Roxanne (13 KP) rated The Turtle Boy (Timmy Quinn #1) in Books
Nov 9, 2018
Now THIS is an author that you need to keep your eye on!
I would just like to say first that I know the whole 'back from the dead to seek revenge for my death' story has been done and done...and done again, however, that doesn't stop this book from being a fantastic read. It is a novella, so expect a very short read in the sense you may be disappointed that you're just starting to get into it and then BAM! The End! On the other hand, this book is the first in a series so you'll be able to satisfy your cravings for the next installment.
At the time of purchase this book was free to download for Kindle...I am not sure if it still free as it's such a quality read.
The themes of this story may seem as if they are being somewhat retold again but I believe the author breathes new life into this story-line and makes you hang on for dear life and really want to complete the book, it never crossed my mind to stop reading at any point because I have read similar plot lines before.
It is a very creepy story, so I recommend it to fans of the horror genre and perhaps to those who enjoy murder mysteries and thrillers too due to the nice quick pace and the acts of revenge brought down upon unsuspecting characters.
I found the story had a really nice flow to it, sometimes nothing annoys me more than when i'm enjoying a book and suddenly a 'hiccup' of some sort appears within the pages which makes me want to throw it at a wall...interest lost...may return to it...maybe not...will take a while to read and get back into again. I am so glad that didn't happen to me with this book, the pace was too fast and the atmosphere too creepy.
Well done!
Merissa (12051 KP) rated Lost and Found (Dave&Carter) in Books
Nov 22, 2018
Dave is the 'Daddy' in this relationship. He has feelings for Carter, and Carter needs him. For reasons I don't quite understand, he pulls back from Carter when Carter mentions feelings. Carter is the 'boy' and falls hard for Dave, but is mature enough to take a step back when he puts himself first.
This may only be classed as a novella, but there is one helluva story packed tightly between these pages. I was gripped from the very beginning, especially as Dave and Carter seemed to fall into their relationship so easily. Of course, it all had to go wrong somehow, and I'm not surprised with how it did. I understand that because of this, Dave might not be the most popular character, but I rather liked him. He is human, and makes mistakes. He has thoughts about what himself and what others might think, which for me, was completely understandable. I loved that once he got over being a jackass, he put Carter first, even though it broke his heart.
Did I get my happy ending? Well, I'll leave that for you to read and find out for yourself. What I will say is that I don't think I've had my fill of Dave and Carter, not at all. I loved this exceedingly well written story, that had no editing or grammatical errors to spoil my reading. With well-rounded out characters, and a storyline that intrigues, I have no hesitation in recommending this great story.
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Hazel (1853 KP) rated Curiosity Quills: Chronology in Books
Dec 14, 2018
Chronology </i>is a large anthology of stories published at the beginning of 2015 by Curiosity Quills Press. Twenty-Four of Curiosity Quill’s greatest authors feature in this lengthy book providing stacks of entertainment for a wide audience. The stories vary in length and genre, however the most common themes are steampunk and the paranormal.
Males and females alike can enjoy the stories featured in <i>Chronology</i>, although not all the tales will appeal to personal tastes. Although the majority contains scientific or supernatural elements, there are other themes combined with them, for example romance and history. On the other hand you can be sure to expect werewolves, mermaids, demons, ghosts and the undead.
It is difficult to review the whole book in general, as there were some stories I liked and others that did not hold my attention. This, I expect, will be the case for many, if not all, readers. One story, or novella – it was rather lengthy – that I particularly enjoyed was <i>Wind-Up Hearts</i> by Stan Swanson. Containing numerous themes – steampunk, romance, history and contemporary/future setting – I was captivated by the two key characters and their predicament. Due to having mechanical hearts, Henry and Emily have lived for well over 100 years, watched the world change around them, yet stayed friends regardless. Yet Henry yearns for something more.
The good thing about an anthology of different authors’ works is that, while you cannot love everything, you are bound to find something you enjoy. It is great for busy people or those that cannot commit to a lengthy novel; one can dip in and out, picking and choosing which story to read. Although the authors may not be widely known, it is worth giving the anthology a chance. You may find a new author whose writing is perfect for you.
Phil Leader (619 KP) rated IA: The Origin Novels (Books 1-3) in Books
Nov 15, 2019
The origin story involves Naz, a teenage boy who lives with his sister and aunt in the Exclave, a ghetto suburb of a large city. Naz is unusual in two ways - he can't remember anything before two years ago and he sometimes hears voices in his head. He doesn't like to draw attention though so keeps his head down and looks after his sister.
After an incident on the way to school, things start to change. He grows as a person and also begins to discover his past, and his potential for the future. Just perhaps one person can make a difference. As he continues on his journey it becomes clear that he may not be entirely on his own.
The stories are set in a near future, with the Exclave being a rather grim backdrop for a tale that concentrates on character. There are light touches of what could be termed science fiction throughout, both with Naz's backstory and in the world around him. The hero shows very real weaknesses and flaws as well as strengths as he battles through bullying, fitting in to new environments, love and loss.
Winston is an extremely talented author and these stories demonstrate why novels termed 'young adult' are frequently worthy of being read by an older audience. The character development shows a strong arc for all the main players - and even the bit parts are memorable.
If you are looking for a strong series of books that will keep you thinking and entertained long after you have finished the last page, this fits the bill to a tee.
The Escort (Night Series #2)
(unknown)
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He is everything I’ve ever wanted in a man. And I will do anything to get him. Even if I have to...
male/male 5 stars crime/thriller romance short stories too stinking cute
The Portrait of a Lady
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Regarded by many as Henry James's finest work, and a lucid tragedy exploring the distance between...
With the Night Mail: Two Yarns About the Aerial Board of Control
Bruce Sterling, Rudyard Kipling and Matthew De Abaitua
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"SHE: Do you like Kipling? HE: I don't know, I've never Kippled!" If you've never read Rudyard...
Washington Square
Henry James, Philip Horne and Martha Banta
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Henry James's classic tale of romance in urban nineteenth-century America, Washington Square is...
Molly J (Cover To Cover Cafe) (106 KP) rated An Amish Christmas Kitchen in Books
Sep 5, 2019
But, one specific story I want to focus on is Kate Lloyd’s An Unexpected Christmas Gift. After reading all of Lloyd’s other novels, I knew I needed to read this story. And, I will tell you, I was not disappointed! It was a quick read, I read it in just an hour, but it was packed full of amazing characters, and one heart warming, soul moving message of truth and forgiveness.
Following Maria Romano and her story was moving. I loved every minute of this holiday novella. I fell in love with Naomi, Nancy, Anna and Silas, the Amish family that invited her in, I fell in love with Maria herself and Naomi’s sister Linda, I loved Troy Bennett and despite my food allergies and not able to eat a lot of delicious amazing food, I fell in love with the recipe that Lloyd included in the story. I will definitely be making the Christmas Caramel Cake for my guys!
If you’re a fan of Christmas, Amish, and working in the kitchen, then I will tell you right now. This is a collection of stories you don’t want to miss. All the stories are worthy of 4 stars and have a touch of romance woven in. Don’t miss it! You’ll be sharing this collection of holiday stories with all your book loving, Amish loving friends.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Publisher, Bethany House Publishers and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2200 KP) rated Haunted House Murder in Books
Aug 30, 2019
As you might expect in a collection of stories by various authors, some are stronger than others. Personally, I found the opening story to be the weakest – I think it might have worked as a short story, but even as a novella is was too long. The middle story was better, with some fun scenes and a good twist to the mystery. I adore Barbara Ross’s Maine Clambake mysteries, so it was the reason I picked up the book. It also means I found the third story to be the best, with some good twists and a very fun sub-plot. While each story has plenty of fall atmosphere, these stories aren’t that spooky – they are by cozy mystery authors after all. Still, fans of these authors will enjoy picking up the book.