Call Me Ted
By Ted Turner with Bill Burke
I have to admit that I was feeling lukewarm about delving into another autobiography when I picked up Call Me Ted. I had not had very good luck in this department lately. I had trudged through some pretty self-serving, back-patting, yawners lately that seemed to just lay there like Donald Trump’s hair. However, as I listened to the Call Me Ted audio book read by Ted Turner himself I was hooked immediately. I knew very little about Ted other than he was married to Jane Fonda and I enjoyed his cable creations: CNN, TCM and TBS. What followed as the book unfolded was Mr. Turner, or Ted as he asked to be called, narrating a wild ride through a World Series win with his Atlanta Braves, winning the 1978 America’s Cup on the yacht Courageous, and you’re on the edge of your seat as this self-made man negotiates multi-million and eventually multi-billion dollar deals making and breaking companies in the 80's and 90's. His passion for his business and seeing his visions fulfilled blurs the line occasionally between sheer genius and insanity as you are fully enveloped in his world.
This is a stand-out autobiography by someone who clearly has a lot of living left to do. Far from the dreary, water downed mid-career biographies that have been paraded through lately this is the bonafide real deal. To make sure that it is over the top, Ted has peppered throughout the book “Ted Stories.” These are stories submitted by those that worked with him, his family and in Jane Fonda’s case, his ex-wife. Who, I thought, is gutsy enough to allow their ex-spouse to contribute a brutally honest account of their marriage with them to their own autobiography? Ted Turner, that is who. He attacked this autobiography with the same insanely high energy and straightforwardness that he has seemed to live his entire life with. A great read. Don’t be intimidated by the size of the book or the length of the 14 hour audio book, you will be left wanting more. Not since Anthony Swafford’s Jarhead have I been this sad to come to the end of a book.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Book Feature: Tax Free Retirement
Book Feature: Tax Free Retirement
Author: Patrick Kelly
Pub Date: 2007
Publisher: www.tax-freeretirement.com
Description:
This book will teach you how to retire with money in the bank. It talks about how to generate tax-free retirement income and leave money for future generations.
Author: Patrick Kelly
Pub Date: 2007
Publisher: www.tax-freeretirement.com
Description:
This book will teach you how to retire with money in the bank. It talks about how to generate tax-free retirement income and leave money for future generations.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
White Witch, Black Curse
White Witch Black Curse by Kim Harrison (Rachel Morgan Witch Series)
Description: Rachel Morgan is back with her pals - vampire Ivy and pixie Jinks. Over time Rachel has developed a reputation for being a black witch. The thing is - she isn't. She has just had to take on demon smut (and demon marks) to save herself and her friends. And there is nothing Rachel wants more - then to keep her friends safe and protected.
Kisten, her vampire lover, has died. She is distraught and so is Ivy. They both loveed him so much. Each wants to find his killer but is afraid of what they will find when they do find him. Rachel was there - but her grief made her insane and Jinks had to give her a forgetting spell just to have her calm down.
There is always that Rachel needs to be around to take care of. Besides finding Kisten's killer she is notified by the police that someone is hurting people. She needs to help with that. Add to it the complication of being demon, Al's servant and being attracted to a ghost, Pierce that she met when she was just a teenager and her life is complicated.
Thoughts: I honestly have the same thoughts I had with the last book I reviewed on this website that had to do with Rachel Morgan. The story is great. The problem is that I read them as soon as they come out and they rely so much on each other for the story. I feel like I am behind trying to catch up. It takes me such a long time to remember all the little subplots that are going on that make the story so great and I am halfway into the book before I get there.
The interaction between Rachel and Ivy is spectacular. They are friends, who one wants more, the other can't give more. They want to save each other from the world (Ivy - saving Rachel from all the bad things out there, and Rachel saving Ivy from dying and becoming something without a soul).
Add to that the complication of doing bad things for good reasons. Is there ever a good reason to do something bad? In Rachel's case you think so. In some ways it is a metaphor for life. You do bad things to save those you love. You do bad things because it helps with the pain. Sometimes a good thing can turn into a bad thing without you even knowing it.
Overall:
Description: Rachel Morgan is back with her pals - vampire Ivy and pixie Jinks. Over time Rachel has developed a reputation for being a black witch. The thing is - she isn't. She has just had to take on demon smut (and demon marks) to save herself and her friends. And there is nothing Rachel wants more - then to keep her friends safe and protected.
Kisten, her vampire lover, has died. She is distraught and so is Ivy. They both loveed him so much. Each wants to find his killer but is afraid of what they will find when they do find him. Rachel was there - but her grief made her insane and Jinks had to give her a forgetting spell just to have her calm down.
There is always that Rachel needs to be around to take care of. Besides finding Kisten's killer she is notified by the police that someone is hurting people. She needs to help with that. Add to it the complication of being demon, Al's servant and being attracted to a ghost, Pierce that she met when she was just a teenager and her life is complicated.
Thoughts: I honestly have the same thoughts I had with the last book I reviewed on this website that had to do with Rachel Morgan. The story is great. The problem is that I read them as soon as they come out and they rely so much on each other for the story. I feel like I am behind trying to catch up. It takes me such a long time to remember all the little subplots that are going on that make the story so great and I am halfway into the book before I get there.
The interaction between Rachel and Ivy is spectacular. They are friends, who one wants more, the other can't give more. They want to save each other from the world (Ivy - saving Rachel from all the bad things out there, and Rachel saving Ivy from dying and becoming something without a soul).
Add to that the complication of doing bad things for good reasons. Is there ever a good reason to do something bad? In Rachel's case you think so. In some ways it is a metaphor for life. You do bad things to save those you love. You do bad things because it helps with the pain. Sometimes a good thing can turn into a bad thing without you even knowing it.
Overall:
Book Feature: Legs Talk: let your legs do the talking
Book Feature: Legs Talk: let your legs do the talking
Author: D.E. Boone
Price: $9.95
Pub Date: 2009
Publisher: Global Force Media
Description:Two legs meet – flirt – and start a relationship. This book displays the love hate relationship that a couple can have.
Author: D.E. Boone
Price: $9.95
Pub Date: 2009
Publisher: Global Force Media
Description:Two legs meet – flirt – and start a relationship. This book displays the love hate relationship that a couple can have.
Monday, March 9, 2009
Winners! 100 Ways to Simplify Your Life
Congratulations to our audio book winners for 100 Ways to Simplify Your Life (Unabridged) By Joyce Meyer, read by Sandra McCollom
- MJ
- divaqueenie
- Renee G
Book Feature: The Mighty Queen of Freeville: A Mother, a Daughter, and the Town That Raised Them
Book Feature: The Mighty Queen of Freeville: A Mother, a Daughter, and the Town That Raised Them
Author: Amy Dickenson
Pages: 225
Price: $22.99
Pub Date: 2009
Publisher: Hyperion Books
Description:Amy Dickenson has a syndicated advice column “Ask Amy”. Many people ask her where she gets her advice from – and it is her own life. Amy talks about the mistakes she made in her own relationships as well as those she made with her daughter in this touching memoir.
Author: Amy Dickenson
Pages: 225
Price: $22.99
Pub Date: 2009
Publisher: Hyperion Books
Description:Amy Dickenson has a syndicated advice column “Ask Amy”. Many people ask her where she gets her advice from – and it is her own life. Amy talks about the mistakes she made in her own relationships as well as those she made with her daughter in this touching memoir.
Kim Hanks Author of Save The Best For Last
Kim Hanks is the author of Save The Best For Last, a fantasy adventure debut from the author! Critics have compared this book to an example of hugely popular genres and reality in the novelists craft and have described it as a strong, good, and multilayered fantasy adventure written with a hand that is both sure and light.
Kim has a full time job and is a graduate of Cambridge International College with a degree in Human Resource Management. He lives in Dubai.
For more information please visit his website at http://www.kimhanks.net/
About the Book
Zwick Lamps, a secret admirer to Whitney Barnes, got targeted by a genius son of the past evil family that had lived in Green Oasis Town. However, it was once before that Zwick had finally discovered his supernatural powers that were only known by the isolated old woman Tabitha, a misfortuned lady whose husband died on their wedding day.
Win Prizes
SAVE THE BEST FOR LAST VIRTUAL BLOG TOUR '09 will officially begin on March 2 and end on March 31. You can visit Kim's blog stops at http://www.virtualbooktours.wordpress.com/ in March to find out more about this great book and talented author!
As a special promotion for all our authors, Pump Up Your Book Promotion is giving away a FREE virtual book tour to a published author or a $50 Amazon gift certificate to those not published who comments on our authors' blog stops. More prizes will be announced as they become available.
Kim has a full time job and is a graduate of Cambridge International College with a degree in Human Resource Management. He lives in Dubai.
For more information please visit his website at http://www.kimhanks.net/
About the Book
Zwick Lamps, a secret admirer to Whitney Barnes, got targeted by a genius son of the past evil family that had lived in Green Oasis Town. However, it was once before that Zwick had finally discovered his supernatural powers that were only known by the isolated old woman Tabitha, a misfortuned lady whose husband died on their wedding day.
Win Prizes
SAVE THE BEST FOR LAST VIRTUAL BLOG TOUR '09 will officially begin on March 2 and end on March 31. You can visit Kim's blog stops at http://www.virtualbooktours.wordpress.com/ in March to find out more about this great book and talented author!
As a special promotion for all our authors, Pump Up Your Book Promotion is giving away a FREE virtual book tour to a published author or a $50 Amazon gift certificate to those not published who comments on our authors' blog stops. More prizes will be announced as they become available.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Coming Soon – Book Features
One of the things that I am going to implement is a Book Feature. For every book that is sent to me (either by publishers or authors) I will be featuring some basic data about them. Later I will review them – but it gives them the opportunity to be up a few times on the site and get a few more people to see them.
Since I review everything I read – whether it was a gift from someone, a book from the library, something I purchased, or something I was sent – this will give those people who have been generous enough to send me something to review a little something special!
I would love it if any of you had the book and wanted to review it as well - get in touch with me. I will link to your reviews as well as maybe we can do a cross-blog post!
Since I review everything I read – whether it was a gift from someone, a book from the library, something I purchased, or something I was sent – this will give those people who have been generous enough to send me something to review a little something special!
I would love it if any of you had the book and wanted to review it as well - get in touch with me. I will link to your reviews as well as maybe we can do a cross-blog post!
Rethinking Things
So most people decide to shake things up on the New Year. I am obviously not most people. I am in this in between stage where I want to do all I can to make this blog the best that it can be. But at the same time I want to make sure whatever I am doing fits in to what I what I want to do and enjoy.
I know I am not a writer and have no aspirations to ever be a writer. This is supposed to be a resource for people who have like tastes to mine so that they can find books that they enjoy. Or if you don’t have like tastes – you find some sort of resource that makes you want to pick up a book.
I have an extreme love of reading (if you couldn’t tell by how often I post and how many books that I read). I think it is great if you can get in to reading (or if not reading – why not an audio book!) You can learn so much, explore so many worlds, feel so many feelings – just by picking up a book.
I also want this to be a resource for writers to get their thoughts out to the world. Some of my favorite things are to read their guest posts and get a small inlet into their world.
So I ask you – the people that read my blog and help out so much with encouraging me to continue – What can I do to make this better?
I think I am going to switch things up a little from now on. And we will see what you all think of it.
I know I am not a writer and have no aspirations to ever be a writer. This is supposed to be a resource for people who have like tastes to mine so that they can find books that they enjoy. Or if you don’t have like tastes – you find some sort of resource that makes you want to pick up a book.
I have an extreme love of reading (if you couldn’t tell by how often I post and how many books that I read). I think it is great if you can get in to reading (or if not reading – why not an audio book!) You can learn so much, explore so many worlds, feel so many feelings – just by picking up a book.
I also want this to be a resource for writers to get their thoughts out to the world. Some of my favorite things are to read their guest posts and get a small inlet into their world.
So I ask you – the people that read my blog and help out so much with encouraging me to continue – What can I do to make this better?
I think I am going to switch things up a little from now on. And we will see what you all think of it.
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Heart Fate
Heart Fate by Robin D. Owens
What was this book about?
Set on the planet Celta a totally abstract culture is being lived. Lashin Yew was married to a cruel and horrible man at just 14 years of age. And he has tortured her since. She now has an opportunity to run as she is about to enter her Second Passage when her flair will be revealed.
So Lashin runs. She finds refuge in a place that no one knows about. She knows she must stay hidden or her husband will find her. She comes across Tinne Holly. She has no idea that Tinne has come there looking for her. Tinne has been hurt recently – as his wife has just divorced him. He knows that Lashin is his Heart Mate. He figured that they would never be able to be together – but fate seems to have thrown them together. How will Lashin feel about being forced into another relationship?
What did you think about the book?
This was the first book in this series that I read. I enjoyed it quite a bit. I liked the idea of Flair and the three Passages. I loved how the family interacted and loved one another. The romance was interesting and kept me intrigued. Overall it was a fun read.
What genre would you consider this?
Paranormal Romance
Overall:
What was this book about?
Set on the planet Celta a totally abstract culture is being lived. Lashin Yew was married to a cruel and horrible man at just 14 years of age. And he has tortured her since. She now has an opportunity to run as she is about to enter her Second Passage when her flair will be revealed.
So Lashin runs. She finds refuge in a place that no one knows about. She knows she must stay hidden or her husband will find her. She comes across Tinne Holly. She has no idea that Tinne has come there looking for her. Tinne has been hurt recently – as his wife has just divorced him. He knows that Lashin is his Heart Mate. He figured that they would never be able to be together – but fate seems to have thrown them together. How will Lashin feel about being forced into another relationship?
What did you think about the book?
This was the first book in this series that I read. I enjoyed it quite a bit. I liked the idea of Flair and the three Passages. I loved how the family interacted and loved one another. The romance was interesting and kept me intrigued. Overall it was a fun read.
What genre would you consider this?
Paranormal Romance
Overall:
Friday, March 6, 2009
The Decadent Duke
The Decadent Duke by Virginia Henley
What was this book about?
Georgina Gordon and her sisters had an unusual upbringing. Despite this once they all reach of age – their mother can’t wait to marry them off to men with titles. And she has been able to accomplish her goal.
When it comes Georgina though – she wants a marriage for love. She has seen what has happened when you marry for convenience and wants no part of it. Her mother has set her eyes on Francis Russell , the Duke of Bedford. But instead Georgina has her eyes on his married younger brother.
Will Georgina find true love?
What did you think about the book?
The story was only ok for me. It had its promising moments but there were several things I just didn’t enjoy. One – I didn’t know who she should like. John Russell is married and has children when she meets him (and for much of the book). Which makes you think – she should stay away from him – even if his marriage is horrid. And the older brother doesn’t turn into this horrible cad until you have met him a few times.
The other thing that I didn’t enjoy all that much was the politics. It wasn’t in the story in a way that kept me interested about it. I just wanted to skip those parts. It wasn’t important to the character development (other than to show that John was a great person). There really was just too much of that.
I enjoyed the sisterly relationship. I loved the thought of a kinda outrageous mother doing everything she could to marry her daughters off to men who had titles. But overall the story just had a few too many things that weren’t my favorite.
What genre would you consider this?
Historical Romance
Overall:
What was this book about?
Georgina Gordon and her sisters had an unusual upbringing. Despite this once they all reach of age – their mother can’t wait to marry them off to men with titles. And she has been able to accomplish her goal.
When it comes Georgina though – she wants a marriage for love. She has seen what has happened when you marry for convenience and wants no part of it. Her mother has set her eyes on Francis Russell , the Duke of Bedford. But instead Georgina has her eyes on his married younger brother.
Will Georgina find true love?
What did you think about the book?
The story was only ok for me. It had its promising moments but there were several things I just didn’t enjoy. One – I didn’t know who she should like. John Russell is married and has children when she meets him (and for much of the book). Which makes you think – she should stay away from him – even if his marriage is horrid. And the older brother doesn’t turn into this horrible cad until you have met him a few times.
The other thing that I didn’t enjoy all that much was the politics. It wasn’t in the story in a way that kept me interested about it. I just wanted to skip those parts. It wasn’t important to the character development (other than to show that John was a great person). There really was just too much of that.
I enjoyed the sisterly relationship. I loved the thought of a kinda outrageous mother doing everything she could to marry her daughters off to men who had titles. But overall the story just had a few too many things that weren’t my favorite.
What genre would you consider this?
Historical Romance
Overall:
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Dragon Wytch
Dragon Wytch by Yasmine Galenorn
What was this book about?
Three sisters and their friends are here to save us. The Shadow Wing is out to destroy the world. Delilah can transform into a cat (a normal house cat). Menolly is a vampire, and Camille is a witch. They are all half fae and that does have its affect on their powers.
A unicorn comes to visit to bring Camille something that only she can weild. It will help her save the world. She doesn’t know what it is or what she is supposed to do with it but that is half of the battle. Her sisters, her friends, and herself must save the world from the evil Shadow Wing. Shadow Wing is trying to find the spirit seals that will help them unleash their evil.
Smoky the dragon is back in this book to help Camille. Can he handle the fact she has several other true loves? Why is he involved? Is he doing this to help – or does he want something else from her and her sisters?
What did you think about the book?
We are on to book 4 in a series I originally thought was only 3 books. But we all make mistakes :) Anyways I enjoy the series overall. For me I don’t know if the overarching plot of the series itself is moving quickly enough for me. I like the sisters, the group of people/creatures/beings are interesting and diverse.
This is one of those series that I wouldn’t even consider jumping into halfway. There is so much going on, so many people involved and such a long story that you would be completely confused.
The one thing I think I like the best about this series is you don’t know who to trust. You don’t know who will be good, who will be bad, and if you are doing something that may not necessarily be good –but is what needs to be done for the betterment of all.
What genre would you consider this?
Paranormal
Overall:
Question for You!
What is the best mix of a longer story being told in several installments?
What was this book about?
Three sisters and their friends are here to save us. The Shadow Wing is out to destroy the world. Delilah can transform into a cat (a normal house cat). Menolly is a vampire, and Camille is a witch. They are all half fae and that does have its affect on their powers.
A unicorn comes to visit to bring Camille something that only she can weild. It will help her save the world. She doesn’t know what it is or what she is supposed to do with it but that is half of the battle. Her sisters, her friends, and herself must save the world from the evil Shadow Wing. Shadow Wing is trying to find the spirit seals that will help them unleash their evil.
Smoky the dragon is back in this book to help Camille. Can he handle the fact she has several other true loves? Why is he involved? Is he doing this to help – or does he want something else from her and her sisters?
What did you think about the book?
We are on to book 4 in a series I originally thought was only 3 books. But we all make mistakes :) Anyways I enjoy the series overall. For me I don’t know if the overarching plot of the series itself is moving quickly enough for me. I like the sisters, the group of people/creatures/beings are interesting and diverse.
This is one of those series that I wouldn’t even consider jumping into halfway. There is so much going on, so many people involved and such a long story that you would be completely confused.
The one thing I think I like the best about this series is you don’t know who to trust. You don’t know who will be good, who will be bad, and if you are doing something that may not necessarily be good –but is what needs to be done for the betterment of all.
What genre would you consider this?
Paranormal
Overall:
Question for You!
What is the best mix of a longer story being told in several installments?
Guest Post - Barbara Worton, Author of Too Tall Alice
Here's the best advice I can give you, and it's an invitation to stand tall with Too Tall Alice.
In Too Tall Alice, I learned that I am just the right height for me and I could see myself, really see myself having a very beautiful day. If you stand tall with me, whether you are worried about being too short, too skinny, too fat or lots of other things you might be anxious about, I’m here to tell you that it’s all going to be okay because I learned to see me, the real me. And now I know I can be anything I want to be. And you can too!
Sometimes it’s good to turn around the mean things people say and the things you worry about. I do this by thinking positive thoughts and doing good things too. Here’s a list of my favorite ways to stand tall:
In Too Tall Alice, I learned that I am just the right height for me and I could see myself, really see myself having a very beautiful day. If you stand tall with me, whether you are worried about being too short, too skinny, too fat or lots of other things you might be anxious about, I’m here to tell you that it’s all going to be okay because I learned to see me, the real me. And now I know I can be anything I want to be. And you can too!
Sometimes it’s good to turn around the mean things people say and the things you worry about. I do this by thinking positive thoughts and doing good things too. Here’s a list of my favorite ways to stand tall:
- Think about things that make me happy and smile a lot.
- Say four nice things to myself a day--stuff like, I'm cool, I'm smart, My mom and dad love me, I'm a good kid.
- Believing in myself is cooler than a new pair of sneakers. It's knowing I'm worth a lot, just the way I am.
- I think about all the things I like about myself and the nice things people say about me.
- I don't compare myself to others.
- Doing my best IS enough.
- I forgive myself when I make a mistake and say I'm sorry if my mistake touched someone else.
- I try my hardest to be a good friend and see the best in people.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Need
Need by Carrie Jones
What was this book about?
Zara watched her father die of a heart attack. Being left behind when someone you love dies almost killed her. She was so depressed that her mother sent her to live with her step-grandmother in Maine. What kid wants to go live in Maine? It was cold and all of a sudden she was the new kid in school.
Something odd is happening in this small town in Maine. Boys have begun to disappear. It had happened years before where none of them were found again. There is a strange man that keeps appearing before Zara and seems to want something from her. Is she in danger?
Zara is also trying to deal with the things every kid does – fitting in at school and finding friends.
What did you think about the book?
This was a great book. I love it. I don’t know if this is the first in a series or a single book (it does have a rather complete ending so it could be either). I like it enough that I even tried to find out and the answer is…I don’t know.
Anyways this book was great. Yes it is in the genre that is taking off – all things paranormal for teens. But it isn’t totally like anything out there that I have read. I really think my favorite part is the buildup. You spend a large part of the book not knowing if there really is just a creepy guy kidnapping young boys or if there is something supernatural going on. And if it is supernatural then what exactly is out there? How does it tie in with Zara and her friends?
For any teen (or even adult) that likes the Stephanie Meyer, Kelly Armstrong, Melissa De La Cruz and are a little tired of just reading about vampires – this is a great book for you. It has a good story that keeps you interested throughout! I know once I started it I didn’t want to put it down.
What genre would you consider this?
Teen/Paranormal
Overall:
Question for You!
Did your parents ever keep secrets from you? For your own good? If you are now a parent - do you feel differently about them now?
What was this book about?
Zara watched her father die of a heart attack. Being left behind when someone you love dies almost killed her. She was so depressed that her mother sent her to live with her step-grandmother in Maine. What kid wants to go live in Maine? It was cold and all of a sudden she was the new kid in school.
Something odd is happening in this small town in Maine. Boys have begun to disappear. It had happened years before where none of them were found again. There is a strange man that keeps appearing before Zara and seems to want something from her. Is she in danger?
Zara is also trying to deal with the things every kid does – fitting in at school and finding friends.
What did you think about the book?
This was a great book. I love it. I don’t know if this is the first in a series or a single book (it does have a rather complete ending so it could be either). I like it enough that I even tried to find out and the answer is…I don’t know.
Anyways this book was great. Yes it is in the genre that is taking off – all things paranormal for teens. But it isn’t totally like anything out there that I have read. I really think my favorite part is the buildup. You spend a large part of the book not knowing if there really is just a creepy guy kidnapping young boys or if there is something supernatural going on. And if it is supernatural then what exactly is out there? How does it tie in with Zara and her friends?
For any teen (or even adult) that likes the Stephanie Meyer, Kelly Armstrong, Melissa De La Cruz and are a little tired of just reading about vampires – this is a great book for you. It has a good story that keeps you interested throughout! I know once I started it I didn’t want to put it down.
What genre would you consider this?
Teen/Paranormal
Overall:
Question for You!
Did your parents ever keep secrets from you? For your own good? If you are now a parent - do you feel differently about them now?
Interview with Alice from Too Tall Alice by Barbara Worton
Alice - how would you describe yourself?
Well, I'm a girl, but you know that. I'm tall, but not T-Rex or Empire State Building tall, just four inches taller than the other girls in my class. A lot of people--like my mom and dad and pediatrician--say that's okay. Well, grown-ups say that I'm not really tall, that it's nice to be tall and that the other kids will catch-up with me. Hmmm. When I'm standing in the back row for school pictures and Eddie and Timmy are standing next to me and making faces at me, I don't care if anyone catches up with me. I just want to be standing in the front row of the class with my friends. And anyway, what if the other kids don't catch up with me? What if I'm always tall? I don't know what that will be like. I'm only eight years old! There's one thing that I do know. I like being different--being me and the absolute best me that I can be. Anyway, everyone is different. Look at me. I have curly blondish hair and brown eyes. None of my friends look like me, but they're cool being exactly who they are.
What do you think you can teach other kids like yourself from your book?
I like being a kid, but it's not so easy. You have to work hard to do all your homework. Some kids at school make fun of you. There's this girl in my school who thinks she's the coolest girl in the world. She's always telling everyone that her clothes are the best and her house and her bike, that her dad and mom are smarter than everyone else's parents, and that she's going to grow up to be the prettiest girl in the world and be rich, rich, rich. I don't think she should be telling other people that they're not as good as her. That's wrong. Everyone is different, and it's fine being just who you are. I'm so happy that I learned to see, really see me and all the things I can be in my dream. 'Cause it's true. I'm cool--and so are you--and if we believe in ourselves we can do and be anything.
What would you like to tell all the people that make fun of you for being too tall?
I want to tell them that being too tall is okay, because it's me, and I'm just the right height for me. Still, it hurts when people say stuff like that, and sometimes when people make fun of me it makes me cry. One time, I almost made fun of a boy who called me bean pole and said I had skinny legs, but my mom told me that would have been wrong and would have made me very unhappy. My mom also said that it's not a good idea to make faces back at people like that either. Once I did tell my teacher about that boy. He's always picking on me. I just remember that my mom and dad and all my family and friends love me, and I love me. So, if you think you're too tall or think you're too short or whatever, you're you, and whatever that is, it's just perfect.
Are you going to get to be in another book in the future?
Oh, I hope so. Barbara Worton, my author, has another book about me almost written. I don't know how long it will take her and Dom--he's the guy who drew all the pictures--to finish. They are so busy, but I know they want to do this next book. They might like me even more than I like myself.
Was there anything you wanted to tell me - that I didn't ask you about?
I love my mom and dad. My favorite place to be is the beach. I love the ocean and the sun, but I always wear sunscreen. I have lots of favorite books. Red is my absolute favorite color. There's a girl who pops up on every page of my book. She has straight brown hair. Lots of people have been asking me who she is. I'd like to know who you think she is. You can send your answers to me at info@greatlittlebooksllc.com. Just include "Too Tall Alice girl in picture" in the subject line. I'm going to have my own web site very soon--whenever Barbara and Dom finish writing and designing. I think it will be up and going real soon, then you'll be able to sign in and talk to me. That will be very cool.
Well, I'm a girl, but you know that. I'm tall, but not T-Rex or Empire State Building tall, just four inches taller than the other girls in my class. A lot of people--like my mom and dad and pediatrician--say that's okay. Well, grown-ups say that I'm not really tall, that it's nice to be tall and that the other kids will catch-up with me. Hmmm. When I'm standing in the back row for school pictures and Eddie and Timmy are standing next to me and making faces at me, I don't care if anyone catches up with me. I just want to be standing in the front row of the class with my friends. And anyway, what if the other kids don't catch up with me? What if I'm always tall? I don't know what that will be like. I'm only eight years old! There's one thing that I do know. I like being different--being me and the absolute best me that I can be. Anyway, everyone is different. Look at me. I have curly blondish hair and brown eyes. None of my friends look like me, but they're cool being exactly who they are.
What do you think you can teach other kids like yourself from your book?
I like being a kid, but it's not so easy. You have to work hard to do all your homework. Some kids at school make fun of you. There's this girl in my school who thinks she's the coolest girl in the world. She's always telling everyone that her clothes are the best and her house and her bike, that her dad and mom are smarter than everyone else's parents, and that she's going to grow up to be the prettiest girl in the world and be rich, rich, rich. I don't think she should be telling other people that they're not as good as her. That's wrong. Everyone is different, and it's fine being just who you are. I'm so happy that I learned to see, really see me and all the things I can be in my dream. 'Cause it's true. I'm cool--and so are you--and if we believe in ourselves we can do and be anything.
What would you like to tell all the people that make fun of you for being too tall?
I want to tell them that being too tall is okay, because it's me, and I'm just the right height for me. Still, it hurts when people say stuff like that, and sometimes when people make fun of me it makes me cry. One time, I almost made fun of a boy who called me bean pole and said I had skinny legs, but my mom told me that would have been wrong and would have made me very unhappy. My mom also said that it's not a good idea to make faces back at people like that either. Once I did tell my teacher about that boy. He's always picking on me. I just remember that my mom and dad and all my family and friends love me, and I love me. So, if you think you're too tall or think you're too short or whatever, you're you, and whatever that is, it's just perfect.
Are you going to get to be in another book in the future?
Oh, I hope so. Barbara Worton, my author, has another book about me almost written. I don't know how long it will take her and Dom--he's the guy who drew all the pictures--to finish. They are so busy, but I know they want to do this next book. They might like me even more than I like myself.
Was there anything you wanted to tell me - that I didn't ask you about?
I love my mom and dad. My favorite place to be is the beach. I love the ocean and the sun, but I always wear sunscreen. I have lots of favorite books. Red is my absolute favorite color. There's a girl who pops up on every page of my book. She has straight brown hair. Lots of people have been asking me who she is. I'd like to know who you think she is. You can send your answers to me at info@greatlittlebooksllc.com. Just include "Too Tall Alice girl in picture" in the subject line. I'm going to have my own web site very soon--whenever Barbara and Dom finish writing and designing. I think it will be up and going real soon, then you'll be able to sign in and talk to me. That will be very cool.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
New Books for March - from Sourcebooks
Wicked by Any Other Name by Linda Wisdom (March 2009) **Paranormal Romance**
The third in her Hex Series, Linda Wisdom’s latest follows another one of the witches banned from the Witches Academy 700 years ago—Stasi Romanov owns her own lingerie shop, which sells, among other things, love spells. When one of her spells goes awry, Stasi finds herself in the middle of a lawsuit, and is being prosecuted by the very handsome wizard attorney, Trevor Barnes. To add to the mayhem, Stasi and her best friends, Jazz and Blair, find out that someone is threatening to turn their town into a modern day Salem! With her signature wit, flair and “hexiness,” Linda’s captivating addition to her paranormal series is sure to delight!
Rogue by Cheryl Brooks **Science Fiction/Fantasy Romance**
Cheryl Brooks continues her sexy Cat Star Chronicles Series with Rogue. This time, a beautiful young human piano teacher, Kyra, finds herself on the planet Draconia. The Queen, who looks like a huge lizard, has a collection of exotic slaves, and among them are not one, but two of the devastatingly gorgeous and incredibly sensual Zetithian Warriors. Kyra is torn between two lovers, both of whom give her the most pleasure she’s ever experienced. When a revolution threatens the kingdom’s stability, Kyra and the two Zetithians must lead the kingdom. Between two sexually charged men in her life, teaching piano to the Queen’s children en and leading an army, Kyra’s certainly got her work cut out for her!
Destiny of the Wolf by Terry Spear isbn **Paranormal/shapeshifter**
Fresh from being honored as one of Publishers Weekly's Best Books of 2008 for Heart of the Wolf,, Terry Spear continues her detailed look into the pack dynamics between red werewolves and grey werewolves in Destiny of the Wolf. Lelandi, a red wolf, comes to a town run by grey lupus garou, hoping to avenge the murder of her sister, who married outside of their pack. But when Lelandi first sees her sister's widower, Darien, she never expects to feel an instant connection—one that he cannot deny either. Will the two be able to reconcile their differences and tame the passion between them? And will the real reason for her sister's death be revealed? Terry's meticulous research into real wolf dynamics give this series an edge and palpable excitement that drive her stories at a heated pace. She would love to discuss her research and writing tactics!
Mr. & Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy: Two Shall Become One by Sharon Lathan **Austen Sequel/Historical Fiction**
This new Austen sequel is a look into the first few months after Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet get married. Of course, they are deeply in love with one another, and Sharon Lathan has given readers a very affectionate and devoted couple. They have their trials and tribulations, but their love and relationship continues to grow. A truly breathtaking and sweet romance between literature’s favorite couple, Sharon’s book is the first in a new series of books that continue the story of the beloved Jane Austen. Many of Austen’s other beloved characters make appearances, adding to this sweet new tale of everyone’s favorite couple!
The third in her Hex Series, Linda Wisdom’s latest follows another one of the witches banned from the Witches Academy 700 years ago—Stasi Romanov owns her own lingerie shop, which sells, among other things, love spells. When one of her spells goes awry, Stasi finds herself in the middle of a lawsuit, and is being prosecuted by the very handsome wizard attorney, Trevor Barnes. To add to the mayhem, Stasi and her best friends, Jazz and Blair, find out that someone is threatening to turn their town into a modern day Salem! With her signature wit, flair and “hexiness,” Linda’s captivating addition to her paranormal series is sure to delight!
Rogue by Cheryl Brooks **Science Fiction/Fantasy Romance**
Cheryl Brooks continues her sexy Cat Star Chronicles Series with Rogue. This time, a beautiful young human piano teacher, Kyra, finds herself on the planet Draconia. The Queen, who looks like a huge lizard, has a collection of exotic slaves, and among them are not one, but two of the devastatingly gorgeous and incredibly sensual Zetithian Warriors. Kyra is torn between two lovers, both of whom give her the most pleasure she’s ever experienced. When a revolution threatens the kingdom’s stability, Kyra and the two Zetithians must lead the kingdom. Between two sexually charged men in her life, teaching piano to the Queen’s children en and leading an army, Kyra’s certainly got her work cut out for her!
Destiny of the Wolf by Terry Spear isbn **Paranormal/shapeshifter**
Fresh from being honored as one of Publishers Weekly's Best Books of 2008 for Heart of the Wolf,, Terry Spear continues her detailed look into the pack dynamics between red werewolves and grey werewolves in Destiny of the Wolf. Lelandi, a red wolf, comes to a town run by grey lupus garou, hoping to avenge the murder of her sister, who married outside of their pack. But when Lelandi first sees her sister's widower, Darien, she never expects to feel an instant connection—one that he cannot deny either. Will the two be able to reconcile their differences and tame the passion between them? And will the real reason for her sister's death be revealed? Terry's meticulous research into real wolf dynamics give this series an edge and palpable excitement that drive her stories at a heated pace. She would love to discuss her research and writing tactics!
Mr. & Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy: Two Shall Become One by Sharon Lathan **Austen Sequel/Historical Fiction**
This new Austen sequel is a look into the first few months after Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet get married. Of course, they are deeply in love with one another, and Sharon Lathan has given readers a very affectionate and devoted couple. They have their trials and tribulations, but their love and relationship continues to grow. A truly breathtaking and sweet romance between literature’s favorite couple, Sharon’s book is the first in a new series of books that continue the story of the beloved Jane Austen. Many of Austen’s other beloved characters make appearances, adding to this sweet new tale of everyone’s favorite couple!
Too Tall Alice
Too Tall Alice by Barbara Worton Illustrated by Dom Rodi
Description: Alice is only a little girl but she is a whole FOUR inches taller than everyone else in her class. It is hard for her! Everyone notices that she is different. What is a little girl to do about it?
Things that I think stuck out to me in this book:
• This is very much one of those in between books. For children who want to read – and read a lot of words but that still like books with pictures.
• I love the story in this book. I grew up the shortest girl in the class (don’t ask me about the time I was hung on a coat rack) – but one of my friends was the tallest girl in the class. She had a very hard time with the whole thing. Something like this may have made her feel like she was not alone in the world.
What genre would you consider this?
Children 7 -10
Overall:
Description: Alice is only a little girl but she is a whole FOUR inches taller than everyone else in her class. It is hard for her! Everyone notices that she is different. What is a little girl to do about it?
Things that I think stuck out to me in this book:
• This is very much one of those in between books. For children who want to read – and read a lot of words but that still like books with pictures.
• I love the story in this book. I grew up the shortest girl in the class (don’t ask me about the time I was hung on a coat rack) – but one of my friends was the tallest girl in the class. She had a very hard time with the whole thing. Something like this may have made her feel like she was not alone in the world.
What genre would you consider this?
Children 7 -10
Overall:
Feast of Fools
Feast of Fools by Rachel Caine (Morganville Vampires)
What was this book about?
Claire is still in Morganville with her friends. She is still working for Amelie on a cure for the vampires. Her parents have moved to town and now are aware of all the secrets that she was keeping from them. There is nothing she can do to stop it.
When Mr. Bishop comes to town they all know there will be trouble. Mr. Bishop is Amelie’s “father”, creator and ancestor. He brings trouble and would like nothing better for him and his minions to get their hands on Claire and her friends.
Can she stop him? Can she find the cure in time to save the vampires? Does she really even want to find the cure?
What did you think about the book?
For me this was like another chapter in the 3rd book. Yes it is its own book and it has its own mini-plot – but for me the mini plots just don’t cover enough material. Someone knew shows up – you have a secret plan to deal with it – the book ends and you know some of it but really not all that much.
But the book explained more and revealed more than it had before and I enjoyed that. I still like the series I just wish more happened before a book ended. But I guess you can’t complain that much about something like that?
What genre would you consider this?
Overall:
Question for you?
What would you do to keep your loved ones out of harms way?
What was this book about?
Claire is still in Morganville with her friends. She is still working for Amelie on a cure for the vampires. Her parents have moved to town and now are aware of all the secrets that she was keeping from them. There is nothing she can do to stop it.
When Mr. Bishop comes to town they all know there will be trouble. Mr. Bishop is Amelie’s “father”, creator and ancestor. He brings trouble and would like nothing better for him and his minions to get their hands on Claire and her friends.
Can she stop him? Can she find the cure in time to save the vampires? Does she really even want to find the cure?
What did you think about the book?
For me this was like another chapter in the 3rd book. Yes it is its own book and it has its own mini-plot – but for me the mini plots just don’t cover enough material. Someone knew shows up – you have a secret plan to deal with it – the book ends and you know some of it but really not all that much.
But the book explained more and revealed more than it had before and I enjoyed that. I still like the series I just wish more happened before a book ended. But I guess you can’t complain that much about something like that?
What genre would you consider this?
Overall:
Question for you?
What would you do to keep your loved ones out of harms way?
Monday, March 2, 2009
Lifelines
Lifelines by CJ Lyons
What was this book about?
Lydia Fiore is starting her job as a new doctor in a Pittsburgh ER. She is ready to move on from her old life and grasp this new one in her hands. She couldn’t know that her first day there may be her last. Her patient dies. And it isn’t just some run of the mill patient but the son of the surgical head of the hospital. And he now blames Lydia.
Lydia needs to find out what really killed his son. It brings her in to a wirlwind of facts about the Son’s of Adam – an Aryan group and her patient.
Lydia is working on getting some new friends as well. Gina a resident who has had it all her whole life. Amanda who has a secret about what is going on with her health. Nora the charge nurse who doesn’t know where her relationship is going with one of the other doctors. Lydia is new but will these women embrace her as one of their own? What happens to them if they do?
What did you think about the book?
This book reminded me a lot of the TV show ER. Lots going on – tons of clamity – set in an ER/hospital setting. It was interesting and fast paced enough for me (though I wanted to find out what was up with Amanda).
I will definitely try the next book in the series. My advice to you is if you like hospital dramas you would like this book. If you think they are a little out of control in terms of going over the top – then this book is probably not for you. (Thankfully I like a little over the top)
What genre would you consider this?
Relationships
Overall:
Question for You!
What would you do if the thing you worked for your entire life was taken away from you – by some sort of circumstance you had no control over?
What was this book about?
Lydia Fiore is starting her job as a new doctor in a Pittsburgh ER. She is ready to move on from her old life and grasp this new one in her hands. She couldn’t know that her first day there may be her last. Her patient dies. And it isn’t just some run of the mill patient but the son of the surgical head of the hospital. And he now blames Lydia.
Lydia needs to find out what really killed his son. It brings her in to a wirlwind of facts about the Son’s of Adam – an Aryan group and her patient.
Lydia is working on getting some new friends as well. Gina a resident who has had it all her whole life. Amanda who has a secret about what is going on with her health. Nora the charge nurse who doesn’t know where her relationship is going with one of the other doctors. Lydia is new but will these women embrace her as one of their own? What happens to them if they do?
What did you think about the book?
This book reminded me a lot of the TV show ER. Lots going on – tons of clamity – set in an ER/hospital setting. It was interesting and fast paced enough for me (though I wanted to find out what was up with Amanda).
I will definitely try the next book in the series. My advice to you is if you like hospital dramas you would like this book. If you think they are a little out of control in terms of going over the top – then this book is probably not for you. (Thankfully I like a little over the top)
What genre would you consider this?
Relationships
Overall:
Question for You!
What would you do if the thing you worked for your entire life was taken away from you – by some sort of circumstance you had no control over?
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Up in Smoke
Up in Smoke by Katie MacAlister
What was this book about?
May is a doppelganger who was promised to a demon lord. She must do what he says. Even though that means being away from the love of her life – the leader of the Silver dragons.
May only has to marry the demon lord and she will be free. And Gabriel is encouraging her to do it. Add to that the confusion in the dragon world about who is the leader of which sect and May’s life is nothing but confusing.
She must protect herself and Gabriel as well as the phylactery that she saved from the evil dragons the last go round.
What did you think about the book?
Ok even though I prompted the question below it doesn’t mean that I am giving up.. At least not yet. Was this my favorite book? No. Is it enough for me to stop reading the Silver Dragon series. Not quite yet.
I don’t know if what I didn’t like was that May is controlled by all the men in her life (demon or dragon). I don’t know if I don’t like the fact that each book is really an extension of the book before – to the point that if I don’t remember something I feel lost. I don’t know if it is that her twin/doppelganger source is so whiny and annoying it grates on my nerves. I just don’t know what it is that got to me.
The story is interesting. The characters are a little so so to me. I used to like May. She was fun and exciting. Now she is just this thing being taken over by everything else in her life.
So Silver Dragons – I will give you another shot – but I just wasn’t that entertained this time.
What genre would you consider this?
Paranormal
Overall:
What was this book about?
May is a doppelganger who was promised to a demon lord. She must do what he says. Even though that means being away from the love of her life – the leader of the Silver dragons.
May only has to marry the demon lord and she will be free. And Gabriel is encouraging her to do it. Add to that the confusion in the dragon world about who is the leader of which sect and May’s life is nothing but confusing.
She must protect herself and Gabriel as well as the phylactery that she saved from the evil dragons the last go round.
What did you think about the book?
Ok even though I prompted the question below it doesn’t mean that I am giving up.. At least not yet. Was this my favorite book? No. Is it enough for me to stop reading the Silver Dragon series. Not quite yet.
I don’t know if what I didn’t like was that May is controlled by all the men in her life (demon or dragon). I don’t know if I don’t like the fact that each book is really an extension of the book before – to the point that if I don’t remember something I feel lost. I don’t know if it is that her twin/doppelganger source is so whiny and annoying it grates on my nerves. I just don’t know what it is that got to me.
The story is interesting. The characters are a little so so to me. I used to like May. She was fun and exciting. Now she is just this thing being taken over by everything else in her life.
So Silver Dragons – I will give you another shot – but I just wasn’t that entertained this time.
What genre would you consider this?
Paranormal
Overall:
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Smart Girls Think Twice
Smart Girls Think Twice by Cathie Linz
What was this book about?
The last sister to be single – Emma Riley is surrounded by weddings. She is used to being the youngest, the smartest, and not exactly known for her good looks. But she is back in her hometown and ready to help her sisters plan their weddings – and – doing something good for her career. Emma is involved in a research project about her hometown.
In walks dangerous and sexy Jake Slayter. Jake has secrets and many of them involve why he came to this town. He is a bartender now – but he used to be an extreme sport superstar. Jake doesn’t usually like the smart ones but he can’t help but be attracted to Emma.
Will the secrets Jake is keeping tear them apart?
What did you think about the book?
I liked it. I always like to see the bookish girl get the non-bookish guy. Emma had so many interesting people surrounding her in her life. They brought out the fun part of the story. An interfering mother, a father who is misunderstood, an ex boyfriends little brother – not to mention her two sisters and brothers-in-law that we met in previous books.
Surrounded by weddings and her career Emma learns to focus on what is the most important to her.
What genre would you consider this?
Romance
Overall:
Question for You!
Have you done any extreme sports? What one would you love to do?
What was this book about?
The last sister to be single – Emma Riley is surrounded by weddings. She is used to being the youngest, the smartest, and not exactly known for her good looks. But she is back in her hometown and ready to help her sisters plan their weddings – and – doing something good for her career. Emma is involved in a research project about her hometown.
In walks dangerous and sexy Jake Slayter. Jake has secrets and many of them involve why he came to this town. He is a bartender now – but he used to be an extreme sport superstar. Jake doesn’t usually like the smart ones but he can’t help but be attracted to Emma.
Will the secrets Jake is keeping tear them apart?
What did you think about the book?
I liked it. I always like to see the bookish girl get the non-bookish guy. Emma had so many interesting people surrounding her in her life. They brought out the fun part of the story. An interfering mother, a father who is misunderstood, an ex boyfriends little brother – not to mention her two sisters and brothers-in-law that we met in previous books.
Surrounded by weddings and her career Emma learns to focus on what is the most important to her.
What genre would you consider this?
Romance
Overall:
Question for You!
Have you done any extreme sports? What one would you love to do?
Friday, February 27, 2009
Rogue
Rogue by Cheryl Brooks
What was this book about? Kyra is a timid piano teacher who decides to do something totally out of character. Get a job teaching the children of a Queen of another planet - a lizard planet called Darconia.
Kyra has no idea what she is in store for when she gets to the planet. It is hot and dry and has very little water. Something that humans definitely need. Once she arrives there Queen Scalia gives her something she doesn't know what to do with - one of her prized slaves. Queen Scalia likes to collect different species - unusual species and this is definitely one of those. He looks very much like a man but is part cat. And he drives Kyra wild with desire. What does that mean for her? Can she live on a planet like this?
What did you think about the book?
If you are looking for the normal run of the mill love story this book isn't for you. This book combines an extra terrestrial story with a hot and graphic sexual love story between Kyra and her cat-man Tychar.
I have to admit I wasn't sure what I would think of a love story like this that ties two different races (one closely tired with Tigers) together. But other then a few extra special sexual abilities Tychar (and his brother Trag) are much like any normal man.
The story is definitely different and inventive. A lizard planet. Political Power and war. Slavery vs. freedom. All sorts of topics are covered with the most interesting one being the relationship between Kyra and her man. Kyra is a nice person who you see grow sexually so that she becomes bold and sure of herself. And her relationship helped her do it.
What genre would you consider this?
Romance/Erotica
Overall:
Question for You!
What is your favorite part about fantasy novels set in space on different planets?
What was this book about? Kyra is a timid piano teacher who decides to do something totally out of character. Get a job teaching the children of a Queen of another planet - a lizard planet called Darconia.
Kyra has no idea what she is in store for when she gets to the planet. It is hot and dry and has very little water. Something that humans definitely need. Once she arrives there Queen Scalia gives her something she doesn't know what to do with - one of her prized slaves. Queen Scalia likes to collect different species - unusual species and this is definitely one of those. He looks very much like a man but is part cat. And he drives Kyra wild with desire. What does that mean for her? Can she live on a planet like this?
What did you think about the book?
If you are looking for the normal run of the mill love story this book isn't for you. This book combines an extra terrestrial story with a hot and graphic sexual love story between Kyra and her cat-man Tychar.
I have to admit I wasn't sure what I would think of a love story like this that ties two different races (one closely tired with Tigers) together. But other then a few extra special sexual abilities Tychar (and his brother Trag) are much like any normal man.
The story is definitely different and inventive. A lizard planet. Political Power and war. Slavery vs. freedom. All sorts of topics are covered with the most interesting one being the relationship between Kyra and her man. Kyra is a nice person who you see grow sexually so that she becomes bold and sure of herself. And her relationship helped her do it.
What genre would you consider this?
Romance/Erotica
Overall:
Question for You!
What is your favorite part about fantasy novels set in space on different planets?
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Author Post: Bruce Skye
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
A former technical writer, detail is important to Bruce Skye. His research for the Deathsong Chronicles included medieval armor and fortresses, as well as Celtic names and magic. "If you create a world, it must be consistent. And that's what I strive for Grayrider's world to be. I've built a database of material for each of the Deathsong Chronicles. Those databases aid me in keeping the world the same from book to book.
"When I wrote Grayrider, I followed the advice of Stephen King. I did not write the book following any sort of outline. I have no more idea than my readers do when I write a novel what will happen in the midst of the story. It makes it more exciting for both the readers and myself."
You can visit his website at www.bruceskye.com.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Gabriel, the exiled king of Rivalin, comes before King Airell to warn him the Ansgarian army will invade his kingdom before the night is over. Airell tells him he has no one to send. Gabriel wants revenge for the murder of his family by the Ansgarians. He decides to fight the incursion without help.
As this takes place, Deirdre (Airell’s daughter), flees the kingdom of Cynyr north of Boadhagh. She knows now her mentor, Morrigan, created the Ansgarian army her father has fought for years. She goes south to warn him of her. Because Deirdre does not believe in herself, the young sorceress has difficulty in performing magic.
Once she is reunited with her father, she tells both he and Grayrider about Morrigan. Her power is growing; only Gabriel’s magical sword may yet destroy her. He must go to Cynyr to fight her. He agrees if Deirdre attends him, seeking her counsel. On that journey they fall in love and foil many efforts by Morrigan to kill Gabriel by both armies and sorcerers.
Grayrider fights Morrigan and sees his beloved slain by the sorceress before he is finally able to kill her. He returns to Rivalin brokenhearted. The ending is a complete surprise the reader will not expect at all.
GUEST POST:
When I wrote Grayrider, I followed the advice of Stephen King, who has written never to use an outline when writing a novel. And I have found that advice to be sound. I say that because of the number of reviewers who have commented on the number of plot twists the book contains.
I believe keeping the reader guessing about what may happen next is part and parcel of entertaining them. I want to keep my readers on the edge of their seats. I do that because that’s the kind of book I want to read.
Complex plotlines can be accomplished in various ways. But all of them should center on your characters. How will the hero do if the villain does this? If you know your characters and how they will respond to various situations, creating plot twists is easy. As well, the villain’s machinations can be a rich source for storyline twists.
This leads to an associated point: your characters themselves. Giving literary characters depth and background is important. It allows readers to “get into” the story. One reviewer wrote of Grayrider:
Volume One of The Deathsong Chronicles follows the pursuits of the noble Gabriel and his love, beautiful Deirdre. As battles ensue and the throne of Rivalin becomes an option for Gabriel, I found myself pulled into his life and cheering him on. Grayrider and his enemies and friends aren't one-dimensional, as they often are in this genre.
I write fantasy novels. But my heroes are both realistic and appealing so readers will want them to win. That also leads to suspense, for if you’re pulling for the hero to get through this deadly obstacle, you’ll keep reading to see if he does. Secondly, even though magic is a stable of this genre, having “real” people as characters makes the story much more credible to readers.
As I said before, my goal is to entertain my readers.
A former technical writer, detail is important to Bruce Skye. His research for the Deathsong Chronicles included medieval armor and fortresses, as well as Celtic names and magic. "If you create a world, it must be consistent. And that's what I strive for Grayrider's world to be. I've built a database of material for each of the Deathsong Chronicles. Those databases aid me in keeping the world the same from book to book.
"When I wrote Grayrider, I followed the advice of Stephen King. I did not write the book following any sort of outline. I have no more idea than my readers do when I write a novel what will happen in the midst of the story. It makes it more exciting for both the readers and myself."
You can visit his website at www.bruceskye.com.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Gabriel, the exiled king of Rivalin, comes before King Airell to warn him the Ansgarian army will invade his kingdom before the night is over. Airell tells him he has no one to send. Gabriel wants revenge for the murder of his family by the Ansgarians. He decides to fight the incursion without help.
As this takes place, Deirdre (Airell’s daughter), flees the kingdom of Cynyr north of Boadhagh. She knows now her mentor, Morrigan, created the Ansgarian army her father has fought for years. She goes south to warn him of her. Because Deirdre does not believe in herself, the young sorceress has difficulty in performing magic.
Once she is reunited with her father, she tells both he and Grayrider about Morrigan. Her power is growing; only Gabriel’s magical sword may yet destroy her. He must go to Cynyr to fight her. He agrees if Deirdre attends him, seeking her counsel. On that journey they fall in love and foil many efforts by Morrigan to kill Gabriel by both armies and sorcerers.
Grayrider fights Morrigan and sees his beloved slain by the sorceress before he is finally able to kill her. He returns to Rivalin brokenhearted. The ending is a complete surprise the reader will not expect at all.
GUEST POST:
When I wrote Grayrider, I followed the advice of Stephen King, who has written never to use an outline when writing a novel. And I have found that advice to be sound. I say that because of the number of reviewers who have commented on the number of plot twists the book contains.
I believe keeping the reader guessing about what may happen next is part and parcel of entertaining them. I want to keep my readers on the edge of their seats. I do that because that’s the kind of book I want to read.
Complex plotlines can be accomplished in various ways. But all of them should center on your characters. How will the hero do if the villain does this? If you know your characters and how they will respond to various situations, creating plot twists is easy. As well, the villain’s machinations can be a rich source for storyline twists.
This leads to an associated point: your characters themselves. Giving literary characters depth and background is important. It allows readers to “get into” the story. One reviewer wrote of Grayrider:
Volume One of The Deathsong Chronicles follows the pursuits of the noble Gabriel and his love, beautiful Deirdre. As battles ensue and the throne of Rivalin becomes an option for Gabriel, I found myself pulled into his life and cheering him on. Grayrider and his enemies and friends aren't one-dimensional, as they often are in this genre.
I write fantasy novels. But my heroes are both realistic and appealing so readers will want them to win. That also leads to suspense, for if you’re pulling for the hero to get through this deadly obstacle, you’ll keep reading to see if he does. Secondly, even though magic is a stable of this genre, having “real” people as characters makes the story much more credible to readers.
As I said before, my goal is to entertain my readers.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Grayrider
Grayrider by Bruce Skye
What was this book about?
Gabriel is Grayrider. Gabriel's parents were killed by the evil Morrigan and the Ansgarian army. He has become like a son to his parents friend - King Airell. When King Airell's lands are also threatened by the army - Gabriel will do anything to stop them (and reek revenge for his own losses).
But Morrigan is a powerful sorceress and will stop at nothing to get as much power as she can. Despite the fact that Gabriel has been blessed with a fire breathing horse -Windfire and a sword that has its own powers - Deathsong - it will be a long hard battle.
Thankfully King Airell's daughter, Deirdre has returned to the kingdom. She had left it many years before and what they don't know is that she was learning her magic at Morrigan's hand. With Deirdre's help Gabriel may be able to defeat her. When Deidre and Gabriel join forces - another thing happens - love.
Will love defeat all enemies? What does that mean for the kingdom?
What did you think about the book?
I very much enjoyed the story in this book. It was entertaining and kept me wanting to read. I found one thing both refreshing and at the same time wished for it a little more. With these chronicles of fantasy novels sometimes the prose outweighs the story. The author gets into such descriptive text that they forget to focus on the story. I didn't find that in this book. In fact at times (and only at a few times) I wished for a little more description. But in many ways it made this a quick and interesting read because you were able to use your own imagination a little more.
I am interested in seeing where this series goes next. It almost seems like things have come to some sort of conclusion. But there were a few extra little things that could come back to haunt our couple Gabriel and Deidre.
What genre would you consider this?
Fantasy
Overall:
Question for You!
What other Fantasy series do you like the best?
What was this book about?
Gabriel is Grayrider. Gabriel's parents were killed by the evil Morrigan and the Ansgarian army. He has become like a son to his parents friend - King Airell. When King Airell's lands are also threatened by the army - Gabriel will do anything to stop them (and reek revenge for his own losses).
But Morrigan is a powerful sorceress and will stop at nothing to get as much power as she can. Despite the fact that Gabriel has been blessed with a fire breathing horse -Windfire and a sword that has its own powers - Deathsong - it will be a long hard battle.
Thankfully King Airell's daughter, Deirdre has returned to the kingdom. She had left it many years before and what they don't know is that she was learning her magic at Morrigan's hand. With Deirdre's help Gabriel may be able to defeat her. When Deidre and Gabriel join forces - another thing happens - love.
Will love defeat all enemies? What does that mean for the kingdom?
What did you think about the book?
I very much enjoyed the story in this book. It was entertaining and kept me wanting to read. I found one thing both refreshing and at the same time wished for it a little more. With these chronicles of fantasy novels sometimes the prose outweighs the story. The author gets into such descriptive text that they forget to focus on the story. I didn't find that in this book. In fact at times (and only at a few times) I wished for a little more description. But in many ways it made this a quick and interesting read because you were able to use your own imagination a little more.
I am interested in seeing where this series goes next. It almost seems like things have come to some sort of conclusion. But there were a few extra little things that could come back to haunt our couple Gabriel and Deidre.
What genre would you consider this?
Fantasy
Overall:
Question for You!
What other Fantasy series do you like the best?
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