October 25, 2014 by Caroline Barker

Recommended Halloween Horrors for Young Readers, Teens and Young Adults (11yrs+)

This weekend we are looking at our recommended reads for Halloween. With little than a week to go, and with half term holidays here in the UK, it is a fantastic chance to check out some reads for this season and hopefully read them over the hols! Today we are focusing on our younger readers (11yrs+), but of course the reads are just as much fun for mature readers too. Tomorrow we will be checking out some Halloween horrors for our adult readers (17yrs+). Be sure to come back then!

So without further ado here are some great reads for the younger and coming-of-age audience! (Please check recommended ages as there are some for 15/16yrs+.)

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Caroline and Tina 🙂

Ways to See a Ghost by Emily Diamand (reviewed by Caroline and Tina)

Teenagers Unite to Combat Evil in Explosive Paranormal Thriller

For ages 11+

Isis, the daughter of a charlatan psychic, can see ghosts – including that of her dead little sister, Angel. Gray is the son of a UFO-chasing conspiracy theorist. The two teenagers are forced together when their parents start dating. After a reluctant start, a friendship develops and Isis confesses her secret ability to Gray. But when Isis’ mum is inducted into an elite psychic society, run by charismatic Philip Syndal, Isis discovers there are sinister intentions beneath Philip’s charm. She and Gray find themselves in grave danger and Isis is forced to use her considerable powers to save them both.

Available at Amazon UK and Amazon US.

The Wolfstone Curse by Justin Richards (reviewed by Caroline and Tina)

Thrilling Paranormal Adventure

For age 12+

If Death were an animal, she would be a wolf…

Welcome to the historic town of Wolfstone, where dark secrets lurk in the shadows and strange beasts stalk the land. Can teenagers Peter and Carys uncover the real truth behind the legend of the werewolf and will they survive the Wolfstone Curse? Read on, if you dare…

When Peter joins his archaeologist father in the strange village of Wolfstone, he has no idea what dark secrets the village and its manor house hold. From ancient standing stones, to the genetically engineered Wolfen SS soldiers, he uncovers the real truth of the werewolf myth in this action-packed adventure. The plot is interjected with ‘source documents’, letters and other ‘authentic’ material.

Exclusive interview with author, Justin Richards

Justin Richards Bio

Available at Amazon UK and Amazon US.

Blue Moon (The Crystal Trilogy #1) by Pat Spence (reviewed by Caroline)

Supernatural, spellbinding horror

For ages 15yrs+

“Forget vampires,” he laughed dismissively.

“Who wants to drink blood for eternity? What we have discovered is far more seductive and a great deal more dangerous…”

When 17-year old Emily Morgan meets beautiful but strange Theo de Lucis, there is an immediate attraction between them. But what is his secret? What ancient link ties him to Emily? And what is the significance of the Blue Moon Ball?

As Emily is drawn irrevocably into the glamorous and mysterious world of the de Lucis family, so she is forced to change every perception she has ever had about life, love, aging and death. The truth is terrifying and the consequences unthinkable…

A supernatural horror story, based on society’s obsession with aging and the desire for eternal youth, Blue Moon is the first book in the ‘Blue Crystal’ trilogy…

“For all ‘Twilight’ fans who want a change from vampires, this is the book for you.”

Available at Amazon UK and Amazon US.

Keira Hudson Series 1, 2, and 3 by Tim O’Rourke (reviewed, or to be reviewed, by Caroline)

Paranormal horror adventure

For ages 15yrs+

When 20-year-old police recruit Kiera Hudson is posted to the remote town of The Ragged Cove, her life is changed forever. Investigating a series of horrific murders, grave desecrations, and missing persons, Kiera uses her unique ability of seeing, and soon realizes her own life is in danger. When Kiera falls for police officer Luke Bishop, not only are her mind and heart opened to a terrifyingly new world, she comes to suspect that Luke might be involved in the killings. In a race against time to unearth the truth, Kiera must discover the identity of who – or what – is behind the gruesome deaths on her Vampire Shift.

Vampire Shift (Keira Hudson series One, #1) is available at Amazon for FREE at the time of writing. (Please be aware prices are subject to change). Check it out at Amazon UK and Amazon US.

The latest release, Keira Hudson & the Creeping Men (Keira Hudson series Three, #1) is also now available at Amazon UK and Amazon US.

All titles in the Keira Hudson series are mentioned below, with either a link to our review or to reviews on Goodreads. We do intend on reviewing the remaining books in the not so distant future!

Vampire Shift (Keira Hudson Series 1, Book 1)

Vampire Wake (Keira Hudson Series 1, Book 2)

Vampire Hunt (Keira Hudson Series 1, Book 3)

Vampire Breed (Keira Hudson Series 1, Book 4)

Wolf House (Potter’s Story) (Kiera Hudson Series 1 Book 4.5) – novella

Vampire Hollows (Keira Hudson Series 1, Book 5)

Dead Flesh (Keira Hudson Series 2, Book 1)

Dead Night – Potter’s Secrets (Keira Hudson Series 2, Book 1.5) – novella

Dead Angels (Keira Hudson Series 2, Book 2)

Dead Statues (Keira Hudson Series 2, Book 3)

Dead Seth (Keira Hudson Series 2, Book 4)

Dead Wolf (Keira Hudson Series 2, Book 5)

Dead Water (Keira Hudson Series 2, Book 6)

Dead Push (Keira Hudson, Series 2, Book 7)

Dead Lost (Keira Hudson, Series 2, Book 8)

Dead End (Keira Hudson, Series 2, Book 9)

Keira Hudson & the Creeping Men (Keira Hudson, Series 3, Book 1)

In addition to the above, please check out:-

Vampire Shift – The Graphic Novel (Volume One) (Keira Hudson Series One) – illustrated by Craig Twyman

Cursed by Georgina Hannan (to be reviewed by Caroline)

Scary and suspenseful horror romance.

For ages 16yrs+

A young adult story about a group of four friends who emark on a holiday together to the georgeous countryside of Dartmoor, Devon. Each of them hoping for an adventure, something they will always remember. However, it isn’t long before they get what they want.

The group are plagued by noises after hearing the myths and legends of the area. Is it just overactive imaginations or is there a visitor in the spare room who is trying to get their attention?

Join the group on a spectacular journey as they discover what Dartmoor has to offer.

Available at Amazon UK and Amazon US.

Amethyst’s Incredible Journey by Lisa Bland (to be reviewed by Caroline)

Fantasy adventure

For ages 11yrs+

Amethyst is a witch with extremely evil and powerful parents. Amethyst is terrified that if she don’t stop her parents soon it will be too late, and they will gain control of Golden Dragon City and the Fountain of Magic. Amethyst knows that she has only got until her next birthday to stop them!.Amethyst has to travel through different realms to collect the blood red rubies that she needs to stop them.

Available at Amazon UK and Amazon US. (Please note that this book is showing as currently unavailable. We do hope that it is available as soon as possible.)

Wherewolves by John Vamvas and Olga Montes (to be reviewed by Caroline)

Horror thriller

For ages 16yrs+

Using a fun, explosive style, full of new slang and fresh dialogue, WHEREWOLVES is the story of a group of high school seniors, most “military brats”, who are headed for an army-type survival weekend.

The underdogs, Jeffrey and Doris, do not want to go as they fear for their safety among the disdain and cruelty of the popular students. Sergeant Tim O’Sullivan, their teacher, as well as their dysfunctional parents pressure them into going, but it is an unforgivable act by their peers that propels the pair to go. Likewise, Elie, a student resented because of his Arab roots, is even more determined to prove himself this weekend. In the background, a news report cautions of a wanted couple with alleged super-human strength supposedly brought on by a new drug on the streets.

In the woods, the students hike, hunt, camp, and soon act in unity as the forest brings them closer together. But does it? O’Sullivan leaves them alone for the night. The students bond, chant, tell campfire tales, and quickly lose their fears and inhibitions. HOO-AH! Though sexual tensions are high, it soon turns to violence and everything quickly turns sour.

When the kids start disappearing one after the other, the remaining begin to unwittingly “act like the natives” carving spears, ready to face whatever is out there. What has gotten into them?

Amid the blood-curdling growls and the gruesome deaths, the story’s underlying layers are revealed. We see how misconceptions, prejudice, greed, fear, and hatred bring out the worst and best in them.

What is out there? Can it really be werewolves?

Available at Amazon UK and Amazon US.

For more great reads and best sellers in the horror genre for teens and young adults please visit Amazon UK or Amazon US.

And be sure to come back tomorrow for our recommended reads for mature/adult readers, 17yrs+!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

October 21, 2013 by Caroline Barker

Dead Water (Keira Hudson Series 2, Book 6) by Tim O’Rourke

Dead Water (Kiera Hudson Series Two, #6) It is such a treat to read a Tim O’Rourke story. As it has been a few months since I have read Dead Wolf (Keira Hudson Series 2 Book 5), I was beginning to think I’d forget where I left off! Oh no, not with Tim. His writing allows for the reader to easily carry on the Keira journey, with reminders throughout where the story has been to. Therefore also allowing a fresh reader to the series to settle into the story. With Vampyrus, Lycanthrope, Skin-Walkers and more, this paranormal series will grip you like no other!

Dead Water largely follows half-breed Keira and Vampyrus Potter and Murphy travel to the Dead Water, in search of their friends, Kayla and Sam. During their journey, in the ‘pushed’ world they have found themselves in, they are gradually turning into statues, cracking and slowly turning to dust. However, during moments of ingesting a little blood they are able to keep going until they reach their destination. Upon finding it a little too easy to have reached their destination, Keira fears that not all is as it seems!

After reading the subsequent novel, fans of the series are absolutely desperate to know how Keira and Potter’s relationship will fare. In Dead Water we follow the story from Keira’s and Potter’s points of view. It is more than fair to say that at the beginning of Dead Water Keira is quite hurt and upset. After finding out who she really is, and that her lover and friend, Potter and Murphy, have been lying to her she doesn’t really have much to say to them. Potter, in particular, has a hard time from Keira especially as Keira feels betrayed by him in more ways than one. Unfortunately for Potter, Keira doesn’t want to hear that he was only trying to protect her and spare her feelings. She can’t possibly give in to him as she knows she would only get hurt again.

Poor Potter was actually betrayed himself, with the idea of upsetting and manipulating Keira. It is so clear why fans of this series love Potter. His feelings are so strong but not always transparent to Keira. However, reading his point of view the reader does understand him and the reader wants to pull Keira aside to explain this to her. There have been moments when Potter has been a little too trusting of others, especially of the female kind, and has ended up in some messy situations!

Even though there are some pretty intense moments between Potter and Keira, on the other hand there are some really great scenes with Potter and Murphy. In regards to Keira, Murphy is a little overbearing in an observant and protective manner. However, some of Murphy’s remarks to Potter about her are obvious, annoying or over the top. It’s almost like Murphy is trying to get a rise out of Potter. To which Potter replies brilliantly in his sarcastic manner which made me laugh out loud at times. This provided a great relief in between the overall tense feeling.

I also thought it was fantastic to read about Keira using her investigative skills, trying to find Kayla and Sam, as she returns to the snow-covered field where they had been involved with a wolf attack with Potter and Murphy in Chapter 4. (This is where many of Potter’s sarcasm comes to the fore with Murphy!) This scene, as well as how Keira carefully works out what has happened as she illuminates certain possibilities, really took me down memory lane to the first instalment of Keira when she first visited the Ragged Cove and met Potter and Murphy in Vampire Shift! Here Keira was taken to her first scene where a body was found just within the tree-line of a field and Keira used her ‘seeing’ abilities to spot the smallest of details! This scene is very fresh in my mind, especially after having read the Graphic Novel of Vampire Shift a few weeks ago.

The excitement grows with each chapter. There is a great use of dialogue, as in many of Tim’s books. This makes it a fun and quick read, even though the plot itself is very rich in intensity and depth. The scenery changes so much, along with the weather conditions, as the story moves on. This again is typical of Tim O’Rourke, especially in the Keira Hudson series. We begin with snow, fields, the blood red Dead Water, the upward current of the Fountain of Souls, forestry and the town of Wasp Water. You can also gauge from some of these names that Tim’s imagination takes you to a completely different ‘pushed’ world of your own as the stories remain alive and strangely real. It is also regular for Tim to introduce new characters and in this instance it comes in the form of statues, which have strangely been following Keira and her friends to the Dead Water.

The ending of this one will certainly shock many fans. On the one hand I am thinking, ‘Tim, what have you done!?’, and on the other I am quite excited of the possibilities that it could bring. I do have my own theories so I hope I am right. I personally believe that if an author does surprise you, even in a negative manner, that it is a work of brilliance. These days I don’t think it takes much to shock people, especially open-minded people. And I also like an author that isn’t too predictable!

The following instalment, ‘Dead Push’ is available now and I will hopefully be reviewing it very soon. In the meantime, come and check it out on Amazon US and Amazon UK.

Please check out all of our Tim O’Rourke reviews (below).

Reviewed by Caroline Barker

Vampire Shift (Keira Hudson Series 1, Book 1)

Vampire Wake (Keira Hudson Series 1, Book 2)

Vampire Hunt (Keira Hudson Series 1, Book 3)

Vampire Breed (Keira Hudson Series 1, Book 4)

Wolf House (Potter’s Story) (Kiera Hudson Series 1 Book 4.5) – novella

Vampire Hollows (Keira Hudson Series 1, Book 5)

Dead Flesh (Keira Hudson Series 2, Book 1)

Dead Night – Potter’s Secrets (Keira Hudson Series 2, Book 1.5) – novella

Dead Angels (Keira Hudson Series 2, Book 2)

Dead Statues (Keira Hudson Series 2, Book 3)

Dead Seth (Keira Hudson Series 2, Book 4)

Dead Wolf (Keira Hudson Series 2, Book 5)

Moonlight (The Moon Trilogy #1)

Moonbeam (The Moon Trilogy #2)

Vampire Seeker (Samantha Carter #1)

Witch (Sydney Hart #1)

Vampire Shift – The Graphic Novel (Volume One) (Keira Hudson Series One) – illustrated by Craig Twyman

July 24, 2013 by Caroline Barker

LAST CHANCE to enter our Tim O’Rourke GIVEAWAY!!!

Hi everyone, this is the last 24 hours of our fantastic TIM O’ROURKE GIVEAWAY! Tim is kindly giving away a copy of his brilliant paranormal novel, Vampire Shift (Keira Hudson, Series One Book 1), and a copy of his paranormal horror Moonlight (The Moon Trilogy Book 1). Both books will be signed paperbacks. You can enter for either book OR both. All you have to do is follow us via our blog, Facebook or Twitter and leave a short comment to let us know which book (or both) you’d like. 🙂

COMPETITION IS NOW CLOSED!!! THE WINNER/S WILL BE REVEALED SOON! THANKS TO ALL OF THOSE THAT ENTERED 🙂

Thank you for those of you that have already entered. Good luck everyone!!! 🙂

Caroline

Check out Tim O’Rourke’s recent author biog/post here. Original giveaway post here. (Feel free to reblog, share on Facebook and/or reTweet!)

Moonlight (The Moon Trilogy, #1)

July 19, 2013 by Caroline Barker

Update by Caroline

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

Well, what can I say – I think we have had quite a treat this last week for fans of author, Tim O’Rourke. We have reviewed both of his latest releases, Moonbeam (The Moon Trilogy, Book Two) and Vampire Shift – The Graphic Novel (Keira Hudson Series One) Vol. One, we have hosted a brilliant author post/biog from Tim as well as a SUPER GIVEAWAY for some lucky people to win either a signed paperback copy of Vampire Shift (Keira Hudson Series One, Book One – original novel) and/or Moonlight (The Moon Trilogy, Book One)!!!! Moonbeam (The Moon Trilogy, #2) We are extremely excited about Tim’s work as we have followed him for over a year as an independent author and after recently being signed for a three book deal with LittleBrown/Piatkus he is about to have his first Vampire Seeker novel (e-book version) released on 15th August 2013, followed in January 2014 with a paperback version. We wish Tim every success in this latest venture! His books are fun and cover young adult, adult, horror, paranormal, fantasy, time travel and not without the element of romance! There is something for everyone here.

Over the last few days we have also posted reviews on Gary Richardson’s short story, Ratty’s Bones, regarding an inmate that has remained mute for the past 6 years. He suddenly decides to open up to his social worker, telling of his broken childhood and friendships as well as his friend, Ratty! Meanwhile, Tina has reviewed the fantastic paranormal/urban fantasy Lover at Last by J.R. Ward from the renowned Black Dagger Brotherhood series and Nalini Singh’s Tangle of Need, #11 in the Psy-Changeling Series!

Tina has also posted a review of Mary Raimes Curtis’ new blog, A Writer’s Journey, in which Mary has shared an excerpt from Chapter 2 of her exciting new work Candle Without A Flame with our readers, which is serialised on her blog in the same way that Dickens serialised his novels.

In other news, SJ Sprague’s Mulberry has been released on Amazon.com in paperback version for $13.29 or in the UK at Amazon.co.uk for £9.39. Prices are correct at the time of posting, however may be likely to change.

Upcoming we have Tina’s review of Eve Rabi’s Obsessed With Me – When She Rejected Him, He Set Out to Destroy Her Books 1 & 2:-

Book Blurb: Tarago Jakobus was intelligent, arrogant and extremely wealthy. He was also openly racist, politically incorrect and a chauvinistic pig. When his eye fell on Tanin, he expected her to fall into his arms. However, she was unimpressed with his wealth and rejected him. He became obsessed with her and decided to win her over, his way – destroy all that is precious to her, so that she would have no choice but to need him. If that didn’t work he would take away her freedom.

Tina is also hoping to post her review of Justin Richard’s The Wolfstone Curse. You can find our interview with Justin here, along with a short author biog and my review of The Wolfstone Curse. Tina will also be posting a Werewolf Wish List, listing all of the novels and short stories we read during our Werewolf theme.

I am currently reading and reviewing White Chalk by Pavarti K. Tyler, ready to post my review on 1st August 2013 at the beginning of the book blog tour! White Chalk is a disturbingly raw and gritty coming-of-age book. It is extremely dark with a very real feel!!! My following reads will be urban fantasy Boreal and John Grey Season 1 by Chrystalla Thoma, fantasy The Pull by Brooke Morris and thriller/horror The One Percenters by John Podgursky!

We hope that you have all been enjoying your summer so far. As well as enjoying a great read. Please don’t forget to enter our fantastic GIVEAWAY, ending Thursday 25th July 2013! We will look forward to hearing from you! Have a great week, guys!

Caroline 🙂

Artwork for Candle Without a Flame is credited to Marion Sipe.

July 15, 2013 by Caroline Barker

SUPER GIVEAWAY for TIM O’ROURKE’S MOONLIGHT & VAMPIRE SHIFT

Hi readers, what a fantastic way to start the week! We have an awesome giveaway to coincide with Tim O’Rourke’s amazing author post/biog! For your chance to win a signed paperback copy of either VAMPIRE SHIFT (KEIRA HUDSON, SERIES ONE, BOOK ONE) or MOONLIGHT (THE MOON TRILOGY, BOOK ONE) please follow our blog and comment below, stating which book you’d like to be entered for – you can enter for both as long as you state this in your comment!

Moonlight (The Moon Trilogy, #1)

If you’d prefer you can enter via Twitter – @areadersreviewb or on Facebook – www.facebook.com/AReadersReview

If you choose to use Twitter or Facebook we would again like you to follow us/’like’ our page and comment, stating which book (or both) you’d like to enter for. It would also be great if you could spread the word by re-tweeting or sharing our Facebook page/post.

COMPETITION IS NOW CLOSED! THE WINNER/S WILL BE REVEALED SOON. THANKS TO ALL OF THOSE THAT ENTERED 🙂

Good luck, guys.

Caroline @ ARR

Tim O’Rourke’s author post

PS. You can find below a list of all of Tim’s books that I have reviewed to date – including the two that are up for grabs in this superb giveaway. Feel free to check them out.

Vampire Shift (Keira Hudson Series 1, Book 1)

Vampire Wake (Keira Hudson Series 1, Book 2)

Vampire Hunt (Keira Hudson Series 1, Book 3)

Vampire Breed (Keira Hudson Series 1, Book 4)

Wolf House (Potter’s Story) (Kiera Hudson Series 1 Book 4.5) – novella

Vampire Hollows (Keira Hudson Series 1, Book 5)

Dead Flesh (Keira Hudson Series 2, Book 1)

Dead Night – Potter’s Secrets (Keira Hudson Series 2, Book 1.5) – novella

Dead Angels (Keira Hudson Series 2, Book 2)

Dead Statues (Keira Hudson Series 2, Book 3)

Dead Seth (Keira Hudson Series 2, Book 4)

Dead Wolf (Keira Hudson Series 2, Book 5)

Moonlight (The Moon Trilogy #1)

Moonbeam (The Moon Trilogy #2)

Vampire Seeker (Samantha Carter #1)

Witch (Sydney Hart #1)

Vampire Shift – The Graphic Novel (Volume One) (Keira Hudson Series One) – illustrated by Craig Twyman

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 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

January 19, 2013 by Caroline Barker

Dead Wolf (Keira Hudson Series Two Book 5) by Tim O’Rourke

‘Dead Wolf (Keira Hudson Series Two, Book 5)’ draws the reader in from the very beginning, especially for those of you who have followed this series, as it picks up from where we left off in ‘Dead Seth (Keira Hudson Series Two, Book 4)’. However, for those readers that are not familiar with the Keira Hudson series yet, the beginning of this novel is well-explained, easy to follow and provides the background knowledge that is needed to follow the story.

As a fan of the series, I would urge those readers that haven’t already done so, to read the entire Keira Hudson series for the stories of each of the characters. This is because they all have their own story to tell in-between the main focus of their adventure and these stories are written from each characters point of view. It is amazing how Tim O’Rourke places himself in the mindset of each of his characters and describes every emotion that they are feeling intensely.

So, ‘Dead Wolf’ is told mostly from Murphy’s point of view. However, it does begin from Keira’s, after she has found out a great deal about Jack Seth’s history and about herself. Keira is still at a crossroads when it comes to choices and the information she has learned will not make her choice any easier to make, if she makes one at all.

Keira and her friends are in a world that has been ‘pushed’ from the one that they knew before, there are statues that appear to be sending them signs and, without making a decision, it is highly possible that Keira herself will turn to stone. The only lead they seem to have at the moment between the world they knew and this new ‘pushed’ version is that of a mystery photographer who has managed somehow to go from one world to the other, leaving photographs for some of them to find.

Meanwhile, Murphy, Kayla and Sam have an ordeal of their own in Chapter 2. This chapter really excited me due to its intensity, passion, action, violence and gore. There are moments where I found myself cringing, but loving every word. I truly feel alive as I visualise every movement as if I am there when reading this series, and this scene was no exception. My heart is racing as I am hoping for a positive outcome. I worry for the characters and long to be of assistance. The reader is completely gripped as the story then moves on.

Shortly after, ‘Dead Wolf’ becomes Murphy’s story, as he narrates his history of family, friends, relationships and his career. Murphy’s story throughout is full of emotion. The reader finds out how Murphy became a police officer, how he feels about the Vampyrus and Lycanthrope, who has touched his heart and, on a lighter note, why he wears his beloved slippers! Although Murphy’s story is emotionally intense as it is full of sorrow, lies, deceipt, betrayal there are also some lighter moments and I found myself laugh out loud on a few occasions.

The emotional rollercoaster that Murphy has been on does not seem that different in one way than that of Jack Seth’s. They have both seen their fair share of deceipt and lies and they have both lost people that are dear to them. They are two sides of the same coin in one way: they have both been through great ordeals, they both care about family, they have both been deceived. However, one is Vampyrus and the other Lycanthrope. They are possible enemies under most circumstances.

Tim O’Rourke always brings something new and fresh to each instalment of the series. ‘Dead Wolf’ introduces the reader to different characters that have played parts in Murphy’s life, such as his mother, Pen, Chloe, Marc, Steve and Annie. We are also made aware of how much Rom, a character from earlier in the series, has supported Murphy and helped him with his career and his ordeal.

It was lovely to read this book as it was snowing out of my window, as was the setting for some scenes in ‘Dead Wolf’. This assisted me even moreso (not that it needed to whatsoever) to relate to the scenery in the story. We are taken on a scenic journey as well as an emotional adventure in regard to the scenery, as always with this series, as we go deep in the caves at The Hollows to the forest and the lake.

The end of this novel is written from Keira’s point of view, which I feel wraps it up really nicely and brings us back to the here and now with Keira and her friends. The reader has travelled a long journey with Murphy, but then returned to the present situation that the characters are in. Will they find the photographer? Will Keira turn to stone? How are Potter and Keira going to be with each other? Will they all return to the world they once knew as their reality/home?

The next instalment is ‘Dead Water (Keira Hudson Series Two, Book 6) which should be out soon! I really cannot wait to see where the characters will go from here, on their next adventure, to try and get their lives back on track.

Reviewed by Caroline Barker

November 15, 2012 by Caroline Barker

Dead Seth (Kiera Hudson Series Two, #4) by Tim O’Rourke

Again, Tim O’Rourke has left the reader completely shocked. I do not usually begin my review with the end of the book, however, it is the end which unravels some serious revelations, after many twists and turns. I love how these novels surprise the reader. They are unpredicatble and yet still believable and in line with the whole series. Hence, the five stars that it truly deserves.

The writing is excellent, as in ‘Dead Seth (Keira Hudson Series Two, Book 4)’ we are subjected to the history and background behind Jack Seth, the Lycanthrope, the cursed killer wolf. This novel is written from mostly Jack Seth’s point of view as he narrates to Keira his story of how he became cursed and detailing the life that he led growing up. As in most of the Keira Hudson novels there are many twists and turns, especially on the emotional scale. This book is no exception.

We realise the many corners that Jack Seth’s life turned, how he was mentally tormented and how unstable his whole family life was. It would be wrong of me to reveal anything more without spoiling the story as this is a must-read. There are moments when the reader hates what he is doing and other moments when we feel compassion and understanding for him. Once the reader is engrossed in the thick of the story it is easy to empathise with Jack and I must admit that, apart from the paranormal/fantasy side, there are elements that feel very real. The mental torment, lies, betrayal, and the instability are all elements that real people, real children have lived through and are living through.

Keira’s point of view is also told in ‘Dead Seth’, as she is desperately wanting to escape in order to save her father and Potter. However, as Jack is telling her his story she does feel for him. At the same time she is gradually turning to stone which proves difficult for her to even talk to him at times. During the whole read I kept asking myself; will she escape, will she rescue her father, Potter, or both or will she turn into a statue?

Throughout the first half of the book I did feel the need to know exactly what Potter was doing and how Murphy and Kayla were. This is no different to when reading the novella, ‘Dead Night – Potter’s Secrets (Keira Hudson Series 2, Book 1.5)’, and ‘Dead Angels (Keira Hudson Series Two, Book 2)’ where we are told Potter’s story and in the latter, Isidor’s. As these books focus on the one character mostly I did terribly miss the others and was desperate to know what they were going through and what they were thinking.

However, in hindsight, I think that this is a fantastic way of writing as it allows the reader to get up close and personal with each character, good and bad, and become fully aware of them and understand their point of view. It also makes it the more exciting when we are reunited with the other characters in the following books as we have waited with eager anticipation and cannot wait to sink our minds into the next adventure.

All of the Keira Hudson books are interwoven and provide a great backbone for all of the others. I would strongly recommend that any reader of this book, along with ‘Dead Statues (Keira Hudson Series Two, Book 3)’, should read the earlier books and novellas of series one and series two. This would really assist the reader in understanding the whole picture: where these characters have come from, their adventures together and also their connection between each story and the other characters.

I simply cannot wait for the next instalment, ‘Dead Water’. However, I am glad that I am finally up-to-date with the series.

Reviewed by Caroline Barker

November 11, 2012 by Caroline Barker

Dead Statues (Kiera Hudson Series Two #3) by Tim O’Rourke

This novel has left me feeling utterley shocked and impatient to find out exactly what is going to happen next. Keira Hudson is definitely back and the main focus of this book, along with Potter. The story is told from both points of view and is completely filled with mystery, emotion, action, adventure, fear and dread.

At the beginning of the book is an Author’s Note. This is a short account of what ‘Dead Statues’ has in store for the reader, i.e. the areas and characters it will be focusing on. It also explains the connections between the previous novellas, ‘The Wolf House’ and ‘Dead Night – Potter’s Secrets, and this novel. I, personally, would take notice if you haven’t already read the previous novellas as they do provide great background information and knowledge of certain characters that will help the reader understand the emotions behind this novel.

Keira and her friends have just escaped a huge attack from the Skin-walkers, however it did not end well. They are all contemplating what had just happened and are trying to rest before they figure out what to do next. Before much can be said we find that they are in the thick of it again with the Skin-walkers. When events begin to calm, Keira is made aware of secrets that Potter has kept from her. Keira is hurt, angry and confused. How could Potter do this to her? She thought that he loved her.

Because she feels deceived and has found out that her father is alive in this ‘pushed’ world, Keira decides to leave her friends behind in search of her dad. Her friends, in the meantime, have problems of their own. And Potter has a great deal of making up to do. Potter goes in search for Keira, hoping to explain himself to her.

Throughout this novel it is easy to sympathise with Keira as she is the one that was kept in the dark and deceived. However, for those that have read the two novellas, Potter is also easy to sympathise with as the reader will understand the how’s, where’s and why’s. On saying this, I do believe that Potter should have explained all to Keira, for at least then she would know the truth firsthand, without becoming more paranoid and having more questions and doubts.

Throughout this series we have been introduced to the statues. These statues seem to appear from nowhere and when unseen they change positions. Some appear to whisper, but without their lips moving. They are eerie and it is the whole mystery surrounding them that make the reader fear for what or who they are, at the same time as wonder whether this will end up being Keira’s fate. These statues remind me of the Weeping Willows in the ‘Doctor Who’ series. And, likewise, they make me feel all goose-bumpy as they are strangely ghostly. Who are these statues, where are they from and what connection do they have to Keira and her friends?

The setting for this main novel is largely at a cottage where Keira’s friends are holding out for her, a graveyard near Keira’s fathers’ house and Keira’s fathers’ house. The atmosphere is very moody, very emotional, scary and terrifying. The snow is falling all around, in contrast, creating a more calm background, especially as the last novel was very stormy with thunder and lightning.

The ending of this novel is a complete cliffhanger and it is an absolute must to read the following novel, ‘Dead Seth (Keira Hudson Series Two, Book 4)’. Keira and Potter both seem stuck in at their own dead end and it is impossible to know what will happen next. Will their enemy succeed? Will Keira or Potter be saved? I hope both, but the chances are slim.

Reviewed by Caroline Barker