Sci Fi Review: Blightborn (The Heartland Trilogy Book 2) by Chuck Wendig

Blightborn (The Heartland Trilogy Book 2)
by Chuck Wendig

Book two of The Heartland Trilogy does not disappoint. The main characters from book one have been scattered by events beyond their control, and we are treated to many more perspectives as well as insight into the Empyrean itself. Myths and rumors only hinted at in book one become all too real, and new enemies and allies emerge.

Again, I love the characters, but I am especially impressed by the individual struggles that each one faces and how those struggles build in to the story as a whole. Lane’s in particular was a surprise, but I thought it was well handled. I felt really bad for him, not for his choices, but for the outcome of his first experience. I don’t know how all that will turn out, but I’m rooting for him. And, of the new characters, I found Balastair to be most interesting. He’s likeable, but I can totally get why Gwennie doesn’t trust him. Oh, and Eben. Yikes, what a creepy guy. I’d go on, but I don’t want to spoil anything.

As for the world building, it really takes off in this book, particularly with a good portion of the story taking place on one of the flotillas. The science that keeps the flotillas afloat, the span of the world beneath them, hints of other groups of people like the Heartlanders who have been enslaved by the Empyrean, and the depravity of the Empyrean itself. It’s fantastic. I love how each element unfolds and meshes with what has already been revealed. Oh, and don’t get me started on legends coming to life. I love it when rumors and legends turn out to be more than what they seem. I’ll leave it to you to discover which ones turn up.

I guess the only thing that bugged me was the ongoing wishy washiness of the characters who are trying to decide whom to love: obligated mates, former loves/enemies, or totally new love interests. It didn’t bug me much, but I didn’t always feel it, and I left the book with more questions than I had when I entered it. Good thing there’s another book.

So, for book two, yes, I love it, too. It has a lot more shock value and strife, and a lot more sexual content, though nothing all that explicit. I’d recommend this to folks who love science fiction and dystopia.

I received the review copy of this book from NetGalley in return for an honest review.

Review: The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story is set in Germany during WWII and tells the story of Liesel, a young girl sent into foster care when her mother can no longer care for her.

There's a lot going on in this story. One of the things I found interesting is the identity of the narrator and the way he catalogs Liesel's life. The figurative language is at once beautiful and at times nonsensical, but I got a kick out of it. The use of colors to convey the feel of a place or an interaction is one thing I particularly liked because it required me to think abstractly.

As for the characters, they are all built up so well they seem real. I particularly love the foster parents, even mama, who is a firecracker and takes a rather abundant glee in tossing about insults. I also love Liesel's admirer, Rudy, and his claim to fame, a rather dangerous thing to be known for in the time period, but lovable all the same.

That being said, the setting and the times make it obvious this story can't be all sunshine and rainbows. Tragedy looms large over everything, and even the narrator throws in spoilers, usually right when something great has happened. You know, stuff like 'this was great and Liesel was the happiest when such and such happened, but then this horrible thing was just around the corner, and oh, maybe I shouldn't have told you yet.' That sort of thing. Each time, a few additional heart wrenching details are revealed, but by that point, you can't stop reading.

Then, toss in all the German words and phrases. I both enjoyed and disliked this. At first, I tried to look all of it up with Google Translate, but there's just so much of it sprinkled in, I realized that was a futile activity, particularly for a couple of the most used words in the book, saumensch and saukerl. So, that was a bit annoying, until I realized that the author kindly includes the translations. Sometimes he tosses them in as a repeat in English; others, he throws in a definition from the narrator, all formatted and centered so it stands out from the story.

Overall, I loved this book. It's humorous and tragic and likes to remind the reader that everyone does, in fact, die. There are corny lines and silly jokes right next to horrific images and insights into one of the darkest times in recent human history. A constant balance between good and evil, life and death, beauty and ugliness. This is a masterpiece. I highly recommend this to folks who like stories that make them think and that do so in a unique manner. This is a long book but, in my opinion, well worth the time to read it.

I borrowed this ebook from a local library.


View all my reviews

Sci Fi Review: Under the Empyrean Sky (The Heartland Trilogy Book 1) by Chuck Wendig

Under the Empyrean Sky (The Heartland Trilogy Book 1)
by Chuck Wendig

This is the first of three books in The Heartland Trilogy. It begins with Cael, the leader of a small group of teens who earn money by scavenging, racing against a rival team. His vessel is a boat, but not a water craft, a hover craft. The sea is an endless field of corn. Right there, I was intrigued, and then things get really interesting: love threatened by state-mandated matches, hints at former greatness next to evidence of hard times, and privileged overlords with an utter disregard for human decency.

One of the things I love about this story is wading through the hints to try to figure out when and where the story is taking place. Future? Past in an alternate universe? Country? There’s enough evidence to figure out the where, but then it becomes a question of the when. It’s never stated outright, but I don’t think it needs to be. Where would the fun be in that?

Another thing I love is the complexity of the characters. They are richly detailed, but their character and motivations are revealed in their actions, and occasionally through their narration, as the perspective of the story at times shifts to different people. Hints are sufficiently subtle that no one is an open book, making for realistic interactions that bring everyone in the story to life. Now, there do seem to be a few archetypical characters, but having read the second book, I realize that I was wrong about some of them. I love being surprised.

And on that note, I thought this was YA at first, really through most of the first book, but again, having read the second and started the third, I must say this is a bit more complex and adult than a typical YA offering. Just all around solid world building, angst, struggles, revolution, and complex characters, even amongst those pegged as villains.

I also thought this was just about the right length. It’s as long as it needs to be, and the level of complexity is engaging, without being confusing.

Alright, so overall, I’d say I love this book. I would strongly recommend this to folks who love a meaty dystopian or sci fi offering. The science and the level of dysfunction are satisfyingly realistic, with familiar themes delivered in a new way.

I received the review copy of this book from NetGalley in return for an honest review.

 

ARC Review: Destiny Rising (True Calling #3) by Siobhan Davis

Destiny Rising by Siobhan Davis
Release Date August 30, 2015
Available for pre-order on Amazon now

Description:
EVERY CHOICE HAS A CONSEQUENCE

Once again, the world is on the brink of momentous change. As revolutionary organization Saoirse prepares to battle the government for control of Earth and Novo, Ariana and those she loves must join humanity's fight for justice and freedom.

As haunted memories resurface, old discoveries and new realities conspire to shatter her world forever.

Torn in one direction by her unique connection to childhood sweetheart Zane, and pulled in the other by a relentless passion for her fiery fiancé Cal, she must make the hardest decision of all. While embarking on a road to self-discovery, her psychic gift evolves and the full extent of her powerful ability is revealed.

Then fate lands another savage blow and she faces the most horrific choice of all. Forced into striking a deal with the enemy, she must make the ultimate personal sacrifice or risk everything she holds dear.

When destiny finally rears its head, what will the future hold?

ARC Review: Plato for Plumbers by Francis Gideon

Plato for Plumbers by Francis Gideon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Release Date: September 9, 2015
Available for Pre-Order now at Less than Three Press

Description:
The week before an important philosophy conference, Kenneth is struggling to finish both the last chapter of his book and the paper he's writing for the event. His efforts are thwarted by a leaky faucet—and his life as a whole is turned upside down by the plumber who shows up to fix it.

-----

My Review:
Ok, so I didn't realize this was m/m romance when I requested it on NetGalley. That being said, I've read a few of these, and this one stands out in a positive way. This short story has a compact plot, a likeable main character with a full character arc, and some interesting historical stories and facts regarding philosophers like Kant and Plato (of course).

I think that the main point of this story is that Ken, the Philosophy Professor, has lost sight of himself in his drive to advance in his field. He's forgone love, social interactions, and his passion to write. He's forgotten what it was, exactly, about the study of philosophy that made him want to pursue it as a career in the first place. And then the leak, and the plumber, change all that.

I especially enjoyed the excerpt of the little short story he jots down while Mark works in the other room. It's so corny, but it had me laughing. I also like that this is a romance story first, rather than a shell of a plot thrown together to deliver erotic content. As far as romance goes, I'd call this one pretty clean. It's the type of story that focuses on the attraction, the connecting of the minds, and the finding of one's soul mate.

Overall, I really liked this story. I'd recommend it to folks who like romances (particularly m/m) that focus on people and emotions and have a real plot. This story is also great for folks who prefer a quick read.

I received an eARC of this title from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

View all my reviews


Intrigued? You can find this book here:
Plato for Plumbers at Less than Three Press

Reading soon: Under the Empyrean Sky (The Heartland Trilogy #1) by Chuck Wendig

Under the Empyrean Sky (The Heartland Trilogy Book 1) by Chuck Wendig

Description:
Fear the Corn.

Corn is king in the Heartland, and Cael McAvoy has had enough of it. It's the only crop the Empyrean government allows the people of the Heartland to grow—and the genetically modified strain is so aggressive that it takes everything the Heartlanders have just to control it. As captain of the Big Sky Scavengers, Cael and his crew sail their rickety ship over the corn day after day, scavenging for valuables. But Cael's tired of surviving life on the ground while the Empyrean elite drift by above in their extravagant sky flotillas. He's sick of the mayor's son besting Cael's crew in the scavenging game. And he's worried about losing Gwennie—his first mate and the love of his life—forever when their government-chosen spouses are revealed. But most of all, Cael is angry—angry that their lot in life will never get better and that his father doesn't seem upset about any of it. When Cael and his crew discover a secret, illegal garden, he knows it’s time to make his own luck...even if it means bringing down the wrath of the Empyrean elite and changing life in the Heartland forever.

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I'm excited to have been approved for this book on NetGalley, though it's already released. This looks right up my alley.

Hey, why not pick up a copy and read along with me? I plan to start as soon as I finish up Siobhan Davis' new book Destiny Rising (True Calling Book 3). 

And check out those covers. Wow!

Review: The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt

Amazon link.

The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt (Goodreads links)

Ah, what can I say? This is one of those stories that gets under your skin. Love it or hate it, if you make it to the end, you’re going to remember it. So, on the face of things, this is a coming of age story, but it’s also an art heist, a romance, a tragedy and a philosophical commentary on the meaning of life (frequently diverging into whether life, with all its heartache is worth living at all, and whether doing the right things and being a good person actually mean anything, too).

You might have noticed this won a Pulitzer Prize. I noticed this, too. Was it a factor in finally picking this up and reading it? No. Do I understand why it won now that I’ve read it? Yes. It’s a masterpiece--hard, emotionally taxing, uplifting and depressing, all of these things woven in at once. The characters are real (they come alive in the pages), and the significance of the painting, The Goldfinch, while elusive as the pages fly by, is never completely abandoned. The symbolism in this story is heavy and wrought with meaning, but I think every reader will see and hear something different.

That’s why I think book clubs tend to choose this book so much. My friend is one of the folks who hates this book; I’m one of the ones who love it. I can totally get why she does. This book spans over a decade of time and it gets there at a snail’s pace, though I read late into the night for a week (thank goodness for vacation, or I’d have been useless at work). Yet, I couldn’t put it down. It’s odd, a page turner that I could totally see myself working my way through for a month or more. I tried to calculate how long it took me to read it, I gave up. I’m not sure some of the time wasn’t spent half-dozing at 4:30 in the morning, just trying to get to the end of a chapter, to find out what kind of crazy Theo’s friend Boris would deliver next. Hours lost to this book, but I don’t regret it.

I couldn’t read anything else while reading this, either. I often read two or three at a time, just shuffling between them whenever the whim takes me, but not with this one. I think I had to keep going because the threads, as they are woven into the tapestry of this book, are thin and easy to miss. This book requires focus, an absence of distraction. It is, by no means light reading. In fact, I don’t think I’ve ever seen sentences and structure quite as complex and mindboggling. One sentence lasted over a page. Just one. The author favors a choppy style, tossing images and impressions out like handfuls of bread to a pigeon, but it works. It flows. The world and the people in it bloom in the mind from these snippets. At times grammar is abandoned completely, but on purpose, definitely on purpose. It’s one of the things I found so interesting about this book, but I think it might drive some folks crazy trying to wade through the organized madness.

I loved this book. It’s a tough read and a page turner all at once. I think it’s worth giving a try for folks who like an immersive reading experience, but folks who want that clean happily ever after, who like a book that gets to the point in short order, may find this one daunting. This truly is one of those love it or hate it books. I think it demands to be discussed, so really, the book clubs have it right.

I borrowed this book from a local library so that I could read it for a book club I just joined.


View all my reviews

M9B Two for Thursday Book Blitz – Curse of the Granville Fortune by Kelly Hashway and King of the Mutants by Samantha Verant with Giveaway #T4T

Welcome to this week’s Two for Thursday Book Blitz #T4T
presented by Month9books/Tantrum Books!

 

Today, we will be showcasing two titles that may tickle your fancy,
and we’ll share what readers have to say about these titles!

 

You just might find your next read!

 

This week, #T4T presents to you:

Curse of the Granville Fortune by Kelly Hashway and
King of the Mutants by Samantha Verant

 

Be sure to enter the giveaway found at the end of the post!

Find the fortune, break the curse!

The hunt is on for an ancient treasure tied to nine-year-old J.B.’s family history. He’s been having visions that make him sweaty, lightheaded, and certain he’s turning into some kind of freak—or worse, going insane. But things are worse than he imagined. The visions stem from a family curse. An ancient ancestor was accused of stealing the massive Granville fortune, and now J.B.’s entirely family will suffer. 

To break the curse, J.B. must find and return the Granville’s stolen property. But he’s not the only one searching for the treasure. As he sets out on his journey through a dark and foreboding forest, he’ll battle his worst fears and fight terrifying creatures along the way. And when he meets two others who share the missing pieces of his visions and suffer from the same curse, the three soon realize they need to work together to break the curse before it’s too late.

 

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | Chapters Indigo! | TBD | iBooks | Google Play | BAM | IndieBound

WHAT READER’S ARE SAYING:

“The perils in the forest and a fast-paced storyline make this a great middle grade read.” – Medeia, Author

“There’s plenty of action for young readers.” – Beverly, Author

“Definitely pick this one up for your youngster and give them something awesome to read” – Erika, WS Momma Readers Nook

Kelly Hashway grew up reading R.L. Stein’s Fear Street novels and writing stories of her own, so it was no surprise to her family when she majored in English and later obtained a masters degree in English Secondary Education from East Stroudsburg University. After teaching middle school language arts for seven years, Hashway went back to school and focused specifically on writing. She is now the author of three young adult series, one middle grade series, and several picture books. She also writes contemporary romance under the pen name Ashelyn Drake. When she isn’t writing, Hashway works as a freelance editor for small presses as well as for her own list of clients. In her spare time, she enjoys running, traveling, and volunteering with the PTO. Hashway currently resides in Pennsylvania with her husband, daughter, and two pets.

Author Links: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

Can one boy stop a nefarious plot to turn kids into super-mutants?

Maverick Mercury enjoys his life as the sideshow attraction known as “Gator Boy” at Grumbling’s Traveling Circus and Side show. 

His freakish mutations are the result of some billionaire geneticist’s experiments gone awry. But life as a mutant is about to get worse, as Maverick uncovers a plot to kidnap kids, turns them into super-mutants, and sells their powers to the highest bidder.  

Now, Maverick is on a mission to find the mad scientist who may have created him and destroy his sinister plans!

 

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | Chapters Indigo! | TBD |IndieBound | Google Play | BAM | iBooks

WHAT READER’S ARE SAYING:

“It was fun, witty, and all sorts of crazy.” – Leanne, The Reading Slump

“Overall, this is a fun read and a story any one can enjoy. If you like the idea of crazy circus people/mutants/scientists and adventure then I recommend that you pick this story up!” – Aisazia, Originique Quanimity

“…there aren't enough boys with tails in contemporary literature.” – Carrie, Author

Samantha Vérant is a travel addict, a self-professed oenophile, and a determined, if occasionally unconventional, French chef. Over the years, she’s visited many different countries, lived in many places, and worked many jobs— always on the search for the one thing that truly excited her. Then, one day, she found everything she’s been looking for: a passion for the written word and true love. Writing not only enabled her to open her heart, it led her to southwestern France, where she’s now married to a sexy French rocket scientist she met over twenty years ago, a stepmom to two incredible kids, and the adoptive mother to one ridiculously expensive Bengal cat. When she’s not trekking from Provence to the Pyrénées, tasting wine in American-sized glasses, or embracing her inner Julia Child while deliberating what constitutes the perfect boeuf bourguignon, Samantha is making her best effort to relearn those dreaded conjugations.

Connect with the Author: Website | Book Site | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

Complete the Rafflecopter for your chance to win!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Cover Reveal: Destiny Rising (True Calling #3) by Siobhan Davis

Today is the cover reveal for Destiny Rising by Siobhan Davis. This cover reveal is organized by Lola's Blog Tours.

Destiny Rising (True Calling #3)
By Siobhan Davis
Genre: Dystopian/Science Fiction/Romance
Age category: Young Adult
Release Date: August 30, 2015

Blurb:
Every choice has a consequence.

Once again, the world is on the brink of momentous change. As revolutionary organization Saoirse prepares to battle the government for control of Earth and Novo, Ariana and those she loves must join humanity’s fight for justice and freedom.
As haunted memories resurface, old discoveries and new realities conspire to shatter her world forever.

Torn in one direction by her unique connection to childhood sweetheart Zane, and pulled in the other by a relentless passion for her fiery fiancé Cal, she must make the hardest decision of all. While embarking on a road to self-discovery, her psychic gift evolves and the full extent of her powerful ability is revealed.
Then fate lands another savage blow and she faces the most horrific choice of all. Forced into striking a deal with the enemy, she must make the ultimate personal sacrifice or risk everything she holds dear.

When destiny finally rears its head, what will the future hold?

You can find Destiny Rising on Goodreads

You can pre-order Destiny Rising here:
- Amazon
- Amazon.co.uk
- Amazon.ca
- Amazon.au
- Barnes&Noble
- Apple/iBooks
- Kobo


Start the series for free!
True Calling (True Calling #1)
By Siobhan Davis
Genre: Dystopian/Science Fiction/Romance
Age category: Young Adult
Release Date: August 1, 2014

Blurb:
Planet Novo, nestled in space twelve hundred miles above the surface of the Earth, is the new home of 17-year-old Cadet Ariana Skyee. Confused by the government-sanctioned memory erase and distressed at her impending forced marriage and motherhood, Ariana’s plans for the future are thrown into complete disarray.

As the traumatic events within her family life enfold, Ariana grows increasingly alarmed at the authorities apparent pre-occupation with her and feels progressively more isolated and alone.

Her growing feelings for fellow Cadet Cal Remus intensify as the recently announced pageant, ‘The Calling’, gets underway. Struggling to comprehend the continuous, inexplicable dreams of the mysterious Zane, discovering the past helps shape her future, with devastating personal consequences.

You can find True Calling on Goodreads

Start the series for free! Grab your copy of True Calling for free here:
- Amazon
- Amazon UK
- Barnes & Noble
- iTunes/iBooks
- Kobo

About the Author:
Siobhan Davis is the author of YA science fiction romance series True Calling.
A self-diagnosed ‘teenager forever’—at least when it comes to books, music and movies; Siobhan is totally addicted to teen fiction and superhero/blockbuster movies. Siobhan loves baking, crime novels, shoes, bags, make-up, anti-wrinkle cream, anything pink, Kelly Clarkson, Katy Perry, and Robert Pattinson (definitely Team Edward). Siobhan has forged a successful corporate career, in Human Resources, over the last twenty years.
A member of the IWI writers group, Siobhan resides in the Garden County of Ireland with her husband and two sons.
Contact Siobhan at: www.siobhandavis.com

You can find and contact Siobhan here:
- Website
- Author blog
- Book website
- Facebook
- Twitter
- Google +
- Goodreads

Sample chapters, quotes, reviews and book excerpts are all available to download from the authors website

There is a cover reveal wide giveaway for the cover reveal of Destiny Rising. These are the prizes you can win:
- e-copies of the whole True calling series by Siobhan Davis. Which is the following books: True Calling, Lovestruck, Beyond Reach, Light of a Thousand Stars and Destiny Rising.
- one 10$ amazon gift card

For a chance to win, enter the rafflecopter below:
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Coming of Age Review: No Alligators in Sight by Kirsten B. Feldman

No Alligators in Sight by Kirsten B. Feldman (Goodreads Author) 

Description:  In this coming of age novel, Lettie and Bert squeak by in a tiny town on Cape Cod, one parent an alcoholic and the other absent. After a string of bad decisions on Lettie’s part, their father ships them to their barely remembered mother for the summer, where they will learn hard lessons about themselves, their family, and their future by way of the Florida swamp. Throughout Lettie keeps her biting humor flowing, her razor-sharp pen at the ready, and her eye on her quest for a “normal” life.

 

New Release Announcement and Excerpt: Catharsis by Noorilhuda

I've read one other of Noorilhuda's books, the governess, and really enjoyed it. Her stories don't promise a happily ever after, but they do make you think. I am pleased to be able to post this announcement and a short excerpt of her newest story.



Catharsis by Noorilhuda
(on pre-order till 12th July)

Dark tale of a tough-as-nails detective, a curious old man and a persistent district attorney - all trying to catch a pedophile.

What would you do to be free?

Shadows of Valor is complete! On finishing a trilogy...

Yeah, I know I've posted about this before, but I'm still excited about it. Even more so now, because I just received my first review for Fight for Valor on the Michaelscifan blog.

 

You know, it's very scary putting out a book. But what's even more scary is putting out the final book in a series or trilogy. There's this overbearing feeling of potential failure, that people will be disappointed, that as an author you'll drop the ball. I've seen this happen with other trilogies. I spent much longer finishing and then editing this one than with any other. I redesigned all the kindle covers so that they had a common feel but were distinct from each other. I read this thing from front to back more than a dozen times, to check for errors, to gage the flow, to confirm, at least to myself, that the story was fun to read and interesting. Finally, I took some deep breaths and hit publish.

 

And then I waited. I posted some links and put half of my books on sale in celebration. I asked for reviews from just a couple of folks who liked the first two books. And last night, late, I saw the first review. I feel like that one person reading and loving my book has made it all worth it.

 

Will everyone love it? Probably not. But I know one person did, and that just makes my day.

 

 

And, if that wasn't enough, he also reviewed my other newish release, The Freeze. I must say I'm pretty excited about this one, too. I think my only regret is that I didn't flesh The Freeze out more. A common thread in all the reviews so far is that it missed opportunities. A good lesson I plan to take to heart. But, still, folks do seem to like it, and that's awesome.

Here's the link to Michaelscifan's The Freeze review.