Monday 23 December 2013

Books Direct: "13" by Julie Elizabeth Powell

Books Direct: "13" by Julie Elizabeth Powell: REVIEW 13 by Julie Elizabeth Powell I came across this book as a member of the Paranormal and Horror Lovers group on Goodreads. If you li...

Clean Indie Reads: KNOWING JACK

Clean Indie Reads: KNOWING JACK: by Julie Elizabeth Powell Young Adult, Mystery Adventure, Holiday Twelve-year-old Jack knows they shouldn’t go but is unable to persua...

Clean Indie Reads: GONE

Clean Indie Reads: GONE: by Julie Elizabeth Powell Fantasy After Charley dies in her office chair, how is it that she finds herself propelled into the mysteri...

Clean Indie Reads: THE MISADVENTURES OF FATWOMAN

Clean Indie Reads: THE MISADVENTURES OF FATWOMAN: by Julie Elizabeth Powell Humour, Romance Andi has always been anxious about her weight and, like many women, thinks that unless she ...

Thursday 19 December 2013

Clean Indie Reads: KNOWING JACK

Clean Indie Reads: KNOWING JACK: by Julie Elizabeth Powell Young Adult, Mystery Adventure, Holiday Twelve-year-old Jack knows they shouldn’t go but is unable to persua...

Wednesday 4 December 2013

Clean Indie Reads: KNOWING JACK

Clean Indie Reads: KNOWING JACK: by Julie Elizabeth Powell Young Adult, Mystery Adventure, Holiday Twelve-year-old Jack knows they shouldn’t go but is unable to persua...

Monday 2 December 2013

Clean Indie Reads: GONE

Clean Indie Reads: GONE: by Julie Elizabeth Powell Fantasy After Charley dies in her office chair, how is it that she finds herself propelled into the mysteri...

Clean Indie Reads: THE SUN AND THE STAR

Clean Indie Reads: THE SUN AND THE STAR: by Elyse Salpeter Young Adult, Science Fiction, Short Story How far will someone go to protect the one they love?  Across the galaxy? ...

Saturday 23 November 2013

The book cover for 13 is now in the semi-finals, so now I need your votes - please! Here is the link: http://authorsdb.com/books/2013-book-cover-semi-finalists/horror You only need to click on the star rating underneath the photo. Thank you!!!


Saturday 16 November 2013

Read along with Sue: CHRISTMAS BOOK RELEASES

Read along with Sue: CHRISTMAS BOOK RELEASES: Twelve-year-old Jack knows they shouldn’t go but is unable to persuade his parents not to take the planned trip to the Lak...

Wednesday 30 October 2013

Alchemy: The Magic Of Words: New Release - Dirty Business

Alchemy: The Magic Of Words: New Release - Dirty Business: My new release, a crime, murder mystery, called Dirty Business is now available. UK USA  Lulu (print) Blurb: Gavin Bloom an...

New Release - Dirty Business

My new release, a crime, murder mystery, called Dirty Business is now available.

UK

USA 

Lulu (print)





Blurb:

Gavin Bloom and Alex Moore run an online magazine for an adult market; although each insists it has to be within the limits of not only the law but to their sense of decency. Gavin is on the edge of developing a revolutionary turn for that very magazine, a programme that will no doubt secure the business, maybe forever.

Amidst the excitement and enjoyment of its success, however, is the mysterious and heinous murder of one of their own.

Who can have done it? And why?

And who is the woman fastened by a chain to a wall?

Follow the twists and turns and perhaps you can solve the puzzle before they do.

Warning: some strong language, violence and moderate scenes of a sexual nature.


If you enjoy this book, please think about leaving a review, thanks.

Thursday 24 October 2013

Friday 18 October 2013

Fantastic Bargains - over 40 books only .99c each






The Books-a-Fire authors are back with more fabulous deals and NEW books to buy. There are no gimmicks or hoops to jump, just incredible prices on every single book. Just point, click, and buy books in every genre for just 99 cents each.

YES! All books on the page are priced at 99 cents to make your shopping easy and affordable. For less than the price of a dinner out, you could buy every single book on the page.

To make it really easy, we've also created categories. Click your favorite category at the top of the page and see all the books that are on sale in that category. Load your Kindle and enjoy a quiet read now that the kids are back in school. You've had a hectic summer so treat yourself to a good book today! Go to www.booksafire.com


Three of mine are included in the October sale:

The Avalon Trilogy (#1 The Star Realm, #2 Invasion, #3 Secrets Of The Ice)

#Fabulous #fantasy The Avalon Trilogy over 1000 pages of enchantment Omnibus Edition: viewBook.at/B00BA2DU18

Of Sound Mind: viewBook.at/B005MESSHG

Knowing Jack: viewBook.at/B005MEP6N0

They'll be all kinds from which to choose, just click and buy! :)

Oh yes, and if you'd like to leave a positive review, we'd all be grateful.

Thank you :)

Sunday 13 October 2013

Saturday 5 October 2013

Alchemy: The Magic Of Words: Book Sale!

Alchemy: The Magic Of Words: Book Sale!

 https://www.facebook.com/groups/292817514150603/

Alchemy: The Magic Of Words: Book Sale!

Alchemy: The Magic Of Words: Book Sale!: The Books-a-Fire authors are back with more fabulous deals and NEW books to buy. There are no gimmicks or hoops to jump, just incredibl...

Book Sale!



The Books-a-Fire authors are back with more fabulous deals and NEW books to buy. There are no gimmicks or hoops to jump, just incredible prices on every single book. Just point, click, and buy books in every genre for just 99 cents each.  

YES!  All books on the page are priced at 99 cents to make your shopping easy and affordable.  For less than the price of a dinner out, you could buy every single book on the page.

To make it really easy, we've also created categories.  Click your favorite category at the top of the page and see all the books that are on sale in that category.  Load your Kindle and enjoy a quiet read now that the kids are back in school.  You've had a hectic summer so treat yourself to a good book today!  Go to www.booksafire.com

Friday 6 September 2013

Clean Indie Reads: THE MISADVENTURES OF FATWOMAN

Clean Indie Reads: THE MISADVENTURES OF FATWOMAN: by Julie Elizabeth Powell Humour, Romance Andi has always been anxious about her weight and, like many women, thinks that unless she ...

Wednesday 4 September 2013

Rose & Beps Blog: Gone by Julie Elizabeth Powell

Rose & Beps Blog: Gone by Julie Elizabeth Powell: Gone by Julie Elizabeth Powell A two year old girl's heart stops and she dies but is brought back too late, her memories wipe...

Thursday 29 August 2013

Books Direct: "13" by Julie Elizabeth Powell

Books Direct: "13" by Julie Elizabeth Powell: REVIEW 13 by Julie Elizabeth Powell I came across this book as a member of the Paranormal and Horror Lovers group on Goodreads. If you li...

Thursday 15 August 2013

Books Direct: "13" by Julie Elizabeth Powell

Books Direct: "13" by Julie Elizabeth Powell: REVIEW 13 by Julie Elizabeth Powell I came across this book as a member of the Paranormal and Horror Lovers group on Goodreads. If you li...

Monday 12 August 2013

Two amazing writer /author groups on Facebook 






Supportive, Intelligent, Giving, Helpful, Graceful, A Shoulder To Cry On, Wise, Inventive, Tolerant, Sharing...

I could mention many more adjectives, however, if you join, you'll see for yourself...giving is the watchword!

Join now - you won't regret it!!!

Wednesday 31 July 2013

Amethyst Eyes: CIR, THE place to be!

Amethyst Eyes: CIR, THE place to be!: I have made a comment in the past about feeling uneasy hosting books or authors that have content not quite appropriate for YA readers. In m...

Tuesday 16 July 2013

Clean Indie Reads: REBIRTH

Clean Indie Reads: REBIRTH: by Debbie Brown Middle Grade, Science Fiction To survive, they run. To avoid capture, they hide. Can five kids and a baby make it thro...

Wednesday 10 July 2013

Alchemy: The Magic Of Words: GIVEAWAY FOR NEW SITEEMBLAZONWRITING STORIES ON ...

Alchemy: The Magic Of Words: GIVEAWAY FOR NEW SITE
EMBLAZON
WRITING STORIES ON ...
: GIVEAWAY FOR NEW SITE EMBLAZON WRITING STORIES ON THE HEARTS OF CHILDREN http://emblazoners.wordpress.com/giftcard-giveaway/ ...
GIVEAWAY FOR NEW SITE

EMBLAZON

WRITING STORIES ON THE HEARTS OF CHILDREN

http://emblazoners.wordpress.com/giftcard-giveaway/

To thank all those bloggers who help us announce Emblazon‘s launch, we will be giving away an $100 Amazon gift card on July 11, 2013, as well as a smaller second place prize.

 


Tuesday 25 June 2013

Clean Indie Reads: GONE

Clean Indie Reads: GONE: by Julie Elizabeth Powell Fantasy After Charley dies in her office chair, how is it that she finds herself propelled into the mysteri...

Friday 21 June 2013

Clean Indie Reads: I Want to Interview You!

Clean Indie Reads: I Want to Interview You!: Welcome!  I'm Lia London, and I host this site, but it's authors like you that make it fly! If you are an independent author w...

Saturday 15 June 2013

Darker Reads You May Enjoy 


I seem to be graduating towards darker stories lately, whether that's because I've just published my latest novel, a horror called, 13 I'm not sure.  But I did enjoy bringing out that 'not so nice' part of me, where I could kill, maim and just cause havoc (and I'll never tell upon who my characters were based).

13 was an experiment and I think it worked.  So this has prompted me to further delve into the darker side of nature - where it will take me, I'm not sure.  Good to be bad, though!





Blurb:

What is found within the depths of the human soul? Does wickedness linger, as if the Devil’s thumb is ready to pluck the strings of certain choices? And with the strumming, just how far will Evil spread?

13 is the story of random souls pitted against the tragedy of the modern world.

Will they decipher the unknown and make it out alive?

Warning: strong language and scenes of violence /horror 



*

Here is the link to the book trailer video of 13.

Feel free to comment, like and share.

13 is currently only £1.33 and can be found on Amazon UK and USA (Kindle), as can all my other books.  Print copies are on Lulu.



Here are some other reads that should appeal to your darker side.


 314 by A.R. Wise






My Review

Reminiscent of Stephen King and James Herbert, this book has all the ingredients to scare and manipulate the imagination. It has mystery, intrigue and held my attention throughout. I liked the 'circular' feel and how it went forward and back in time - cleverly done, with a surprise 'ending'.

The characters were believable, although the impression of Alma quickly changed from when first introduced - we certainly follow her through the ups and downs of her journey.

I don't give spoilers but will say that if you like to be wowed with fear and mystery then this story is for you. A well-written tale that will bring tingles to your spine.

Of course, I've had to buy book 2 of the trilogy. 




Collapse by Richard Stephenson






My Review

I loved this book from beginning to end and can't wait for the next installment. It is fast-paced, well-written (despite the typos) and controversial in its hard-hitting, gritty plot. I liked the way each of the characters developed, allowing the story to become a very personal one due to the reader being able to invest in what they did and how they fared. My favourite character being Max and the most interesting being Howard.

I don't what to give spoilers, but I will say that although it is a very long book, it's worth every page. Yes, I would recommend this story to those who like action and a thought provoking, clever, while at the same time, frightening, read.

A must read.

*

Dark Spaces by Dionne Lister





My Review

I was lucky enough to win a copy of this book.

A clever and insightful collection of stories that deals with the darker side of the human condition. I thoroughly enjoyed every story, all of which were well-written, most sending a shiver up my spine in the reading.

I don't give spoilers, but will say that the author deals with themes such as insanity and fear, while bringing alive the characters in such a way that we can only feel their pain, sadness and...badness.

Recommended.

*

Kinesis by Ethan Spier




My Review

Wow, this book had me hooked from the beginning! A disturbing first scene and yet a fantastic start to an interesting and intriguing idea. Seemingly set into the future (or a world a little different from the one we know), this story involves a fascinating subject - telekinesis, and what could happen to those who have such a gift (or curse).

I don't give spoilers, but it is a gripping read, believable in an intriguing way, with great characters and splendidly written, in that it pulls along the reader at an almighty speed (despite the typos). It is both alarming and exciting, dark and yet highlights the human condition from different angle /evolutionary stance.

An excellent read and highly recommended.

*

I hope you enjoy this selection of great reads.  Please take the time to post a positive review if you like them.

Thank you.

Monday 29 April 2013

Alchemy: The Magic Of Words: Giveaway, starts 28 April in honour of my daughter...

Alchemy: The Magic Of Words: Giveaway, starts 28 April in honour of my daughter...: Giveaway, starts 28 April in honour of my daughter, Samantha, who would have been 31 on that date. http://bit.ly/Z9qbGg Read more about th...
Giveaway, starts 28 April in honour of my daughter, Samantha, who would have been 31 on that date. http://bit.ly/Z9qbGg

Read more about them on my website: http://www.freewebs.com/julizpow

5 mobi copies of 5 of my books:





 

Thursday 18 April 2013

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Some of the best reads: 

Author: Nicholas Forristal

I've read three of the 'M' series so far - fantastic, quirky and different.

Chronicles Of M - Book 1



Blurb:

The short version:
Samuel is a retired Hollywood Agent who is offered a unique opportunity - join an ex-governmental agency who's tasked with handling an unconventional and unpredictable maniac named M as he battles the paranormal.

Their first task is to investigate the strange murder in a small town where nothing is what it seems.

The long version:
A retired Hollywood agent finds a surprising new career with an unnamed ex-government facility, dedicated to handling those cases that the police can't handle - including those involving the supernatural.

Another problem for the agency is M, the worlds only currently living super hero. He is their primary weapon for stopping these events from getting worse. The only problem is: M also causes far more death and destruction than is necessary, because he can.

Will Samuel stay on and risk life and limb for a pay check, or will he get out before it's too late?

This is the first book of the first trilogy and nothing is what it seems. Don't believe me? Read the reviews. 


My Review:


I was sent a copy of this story by the author for a review, and I really enjoyed it. I liked the way it was so different and unexpected - and very well written.

Although a quirky and offbeat novel...and fantastical in many ways...the storyteller had a wonderful way of making it believable, with many twists, turns and surprises - just great.

I don't give spoilers, but will say that this book is definitely worth reading if you like the unusual - highly recommended.

I look forward to reading the next one in the series.

 UK link to Chronicles of M - Book 1
 USA link to Chronicles of M - Book 1  
 

Chronicles of M - Book 2 - Ammit



Blurb:

Thomas and Samuel race to find a way to expel the demon that controls M and fail. It escapes, disappearing in broad daylight. With Thomas unable to track it down, magically or with science, he's forced to do the one thing he hoped to not do. Thomas has to rely on the advice of a all-powerful being that he wants nothing to do with and use it's 1400 year old demon slayer to hunt down the demon in M.

Will Thomas be able to purge the demon inside M? Even if he can, Thomas has to tell him why he was possessed in the first place. Will M be able to accept Thomas's twisted, tainted and sad past, or will their 100 year old friendship be destroyed, leaving Thomas to deal with yesterdays problems alone.



My Review:

As a reviewer as well as an author, I was given this book for review - it was fantastic!

Beginning where book one left off, it throws us immediately back into this wonderful story, the characters, old and new, ready for the adventure.

It's quirky, it's unique and brilliant!

I never give spoilers but I will say that it a fantastic story, well-written with immense imagination.

Highly recommended - I'm truly looking forward to the next installment.


UK link to Chronicles of M - Book 2 Ammit
USA link to Chronicles of M - Book 2 - Ammit


Chronicles of M - Book 3 - A'loc




Blurb:

A serial killer is on the loose. With no clues, no witnesses and the bodies piling up, the local police call for the only people who can help. What the police don't know is just how full Thomas and M's plate already is. Time is running out. It's been ten months since A'loc showed up and challenged M to a duel to the death.

For him to even have a chance against A'loc, M must learn a lifetime's worth of magic, but Thomas's brother Amit is missing. Without him, M can only hope to learn what Thomas is physically able to show him. M also has to learn how to handle himself in a fight from Mai and discover the extent his mutant powers can go, but how can he do that when he can't even beat her? It's been a long hard road for everyone and it's not even close to over yet.

Amit is the third and last book of the first trilogy in the Chronicles of M.
 

My review:

As a reviewer as well as an author, I was given this book, as I'd read the others in the series - it was fantastic.

It carries on the story from book 2 and I loved its twists and turns and the 'not quite knowing' what will happen next.

I love this series, it's quirky, fun, humorous, clever and 'out there' - absolutely genius.

I don't give spoilers, so it is difficult to say too much, however, this saga filled with fantasy, science-fiction and mystery in the extreme, plus wonderful characters and, despite its off-the-wall feel, believable...such is the brilliance of its author.

Highly recommended - but the first two should be read first for complete enjoyment. 

UK link to Chronicles of M - Book 3 - A'loc
USA link to Chronicles of M - Book 3 - A'loc


This trilogy also comes in an omnibus edition


UK link to trilogy
USA link to trilogy

Nicholas Forristal's Author Page

 
*


Author: Seb Kirby 

I've only read one of his books so far - Double Bind - and am currently reading another - Take No More - both are excellent.


Double Bind



Blurb: 

In the sci-fi thriller Double Bind, successful writer Raymond Bridges must unravel a mystery that goes to the heart of his being and face apparently irresolvable doubts about his identity, set off by encountering a perfect double of himself. It's a thrilling journey that leads him to question so much of what he finds in the world around him - even the loyalty of those he knows, including his love, Victoria. What he uncovers is a conspiracy that shakes the world he knows to its foundations and asks key questions about how we live now. 

My review: 

What a fantastical sci-fi told as a cautionary tale - I loved it! This story is fast-paced, extremely well-written and extraordinarily different - one that gripped me from the beginning to the very end. The problem is that I don't give spoilers, so it isn't easy to say much, however, despite its 'off the wall' feeling, it's believable and the plot is one that you never quite know what will happen next, demonstrating the wonderful talent of this author. It is also thought-provoking and inspiring. Highly recommended for those who love a fabulous story told with perfection.

UK link to Double Bind
USA link to Double Bind
 
Seb Kirby's Author Page


*

Author: Alan Tucker

Although I've only read one of his books so far, I loved Knot in Time.


Knot in Time



Blurb:

My name is Darius Arthur Heisenberg, but most people call me Dare. If my last name sounds familiar, it’s probably because of my great-great uncle Werner Heisenberg. He was a physicist who came up with something called the Uncertainty Principle. But listen, Uncle Werner had no idea how uncertain things really are.

I work for a group, called the Keepers, that label themselves the custodians of time. And, believe me, time is a mess. It needs all the custodians it can get. Which is, of course, why the Keepers selected me, a nineteen-year-old high school dropout, to join them. I recently worked as a janitor for a couple months. Perfect fit, right?

Okay, it didn’t make much sense to me either, but I wasn’t in a position to turn down a steady job and a roof over my head. Besides, all I’m supposed to do is travel through time and save the universe as we know it, how hard could it be?

Yeah, better hold on. This could get ugly.  



My review:

From the beginning of this story I knew it was going to be different, and yes, quirky. The writing style hooked me and I loved the humour threaded throughout.

This is a wonderful science-fictional tale of time travel, which may seem impossible in many ways, and certainly crazy in others, and yet, it rang true due to the talent of this clever author.

I loved it and would recommend it as a must read.

UK link to Knot in Time
USA link to Knot in Time

Alan Tucker's Author Page

*

Author: M. E Lorde

This is the first in a series and I loved it.

Tolomay's World and The Pool of Light



Blurb:

If you enjoyed Hunger Games, Lord of the Rings, and The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe, you will LOVE this book. There is no swearing or sex in this series. Due to adult theme, it is Not intended for young YA readers. Genre is NEW ADULT/FANTASY/ROMANCE FANTASY

Author M.E. Lorde creates a gripping story set in the earth’s future, where the youth of the world have the privilege and burden of saving humanity from extinction. 


Years before an apocalyptic event, a new means of travel is discovered. The modern technology comes just in the nick of time. Though none can return to a past-time in order to fix what men have destroyed, some candidates can now move forward to begin anew. 


Highly intelligent, Tolomay Ramey was trained since birth to do one thing… to lead others into the future of the ‘clean earth’ where both nature and mankind are given a fresh start. Leaving the pod community behind, she arrives as the only living ‘Original’ from the first team of candidates. The clean world, abundant with plant and animal life, is covered in green for the first time in hundreds of years. 


Unfortunately for this young girl and despite the beauty of the replenished earth, nothing she experiences from the moment she arrives is as expected. Alone for three years, until others finally join her, she learns to survive off the land, but that will not be what she finds most challenging. What will happen when a strong-headed young man arrives with the mindset that he should have been the first in this paradise? Can independent Tolomay and fiercely confident Kenter meet in the middle? Can the clean world become what it was intended to be for the new community, or will all thoughts of peace be left a thousand years in the past?

The first of a series, the second novel (TOLOMAY'S WORLD and The Mountain of Tegi) will be released March 2013. 



My review:

As a reviewer as well as an author, I was lucky enough to be given this book to read - and I loved it.

It is a cautionary tale of sorts (I don't give spoilers), a fantasy mixed with romance and an amazing insight into a 'clean world', where the talent and imagination of the author abounds.

The story is filled with wonderful descriptions and 'fitting' language that intertwines English with a twist...a mix of future and past and a dash of how communication and beliefs could evolve.

The characters are believable, although Kenter may have to 'grow up', but as the story continues, we do see his possibilities. Tolomay is fantastic, and I look forward to finding out how she continues on her 'journey'. Kenter's sister, too, has great potential. The males do seem to be far weaker than the females - so far :)

A fabulous read, although my 'problem' is having to wait for the next installment.

Highly recommended.

UK link to Tolomay's World and The Pool of Light
USA link to Tolomay's World and The Pool of Light

M. E. Lorde's Author Page

*

These are just a few of the wonderful books I've had the pleasure of reading - I highly recommend them all.


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Thursday 7 March 2013

Believe it or not?



I was recently interviewed by Fantastic Books for their CRIME SPOTLIGHT

Here is the answer to one of the questions:


This was answered with A Murderer's Heart in mind.



Q -

Have you ever found yourself in a dodgy situation as a result of your field research? (Be creative if necessary)


A - 


Hmm, now if I tell you about the time I needed to know about knives...their length, shape and so on....what kind was needed for instant death, I have to be sure that it remains confidential. Although nobody knows my real name, so I don’t suppose it matters.

My immediate thought was the Internet, but I wanted to actually ‘feel’ the knife, get under the skin of the killer, so to speak. I felt I couldn’t go the police because...well, you understand, I didn’t want to be put onto any ‘watch’ list. And in Britain it’s not easy walking into a shop that sells such things without too much curiosity.

I asked around – you’d be surprised how many people know where and how to obtain such information – and soon had an address, scrawled on a beer mat, amongst accumulated unidentifiable stains (except for the beer).

Of course it had to be in the poor part of town, and yes, the spooky dark alley with only one door at the very end. I’d worn trainers, just in case I’d have to run, although my sprinting days are far in the past.

I knocked on the scabby door, the peeling green paint hanging in strips, like curving stalactites, within the glow of the small light, which looked as if it’d been stapled above the door it leaned so badly, but at least I could see.

Within a couple of heartbeats, the door juddered inwards, after grating stiffly wood on wood, seemingly opened by a gorilla.

Sorry, no of course it wasn’t, but that was my first impression...and my second and third.

“Yeah,” he grunted.

Barely able to swallow, I croaked, “I er, um...”

The gorilla sighed and pulled the door wider, allowing enough gap to let me through, as if he’d become used to babbling idiots in all his years as henchman.

What could I do?

Run in the opposite direction, you say.

But why would I act sensibly? I am an author, and my art is everything to me. And besides, it would give me a feel for the underworld...how a killer might feel.

The door would have slammed if it hadn’t been for the way it jammed onto the door frame. I wanted to tell him that the weather would only make it worse, but thought better of it.

He grunted for me to move forward, the door finally shut again.

It was surprisingly light through the passage and I was shortly standing before another door; the gorilla squeezed around me to open it.

Not even a creak this time.

I tried not to stare at the figure in the shadows but concentrate on the man seated behind a large desk, so large in fact that I’m sure it could have housed the host of vagrants I’d seen on my way here.

The door clicked shut. I glance behind; the gorilla was gone.

Puffing on a cigar, the man glared at me within the muted light, the source of which came from the desk lamp, and stated, “You’re here for the knife?”

“Yes, well, um, actually I...”

The man sat back in his chair, reminding me of the clichéd Bond villain (without the cat), blew a smoke ring and grinned.

And there it was; the gold tooth...wrong villain.

I knew he was waiting for me to speak without the ums, so I coughed, wiggled my shoulders and said, “I’m an author and I need a knife to...”

“What, you gonna see what it’s like to kill then write about it?”

Nobody laughed, so I knew he wasn’t expecting me to chuckle.

“I...no...I mean...”

Mr Shadow didn’t move and I wondered for a moment if he were a figment of my fear.

Then he shuffled, as if he’d read my thoughts and my belly churned. I was going to be sick.

Unexpectedly, the man, his bald head bobbing, as if agreeing to a silent conversation, said, “Nah, I’m only messing with ya. Nobby told me you were coming. Something about you wanting to ‘feel’ the thing – here!” he said, either with laughter or because something had caught in his throat from lunch.

The knife was long, slim and sharp. It glinted at me, as if it too were laughing.

“Go on, then, pick it up!”

I shuffled forward, daring my hand to grab it and feeling like Indiana Jones about touch a snake.

The handle felt warm in my shaky hand, my other itching to finger its point.

“That do it?”

“I’m not sure.” I looked at him and asked, “Would this kill easily?”

“Now that would be telling.”

“Sorry, I...”

“No offence taken. But in the right circumstances, yes it could.”

I put the knife down, wondering what on Earth I was doing here. How could I have been so stupid? “I’d like to leave now.”

“I bet you would.”

*****

How I got out of there is a whole other story. 



*****

For the full interview please see: Fantastic Books Crime Spotlight 2

Thank you very much for this opportunity.





















Wednesday 27 February 2013

Wednesday 20 February 2013





I have been nominated for this award by author: Maria Savva, You can read her post here: http://www.goodreads.com/author_blog_...


 Thanks, Maria

Here are the rules of the Very Inspiring Blogger Award:

1. Display the award logo on your blog
2. Link back to the person who nominated you
3. State 7 things about yourself
4. Nominate 15 other bloggers for this award and link to them

So, here are 7 things about me:

1 - I love my husband.

2 - I have a room full of craft-wares but don't have enough time to use them as much as I'd like.

3 - I love going to the cinema with my husband.

4 - Chocolate is my enemy.

5 - I want to live in Cinderella's Palace with Tinker Bell as a neighbour (I already have my Prince Charming).

6 - I cannot read fast enough.

7 - I'm an alien.

Now tag some bloggers:

Fiona Wilson: http://nannyfi71.wordpress.com/about/

Busy Mums Book Reviews: http://busymomsbookreviews.blogspot.c...

mcmt2: http://mtmc2.blogspot.co.uk/

The Indie Exchange:
http://theindieexchange.com/

Monday 18 February 2013

Darcia Helle





As soon as I started reading Darcia Helle's book, I was hooked.  They are full of suspense and very quick reading - action at its best!

I haven't read them all yet, but I fully intend to do so as soon as I can.

These are my thoughts on those I have:

Enemies and Playmates

I love a book that gives a character to hate right from the start - this story gave me that pleasure! I don't give spoilers but I will say that it's a great story, well written, fast-paced and excellent style for this kind of book. A satisfying read and I would recommend it to all that like this genre.

No Justice

Sent this book some time ago, I've only just been able to read it and I'm so glad I did.

An explosive start, which hooked me at once. I really liked Michael and his 'night job' - many of us would love to be able to dispense real justice without being caught.

Good, believable characters bring alive this story - which in itself was fast-paced and easy to read (a difficult job for any author), making it seem deceptively simple - yet brilliantly done.

Highly recommended for those who like an exciting 'action' story, giving a sense of satisfaction throughout.


Secrets

I won a copy of this book and I was immensely glad I did - it was fantastic. It's extremely well-written and so fast-paced that it was almost mind-blowing, to coin a phrase. The characters are wonderful - both good and bad - and I couldn't wait to see what happened.

Secrets is a true testament to the saying that an easy to read book is difficult to write - a truly amazing talent.

There are many things I'd like to say about it, but I never give spoilers, however, I will say the storyline will have you on the edge of your seat, and that it certainly deals with how secrets can both save lives in the beginning but will destroy them in the end, if we don't take them by the scruff of the neck and shake them loose.

Highly recommended.


Miami Snow

I loved this book from beginning to end and was very glad to have been given it by the author. I was already a fan and every time I read another of her stories it only confirms it.

Miami Snow is fast-paced, full of suspense and has an easy flow of writing that forces you to read on and on until you realise it's way into the early hours of the morning.

I never give spoilers but will say that I thought the characters fitted well into the story, the plot was realistic (even though I can only guess this is what happens in the underworld of drugs in Miami), and it also highlights how the choices we make can alter our lives in an instant.

Highly recommended.


Into The Light

Into The Light brings to us a mixture of humour and mystery, as it deals with what could happen after we are dead. It shows how we don't always appreciate the 'imprint' we leave while we're are alive, and that maybe we were more than we thought.

It is a book that deals with the human condition, with such themes as love, sorrow, regret, grief, jealousy and of course, death, yet, attempts to answer the many questions and thoughts we might have about 'the mysterious journey' beyond our comprehension.

It also gives us hope and I was delighted with the proclaimed ideas.

Altogether, a read that is thought-provoking and fun.

I would certainly recommend it to others.


Quiet Fury: An Anthology of Suspense

I was so pleased to be given this book by the author, as it was a fantastic read - each story as brilliant as the last. I never give spoilers, so I can only say that nobody will regret reading this collection of suspenseful and spine-tingling stories.

Highly recommended.


Darcia also has a blog series called, Criminal Justice, well worth a look.  She also talks about this (with other points of view) on her Goodreads blog.

A full list of her books are on her website: Quiet Fury Books 

Find out more about her and her struggle with Lyme Disease

She generously gives her time to support other self-published authors, has giveaways and competitions.

I urge you to take a look.


























Monday 4 February 2013

Maria Savva


Maria Savva



I met Maria through Goodreads and we swapped books, a few years ago now - Gone with Time To Tell - and we've been friends ever since.  

Maria has written novels and short stories that involve family, relationships and tackles problems that we can all face at one time or another.  She also writes mystery, fantasy and paranormal - my favourite genres - Haunted being my favourite book of hers so far. 

As well as her writing talent, she's also one of kindest people I've ever met (and yes, we have met 'for real', once). 

She is always willing to help others and has a website and a blog on Goodreads where she gives a mountain of writing tips, as well as wonderful interviews with other self-published authors (just scroll through the pages for the treasure trove) ...which, of course, has expanded my reading list to a ridiculous length (but I'm slowly loving everyone of her recommendations.  In addition to this, it's great to 'meet' other authors and discover their techniques and the pros and cons of being a writer - we know we're not alone.

Just to point out that I have been interviewed more than once by Maria - all of which can be found in the Interviews and News section.

Thanks, Maria, it was a good day when we first 'met'. 

I've enjoyed all of Maria's books, so here is what I think...


A Time To Tell

A Time to Tell raises important issues surrounding what has been named `domestic violence'. It was interesting (and sad) to see how history repeated itself throughout the generations, echoing the tragic dilemma of humankind.

However, the switch between `times' was cleverly done in this sophisticated story of Cara and her family, giving a good insight into the relationships to which we can all relate.

A Time to Tell has a great prologue that creates enough intrigue to pull in the reader and has a fabulous twist at the end.


*

Second Chances

 Maria Savva is a great storyteller and Second Chances is no exception. I particularly liked the way both male and female points of view were portrayed, so that the reader could understand both sides of the story.

Second Chances has an easy to read style and successfully delves into the ups and downs of relationships where most, if not all, of us can certainly relate.

Not to give away any spoilers, I thought it clever how it was sprinkled with surprises - a few twists and turns, so that we're not quite sure where things will lead...always a good idea.

Altogether, a worthwhile read. I would recommend it. 


*

Coincidences

I've read all of Maria Savva's books and I have never been disappointed - Coincidences is no exception. From beginning to end, I enjoyed its storyline, characters and 'reality'.

I never like to give spoilers, but I will say that the story picks on a subject that relates to many people and uses sensitivity and intelligence to make the point and deal with the relative issues. The author is able to 'get into the minds' of the characters in such a way that the reader cares about what will happen to them.

Even though it was a fast-paced book, I was impatient with my reading, as I wanted to know what happened - such was the cleverness of the writing.

Yes, I loved it, and would highly recommend this book.  


*

Pieces Of A Rainbow

What a fabulous analogy for the range of emotions that drive us humans. Loved the easy to follow style and the relationships to which we can all relate, this in addition to the realistic characters, it can only be a success.

I loved the lines, '...a blank canvas on which to build her dreams...' and '...he was a tattoo on her heart that could not be removed...' from Seeing Red, the first story, and '...leaving a hole the size of a watermelon in Sally's soul...' from, Envy (story four), where irony is particularly relevant.

All the stories draw you in and I, for one, couldn't wait to see what happened. There were many twists and turns and certainly unexpected events where the themes of responsibility, the ups and downs of relationships, and parental dilemmas are unmistakeable.

I would have to say that Mystic Purple was my favourite story, where I thoroughly enjoyed the comedy of small talk between Jen and Amy - the whole story bringing a smile though leaving a question as to whether we make our own fate.

This is not the first book by Maria Savva, and Pieces of a Rainbow is not a disappointment...I really enjoyed it...and I can honestly recommend that all are worth a look.

Clever, interesting and extremely good...great writing. 


*

Fusion

This is another wonderful collection of delightful stories from Maria Savva, all with twists and turns and surprising endings.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book with its wealth of `easy to know' characters, which bring to life these simple yet clever ideas.

It's amazing how a story can evolve from the tiniest spark, and Maria shows her genius again and again.

I particularly liked The Legacy and The Time Machine, where hopes and wishes are successfully explored.

Highly recommend. 


*



Love & Loyalty (and Other Tales)

A fabulous collection of stories that unearth the many facets of the human condition. They made me laugh, cry and certainly surprised me. Each story has a great hook and pulls you in until the end and have an easy to read style. The characters are believable and some are extremely 'funny to watch', not least due to the clever 'one-liners'. All of us can relate in one way or another.

Altogether, enjoyable and in places extremely insightful.

Recommended. 


*

Cutting The Fat (with Jason McIntyre)

It's amazing how successful stories materialise from just a spark of an idea and Cutting The Fat is no exception. To me it has a bittersweet quality, where conflicting feelings seesaw and rational thought is pushed into the background in favour of justice.

But is it?

I can understand and certainly sympathise with the anger felt by those who are waiting for that lucky break in the `real world of publishing', where, after receiving day by day rejection letters from publishers that state: `Sorry but we not taking on any new clients.' In other words, unless you are already famous, there's not a chance in Hell you'll ever be published.

But what choice is there for the rest of us?

Self-publishing?

Many look down from lofty heights and say, `Who are they to do such a thing? If they had any real talent they'd snapped up!' Maybe, but wouldn't it be fantastic if submissions could get by the janitor, the slush pile - or at the very least, the junior editor who's just left school and has an uncle `in the trade' so was given the holiday `sifting' job?

But then if luck is on your side and `Hey, look, I have a book in print,' should happen, then what right has someone else to negatively criticise that very piece of our souls?

No wonder such ideas for this story evolve.

Yes, everyone has an opinion, but why should it be used to destroy?

Nestor Maronski - a fantastic character for us all to hate; a demon to slash that very soul with each barbed word of his own. And don't we know him so well? Someone we suppose has no talent except to use our work against us, with such arrogance and steel, as if he were the slayer and not the demon. So easy is it to slice apart another's work, without regard for the heart that lay defenceless amongst the pages - so why?

Like bullies in the school playground, negative reviewers see easy prey in writers, and as we have learnt, the only way not to let them win is to fight back.

Cutting The Fat has done it, but again I wonder if (despite the relish of sweet revenge) it helped? Was what happened to Nestor true justice, did it resolve the problem; did it really make us feel better?

Hey, that's not to say I didn't enjoy the idea!

Cutting The Fat is a clever story, well written and certainly thought-provoking. At the very least it could make the elite think twice about the souls of writers they wish to destroy.

Wishful thinking indeed.

*

An added bonus - Only time can divide us - Maria Savva from her new book, Fusion

I loved the intriguing first line, `There was history in her face.' As I read through the story, its endearing quality went straight to my heart. A delightful tale showing you never know when or where love will creep into your life. A beautiful if sad story, which would tug at anyone's heartstrings.

*
And the excerpt from Jason McIntyre's Thalo Blue shows talent in abundance. 


*

The Dream

I was intrigued from the start of this story, as it began with a delicious mystery, which continued to develop and then unfold with pleasing affect.

A clever tale, where its heroine, believable and likeable, helps the reader relate and sympathise with many of the `love' issues, yet pins us to our seats wondering what will happen next.

I thoroughly enjoyed the book and would recommend it to those who are fascinated by that `something extra', that something which allows the imagination to wander where enigma is the watchword. 


*



Haunted

I was lucky enough to read this story in advance of publication and I loved it from beginning to end.

I really enjoyed the in-depth character building - so important to a story - where I could see into the minds of each of them, making for great reading. The plot was dark and clever and kept me guessing until the end.

The story gave great insight into the emotions of mankind, where guilt can create an obsessive and insane point of view. We can wonder what we'd do in the circumstances given in the plot and whether conscience is a spark for 'doing the right thing' and if we don't, we have to accept the consequences - these issues are dealt with creatively, yet never once leaving behind reality...cleverly done.

A fantastic read, well written within its many twists and turns, and so far, my favourite story by this talented author.

Highly recommended.  


So please take a look at her work and I'm sure you'll be delighted.