Wednesday, July 30, 2014

#ReviewShare #Legal #Fiction - Malpractice! by William Louis Harvey @sexandlawnovel

Malpractice! the novelMalpractice! the novel by William Louis Harvey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Slightly above 3.5 stars, less than 4 stars.

Enjoyable and could be good with some improvement. The interesting combination of a legal thriller and medical drama with the addition of some strong sexual content certainly made this book one that will last long in the memory. I feel the author must be commended for being able to combine these three complex elements to create what is in my opinion a fascinating story. In particular the strong sexual content made for compelling reading, I felt it really added to the plot as we got to see a different side to the main characters.

With several sub-plots as well as some twists and turns to keep you guessing right to the end my attention was held throughout. The legal side to the story was really well handled, it gave me an absorbing look at the procedures that occur and the fact that this element was kept as realistic as possible really helped me to invest in the book.

Overall there is plenty to like about this piece of work. It blends some challenging subjects successfully together and the result is something I feel all readers will really appreciate. But I would recommend the book edited professionally and for its cover to get a facelift. The images are too dark and until the end I didn't really get the significance of the cover to the story.

Disclosure - As a Quality Reads UK Book Club member, I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I received no monetary compensation for my book review. This book review is based on my thoughts, opinion and understanding of the book. This book review does not reflect the opinion of other book club members.

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#ReviewShare #Women #Literary - Twelve Houses by Olga Soaje

Twelve HousesTwelve Houses by Olga Soaje
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In this engaging tale we follow the difficult and emotional journey of Amelia Weiss who after 35 years of marriage finds herself a widow. Understandably the grief affects her profoundly, work becomes impossible and other family relationships suffer. Before long a crossroads is reached where important decisions that will decide Amelia’s future path have to be made.

As I followed the life altering journey she takes I could not help but be moved by her plight, I found myself heavily invested in the book as a result, it really struck a chord with me and I feel I will not forget it any time soon. This was a really complex and difficult subject to write about, it needed to be handled with extreme care and in my opinion it was. Olga Soaje really has shown off her literary talents here and I’m looking forward to future work from her.

Overall this powerful book will have a profound effect on all who read it, rarely can writing cause such a variety of emotions but this is no ordinary book, it is one that should be celebrated for the brilliance it contains.

Disclosure - As a Quality Reads UK Book Club member, I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I received no monetary compensation for my book review. This book review is based on my thoughts, opinion and understanding of the book. This book review does not reflect the opinion of other book club members.

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Tuesday, July 29, 2014

#ReviewShare #Suspense - Conspiracy of Silence by Glede Browne Kabongo @gkabongo

Conspiracy of SilenceConspiracy of Silence by Glede Browne Kabongo
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

In this engrossing piece of literature we follow Nina who soon realizes that the past can never fully be escaped from. She has worked hard over the years to move on and build a better life but one day a visitor threatens to destroy all of that. With the stakes so high it was easy to become completely engaged in this tale, the author cleverly develops the plot at a pace that leaves the reader always yearning for more. Questions such as just what Nina’s secret is and the part Philip plays in all of it were always on my mind.

A real fascinating element to this book was the exploration of Nina’s relationship with her friends and husband, the scenes between them always had tenseness as Nina battled to hide the secret from them and it was really interesting to see the effect that had. Philip was a real stand-out character for me, his manipulation made for a compelling physiological aspect that left me unable to tell what the truth was and what was a lie. This doubt only made the ending more satisfying.

In summary it’s clear to me that Gledé Browne Kabongo has created something to really be proud of, she clearly has a lot of talent and I will definitely be looking out for future work from her.

Disclosure - As a Quality Reads UK Book Club member, I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I received no monetary compensation for my book review. This book review is based on my thoughts, opinion and understanding of the book. This book review does not reflect the opinion of other book club members.

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#ReviewShare #SciFi #Fantasy - The Soul of the World by Joshua Silverman @JG_Silverman

The Soul of the World (Legends of Amun Ra, #2)The Soul of the World by Joshua Silverman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book was a real treat. As with most books the plot boils down to the battle between good and evil in this story. I found that the writing style used really magnified the events as they unfolded, every decision and scene felt important. The world that the characters inhabit is a dark one, this makes the presence of danger feel constant meaning simmering suspense is with you as you read.

The POV element added by the author really was an inspired move, it allows you to really experience the hardships and battles the characters are facing which heightens your attachment to them. I was impressed by the fact you actually witness the growth of the characters as the story progresses, the amazing events that take place would have an effect on anyone so to see the characters change and develop is a really clever touch.

There is certainly enough adventure and excitement to satisfy even the most demanding of fans and overall, I came away from this book with a feeling of pleasure, I enjoyed it from start to finish and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to other readers.

Disclosure - As a Quality Reads UK Book Club member, I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I received no monetary compensation for my book review. This book review is based on my thoughts, opinion and understanding of the book. This book review does not reflect the opinion of other book club members.

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Sunday, July 27, 2014

#ReviewShare #YA #Paranormal - Haunted by @EileenMaksym

HauntedHaunted by Eileen Maksym
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

There is something about ghost stories that appeals to me greatly, the fantastic mixture of suspense and the unknown creates a compelling situation where you simply daren’t stop reading. I’m happy to report that this book delivered healthy amounts of the above elements. We follow three friends whose passion for ghosts lands them in danger when they decide to investigate a local house.

The plot felt like a breathless ride to me and the romantic element that has been added only increased my enjoyment, it felt like there was more at stake simply because of the extra emotions involved. In my opinion the author deserves great credit for the creation of the three main characters, as much as I liked them individually their real appeal came from their group friendship.

It was believable and I found myself greatly invested in their collective journey. There are certainly enough twists and turns to keep even the most seasoned of readers on their toes which is always a massive positive, after all, when you are confronted with unexpected outcomes in the plot the story becomes all the more exciting.

Overall I can draw a lot of positives from reading this book. I thoroughly enjoyed it and will be keeping my eye out for further work from Eileen Maksym.

Disclosure - As a Quality Reads UK Book Club member, I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I received no monetary compensation for my book review. This book review is based on my thoughts, opinion and understanding of the book. This book review does not reflect the opinion of other book club members.


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Saturday, July 26, 2014

#ReviewShare #Thriller #MustRead - Copyright: A Novel by Lori Lesko @LeskoLori

Copyright: A NovelCopyright: A Novel by Lori Lesko
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

How would you feel if your written manuscript is stolen? Years of hard work and labor goes down the drain in just one minute. And how would you feel, if you find your book in a bookstore, under someone else’s name?

Yes, this is how Amber Tyler feels, when the writer's worst nightmare becomes a reality. We see how in just one day, the heroine faces tragedy upon tragedy and our inner- writer is horrified with the events taking place. We can easily sympathize with her. Her health, her family and her career, everything goes down by just a heart attack.

The writer Lori Lesko is like a magician, captivating us with her simple phrases and making us feel the same things that a character is feeling. The characters are powerful and hold their positions perfectly. I love how easily she has described the Lesbian relationship of the heroine with her lover Karen, without any hesitation of the traditional society. Even though the characters are not perfect (what with the heroine being an alcohol addict with a lot of issues) the idea of a perfect family is unique and new (Lesbian couple and two kids, Danny & Kira).

The plot is a strong and continuous one. The author unfolds the story Step-By-Step and doesn’t confuse the reader. We feel heartbroken with whatever happens to the heroine and how the person she trusts, actually betrays her. We all feel proud, when she confronts the antagonist and is saved by her son.

In the end Lori shows that no matter what situation you are in, it is your family and your loved ones who will bring you back to your life, support you and stand by your side. It took a little time for the heroine to set up her priorities straight and to bring her life back on the line but throughout the novel the readers are supporting her. She is like a real life individual, who makes mistakes and wrong decisions but in the end will always have a lot of supporters, when she gets back on the track.

The story was intense. Sometimes you would feel frustrated at the heroine for her choices and sometimes you would wait for her to take a next step, praying all the time to make things right for her.

It is truly a heart wrenching Psychological Thriller – that will give you an amazing roller coaster ride. It is a “must-read” book for all the readers, bookies and bookworm. I will give it 4/5 stars. Great Book!

Disclosure - As a Quality Reads UK Book Club member, I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I received no monetary compensation for my book review. This book review is based on my thoughts, opinion and understanding of the book. This book review does not reflect the opinion of other book club members.


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#ReviewShare #Mystery #Romance - Dance for a Dead Princess by Deborah Hawkins @DeborahHawk3

Dance for a Dead PrincessDance for a Dead Princess by Deborah Hawkins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Nothing capture’s a reader’s gentle heart more than romance and all that goes with it, and this book delivers well on that front. Throw in healthy dose of whodunit action, and Dance for a Dead Princess is a recipe for success.

Follow the lives of Nicholas Carey, Taylor Collins and a wonderful cast of supporting characters as Carey tries to find out who killed one of his best friends, Princess Diana. He has already lost one love – his wife – and is determined to set Diana’s killer on the path to redemption. Along the way, he meets Collins, a Wall Street attorney extraordinaire who says she has important information about Diana’s killer.

Together, they entangle themselves in a love story that spans across several centuries but also hits close to home as they look for Diana’s killer and stumble upon ancient secrets of past rulers that should have stay buried. Dance for a Dead Princess is well-written, beautifully eloquent and unravels a quick-paced tale that draws the reader like a moth to a flame. It’s definitely a summer read to keep nearby, as you won’t want to put it down!

Disclosure - As a Quality Reads UK Book Club member, I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I received no monetary compensation for my book review. This book review is based on my thoughts, opinion and understanding of the book. This book review does not reflect the opinion of other book club members.




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Monday, July 21, 2014

#ReviewShare #Thriller #Action - Dangerous Past by A.F. Ebbers

Dangerous PastDangerous Past by A.F. Ebbers
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I'm not always 100% sold when I see book cover that it not appealing or has flaws but this book really did surprise me. It was a good action-thriller that kept me entertained and guessing on what would happen next.

Mr. Ebbers, the author has a very interesting writing style, old school but grounded and realistic. This is a story about a pilot, his enemies and the innocent people who are dragged into an elaborate but memorable plot.

For me, it was the unexpected things that kept happening from the first till the last page. In some ways, it did feel as if Frank was jinxed. I also liked the complexity of the characters. The author consistently developed more than one character, their ups and downs, mistakes they made in the past, accusations, corruption and etc.. Overall, definitely a must read.

Disclosure - As a Quality Reads UK Book Club member, I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I received no monetary compensation for my book review. This book review is based on my thoughts, opinion and understanding of the book. This book review does not reflect the opinion of other book club members.


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Thursday, July 17, 2014

#ReviewShare #Mystery #Romance - Treasure Me (Liberty, #1) @ChristineNolfi

Treasure Me (Liberty, #1)Treasure Me by Christine Nolfi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I am the author's 100th book review on Amazon and that is certainly an achievement. This wonderful book leaves you wanting to hop on the next bus to Liberty, if only it were that easy. You have those laugh out loud moments when the characters are fun but you also have the those moments when the characters start to reflect and you connect with them on a stronger, emotional level.

What is particularly striking is the chemistry between the characters. Add to this humor and mystery, you have a definite page turner. Birdie Kaminsky's strengths are not easily seen by the reader and it is easy to dismiss her as a nobody. But as her thoughts come out in the open, Treasure Me teaches the reader an important lesson, don't judge too quickly.

If you like Gemma Halliday and Amanda Quick, you will definitely like Christine Nolfi. She's a charming cross between the two and the Liberty Series has a new fan.

Disclosure - As a Quality Reads UK Book Club member, I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I received no monetary compensation for my book review. This book review is based on my thoughts, opinion and understanding of the book. This book review does not reflect the opinion of other book club members.

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Tuesday, July 15, 2014

@NRNadarajah on Staying Sane When Dealing with Deadlines #AmWriting #WriteTip #Fantasy

Allow me to tell you about a little something I learned when I was just a wee little lad. Several times a week, my dad would sit me down and ask me: “so, what’ve you got planned for the day?” It was a simple question, and one I should’ve had an answer for each time he asked. But that was usually never the case. I hardly ever had an answer for him, and when I did, it was a fleeting thought about something that I might’ve wanted to do a day or two down the road.
“You need to make a schedule,” he’d then tell me. “Make a schedule and organize your thoughts. Create a checklist or something like that. You’ll be more productive that way.”
Did I listen to him? I’d like to tell you that I did.
So, how have I managed to write two YA fantasy novels, as well as two other picture eBooks for adults, while sticking to my deadlines without driving myself barking mad?
You’ve guessed it. I finally started listening to what my old man had to say. Here’s how I’ve incorporated his advice into furthering my productivity and finding success along the way.
Every Sunday, I’d take about five to ten minutes out of my time and sit down to make a checklist. Trust me on this. Make a list and write down everything you’d like to accomplish that week. And then when you feel like you’ve listed out and scheduled your entire week, add a few more items you’d like to accomplish.
There are seven days in a week, which equates to 168 hours. That’s a whole lot of hours just waiting to be used up (or wasted. That decisions up to you). 168 hours. There’s so much we can do in that time. There’s so much we can accomplish, and yet, the majority of us find that we’re only ever able to complete a fraction of what we intended to finish. The reason, I find, is because for the most part, we end up wasting our time trying to figure out what to do next, or how to kill that time which is given to us.
This is where the checklist we created comes into play. Take it as a challenge to accomplish each and every item on that list. Because you’ve already written down the things you’d like to get done by week’s end, there is little or no time wasted trying to get yourself organized. What’s more is that you’ve written down more than you can accomplish. Try your hardest to get all of it done. Chances are you won’t. But by reaching for the stars, you know how the rest of this cliché goes.
So how does making this checklist and trying to complete the items on that list help you meet your deadlines and remain sane while doing it?
Creating that list and hoping to check off the items as you finish them isn’t enough to get the job done. Sometimes, it is. However, along the way, we tend to bite our nails, repeatedly bang our heads on the table, grit and bare our teeth at our laptops hoping for some miracle to happen, take naps to calm our mounting frustration, etcetera, etcetera, and another etcetera, why? Because we tend to look at the project as a whole.
Don’t do that. It can be rather overwhelming considering the amount of work that needs to be done to complete whatever it is that you’re trying to complete.
Instead, take a deep breath. Relax. And while you’re making that checklist to start the new week, remind yourself to take this one day at a time, one step at a time. And while you’re at it, remind yourself why you’re doing this.
No one’s forcing you to be a writer.
This is your passion. Your choice.
You’re pushing yourself beyond your mental endurance because you want to see your book, your creation, come to life.
So why stress over that deadline and hurt yourself while trying to meet it.
You’ve got the tools. You’ve got the want and the will. And now, you’ve that magical little checklist to guide your way. So start cracking and start checking off those items as you breeze right through them.
If you’re a writer, you’re reading this, and you’re trying to meet a deadline, always keep one thing in mind. We’ve already embarked upon a quest that makes us partly insane. So tell me, fellow writer, what’ve you got to lose?

Haunted by memories of his massacred settlement, sixteen-year-old Weaver seeks cover in a hidden refuge among the remains of a ruined city. In the midst of building a new life, Weaver discovers that he has the amazing power to cast his dreams into reality. Convinced it’s just an anomaly, Weaver ignores it. That is until he learns of a mysterious man who shares the ability, and uses his power to bring nightmares into existence and wage war on the world. The peaceful life Weaver hoped for begins to unravel as waves of chaos begin to break loose about him. In a race against time, Weaver must learn to accept his role as a dream caster and master his new power, before his new home is destroyed and humanity is pushed to the brink of extinction.
Buy @ Amazon & Smashwords
Genre – Fantasy
Rating – PG
More details about the author
Connect with Najeev Raj Nadarajah on Facebook & Twitter

Saturday, July 12, 2014

The #Detox Factor: 101 Tips & Tricks To #LoseWeight Without #Dieting by @AngieNewson

DetoxFactor

*** AMAZON #1 BEST SELLER - over 22,000 downloads*** 
(Book length - 34,796 words!) 

Do you want to lose weight without dieting?

THE DETOX FACTOR: 101 Tips & Tricks To Lose Weight Without Dieting! (Detox Cleanse Book) is a simple, easy-to-follow detox-cleanse guide to help you to shed pounds - naturally! You'll learn practical detoxing and fat busting changes you can make straight away. 

Here are some of the fantastic slimming and detox cleanse secrets revealed in this book: 

* How to get rid of stubborn belly fat and banish it for good! 

* Where toxins come from and how they wreak havoc on your body weight! 

* The foods you are eating that are a detox disaster if you want a slimmer waistline

* The best detox cleanse exercise you can do to drop unwanted pounds - and the good news is it takes just 15 minutes per WEEK! 

How toxic are you? A quick and easy tally to help you make less fattening lifestyle choices. 

* Why sound sleep is your best friend when it comes to detox your body and preventing fat gain

* The 7 Daily Detox Habits you need for detoxification and for losing weight easily! 

BONUS - 7 Super Detox Cleanse Green Juice Recipes

The only Green Juice Recipes you'll ever need! 

Would You Like To Know More?

Download now and start losing weight and leading a healthier lifestyle today! 
Buy Now @ Amazon
Genre – Health, Fitness & Dieting
Rating – G
More details about the author
Connect with Angie Newson on Twitter

Thursday, July 10, 2014

Roland Hughes on His Next Project and #SelfPub - #Dystopian #Fiction

If you could do any job in the world what would you do?
Be a full time writer.
Are you a city slicker or a country lover?
I grew up on a family farm and my IT consulting has me traveling to cities large and small.  While there were aspects of city living I enjoyed during my younger years, I find the rural life provides benefits to writing city life simply cannot.  Out in the country you can leave your keyboard then do physical labor things which keeps your person occupied in a way that allows your mind to continue working on your story.  They may be physical tasks but they don’t require a significant amount of brain power to complete.
When you are in a city and leave your keyboard you go outside and find any number and type of distraction.  That is just what they are, distractions.  You meet people or see others doing things and your mind veers off in different directions.  A snippet of overheard conversation, someone who looks like their dog, etc.  These things pull you farther away from the work you left.  Perhaps it is because the work should not be done in the first place, but if the work is important to you then distractions like these can be fatal.  They can become a good base for a different story but they don’t tend to help you complete your current work.
Another “benefit” of living rural is the fact Internet service is horrible.  Even the “best” satellite packages are both limited and slow compared with what is available in metropolitan areas.  While email and a Web browser can be great tools for a writer, more often than not they tend to be the single greatest reason writing doesn’t get done.
What’s your next project?
I have a work out for editing now titled “Lesedi.”  I wrote it during the 2013 NaNoWriMo project and put it aside to simmer.  Recently I went back to it and began polishing.  It is the middle book for what has become the “Earth That Was” trilogy.  The first book was “Infinite Exposure” and the final book is “John Smith”.  I hadn’t set out to connect those works in a trilogy but Lesedi simply refused to leave me alone.  He wanted his story told.
At some point I will complete another work in my geek book series titled “The Phallus of Agile and Other Ruminations.”  I have snippets of it done now and many other topics for it working their way through that dangerous place known as my mind.
How do you feel about self-publishing?
I wouldn’t have it any other way.  My first geek books were done through a publisher.  I quite writing for a good number of years after that.  The one benefit of having gone that route is I learned what it really takes to be self-published.  Someone hurling an unedited, or worse, self-edited pile of gibberish into the Amazon Kindle marketing is not self-publishing though they will all claim it is.  There are a great many steps one must go through to honestly self-publish.  Quotes for print runs, contracting with professional editors and cover artists.  EPUB conversion services, and if the work is fiction, audio book creation.  Let us not forget purchasing ISBNs and registering with the Library of Congress and copyright office.  Many don’t bother with any of those steps and the last three are absolutely critical.
Do you know your neighbors?
Back on the family farm I know my neighbors.  I grew up with most of them.
Last book you purchased? Tell us about it.
“A Dance With Dragons” or something like that.  Part of the “Song of Ice and Fire” series.  I used to love that series, but I didn’t finish that book and have no intention of reading it further.  This is what happens when an author gets distracted by more lucrative ventures like a television series.  I couldn’t help but feel the writing was being padded to fill out a season.
How has your upbringing influenced your writing?
I suppose it has influenced my writing in ways I do not know.  The major influence was in teaching me  the value of physical labor with respect to writing.  Mental labor like that done in an office setting drains the writing desire or at least it does once you get older and you simply want to unwind at the end of the stress.  Physical labor like walking beans, mowing pastures, painting out buildings, etc. doesn’t require an immense amount of mental capacity.  This leaves your mind free to mull over your current writing project so when you return to the keyboard you have already explored that portion of the story and are ready to write it down.
Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?
Originally I was never going to write fiction or general interest type books.  I was only going to write geek books because I am an IT consultant.  This was a logical extension of my “day job.”  It kept my skills sharp and provided a bit of help obtaining contracts.  For a good number of years this satisfied my need to write.  Eventually, if you are going to become a writer, you will find out when that first story forces you to tell it.
How long have you been writing?
Over two decades I think, but I took quite a few years off after my first two books.
When did you first know you could be a writer?
It didn’t happen until one reviewer compared “John Smith” to “1984” and “A Brave New World”.  Then another reviewer compared it to some of Plato’s writing.  Up until that point I hadn’t really considered myself a writer.  I was just someone who wrote books on the side.  Now I believe I just might be one.
What inspired you to write your first book?
A lack of usable documentation.  Software companies, particularly those who develop large scale libraries for computer programmers, are very good at producing large volumes of detailed documentation and a pile of hokey little examples.  What I mean by that is the documentation tends to be expert friendly reference material.  They provide a lot of “call this function with these parameters and it does this” type of documentation.  Where they fail miserably is in providing complete examples.  There was no documentation out there which told someone new to the product/library “here is how you create a data entry screen which adds record to a database.”
Nearly everyone reading this has went to a Web site and filled out an order form, or has gotten some form of computer generated bill/invoice in the mail.  What most reading this won’t know is the “how” behind creating all of the less than sexy programs behind that isn’t really taught.  Designers, artists, and management simply say “We want these graphics with those fonts to have this look and feel while doing this.”  Developers are left twisting in the breeze when it comes to the “how” portion of actually achieving that.
“John Smith: Last Known Survivor of the Microsoft Wars” is one big interview. It is a transcript of a dialogue between “John Smith” (who, as the title of the book implies is the last known survivor of the Microsoft wars) and the interviewer for a prominent news organization.
Buy Now @ Amazon & B&N
Genre – Dystopian Fiction
Rating – PG
More details about the author

Tuesday, July 8, 2014

#ReviewShare #Paranormal #Vampire - Cast in Blood by Michelle Rabe @MichRabe

Cast in BloodCast in Blood by Michelle Rabe
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This fantastic book had me gripped from the very beginning. Morgan Blackstone is a fascinating character; her strong personality allows her to hold the weight of the story singlehandedly. She is a vampire with enemies who one night finds herself at the mercy of two old antagonists who take her to a laboratory. In many ways death would be a less cruel outcome compared to the horrors that await her there.

What follows is completely compelling as Morgan is consumed with both the need to survive and the yearning for revenge. The plot moves at an assured pace that only authors of the highest quality can maintain throughout an entire book.

Praise must also be given for the writing style that is used. It allowed me to vividly imagine the electric events as they unfolded. Clearly a great deal of time has been put into the creation of this story and the outcome is something lovers of vampires, the paranormal and good fiction in general will be able to wholeheartedly enjoy and appreciate.

Disclosure - As a Quality Reads UK Book Club member, I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I received no monetary compensation for my book review. This book review is based on my thoughts, opinion and understanding of the book. This book review does not reflect the opinion of other book club members.


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#ReviewShare #SciFi #Fantasy - Wotan's Dilemma by Hank Quense @Hanque99

Wotan's DilemmaWotan's Dilemma by Hank Quense
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I was first drawn to this book by the intriguing and imaginative sounding plot, it was enough to convince me to dive right into the story. From the beginning I knew I was reading something special. The author has a certain writing style that draws you into the events as they unfold, it simply commanded my full attention at all times as I was treated to mythology, a wide range of personalities and at times, hilarity.

I feel the strongest attribute this book has is to do with the characters, each one has been creatively crafted and they really were a joy to follow throughout their own personal journeys. It’s worth mentioning the humour this book has, very few pieces of literature have made me laugh through the years but this is certainly an exception. The actual plot is a strong one that ensures nothing is predictable, I certainly couldn’t second guess what was coming next and that’s always a positive in my eyes.

All in all it was a thoroughly enjoyable read. The author has certainly found a new fan, I look forward to other pieces of work from him in the future.

Disclosure - As a Quality Reads UK Book Club member, I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I received no monetary compensation for my book review. This book review is based on my thoughts, opinion and understanding of the book. This book review does not reflect the opinion of other book club members.


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IF I FORGET YOU by Michelle D. Argyle @michelleargyle #YA #NALit #Romance

If I Forget You
 
"Beautiful prose, interesting characters, and sizzling romance make this book simply unforgettable. I adored it." -- Kasie West, author of The Distance Between Us
 
"Avery may have a bad memory, but I will never forget this book." -- Natalie Whipple, author of House of Ivy & Sorrow
 
"Achingly sweet and beautiful, If I Forget You stole my romantic reader heart." -- Cassie Mae, bestselling author of Switched

Avery Hollister is a little more than absentminded. She has trouble remembering faces, names, and dates without her piles of lists and Post-it notes. When she heads off to college it takes her a week to realize the guy she's crushing on is, in fact, three different guys. With a faulty memory and three men who have no idea she's mixed them up, Avery doesn't know how to fix the mess she's made. But she knows she has to try, even if it means losing a love not even she could forget.
 
**If I Forget You is considered clean New Adult/Young Adult fiction appropriate for adults and young adults. It contains adult themes and issues.**
Buy Now @ Amazon & Smashwords
Genre – Contemporary New Adult Romance
Rating – PG-13
More details about the author
Connect with Michelle D. Argyle on Facebook & Twitter

Sunday, July 6, 2014

#ReviewShare #Christian #Thriller - Infernal Gates by Michael J. Webb @mjwebbbooks

Infernal GatesInfernal Gates by Michael J. Webb
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This thrilling book had me completely compelled right from the start. We follow Ethan Freeman whose life is quite literally turned upside down when a plane crash kills his entire family leaving him as the sole survivor. As if his grief was not enough soon the FBI have made him the chief suspect. Matters are not helped by the fact Ethan cannot remember the tragic events meaning there is no clear cut way to prove his innocence. In his time of desperation, Sam Weaver, an ex-pilot, becomes a close friend. The romantic element the two’s relationship added to the book really elevated this literature above most other offerings in the genre.

What follows had me gripped as the pair set out to clear Ethan’s name, along the way unravelling a sinister plot that will spell the end for all mankind. It’s because of this constant threat of danger that there is a simmering suspense throughout the tale, it really helps to immerse the reader in the world the characters inhabit. The author must be commended for his brilliant writing style, it allowed me to vividly imagine the often jaw dropping events as they unfolded. I felt the plot moved along at a confident pace that allowed the characters and story to develop fully whilst still being fast enough to always command your attention. There were certainly unexpected twists and turns along the way and I found the ending to be suitably exhilarating.

Overall, when you combine the various positive attributes this book has its impossible not to be impressed. Clearly a lot of time and effort has been put into crafting each piece of the story and the result is something lovers of quality fiction will savour.

Disclosure - As a Quality Reads UK Book Club member, I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I received no monetary compensation for my book review. This book review is based on my thoughts, opinion and understanding of the book. This book review does not reflect the opinion of other book club members.

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#ReviewShare #Romance #MagicalRealism - Sunspots by Karen S. Bell @KarenSueBell

SunspotsSunspots by Karen S. Bell
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book explores some tough issues such as loss and evoked a profound emotional response from within me. Whenever a book can make me feel and care for the characters I know I am reading something special. It blends various compelling elements such as death, love, romance and the afterlife to create a story that is above all else thought provoking.

We follow Aurora who tragically loses her husband after only two years of marriage. Her somewhat blind love for him is tested when she begins to develop a clearer picture of the dark side to his life. Helped by the ghost who previously owned her house she is taken on a journey through the past which helps to make her mature as she looks to the future.

I liked the fact that the story went backwards and forwards in time, it allowed me to slowly build up an understanding of the couple’s relationship which helped me to properly interpret the present day events as they unfolded.

Overall I thoroughly enjoyed the book. The fact it manages to successfully provide an insightful look into one person’s journey dealing with emotions and challenging situations makes it a triumph in my eyes.

Disclosure - As a Quality Reads UK Book Club member, I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I received no monetary compensation for my book review. This book review is based on my thoughts, opinion and understanding of the book. This book review does not reflect the opinion of other book club members.


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#ReviewShare #Historical #Mystery - Floats The Dark Shadow by @YvesFey

Floats The Dark ShadowFloats The Dark Shadow by Yves Fey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The novel “Floats the Dark Shadows” by Yves Fey is the impressive piece of literature. It is one of the well written Historical mystery and thriller. Paris is an iconic age of well known Oscar Wilde. This age was rich in art and literature, which helped Yves Fey, to produce her characters, filled with writers, poets, artists and musicians.

Paris is known as one of the most beautiful and romantic place of the world but the writer in this novel shows us completely a different picture of it. She introduces us to both the darkness and beauty of the Paris in 1890’s. The book perfectly depicts the time and situation of Paris, which makes a reader feel as a part of the novel. It has all the things like occult practices, sacrifices, tarot cards, graveyards, dead bodies, dark magic and disgrace and misery of women.

This book has every type of evil and height of dissolution is shown in this novel when the children from the street start disappearing. There are two main characters, Inspector Michel Devaux, who is a temperamental and logical, and an Artist, Theodore Faraday, who is a carefree girl from America adopting her ways of France. They are completely opposite when they come across to each other but their chemistry sparks at every turn of the page. They try to solve the dark mystery surrounding the place. We see a unique combination of wit and rationality when these two characters come together to catch the kidnapper who calls himself a Gilles De Rais, reincarnation of a famous serial killer in France.

Theo and her cousin Averill are somehow related to the kidnapping of these kids and Theo helps the Detective in solving this case. The question is will Theo and Inspector Michel will be able to stop the villain before it is too late.

There is a depth to Yves Fey’s story with strong characters and even stronger plot, which unfolds slowly and deliberately throughout the novel, making the reader and the characters of the story suspect everyone. It shows the war between the good and the evil and the characters depict the determination and strength of the human spirit and that is what makes this novel a remarkable piece.

It is one of the best books I’ve read this month and highly recommended to all the mystery and adventure lovers with a little twist of romance and bone chilling thriller.

Disclosure - As a Quality Reads UK Book Club member, I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I received no monetary compensation for my book review. This book review is based on my thoughts, opinion and understanding of the book. This book review does not reflect the opinion of other book club members.


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Thursday, July 3, 2014

@Stone_Rik Shares an #Excerpt from BIRTH OF AN ASSASSIN #AmReading #Thriller #Crime

Jez turned his head and saw jeeps stacked up one behind the other, coming at him. They were equipped for combat with mounted mortar cannon and sub-machine guns rigged on the integral bases behind the front seats. The heads of soldiers bobbed behind mortar blast protectors as the vehicles maneuvered over snowdrifts. He couldn’t tell how many vehicles, but seeing them fan out and fire, the number no longer seemed relevant.
He ran. He wanted to drop the ski jacket to quicken his pace, but he’d lose his weapons. The only thing he could do was wind in his head and race flat out. WHUMP! A mortar shell exploded 50 meters forward and to the right of his position. Shrapnel whizzed by, and though he could hear it, he felt nothing. He hadn’t been hit. He crouched lower, but the rabbit-skin hat fell off. No time to pick it up. Stop for nothing. With the rifles set to automatic, they traced straight black lines in the snow on either side of him and then swept horizontally across his horizon – Kalashnikov AKMs. They didn’t quite have him in their sights, but they would get there soon enough.
Not safe running in a straight line, he zigzagged, sacrificing distance for evasive tactics. Even so, it wouldn’t take them long to get a bead on him. He looked ahead for anything that might impede his progress, and saw a murder of crows take to the air on the opposite side of the nearest hill. If only he could join them, he thought. Instead, he ran a short distance to the left and then a longer distance to the right, on occasion reversing the strategy so as not to reveal a pattern.
WHUMP! WHUMP! One after another, mortar shells exploded; and while Jez’s evasive actions proved successful, progress slowed. The jeeps occasionally stopped to drop-blast their mortar shells more accurately, but it didn’t stop them gaining ground.
Clearly, while the snow slowed him, it had no such effect on the pursuit vehicles. They would catch him before he could get to the hills. He had to make a stand. WHUMP! A shell exploded 30 meters ahead. That would do, fight from the mortar’s footprint, die like a soldier. He ran towards it. The jeeps closed in. WHUMP! Another explosion – and it was in the same hollow he was headed for. He ran in the opposite direction to make them realign their weapons.
The aim moved. Shells exploded away from the crater, so he veered back and got close enough to jump. Any other time of year the landing would have been soft, but now solid ground jarred his bones as he made contact with the fissure’s base. The earth moved and rumbled, feet banged against brittle crust that cracked and broke beneath him. A thin layer of earth had been all that remained after the two explosions and Jez crashed through the crater into another hole.
He dropped the depth of the first hollow and through into the hole below. But he couldn’t see out to shoot. If his life hadn’t been about to end he might have laughed. Too low to make a stand, he would have to… but just a minute, what was that? He wasn’t in a hole, but a pothole, a chance, a slim chance, but a chance.
He pulled the landfall aside, squeezed through and scrambled along the tunnel in a direction in line with the hills. The cave got bigger. He could stand up straight. He started running again, and half a minute carried him 100 meters in. WHUMP! Grit and soil blasted along the chasm behind him, stung his legs, back and buttocks as fragments struck. They’d realigned a fix on the crater too soon. It had to be Mitrokhin up there. The regular army weren’t that good.
With adrenalin pumping, he gave that extra push, but the channel narrowed and lowered. Lack of headroom forced him to his hands and knees. Movement slowed. The ground shook. Tremors shuddered through his arms and legs, and then a blast was followed by a rumble.
The channel collapsed and fallen earth charged towards him. Rapid breathing, his heart raced, but he had to steady his thoughts. He couldn’t lose control, but the ground rumbled, ever closer.
Still on his hands and knees, he pushed his back hard against the roof. Earth fell around his feet and legs as the miniature cave fell in. But his body remained rigid, acting as a stanchion. His part of the crown hadn’t fallen, but ahead and behind, the rumble continued and the fragile earth crashed down. The structure of the hollow folded, and when it stopped he’d become entombed. Panic engulfed him. There was no way out.

Set against the backdrop of Soviet, post-war Russia, Birth of an Assassin follows the transformation of Jez Kornfeld from wide-eyed recruit to avenging outlaw. Amidst a murky underworld of flesh-trafficking, prostitution and institutionalized corruption, the elite Jewish soldier is thrown into a world where nothing is what it seems, nobody can be trusted, and everything can be violently torn from him.
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Genre - Thriller, Crime, Suspense
Rating – R
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