Book Reviews

Book Description: 

Magic has been lost to those inhabiting the Three Lands for hundreds of years. Now, a forgotten place called the Hollow is found within the realm of Ciyula, and it is in need of a successor. The Hollow has chosen Rosaleen Forlain to become its new Keeper. There is just one catch. 
She must usurp the tyrannical Queen Asta in favor of crowning a mysterious young woman possessing an ancient bloodline long thought lost to the world. In addition to her burdens, Rosaleen must find this woman before Asta has a chance to join forces with the enemy in order to wage war against a kingdom that has long been Ciyula's ally. Rosaleen must betray her country and her House, forsaking everything for the Hollow and her new destiny. She must do this quest as a fugitive, avoiding forces sent to capture her by the queen and her own father. 
Can she find the girl and stop the impending war before it is too late?

My Review: 5 out of 5 stars

When I said I would read this book, I had no idea what a fantastic world I was about to enter. Hollow’s Charge may have started out as a story where magic was lost to those who inhabited the realm, but that is far from the truth. Most would think of magic as something a magician would do, but Arielle LeClair’s novel illustrates that this is not true either. Within this story, Arielle was able to sprinkle magic dust on every page. I could practically see the entire storyline play out in front. At times, I felt as if I was standing in the woods next the Rosaleen and her merry men, feeling the magic guide them along their journey. I was able to watch as the magic of love swirled around the couples. It was beyond magical to see how the group’s friendship, trust, and faith grew thought the book. There were so many great characters (Rosealeen and Rolan being two of my favorite), who all had their own personalities. With so many characters and point of views, I was concerned that Arielle would lose the protagonist’s voice and main objective. Boy was I wrong! I have never read a single book where there was so much character growth—Well done Arielle!

The best part is, it appear that Arielle has left the ending open to another book. I will be one of the first in line to get a copy.

I received my free copy of “Hollow’s Charge from the author in exchange for my honest review.

Where to get your copy: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/524558

2 Book Reviews-Linda Gatewood

Greetings All!


Book 1: 'Winter Secret'

If love is the greatest gift of all, can it change the course of a life built on revenge, regret, and heartbreaking circumstances?Cynthia Morrison, altruistic in nature, is forced to fear for her life after her divorce from a prominent attorney who dabbled in dishonest practices with the underworld.Derek Flynn, an enigma with multiple secret identities necessitated by his career choice as well as his compulsive desire to seek revenge for the murder of his parents, is either her killer or her savior. She must choose which.After unwittingly witnessing a cold-blooded murder, Cynthia and Derek must escape the pursuit of three dangerous men who are after an item in their possession: a microchip that contains a secret formula to destroy a powerful country. In their attempts to return the chip to the rightful owner, they discover a love that defies all boundaries. But Derek cannot forget the reason he lives: to find the killer of his parents. Because of this ambition, his heart is sealed against love and filled only with revenge.Can a man like this ever love a woman? And if he does, can she survive the demands and intensity of his love and the ever-looming ghost of his past, a past steeped in danger, death, and heartbreak?With so much against them, will Cynthia and Derek's love survive? Or will a Winter Secret keep them apart?

My Review: 4 Stars!

‘Winter Secret’ is an enthralling page turning. I knew I was settling in to read a suspenseful romance, but I was not expecting all of the vigorous action. From page to page, chapter to chapter Gatewood has her characters, Cynthia and Derek, fighting to breathe life into the part of their journey. I followed Derek and Cynthia through harsh weather, kidnappings, nearly fatal wounds, and explosions all while an endearing new complicated relations tried to blossom. This story was intriguing from the first page and look forward to seeing what else is in store for the duo in the next book!     

I received my copy of ‘Winter Secret’ free from the author in exchange for my honest review. 

Where to find it: http://www.amazon.com/Winter-Secret-Linda-Gatewood-ebook/dp/B008N0OLHC/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1428789997&sr=1-1&keywords=linda+gatewood

Book 2: Spring Promise

The love between Derek and Cynthia was tested to the limit in the exciting first book Winter Secret, but will it be strong enough to withstand the continuing forces that strive to separate them? Once again, a new season brings new adventures and terror to the couple who ask for nothing except to be together. A mysterious relic in the form of an ancient map and key surfaces and ends up in the hands of Cynthia and Derek, who must once again discover its secrets. The pursuit of ancient hidden gold and treasure is a lure that draws greedy men into dangerous situations and ultimately interfaces the lives of Derek and Cynthia. Not only is Derek labeled a terrorist, but they are both drawn into the mysterious and threatening world of ancient legends and myths of the earliest Americans. Derek continues to struggle with the pursuit of the man who murdered his parents and his obsessive need for revenge, while Cynthia faces a new, personal, and unexpected threat to their continued union. Will they be able to stay together and keep the promises they made to each other or will the forces against them destroy the hopes of their Spring Promise? Spring Promise is the second book in the four-book "Winter Secret" series, each encompassing a season in the life of Derek Flynn and Cynthia Morrison.

My Review: 4 Stars!

‘Spring Promise’ starts pretty much where ‘Winter Secret’ let off. In this book, we are able to join Derek and Cynthia during the calm before the storm. The first few pages will lull you into thinking nothing could ever go wrong again for the happy couple. Yet, Gatewood has packed another thrilling ride of more secrets, treasures hunting, crazy weather, and a lethal vengeance that tries the once again tear the couple apart. This is a great read that will leave you wondering  who is lurking in the  shadows, and how will the couple make it through this next great feat.

I received my copy of ‘Spring Promise’ free from the author in exchange for my honest review.

Where to find it:  http://www.amazon.com/Spring-Promise-Linda-Gatewood-ebook/dp/B00FZY0524/ref=sr_1_4?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1428790390&sr=1-4&keywords=linda+gatewood

His planet has been invaded by Serpan soldiers, his family has been forced into hiding, and he has had to leave his school, his friends, and even his beloved target slide behind; it's no wonder that Zach Foster is one furious teenager with revenge on his mind. 

So, as soon as his spaceship touches down on Earth, and his human friends, Ryan, Sophia, and Luke Gentry clambor aboard, Zach is determined to hurry to Vian to free Darius, the last Noble brother, from the clutches of the king of evil, Parnibus. Reuniting the powerful Noble brothers' is the key to saving the entire galaxy. No pressure, though. 

Time is running out and there is still a perilous jungle to get through, a tricky fortress to storm, and a diabolical, magical madman to stop. 

My Review: 

5 stars!

What if your best friend was an alien(s)? What if you and your best friend(s) found yourselves tasked with saving the galaxy? Rose Choate’s third installment of ‘The Aliens Save the Galaxy’ will answers these questions plus many more. It’s not easy to display in words the wonderful, colorful, realistic realms that swirls in an author’s mind, but not only does Rose do this my introducing the reading to the world of Valoom, but she also is able to successfully illustrate other wild and exotic worlds. Each planet holds an array of wonderful inhibitors that mesh well with the heroic main characters.

I’ve enjoyed reading how Ryan Gentry, his siblings and a host of friends have grown throughout the series and how well they all work together. The children in this story are strong willed, positive role models that children of all ages would love to read about. The adventures Rose has produced left me wanted more and having trouble putting the book down. There were a few nights that I had to see the group make it safely through their current predicament before I could sleep easy that night.

I’ve stated this with the previous books, but if you are young at heart and looking for a roller coaster of a new story, make sure to read all three of Rose Choate’s ‘The Aliens Save the Galaxy’. Not only will you fall in love with the adorable characters but you will have a chance to watch them go up against the unknown Fog Lands, other aliens, robots, a dragon, a snake, unforgiving weather conditions, giant spiders, and a menacing black hole.  These superb explorations remind me of ‘Ralph and the Motorcycle’, ‘The Chocolate Touch’, ‘The Boxcar Children’, ‘Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing’, and many other wonderful books I grew up reading. And the best part of this series? Rose has left it open for a new adventure one day.

Rose congratulation on bringing forth such a bright, entertaining trilogy that can hold the interest of readers of all ages. 

http://www.amazon.com/Aliens-Save-Galaxy-Part-ebook/dp/B00SCC1GVK/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1426445923&sr=1-1&keywords=rose+choate

Jamie Stanley moves to the middle of the British countryside to take over the role of Detective Inspector. Excited and nervous for her first day at work, she walks into the station to be greeted by less than eager colleagues. Will the murder of a local business woman bring the team closer together?

My Review: 

3 out of 5 Stars!

Poisoned Blue is a quick and fun read. I have reviewed books for Katie before and I've watched her grow as an author. For this story I was slightly hesitant to pick the book up. I, too, am an author and have any over active imagination. When I found out this was a mystery story I worried about what was going to come get me in the middle of the night after reading this. Thankfully, this novel is not like that. It's a laid back whodunit, with little to no morbidity. I enjoyed meeting the characters, and trying to figure out who the killer was. I kind of wish there was a little more background from the main characters, but if this is going to be a series, I can understand when Katie chose not to flood us in the back story.
I received my copy of 'Poisoned Blue' free from the author in exchange for honest review.

http://www.amazon.com/Poisoned-Jamie-Stanley-Crime-Investigation-ebook/dp/B00MGRGADQ/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1418266602&sr=8-4&keywords=katie+l+thompson

Young writer’s first fantasy horror follows vengeful vampires

Connor Wolf takes his first steps into publication with his vampire tale. The Bite of Vengeance: The Devil’s Gift follows Roconn and Maria, royal vampires of Italy, as they face a new foe: religion. More formidable than anything else they have encountered before, it prompts them to plot a merciless act of revenge. New obstacles constantly appear, no one is quite what they seem and, when faced with a choice of love or revenge, Roconn finds himself walking the path he wished never to take.

With characters fuelled by grief, revenge and the need to survive, this fantasy horror will appeal to readers that enjoy twists, turns and treachery.

Connor Wolf is a young writer from Suffolk, and is currently studying Painting and Decorating at West Suffolk College. Connor was inspired to write books since early 2009 when a well-known author visited his primary school. Since the age of eleven Connor has experimented with a number of genres, including children’s books, horror and historical, and he finished his first fantasy novel in early 2013. After trying many different activities, including song writing and martial arts, he finally found that his passion is writing.

http://www.rowanvalebooks.com/books/bite.html

My Review: 

5 out of 5 stars!

What can I say? I love vampires!!! ‘The Bite of Vengeance: The Devil’s Gift’, by Connor Wolf reminded me why I fell in love with the blood sucking night walkers. As the story started, I wondered how the vampires would be introduced to the story. With the author’s take on the creation of the world’s deadliest creature, I found the story easy to read and it kept me yearning for more. I enjoyed the in-depth, insights of the change from human to vampire. It made me wonder for a while, what would it feel like to feel the transition from mortal to immortal, to watch the world change throughout the centuries as I stayed the same.

If you’re a true vampire lover, ‘The Bite of Vengeance’, is a fantastic story to read.  Connor has taken a new twist on the vampire life with an action packed, (imagine the Sherlock Homes movies with Robert Downey Jr. premeditating his opponents' weak points before the real fight) blood thirsty revenge, all seen through the eyes of a once holy, kindhearted, fatherly man. And the bonus is this story has been left opened for a sequel…really looking forward to that too!   

I received my copy of ‘The Bite of Vengeance: The Devil’s Gift’ from the publisher for my honest review.    

First time writer, Gavin Jones, releases fast paced and chilling crime thriller.

Gavin Jones introduces Three Bullets, a dark and compelling novel that sends a shiver down the spine. This first time author creates an unfolding story saturated by dark reflections and staggering revelations that will captivate any reader from page one.

Three Bullets follows the investigation of Abbie Flynn, a young girl who is brutally attacked at the town train station. When Detective Inspector Patrick Rhodes is assigned the case, he can find a no more fitting suspect than Daniel Stone. As both men become increasingly immersed in the Flynn case, and gradually uncover the truth, they find themselves equally controlled by private demons that threaten to consume their every waking moment.

Gavin Jones weaves an engrossing tale of the weaknesses and hidden truths that risk destroying his two central characters. His chilling story is haunted by the undying nature of the past, and its ability to strike fear into men that are striving to forget.

This fast paced and thrilling novel is a must read for any crime enthusiast. Jones’ creates in Three Bullets a heart stopping race towards uncovering the real truth, in which his troubled protagonists must compete for their own personal brand of freedom.

http://www.rowanvalebooks.com/books/threebullets.html

My Review:

4 stars out of 5!

‘Three Bullets’ is a great read! From the start, I was drawn in trying to think about what it would feel like to be dead. What senses do you have left…if any? Jones brings to life a twisting tale that leaves you trying to solve the mystery along with the characters. At times, I felt like I was watching an episode of Law in Order: Criminal Intent. I even sat up some nights thinking about what could happen next. I hated to put the book down!

I do have to admit, I was in a few spots, confused by the change in point of views without any notice. But I quickly jumped into the next characters’ mind and was still able to follow along with the story.  

Well done Gavin Jones!

 I’m looking forward to more of this author’s work.  

First-time author releases accomplished young adult horror examining perceptions and fears.

Haunted Fields follows teenager Freddie Forster as he navigates the unexpected events in a very different summer break. Having planned to spend the holidays partying, Freddie is disappointed when his step-mum refuses to fund his lifestyle and he finds himself banished from the family home. He travels north, and comes across a farm on the outskirts of a secretive rural community. Freddie soon learns that fear and rumours surround the village, and that there have been sightings of a ghost.

Freddie’s involvement in helping to save the struggling farm, as well as uncovering the truth about the haunted fields, gains him both friends and enemies. As he discovers more secrets about his own family as well as the village, Freddie has to fight to rise above the paranoia and lies.

Dan Moore has crafted a brilliant tale of a seventeen-year-old boy forced from his comfort zone into a community haunted by the secrets of its past. Haunted Fields is an examination of its characters’ fears: of teenage angst, family secrets, hysteria. It also explores what happens when someone is confronted with the terrifying reality of seeing something, which they know can't possibly be real, with their own eyes.

Dan is a young writer from Lincolnshire who, having decided he should do something with his vivid imagination, began writing whilst studying at the University of Lincoln, aged nineteen. Dan would love to pursue a career in writing, and is in the process of planning his next project.

http://www.rowanvalebooks.com/books/hauntedfields.html

My Review: 

4 Stars out of 5! 

He felt a terrific jolt, the machine shuddering, groaning. It felt like he’d driven over a speed bump

much too quickly. Despite the cloudless sky, the storm had begun, spraying the windscreen with a

fine red mist.

I was hooked after reading this! From the Prologue alone, I knew this was going to be a great story. Following the life of seventeen year old, Freddie Forster, as he spends his summer in the country was one adventure after another. Between the ghost haunting, the love interests, the whodunit mysteries, and learning my way around a farm (along with Freddie), I had trouble putting the story down. I hope there will be a second book. I would love to see what’s next for Freddie.

If you’re looking for a mystery adventure with a fun loving, witty guy, make sure to read this book!

I received my copy of "Haunted Fields" from the publisher for my honest review.