle Editions of the first two books of the series for only 77p at Amazon UK or for $1.17 at Amazon US!

I received Enchanted Immortals 4: The Vixen from the author, C.J. Pinard, gratefully. In return for her kindness and because I absolutely love this series I have written an honest and fair review.

If you would like to contact C.J. Pinard you can reach her on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/CJPinardAuthor or you can e-mail her at cjpinardauthor@gmail.com.

Reviewed by Caroline Barker

June 30, 2013 by Caroline Barker

Exclusive interview with Justin Richards, author of The Wolfstone Curse

You may remember that we reviewed author, and Creative Consultant for BBC Books on the Dr Who titles, Justin Richards’ The Wolfstone Curse recently. We posted the review along with an author biog of Justin too.

Well, now The Wolfstone Curse has been released and Justin has kindly taken some time out to give us an interview! A Reader’s Review Blog would like to say a great big THANK YOU to Justin and Templar Publishing for their support leading up to The Wolfstone Curse’s release.

We hope that you enjoy reading the following questions and answers and would love to hear your thoughts. Now we will pass you over to Justin:-

1. After reading The Wolfstone Curse I was left wondering, ‘Wow, where does Richards get his inspiration from?’ Could you give us an insight to this, Justin?

A lot of it is actually perspiration, and a lot of it is desperation! I tend to ‘collect’ ideas and things that interest me. Then I wonder what would happen if you put them together, how they might relate. So for The Wolfstone Curse, I combined werewolves and stone circles. That gives me a starting point – and quite often my starting point then disappears as the story takes shape and it turns into something else.

2. Was there anything in particular that gave you the idea to write about werewolves?

I’ve always been fascinated by werewolves – they are monsters but ones with a tragic personal story. It was a challenge to put a new spin on a traditional monster as well. I did the same with vampires in The Parliament of Blood a few years ago, so I guess I just thought it was time to have a go at werewolves! Actually, the first idea I had for Wolfstone Curse was a spooky house, and down in the cellars is a secret area. That stayed in, of course. But originally I thought that the basement would be a werewolf museum – a huge private exhibition where the werewolf family had preserved artefacts from their history and proudly put it all on display… That would still have worked, but it distracted from what became the main narrative. So the museum was reduced to a tomb and the paintings… Maybe it’ll turn up in another book.

3. Do you use any visual objects to help in describing any of the events/characters? If so, what do you use?

Sometimes for places and settings, either I visit them, or feel inspired by a place… Or I work from photographs. For Wolfstone, I had a real stone circle in my mind, for example. I used to try to find pictures of people who looked as I imagined a particular character did. But the pictures of them in my imagination were always better, so I don’t bother now!

4. Who is your favourite character in The Wolfstone Curse, and why?

I think it’s probably Carys. She’s had, as we discover, a strange and difficult time of things stuck at home in the middle of nowhere and meeting Peter gives her a chance to move on from that. Outwardly she’s so confident and aloof – especially when they first meet – yet inside she’s really far more diffident and emotional…

5. When reading The Wolfstone Curse it certainly came across that a great deal of historical research had been done. Was this the case and did you enjoy researching for The Wolfstone Curse?

I did do quite a lot of research, although much of that then got changed into other things. Yes, all the werewolf legends and facts and figures are from historical and mythological research. But of course the history of the Wolfstone Circle is made up – although some is based on legends and stories about other circles. The Crystal Room is based – very loosely – on the Amber Room that disappeared from a palace near St Petersburg towards the end of the second World War when it was looted by the retreating Germans…

6. Who are your favourite authors and/or books?

I read a lot – adult and children’s fiction as well as non-fiction for research and for fun. It’s difficult to choose favourites. Maybe I’m easily pleased! One of my favourite (adult fiction) books is ‘The Eight’ by Katherine Neville which is part historical, part set in the 1970s and all about Charlamagne’s chess set.

7. In between the researching and writing, what are your favourite pastimes?

Between reading, writing and my family I don’t have a lot of spare time! I enjoy cooking, though I don’t pretend to be very good or adventurous at it. Watching television and films and going to the theatre – all of which I kid myself is research, of course.

8. Last but not least, I absolutely loved the characters Peter and Carys. They are great heroes for the reader of either gender. Are we likely to meet up with them again in another adventure?

I hope so. I have all sorts of ideas about what they might get up to next – about the adventures waiting for them. I think there’s lots of potential in the characters that I’d like to explore. But it all depends how well The Wolfstone Curse does whether more Peter and Carys adventures are viable. I hope so. I can’t wait to get writing them!

The Wolfstone Curse can be found on Amazon UK!!!

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ‘The Skeleton Clock’ by Justin Richards – get the Kindle edition from Amazon Also in the Apple iBooks Store Sample or purchase The Skeleton Clock in other eBook formats http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/56152 And read about ‘The World of The Skeleton Clock’ – free from www.JustinRichardsWriter.com

Follow me on Twitter – @JJCRichards