Amy Braun's "Storm Born"

Title: Couldn’t Get Enough

“Storm Born” by Amy Braun  

Reviewed by T’s Blogging

5/2/2016

9:36 p.m.

Talk about a riveting and action packed tale that keeps readers devouring each page. Avid readers, there is nothing on book shelves in comparisons to author Amy Braun’s young adult novel, “Storm Born.” Staying true to her strong female protagonist, Amy introduces readers to Ava, a common girl in a not so ordinary situation. The story is set during a time of the Centennial in which earth is being plagued by Stormkinds, amazingly gifted and strong creatures that feed on human life sources. As a storm floods Florida, the wealthy are safely tucked underground, meanwhile, the less-fortunate are forced to remain above ground only to be battered and killed. But rest assured, Amy introduces readers to a trio of warriors whose sole purpose is to return the hungry heathens back to their cages; but trust me when I say, “It is not that cut and dry.”  

The foundation of this story has such a powerful meaning and focuses a spotlight on the destruction human-beings inflict upon mother earth. Using the Stormkind as a voice for the elements in which many people take for granted, readers are given the opportunity to see what could happen if wind, water, lightening and forth, were controlled by creatures.  

Masterfully weaving reader’s reality into a fictional world, the author leaves book lovers with a thought provoking last impression they can appreciate. Moreover, she gives romance lovers just enough intimacy that causes their cheeks to turn crimson red, especially when the blue-eyed hunk known as Hadrain is introduce. There is so many layers to this story that this short review is incapable of even capturing the heart of this tale. With an epic ending that warms the heart along with a subtleness of true love shown throughout the book, one thing is for certain, “The author out-did herself this time.”

I give “Storm Born” 5 out of 5 stars.

Happy Reading

T’s Blogging 

Kim Cormack's "Let There Be Dragons"

Title: Unleashed

“Let There Be Dragons” by Kim Cormack

Reviewed by T’s Blogging

3/21/16

11:14 a.m.

Readers, if you have not read the Ankh Series take note, “Go out and purchase books one and two before reading author Kim Cormack’s third novel, Let There Be Dragons.” This recently released YA read, picks up exactly where book two leaves off, throwing avid readers right back into Kayne’s world. But here is the kicker, Kayne, the female protagonist, has morphed into one bad ass, untamed, power hungry Conduit that goes psychotic throughout this entire read. Talk about unleashing the dragon.

After Kayne is killed by her best friend, she and her sister finally become one. And to watch her evolve into this new creature, especially after the hell she trampled through…is absolutely page turning interesting. The world of this character is undoubtedly established which makes it absolutely fan following.  

As Kayne and the other Ankh members adjust to their new powers, the author takes her time answering the most important question: What is going to happen between Kayne and Kevin and her and Frost? Rest reassured, the answers to many other questions are tucked between the pages of this read, as well as a few knew bread crumbs leading into book four. However, there were a few hung ups that could turn first time book readers in the wrong direction.

On occasion, situations were too drawn out and repetitive. However, staying true to her stand-up sense of humor, the author gives us some jaw dropping and bashful scenes that make up for the repetition and grammatical errors. There is so much intensity within this read that it is easy to become consumed with the story. And just when the second to the last page is turned another OMG moment happens. And in true Kim fashion, you are waiting for the next book.

I give “Let There Be Dragons” 3 ½ out of 5 stars.

Cheers,

T’s Blogging

Amy Braun's "Dark Divinity"

Title: Coast to Coast Battle

“Dark Divinity” by Amy Braun  

Reviewed by T’s Blogging

2/10/2016

7:17 a.m.

All hell has broken loose and at the heart of it are two sisters; one who is destined for something extraordinary, and the other will do whatever it takes to protect the only family she has. But, how will the pair measure up against the greatest evil man has ever known…Lucifer.

This action packed young adult read, with its female protagonists, is far from dainty. And readers are going to love it! Author Amy Braun’s female characters are strong as well as fearless, and they have no issues with taking names as they handout beat-downs from coast to coast. From the very beginning of Dark Divinity, the sisters find themselves in several crossfires. Rather it is the gangs in Mexico or the supernatural battle that spills over into their world, they have no choice but to fight to stay alive. But keep calm, even with all the violence assaulting so many pages, there is enough romance that keeps the heart fluttering and balances out the vivid and gruesome scenes.     

Hands down, this is a great read. The author unconventionally tells the story in a way that gives the reader the illusion that they are familiar with the characters. Braun throws her readers directly into the action of the story without really focusing on character development. However, if you are a fan you are aware of her style of writing and appreciate her ability to create a reader and character connection without ever noticing it. And it works! This author knows how to keep readers enthralled, but there are a few things that could hurt this book.

I could not do away with the deja’vu feeling or overlook the editing errors. At times, there is this gnawing, similarity to Braun’s Crimson Sky. However, rest assure that the resemblances stem from her storytelling niche and her ability to write strong female characters that face unmeasurable odds. And lastly, the grammatical errors sometimes halt the flow of the story.

I give “Dark Divinity” 3 ½ out of 5 stars.

Happy Reading

T’s Blogging 

Amy Braun's "Crimson Sky"

Title: Firecracker or nah?

“Crimson Sky” by Amy Braun  

Reviewed by T’s Blogging

1/9/2016

9:58 p.m.

Claire is the key, but how in the hell will this teenager rid the world of the blood sucking killers known as the Hellions?

Author Amy Braun invites young adult readers into a world that has been invaded by monsters, leaving the humans to become prey and fuel. No longer listed as being at the top of the food chain, humans take to the underground tunnels in hopes of simply surviving. With the predators waiting above ground, Claire, Braun’s main character, finds herself seeking refuge under the thumb of a lunatic, Garnet. He is the epitome of an egotistic, selfish, emotionless prick that will cause reader’s lips to curl.    

Like so many, Claire decides it is better to deal with the human monster rather than attempt to relocate and faceoff with the Hellions. The only issue…the way fate is setup, eventually she will have to deal with them both.

Readers will enjoy the ease of the story as it plays out on paper as well as in their minds. Braun knows exactly how much enough is, and answers some questions while leaving countless others floating in the air. One thing is for certain this author keeps reader’s hearts thumping with explosive scenes and heart wrenching endings. Everyone has secrets, and as the truth shines its light on the darkness, readers will be surprised by the unexpected. But this is what really makes Braun the next must read author, she is not afraid to kill off anyone. No one is safe, not even Braun’s main characters, or are they?

Crimson Sky is fantastic, and offers such an amazing start to what appears to be a great series. Cannot wait for book 2.

I give “Crimson Sky” 5 out of 5 stars.

Happy Reading

T’s Blogging

Magus Tor's "My Ladybird Story"

Title: A Publisher’s Read

“My Ladybird Story” Magus Tor  

Reviewed by T’s Blogging

1/21/2016

9:14 p.m.

Incredible, is the only word that comes to mind after reading Magus Tor’s “My Ladybird Story.” This mind blowing and riveting tale, offers a peek into a heartwarming love that evolved from two souls that had experienced the hardships of life at an earlier age. Book lovers will sub-come to an emotional rollercoaster of feelings as they are whisked through the life of Tor’s main character, John.

Upon reading the first half of the book, readers are given the impression that this story is centered on the narrative of a young man that seeks desperately to journey along the path of self-discovery. Needing to be “normal,” John is plagued with the reality that the idea of normalcy has no room for him. He can never be himself, because society will not allow it. And quite frankly, he does not know who or what he is. Yet, this book offers so much more.

Tor opens the world of gender dysphoria, allowing readers to travel behind the scenes of a human being who whole-heartedly knows he is inside the wrong body. “My Ladybird Story” addresses the taunting, the restrictions of gender traits, the guidelines society places on what is deemed to be normal, and the internal as well as external struggle of John finding Joyce. This magnificent tale will have you empathizing and understanding that this unchosen road traveled down by some is not a one easy. And just maybe after reading John’s story, reader’s will have a better understanding that God is the only one with the rights to judge and convict.  

Upon the completion of this book, it dawned on me…. This read was not just about John’s hardships or his inability to fit into such an enormous and judgmental world. No, the heart of this book has a message that is very simple…, it is about love. Love of self in order to love another.

I give “My Ladybird Story” 5 out of 5 stars, this is indeed a Publisher’s Read.

Happy Reading

T’s Blogging

Erin Moynahan by Brian George

Title: Publisher’s Read

Erin Moynahan by Brian George

Reviewed by T’s Blogging

09/17/15

10:07 a.m.

Death is quickly approaching and there's nothing anyone can do, but for whatever reason Erin's parents, refuses to allow the disease to kill her. With no other choice but to try an experimental drug on their child something spectacular takes place, and the young girl will never be the same. 

From the very beginning of this YA novel, readers will become absorbed in a tale that evolves into an action-pack read. Author Brian George starts the story out by taking readers on a sentimental journey, allowing them to witness a dying child at the sea of death who eventually matures into a raging killing machine. Talk about a twisting plot. In the beginning readers are shown the importance of life, only to be taught the need to survive by any means necessary even if that involves taking the lives of others. But the question avid readers and booklovers want answered: Is this book worth your time reading or your money?

Hands down…, this is a phenomenal book. While at times the story and certain scenes read rushed, George makes up for the shortcoming by telling a story that allows readers to become emotionally and imaginatively invested. This is indeed a #mustread.

I give Erin Moynahan 5 out of 5 stars and rate this a Publisher's Read.

Happy Reading,

T’s Blogging 

Joan Donaldson-Yarmey's "Illegally Dead"

Title: Traveling with Murder

“IllegallyDead” by Joan Donaldson-Yarmey

Reviewed by Camie Keets

07/31/2015

2:48 p.m.

Travel writer, Elizabeth Oliver, tends to run into mystery wherever she goes. One, short year after discovering a body along a wooded path, Elizabeth gets pulled into another murder. When being shown to her bed & breakfast, she runs across a man who has newly discovered a bunch of bones in a septic tank; leading to an investigation. Can Elizabeth keep her goal in mind and complete the research for her first commissioned article?

The way that Donaldson-Yarmey sets up the novel is intriguing. In the beginning, the novel seems as if it will be told in a simple third person point-of-view. However, after the first four pages, she switches it up and tells the novel in a third-person unlimited omniscience point-of-view. For the entire first chapter, Donaldson-Yarmey bounces back and forth between two characters. Just when the reader gets into the groove, she switches it up again and throws in another character. This is where things started to get confusing. But, once every character’s backstory and part in the novel is established, switching from character to character becomes much easier and makes more sense. It helps the reader put the pieces together and keeps them on their toes. However, I believe that providing as many characters and backstories as she does, leads the reader on too much and leaves them no room to wonder.

Donaldson-Yarmey’s novel is not as similar to other mystery novels. It is more playful, and the point-of-view is interesting. And, the main character, Elizabeth, is not a central player in this mystery. She is on the outside looking in and attempting to piece it together herself, along with the readers.

In improvements, there is always room for the readers to discover more on their own. However, if you are looking for an interestingly mysterious yet playful read, Illegally Dead is a good place to start.

I give Illegally Dead 3 out of 5 stars.

Thank you for this new and different read.

Camie Keets

Joan Donaldson - Yarmey's "Gold Fever"

Title: Do You Have Gold Fever

Gold Fever by Joan Donaldson-Yarmey

Reviewed by K. Royce

7/28/15

9:00 p.m.

Boni is a city girl through and through. Her mother, Elsie, is quite the opposite. Elsie loves to be camping deep in the brush of Canada’s vast wilderness, while Boni enjoys catching a movie after hitting up the local Starbucks in Vancouver. When Boni reluctantly agrees to go on a camping trip with her mother, 55 years overdue, things certainly get interesting and fast. Elsie’s father, Ben, went to pan for gold one summer and he never returned. Now it is up to Elsie and Boni to try to find out what the police could not. As soon as they get there, their trouble starts, people panning for gold do not take kindly to campers and they certainly do not take kindly to women asking questions. It seems as though someone does not want them to find out the truth about Boni’s grandfather. The women develop romantic relationships with locals but their suspicions and feelings are so intertwined that deciphering their emotions could be the only thing that keeps them safe while camping alone in the deep woods.

Joan Donaldson-Yarmey brings the reader into two conflicting worlds. On one hand, you have the city folk who enjoy all of life’s luxuries and you have the rugged mountain people who use outhouses and hunt their meals. Her mystery plot follows a basic “who done it” archetype throwing in minimal plot twists along the way. While her novel does have a few romances in it, she does not turn to the graphic detail that so many authors utilize, keeping the reader interested in a very highbrow way.

The novel is a good read for anyone looking for something quick and not difficult. The author clearly did their research into the countryside, but lacked the description that pulled the reader into the novel. The characters, while interesting, were only surface level leaving much unanswered about their feelings, perhaps if the novel were longer or even became a series that would be better. Finally, while the author lacks in some descriptions she makes some unnecessarily descriptive. There are points when the novel reads wordy, and it is hard to focus on the plot when that happens.

While the ending is predictable, the adventure keeps the reader turning the page racing to solve the mystery with Boni and Elsie. 

I give Gold Rush 3 out of 5 Stars.

Enjoy!

K. Royce