Disclaimer, disclaimer, disclaimer, I was given a copy of Where Death is a Hunter by Christopher Stookey in exchange for my honest review.
Where Death is a Hunter is a medical mystery/ thriller. I'll admit, not the usual genre I read, but I liked this book very much.
The book tells the story of an anesthesiologist accused of negligence resulting in the death of a surgery patient. Told from the POV of the accused, it is a taut well crafted story. I was surprised how quickly I finished the book. It held me from cover to cover, and I finished it in a day. Length is not criteria for me when choosing a book, as I have mostly unlimited time to devote to reading. But for some, reading time is more limited. Where Death is a Hunter will not devour large blocks of elusive reading time.
I did not realize that author Stookey is in fact a doctor until about half way through the book. Though full of medical jargon, Where Death is a Hunter is not so technical that it is hard to understand. Definitely not written just for medical types, easy to read with out feeling "dumbed down" or condescending.
I heartily recommend Mr. Stookey's book Where Death is a Hunter to fans of thrillers in general and medical mysteries in particular. Enjoy!
Mike
Monday, October 12, 2015
How to Stop Wildfire
Author Sarah Sunday sent me an e-version of How to Stop Wildfire for review.
This book was a fun read. The file I received was, I hope, not the version that was put into print form. Quite a bit of proofreading was needed. A common problem nowadays, words were not misspelled, but incorrectly used, left out, etc. It seems too much reliance on spell check and auto correct may be the culprit. I try to separate editing issues from story, but sometimes the errors are so prevalent they take away from the enjoyment of the story. This version was right on the edge. Word to the wise;use a proofreader other than the author (fresh eyes). 'Nuff said.
These issues aside, How to Stop Wildfire is a lot of fun. It is a wild mix of sci-fi space fantasy, Greek Mythology, Egyptian Mythology, revenge, conquest, megalomania, technology and politics. That probably doesn't cover it, but it gives an idea of what's in store for you in this book. There is tragedy and triumph, humor and drama, sadness and euphoria enough to satisfy any reader. Sarah Sunday's universe is populated by the most interestingly diverse group of characters I have spent time with in quite a while. Hades ( yeah, that Hades) and Cyclone are absolutely hilarious. I dare you to not at least snicker when you encounter them. At times I thought to myself, "This Universe still exists by sheer luck alone!"
How to Stop Wildfire is the first of a series. It looks like it will be a great series to follow. These characters are just plain fun.
I think How to Stop Wildfire will be enjoyed by anyone who likes sci-fi, humor, and sometimes downright absurdity(in a good way). This is one of those books where the reader wants to ask; How did you ever come up with this story? It demonstrates a wildly creative mind! Anyway, Enjoy!
Mike
This book was a fun read. The file I received was, I hope, not the version that was put into print form. Quite a bit of proofreading was needed. A common problem nowadays, words were not misspelled, but incorrectly used, left out, etc. It seems too much reliance on spell check and auto correct may be the culprit. I try to separate editing issues from story, but sometimes the errors are so prevalent they take away from the enjoyment of the story. This version was right on the edge. Word to the wise;use a proofreader other than the author (fresh eyes). 'Nuff said.
These issues aside, How to Stop Wildfire is a lot of fun. It is a wild mix of sci-fi space fantasy, Greek Mythology, Egyptian Mythology, revenge, conquest, megalomania, technology and politics. That probably doesn't cover it, but it gives an idea of what's in store for you in this book. There is tragedy and triumph, humor and drama, sadness and euphoria enough to satisfy any reader. Sarah Sunday's universe is populated by the most interestingly diverse group of characters I have spent time with in quite a while. Hades ( yeah, that Hades) and Cyclone are absolutely hilarious. I dare you to not at least snicker when you encounter them. At times I thought to myself, "This Universe still exists by sheer luck alone!"
How to Stop Wildfire is the first of a series. It looks like it will be a great series to follow. These characters are just plain fun.
I think How to Stop Wildfire will be enjoyed by anyone who likes sci-fi, humor, and sometimes downright absurdity(in a good way). This is one of those books where the reader wants to ask; How did you ever come up with this story? It demonstrates a wildly creative mind! Anyway, Enjoy!
Mike
Thursday, October 8, 2015
Einstein's Beach House
Author Jacob M. Appel gave me a copy of Einstein's Beach House for review.
This book was better than most I receive with regards to editing, very few, if any, typos, misused words, etc.
But I have to say, Einstein's Beach House, was just not for me. I don't consider myself a dummy, but I guess I am not cerebral enough to understand this book. To me, the stories built the reader up in anticipation of the climax, then just kind of fizzled. Not bad, don't get me wrong, just kind of "ok the story is over, next!"
Appel does paint good word pictures. Detail and character building are spot on. I just found myself saying, "I just don't get it". There were humorous, sad, heartbreaking, and compelling portions of the story. For me, it was just those pesky endings.
The best comparison I can come up with by way of example is; remember the Twilight Zone, the viewer was taken for a ride that, at the end, had a twist you didn't see coming. The stories in this book were similar, with out the twist at the end.
Einstein's Beach House is a well constructed and presented book. I'm sure there is an audience for this book who will appreciate and enjoy the stories. They will understand the message. I do wish Mr. Appel good luck with this book and recommend it to readers who enjoy more cerebral works.
Mike
This book was better than most I receive with regards to editing, very few, if any, typos, misused words, etc.
But I have to say, Einstein's Beach House, was just not for me. I don't consider myself a dummy, but I guess I am not cerebral enough to understand this book. To me, the stories built the reader up in anticipation of the climax, then just kind of fizzled. Not bad, don't get me wrong, just kind of "ok the story is over, next!"
Appel does paint good word pictures. Detail and character building are spot on. I just found myself saying, "I just don't get it". There were humorous, sad, heartbreaking, and compelling portions of the story. For me, it was just those pesky endings.
The best comparison I can come up with by way of example is; remember the Twilight Zone, the viewer was taken for a ride that, at the end, had a twist you didn't see coming. The stories in this book were similar, with out the twist at the end.
Einstein's Beach House is a well constructed and presented book. I'm sure there is an audience for this book who will appreciate and enjoy the stories. They will understand the message. I do wish Mr. Appel good luck with this book and recommend it to readers who enjoy more cerebral works.
Mike
Wednesday, October 7, 2015
Reveal for Spark by Holly Schindler
I am helping with the reveal of Holly Schindler's Spark
I was unable to post the artwork she sent me, sorry.
Below is info on the book
Holly Schindler’s Spark:
When the
right hearts come to the Avery Theater—at the right time—the magic will return.
The Avery will come back from the dead.
Or so Quin’s great-grandmother predicted many years
ago on Verona, Missouri’s most tragic night, when Nick and Emma, two
star-crossed teenage lovers, died on the stage. It was the night that the
Avery’s marquee lights went out forever.
It sounds like urban legend, but one that high
school senior Quin is now starting to believe, especially when her best friend,
Cass, and their classmate Dylan step onto the stage and sparks fly. It seems
that magic can still unfold at the old Avery Theater and a happier ending can
still be had—one that will align the stars and revive not only the decrepit
theater, but also the decaying town. However, it hinges on one thing—that Quin
gets the story right this time around.
Holly Schindler brings the magic of the theater to
life in this tale of family ties, fate, love, and one girl’s quest to rewrite
history.
~
“In my
hometown, the restoration of a former movie theater on the town square provided
the genesis for my new YA novel, SPARK. Who among us hasn’t dreamed of seeing
their name in blazing neon across a gigantic marquee? Let me invite you to dim
the lights and draw back the velvet curtains—let your imagination run wild as
you enter my fictional Avery Theater, where literally anything goes…”
—Holly Schindler
~
Holly
Schindler is the author of three previous YA novels: PLAYING HURT as well
as the critically acclaimed FERAL (starred PW review) and A BLUE SO DARK
(starred Booklist review, ForeWord Book of the Year silver medal, IPPY gold
medal). A writer of books for all ages, Schindler’s MG, THE JUNCTION OF
SUNSHINE AND LUCKY, has made the master list for children’s book awards in
Illinois, South Carolina, and Alabama. She is also a hybrid author, having
independently released comedic women’s fiction (FIFTH AVENUE FIDOS) and the forthcoming
PLAY IT AGAIN, her adult follow-up to her YA PLAYING HURT. She can be reached
through her author site: hollyschindler.com,
and hosts special sneak peeks and giveaways for subscribers of her newsletter: tinyletter.com/hollyschindler.com.
~
Spark
“Premieres” May 17, 2016, but you can buy your “tickets” now. Links to
pre-order -
Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Spark-Holly-Schindler/dp/0062220233/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1443300868&sr=8-1&keywords=spark+holly+schindler
B&N:
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/spark-holly-schindler/1122566794?ean=9780062220233
IndieBound: http://www.indiebound.org/book/9780062220233
Add
to your TBR list -
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26
Tuesday, October 6, 2015
Gods of Blood and Bone
Gods of Blood and Bone by Azalea Ellis was given me in e-format in exchange for a review.
I knew within the first few pages that I was going to love this book. I was immediately caught up in the story. Basically, people are abducted and implanted with devices that put them into a "game" where they are forced to participate in vicious activities, if they are not successful they die, in the game and real life.
The author, Azalea Ellis, does a fantastic job of keeping the reader involved with little to no information about who the bad guys actually are. There were twists and turns I did not see coming.The characters were believable and sympathetic. I found myself emotionally attached to some of the characters, and was in turns angry, fearful, heartbroken, and happy with them.
The main characters are young adults. Sometimes that is not all that appealing to me because in other stories I've read adults are portrayed as lacking the ability and intelligence to effectively deal with the situation at hand.
There is justification for the youth of the main characters here that makes sense to the story line. There are adults actually included, and they have important, crucial parts to play.
There was a lot of action, sometimes graphic, woven together with humor, suspense, intrigue and intelligence. Although a strong action oriented story, it didn't rely on just battles with bad guys to keep the reader interested. There were times when thinking/ reasoning was how the characters resolved situations making a balanced and more believable story. The ending caught me by surprise, but made perfect sense. There is room for more in this story line, and I believe more is on the way. I hope so anyway.
From The author's Goodreads bio, it seems as Gods of Blood and Bone is her debut book. If this is not true, my bad. If it is a debut effort, it was a fantastic way to start, if not, it's still a fantastic book. I look forward to reading more from Azalea Ellis.
If you are a fan of action/ adventure/ fantasy, you will enjoy Gods of Blood and Bone. I urge you to check it out. Enjoy!
Mike
I knew within the first few pages that I was going to love this book. I was immediately caught up in the story. Basically, people are abducted and implanted with devices that put them into a "game" where they are forced to participate in vicious activities, if they are not successful they die, in the game and real life.
The author, Azalea Ellis, does a fantastic job of keeping the reader involved with little to no information about who the bad guys actually are. There were twists and turns I did not see coming.The characters were believable and sympathetic. I found myself emotionally attached to some of the characters, and was in turns angry, fearful, heartbroken, and happy with them.
The main characters are young adults. Sometimes that is not all that appealing to me because in other stories I've read adults are portrayed as lacking the ability and intelligence to effectively deal with the situation at hand.
There is justification for the youth of the main characters here that makes sense to the story line. There are adults actually included, and they have important, crucial parts to play.
There was a lot of action, sometimes graphic, woven together with humor, suspense, intrigue and intelligence. Although a strong action oriented story, it didn't rely on just battles with bad guys to keep the reader interested. There were times when thinking/ reasoning was how the characters resolved situations making a balanced and more believable story. The ending caught me by surprise, but made perfect sense. There is room for more in this story line, and I believe more is on the way. I hope so anyway.
From The author's Goodreads bio, it seems as Gods of Blood and Bone is her debut book. If this is not true, my bad. If it is a debut effort, it was a fantastic way to start, if not, it's still a fantastic book. I look forward to reading more from Azalea Ellis.
If you are a fan of action/ adventure/ fantasy, you will enjoy Gods of Blood and Bone. I urge you to check it out. Enjoy!
Mike
Saturday, October 3, 2015
Breakout
I received a copy of Breakout by Kevin Scott Olson because I asked for one!
This book is great! I read it in one setting. Well, it's only 35 pages long, so...
But I am already hooked. I can't wait to read more of the exploits of Michael Quinn.
Basically it's military/espionage action story.
I really wish this book had been longer, I can't say how long I will be willing to follow a series 35 pages at a time. But, for now, I'm in! Great action, violent to be sure, but not so graphic as to spoil the story. The focus is on story, not gratuitous graphic violence, glib (read: stupid) witticisms, puns or other crutches often used in the genre.
My biggest complaint? The story's end. That was cold Mr. Olson. I don't do spoilers so you'll have to read the book to see what I mean.
If you like military-type action reads Breakout, is definitely meant for you. Enjoy!
Mike
This book is great! I read it in one setting. Well, it's only 35 pages long, so...
But I am already hooked. I can't wait to read more of the exploits of Michael Quinn.
Basically it's military/espionage action story.
I really wish this book had been longer, I can't say how long I will be willing to follow a series 35 pages at a time. But, for now, I'm in! Great action, violent to be sure, but not so graphic as to spoil the story. The focus is on story, not gratuitous graphic violence, glib (read: stupid) witticisms, puns or other crutches often used in the genre.
My biggest complaint? The story's end. That was cold Mr. Olson. I don't do spoilers so you'll have to read the book to see what I mean.
If you like military-type action reads Breakout, is definitely meant for you. Enjoy!
Mike
Thursday, October 1, 2015
Woven Myths: A Slice of Quietude
Woven Myths: A Slice of Quietude by Sharon Cho was offered to me for review.
I was intrigued when offered this book because it featured female lead characters and was an action oriented story.
It was very refreshing to read a story with strong female characters that didn't reduce male characters to inconsequential idiots led around by their genitalia.
Yes, I get it, the main characters were building a same-sex relationship, and according to the authors acknowledgements, the book is an attempt to support same-sex relationships. Fine by me. I'm not gay, I don't really care if anyone else is. It's none of my business. I don't support the abuse of any group of people based on their beliefs, The most I have the right to say is I agree or disagree with their beliefs.
I know this is not the place for discussing my personal beliefs on any topic, but since the author offers the topic as an important aspect of her work, I couldn't ignore it and feel I had adequately reviewed her story.
A Slice of Quietude was for me, a great way to present such relationships in a nonthreatening and nonjudgmental way. The reader is not bludgeoned into accepting the characters relationships or even focus on them.
The story, at least as I experienced it, was more of a "buddy" action/ adventure. As in any action story, each character brought their own strengths and weaknesses to the group. There was humor, fear, danger, selflessness, camaraderie, and yes, romance.
A side comment: most action/ adventure/ quest type stories I have read almost always present an odd number of characters undertaking the quest. Usually five or seven. It has been so prevalent that I considered it a convention. So I was surprised by this book having four adventurers in the group. Nothing bad, just different.
If I haven't made it clear yet, I really enjoyed A Slice of Quietude. It was an exciting, packed story. The story line was complex enough to hold my interest and keep me involved until the end. Author Sharon Cho does not spare her characters because of their gender. They experience, and inflict, terrible violence. Cho gets down to business in painting a mental picture of the combat sequences. She paints wonderful pictures of the people and places her characters encounter, She supplies explanations of the mythic beliefs which guide the storiy.
So, If you want to read a story which supports same sex relationships A Slice of Quietude works.
If you want to read an action filled adventure, A Slice of Quietude works. If you want to read a good escapist fantasy novel without having to dwell on heavy social issues, A Slice of Quietude works.
Any way you slice it (get it?), A Slice of Quietude is a good time. Enjoy!
Mike
I was intrigued when offered this book because it featured female lead characters and was an action oriented story.
It was very refreshing to read a story with strong female characters that didn't reduce male characters to inconsequential idiots led around by their genitalia.
Yes, I get it, the main characters were building a same-sex relationship, and according to the authors acknowledgements, the book is an attempt to support same-sex relationships. Fine by me. I'm not gay, I don't really care if anyone else is. It's none of my business. I don't support the abuse of any group of people based on their beliefs, The most I have the right to say is I agree or disagree with their beliefs.
I know this is not the place for discussing my personal beliefs on any topic, but since the author offers the topic as an important aspect of her work, I couldn't ignore it and feel I had adequately reviewed her story.
A Slice of Quietude was for me, a great way to present such relationships in a nonthreatening and nonjudgmental way. The reader is not bludgeoned into accepting the characters relationships or even focus on them.
The story, at least as I experienced it, was more of a "buddy" action/ adventure. As in any action story, each character brought their own strengths and weaknesses to the group. There was humor, fear, danger, selflessness, camaraderie, and yes, romance.
A side comment: most action/ adventure/ quest type stories I have read almost always present an odd number of characters undertaking the quest. Usually five or seven. It has been so prevalent that I considered it a convention. So I was surprised by this book having four adventurers in the group. Nothing bad, just different.
If I haven't made it clear yet, I really enjoyed A Slice of Quietude. It was an exciting, packed story. The story line was complex enough to hold my interest and keep me involved until the end. Author Sharon Cho does not spare her characters because of their gender. They experience, and inflict, terrible violence. Cho gets down to business in painting a mental picture of the combat sequences. She paints wonderful pictures of the people and places her characters encounter, She supplies explanations of the mythic beliefs which guide the storiy.
So, If you want to read a story which supports same sex relationships A Slice of Quietude works.
If you want to read an action filled adventure, A Slice of Quietude works. If you want to read a good escapist fantasy novel without having to dwell on heavy social issues, A Slice of Quietude works.
Any way you slice it (get it?), A Slice of Quietude is a good time. Enjoy!
Mike
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