Defiant by Brandon Sanderson // Review

My Review: 

Wow, what a journey! Full of fire, courage, and adventure, in this coming of age saga, Spensa and her friends must fight to protect what they hold dear. 

I loved how this book explores the evolving dynamics in friendships and relationships, as Jorgen and Spensa rise in the ranks. I liked how we get to see how everyone has stepped up into their roles, as well as how much they have grown and adapted to the worlds that have opened up to them. 

Engaging, and filled with Sanderson's signature humor this was a fitting conclusion, that kept me engaged and excited for the spin off series!

I received a complimentary ecopy of this book. Opinions are my own!

 Buy it here: https://amzn.to/3REW9t6 *As an Amazon affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

Steal Fire From the Gods by Clint Hall // Celebrate Lit

                                                      

About the Book

Book: Steal Fire from the Gods

Author: Clint Hall

Genre: Science Fiction

Release Date: November 7, 2023

The Human Alliance knew the war was over when the machines started using magic to cast fire, shake the ground, conjure storms, and part the seas.

We fought back anyway.

22-year-old soldier Gunnar Graves lost his faith and his family when a platoon of AI-driven war machines—led by an android fire mage— destroyed his unit. Forced to live in a machine-controlled village and hiding a dark secret, he spends his days trying to learn elemental power so he can take his revenge. After years of failure, his ability ignites when he least expects it.

On the run and hunted by the war machines, Gunnar discovers that an ancient, life-based strength has awakened to help humanity fight back. Joined by the other life mages, Gunnar is thrust into a mad world of android overlords, cyborg clans, and evil forces bent on his destruction.

To protect his newfound family, Gunnar must discover the truth behind a power he doesn’t understand and wage a war he doesn’t believe they can win.

 

Click here to get your copy!

My Review: 

A thrilling futuristic adventure that pits man against machine. 

Engaging from the very beginning, I was pulled into the world of Gunnar Graves, a young man with a secret, on a mission to destroy the machines that took his family. The author does an excellent job spinning a compelling and exciting tale, with magnificent world building that flowed seamlessly into the story. I admired Gunnar for his courage, and how he treated others with respect. 

Great character development, as well as the well woven spiritual aspects of the story that never felt forced. 

Honestly, this book blew past all my expectations and I will definitely be picking up more books by Clint Hall in the future.  Riveting plot, with compelling character development, action and faith in a well built futuristic setting, all well executed. This is not an author you want to sleep on!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

About the Author

Clint Hall is a storyteller, speaker, and podcast host. He has been writing stories since middle school, where he spent most of his time in class creating comic books. (Fortunately, his teacher not only allowed it; she bought every issue.) Known for instilling a sense of hope, wonder, and adventure, Clint’s work has been published across multiple anthologies and magazines. Find him at ClintHall.com or “The Experience: Conversations with Creatives” podcast, available on all major platforms.

 

More from Clint

When I first heard the song See A Victory by Elevation Worship, I assumed the lyrics, “You took what the enemy meant for evil and You turned it for good,” were pulled verbatim (translated, of course) from the Bible, probably one of Paul’s letters.

Despite not knowing exactly from where they came, the words stuck with me. It’s inspiring to believe that God can take the terrible things that have happened to us – or even because of us – and use them to bring about something beautiful.

When I looked them up, I found that the lyrics are actually a derivation of what Joseph said to his brothers years after they sold him into slavery. “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.” (Genesis 50:20 NIV)

Placing the words within the context of a story makes them even more impactful for me. It’s astounding to think about Joseph’s faith and spiritual maturity to not only offer forgiveness in this moment, but also to recognize the immense benefits that have arisen from such a horrific injustice against him.

It wasn’t until recently that I realized how much this passage is related to my book. That’s the funny thing about writing stories. You often don’t know what they’re about until you’re done.

Steal Fire From The Gods is the most faith-based story I’ve ever written. It’s also the darkest and certainly the weirdest. It’s an action-packed book in which AI has discovered the secrets of elemental magic and used that power to overthrow humanity.

But that’s just the concept. This story isn’t about magic robots. It’s about a person undergoing a crisis of faith. And you could hardly blame him.

Gunnar Graves and his family did everything the right way. They were faithful, devoted, and kind. They prayed, studied God’s Word, and followed His laws. Then, they were decimated. As a result, Gunnar is angry at God and even at his late parents for their blind faith that – from his perspective – ultimately failed them all.

Gunnar spends much of the story trying to harness magic for what he believes is a righteous cause. But despite his altruistic intentions, it eludes him, causing him even more anger and frustration. How could an all-powerful, all-loving God place such an awesome power into the hands of oppressive machines instead of mankind?

To make matters worse, Gunnar and other characters in the story have secrets that I won’t spoil in this blog. Suffice to say there are aspects of who they are and what they have done that would cause most people to cast them out if the truth became known. So instead, they hide themselves from God and other humans. More separation. More shame. More darkness.

It often feels that way for believers. In our weakness, we can simultaneously be angry at God for what we perceive as injustice – getting what we don’t think we deserve, or not getting what we think we do – while also being convinced there is something about us that will prevent us from ever connecting with His love, joy, and peace.

But there is always hope. God often reminds us of His presence by not only saving us from our circumstances but also using our weaknesses as tools to create wonderful outcomes. Paradoxically, good comes about not in spite of evil, but seemingly because of it.

As believers, we understand this is not a function of necessity. To bring about this good, God did not need evil to occur. But He will use it to demonstrate His ability to turn the enemy’s own weapons against him.

These occurrences wouldn’t make sense outside the knowledge that there is an all-powerful, all-loving Father. That reminder of His presence – that He must be with us because otherwise, such good springing from such evil would be impossible – is in many cases a greater blessing than the good itself.

But He will not force these blessings upon us. We are free to choose whether we will trust and accept them. We do so through faith, selflessness, and surrender.

That’s where we find the power. That’s where we find goodness. That’s where we find hope.

That’s what I want readers to take away from this book.

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, November 14

Artistic Nobody, November 15 (Author Interview)

Exploring the Written Word, November 15

Becca Hope: Book Obsessed, November 16

Guild Master, November 17 (Author Interview)

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, November 18

Through the Fire Blogs, November 19 (Author Interview)

Wishful Endings, November 20

Beauty in the Binding, November 21 (Author Interview)

Locks, Hooks and Books, November 22

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 23

Simple Harvest Reads, November 24 (Author Interview)

The Lofty Pages, November 24

Blogging With Carol, November 25

Labor Not in Vain, November 26

Fiction Book Lover, November 27 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Clint is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card and signed copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/29094/steal-fire-from-the-gods-celebration-tour-giveaway

Beauty From Ashes by Pamela Hart

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Beauty from Ashes by Pamela Hart, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Beauty from Ashes 

Series: Beauty from Ashes Trilogy #1 

Author: Pamela Hart 

Publisher: Christian Faith Publishing 

Release Date: July 25, 2022 

Genre: Young Adult Clean Fantasy Romance (Allegorical) 

How far are you willing to go for love? 

When Prince Arnion volunteers to infiltrate the prison colony of Gehenna, romance is the last thing on his mind. Rescuing its inhabitants is his only priority. But the corruption in Gehenna runs deep, fueled by the obsessions of its fanatical leader—a king rumored to devour human hearts. 

To succeed, Arnion must conceal his identity from the people he’s been sent to save, including a young woman he’s inexplicably drawn to. And when her life is threatened by two merciless guards, the prince risks everything to save her. 

Afterward, she wants nothing to do with him or his promises of rescue. But she soon realizes there’s more to Arnion than meets the eye, and what he’s about to unleash on Gehenna will change everything. 

My Review: 

An allegory of Christ's love told in a Sci-Fi setting. 

An intriguing allegory, set in sci-fi dystopian world. Prince Arnion comes to the prison colony of Gehenna, with a tender heart for those hurting there.

Well written, I caught on quickly to what was going on and where it would eventually end. I liked the setting and in some ways thought that it also drew parallels to the parable of the landowner's son. Over the course of the story there were things that could feel very odd if taking this book as a direct allegory, though I think that the correlations were not meant to be exact. 

Overall, an engaging read, that does a great of telling the story in a futuristic space setting. A moving story, great for fans of speculative fiction! 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookDepository | IndieBound | BookBub

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About the Author

Pamela Hart is the author of Beauty from Ashes and City of a Thousand Tears. Raised on a steady diet of fantasy, science fiction and anime, she spent most of her childhood failing to acquire a Boston accent. Since then, she has slurped ramen in Ikebukuro, stampeded through flamenco lessons in Granada, and splashed her way across a fishpond for the Milkman Triathlon in Dexter. During her travels, she tends to overpack horrendously, but never regrets cramming her backpack full of books to devour along the way. She wanders the planet with Joe, the love of her life, and her adorably maniacal Boston terriers, Willy and Marvin.

Connect with Pamela by visiting pamelahartwrites.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a print copy of Beauty from Ashes, 2 themed bookmarks, a $15 Amazon gift card, a book themed tote bag, and a book themed pencil case!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight January 17, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on January 24, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. Open internationally. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

Recorder by Cathy McCrumb // Celebrate Lit, Review and Giveaway

About the Book

 

Book: Recorder

Author: Cathy McCrumb

Genre: Dystopian Science Fiction

Release date: November 8, 2021

The Consortium is All. But Recorder Can No Longer Obey.

Recorder has no family, no friends, and no name. Donated to the Consortium before birth, her sole purpose is to maintain and verify the records. A neural implant and drone ensure compliance, punishing for displays of bias.

Suddenly cut off from controlling technology, Recorder tastes what it means to be human. But if the Consortium discovers her feelings, everyone she knows will be in danger.

With no name, no resources, and only an infinitesimal possibility of escape, Recorder’s time is running out.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Review:

A riveting Sci-fi adventure with excellent world building and compelling character growth.

A well written, engaging debut, with realistic and convincing world building, I liked how the author used a dual timeline to show not tell the past events, utilizing functions of the plot. I had a hard time putting this one down and I liked the growing relationships between the characters that we got to see in the past and the present. 

Overall, a must read for fans of sci-fi, the author artfully constructs a mysterious futuristic world, terrifying and intriguing, compelling and consistent, this book did a fantastic job of reeling me in and keeping me invested as the story unfolded, while also bringing up deeper questions of what it means to be human. I am excited to see where this series will go!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

About the Author

Cathy McCrumb graduated from Biola University with a degree in English Literature and a love for stories. She and her husband, whom she met while writing letters to soldiers, have five children and currently live within the shadow of the Rocky Mountains. While writing is one of her favorite things to do, she also enjoys reading, long hikes and long naps, gluten-free brownies and raspberries, and crocheting while watching science fiction movies with friends and family.

 

More from Cathy

When I was about three, my first imaginary friend, Sally from Clap-Hands-Land, threw a man’s hat in the air. At the time, I found her action uproariously funny, though I no longer remember why. As I grew older, speculative fiction—almost any variety of fantasy or science fiction—became my favorite stories to tell and read.

Once I had children, however, all I managed were practical lists on scraps of paper. I shoved down that desire to create until after my youngest was born, when a friend challenged me to write again. That first short story began a landslide of words and ideas about grace, worth, and the sometimes-bittersweet reality of daily life. Soon afterward, a story was born from a vivid dream set on a stark moonscape. As I wrote it down, the Recorder herself sprang into being, and Recorder became inextricably bound to her point of view.

For me, stories are fundamentally about possibilities. The tension between catastrophe and eucatastrophe plays out with relative safety on the page. I believe that when ideas and themes intersect, however, stories can reach deep within authors and readers. Indeed, if they do not touch the author, they are unlikely to impact anyone else. When failure, grief, and evil are contrasted with faith, hope, and love, the narratives inspire deeper connections with our own emotions, others, and God. Tales of light and dark challenge us with the opportunity to think through truths and lies without leaving home.

And yet, transformation itself isn’t safe, and therefore fiction can’t be, either. The risks inherent in change open the possibilities of growth and failure. Stories provide an exploration of becoming. They can open a divide through which we can glimpse something greater or worse than our own worlds. Fiction allows us a place where we can practice and triumph.

And maybe, perhaps, even throw our hats into the air.

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 20

Texas Book-aholic, November 21

Mary Hake, November 21

Inklings and notions, November 22

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, November 23

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, November 23

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, November 24

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, November 24

Blogging With Carol, November 25

Labor Not in Vain, November 26

For Him and My Family, November 26

deb’s Book Review, November 27

Locks, Hooks and Books, November 28

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, November 29

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, November 30

Through the fire blogs, November 30

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, December 1

Wishful Endings, December 2

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 3

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Cathy is giving away the grand prize of a personalized, signed hardcover copy!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/137ec/recorder-celebration-tour-giveaway

Secrets in the Mist by Morgan L. Busse // Review

My Review:

A land shrouded in deadly mist, where the only chance of survival lies above. 

Orphaned by the poison mists, Cass has survived on the streets, until she gets the chance of a lifetime to become a diver exploring the lands below the mist. But when tragedy strikes her newfound haven is upended, they take on a job that could change the course of the world as they know it. 

Daringly adventurous with wildly imaginative world building, this steampunk fantasy introduces a team of heroes that you can cheer for all the way through. An adventurous first part of a brand new series, Ms. Busse weaves a fantastical world of science and innovation at the same time stagnant with study on the most pressing problem that their people face forbidden. I admired Theo for his passion to find answers and discover the reason for the mist, he has a curious mind, and doesn't shy away from danger. 

A fast paced read, with excellent characters, a well crafted plot, and genuine character growth and interaction. I didn't want to put this book down once I started. A high flying steampunk/sci-fi adventure, I couldn't have asked for more, and I can't wait to find out what happens next! Highly recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Operation Grendel by Daniel Schwabauer ~ Celebrate Lit Tour, Review and Giveaway

About the Book

 

Book:  Operation Grendel

Author: Daniel Schwabauer

Genre: Christian Fiction, Futuristic Action & Adventure

It’s the war story he’s dreamed of. But the battle may cost him his mind.

Military journalist Raymin Dahl thinks he’s finally getting the story of a lifetime. Secret peace talks on a remote tropical moon are about to surrender five colonized worlds—and six hundred million civilians—to a ruthless enemy.

 

But when his commanding officer, Captain Ansell Sterling, is fatally wounded before the negotiations can begin, Dahl can no longer just report on the mission. He’s ordered to complete it. With help from the AI embedded in Sterling’s comms bracelet, Dahl must impersonate his commander—a Marine Corps hero and psychological operations expert.

 

However, Sterling’s AI may be luring him to surrender more than he realizes. And the mission Corporal Dahl thinks he’s running isn’t the only operation underway.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Review:

Thrusting the reader right into the thick of things, we find journalist Raymin Dahl on the brink of breaking the biggest story of his career, when his source and commander is killed. Now it is up to Raymin to complete the mission and save millions, or is it?

Told in the first person point-of-view, we experience this imaginative sci-fi, political thriller, through the eyes of Raymin, as he is pushed into the thick of things, reliant on Captain Sterling's old AI to guide him. But the answers are far from clear cut, as questions rise about corrupted software and other missions at play. 

A twisting plot, with a fascinating world of politics in a fight for truth, and a hero with no one to trust. It took a while for me to get orientated at first because of how the book just throws you into the thick of things in the beginning. I liked learning more about the world, characters and the situation while on the go, but sometimes resented the flashbacks for keeping me from the present happenings. Raymin is a likably flawed character, and I admired his passion for the integrity of a story.

Overall, this was a fast paced read, with political intrigue, intense action, with many twists along the way. And I was intrigued by the unique relationship between Raymin and Ivy over the course of the twisting story. Great for fans of sci-fi adventure!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

About the Author

Daniel Schwabauer, M.A., is a lifelong reader of speculative fiction. He studied the genre under science fiction great James Gunn before graduating with honors from Kansas University’s Masters program in Creative Writing in 1995. Winner of the Eric Hoffer and Ben Franklin awards for his middle grade fantasy series, The Legends of Tira-Nor, Daniel enjoys riding his motorcycle on country roads and pondering other worlds. He lives in Kansas City with his wife and dog.

 

More from Daniel

The Operation Grendel Origin Story

 

I’ve always been fascinated by the power of storytelling, especially as a lever for moving culture.  For several years I studied the development of modern propaganda, the rise and fall of yellow journalism, and the relationship of these to psychological warfare. This culminated in 2017 with a brief investigation into quantum computing and the rising popularity of trans-humanism. Sometimes the best story ideas are combinations of things that have rattled around in the back of your mind for years.

 

Operation Grendel is a keyhole glimpse of a future in which every person in the galaxy is bonded to an artificial intelligence. Some AIs are embedded in the brain, and some are snapped onto the wrist as a wearable device. I didn’t realize when I started writing the book that Elon Musk had already launched Neuralink to create this technology in real life. I discovered the corporation after finishing my fourth draft.

 

The use of this technology probably means a lack of autonomy. How can you think for yourself, or even know what you think, if your thoughts are constantly being shaped and influenced by a quantum computer wirelessly connected to your brain?

 

Then again, is that all we really are as humans—biological computers? I don’t think so. But if not, then there will surely be resistance to the trans-humanist movement. Which means, in a work of fiction, clearly opposing sides. One empire supports this integration of man and machine; the other places limits on AI technology.

 

But “warring empires” was not a story I felt capable of telling. I wanted something closer to home, something smaller and more accessible, something more human. I wanted to show what a life spent entirely under the influence of an inner nanny—a substitute Holy Spirit—might look like.

 

Well, who better to tell that story than a man who has, in his own way, been manipulating others through storytelling? In other words, a journalist.

 

This fit my desire to write the story as military science fiction. Since I never had the honor of serving in the armed forces, I needed a way to give my narrator a believable voice. Corporal Raymin Dahl, a military reporter who barely scraped his way through reservist boot camp, fit the bill.

 

Before long the story seemed to take on a life of its own.

 

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, March 30

Mia Reads, March 30

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, March 31

Wishful Endings, April 1

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 1

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, April 2

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, April 3

Woven by Words, April 3

Through the Fire Blogs, April 4

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 5

Adventures Of A Travelers Wife, April 5

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, April 6

Texas Book-aholic, April 7

April Hayman, Author, April 7

Inklings and notions, April 8

Rebecca Tews, April 9

For Him and My Family, April 10

deb’s Book Review, April 11

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 12

Labor Not in Vain, April 12

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Daniel is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon card, a signed copy of the hardcover first edition, and 2 laptop stickers!! (photo attached)

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/109d7/operation-grendel-celebration-tour-giveaway

Light of the Last by Chuck Black ~ Review

My Review:  

The thrilling third book in the Wars of the Realm Series, finds Drew Carter given an ultimatum prison, or the CIA. Drew's special abilities and talents have caught the eyes of the government, and they want to use him as a weapon to carry out missions and gather information. Drew is still unsure of what he is seeing when he sees the "Invaders," he is still trying to reconnect with Ben, whom he hasn't seen since the separated for safety, and he still can't get Sydney Carlyle out of his head.

Meanwhile Validus and his comrades are preparing themselves for the battle of the ages, as they assemble to protect Drew from the evil that follows him.

But what is ahead, is bigger than either Validus or Drew could have ever imagined....

Heart pounding action packed sequences, this book has me glued to the page. Blending real life threats into the storyline, in some ways this book was startlingly realistic and plausible. The book alternates between Validus and Drew, as they work to stay one step ahead of the evil that seems to follow Drew wherever he goes.

Drew is forced to make many tough choices along the way, and during his time in the CIA he is plagued by questions, and wonders if what he is seeing of the spiritual realm is real.

Everytime I review these books I struggle to do them justice, without sounding somewhat crazy, to some extent you have to read these books to understand what I'm talking about. Mr. Black does a great job of blending the realm into everyday life, along with the front page headlines, I appreciated that he explained much of why he wrote the characters the way that he did, using scripture and truth. The book is well balanced, and I'm impressed by how well he handled so many of the topics that he presented.

Non-stop action throughout, in this page turning third installment in Mr. Black's latest series, that will send your heart pounding, in this fantastic adventure. I admired Drew's quick thinking, and sincerity, as he fights for answers and truth against the forces of both realms.

Absolutely explosive read! I cannot recommend this book more, the best of the series so far, I can't wait to read what is next! This is one of those books where if I tried to explain it to you I would just sound crazy, so I would just recommend reading the entire series. Highly recommend!!!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

Anomaly by Krista McGee ~ Review

My Review: 

Thalli has lived in Pod C among her peers her whole life. And though she tries to be like her friend Rhen, never questioning, and ever obedient, Thalli cannot live without questioning and feeling things. She finds that she can express herself through music, and when she reacts with emotion to a "primitive" piece of music, she finds herself taken away for annihilation.

But her childhood friend, Berk, now one of the privileged scientists, fights to have her saved for study of her brain. Berk wants to save her from the invasive experiments of Dr. Loudin, and as reality and virtual reality blend together, will Thalli ever find the truth?

Thalli is a strong heroine, different from her peers, she wonders why it is so easy for them to not question the powers that be, or the scientists, not wondering about the primitive world above them. But after being taken for annihilation and testing, she meets John, a strange man with memories of the primitive world, of things like love, marriage, and family. John speaks of feelings as if they are a natural part of life, and he also speaks of the Designer who made everything, his love for the world, and sacrifice of his son Jesus.

Yet there is also the world above, and the colony that is thriving without the controlled rule of the scientists. Asta and Stone, who live above, and make her wonder if there is more than their colony below the earth.

 Berk is a true friend to Thalli, chosen to join the revered scientists, he is clever and is constantly working on a new innovation. As Dr. Louden's experiments get more and more invasive, Thalli has choices to make, will she fight for an unknown future?

I loved Thalli, she is a strong heroine, with a longing for something real, for something true. Ms. McGee did a great job of capturing her voice, with her joy and wonder, fear and desolation. The first of a trilogy, I was engaged beginning to end, intrigued by this strange new, and fearsome world below.

A fast-paced adventure for fans of dystopian fiction, this book stands out from the crowd with its search for clarity and truth. Highly recommend!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

Game Over by Andrew Klavan ~ Review

My Review:

Rick Dial is back in this pulse pounding read from thriller writer, Andrew Klavan. The walls between The Realm and RL are fracturing, and Rick is compromised. Ever since the last battle, his brain has been linked to Kurodar's, and in his dreams Kurodar finds his way into RL.

Will Rick be able to stop him, and save Favian and Mariel--or will they be trapped in the Realm as it comes crashing down?

The conclusion to Andrew Klavan's thrilling Mindwar Trilogy had me hanging on to the last, wondering if Rick would be strong enough for the final blow.

I really liked how we got to see more of Molly and who she is and why Rick is so drawn to her calming spirit.

Rick is a discerning hero, always thinking of others and what he can do. I loved how he because a symbol of hope to his friends in the Realm. I like how his passion for right and wrong, has grown, yet he is still compassionate.

Overall, a wonderful read, well written and action packed to the end. Rick Dial is an admirable hero, he has grown into a man of conviction and strength, with a strong faith. A terrific conclusion to the trilogy. I would definitely recommend this read!






Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

The Methuselah Project by Rick Barry ~ Review

My Review:

Roger Greene is a fighter pilot shot down during World War II, and chosen by the Nazis for a controversial experiment to make men live as long as the biblical Methuselah.

Meanwhile in the present day, Katherine Mueller, is a woman working for the very organization that roger has been fleeing for years. Her Uncle Kurt is constantly trying to match make her with high powered CEOs, bankers, and executives.

Roger has a choice to make, will he trust the woman who's connections to the dread secret society deeper than money?

A bit slow to start, and though it started quite literally with a bang, it took some time to become oriented with the plot and what was what, and trying to figure out how Katherine and Roger's timelines would converge. But as the story progressed the tension tightened, and the plot became much more engrossing, with plenty of action and adventure.

Roger is an honorable hero, he didn't ask to live forever, and he clings to his faith through the many trials that he faces.

Overall, a different type of read, with a fascinating premise. Well done, I was impressed with the characters, and how well the plot was handled, especially within the Christian fiction genre. Definitely worth a shot, if the subject peaks your interest.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

About the book: The Methuselah Project (Kregel, September 2015)

Nazi scientists started many experiments. One never ended.

Roger Greene is a war hero. Raised in an orphanage, the only birthright he knows is the feeling that he was born to fly. Flying against the Axis Powers in World War II is everything he always dreamed---until the day he's shot down and lands in the hands of the enemy.

When Allied bombs destroy both his prison and the mad genius experimenting on POWs, Roger survives. Within hours, his wounds miraculously heal, thanks to those experiments. The Methuselah Project is a success---but this ace is still not free. Seventy years later, Roger hasn't aged a day, but he has nearly gone insane. This isn't Captain America---just a lousy existence only made passable by a newfound faith. The Bible provides the only reliable anchor for Roger's sanity and his soul. When he finally escapes, there's no angelic promise or personal prophecy of deliverance, just confusion. It's 2015---and the world has become an unrecognizable place.
Katherine Mueller---crack shot, genius, and real Southern Belle---offers to help him find his way home. Can he convince her of the truth of his crazy story? Can he continue to trust her when he finds out she works for the very organization he's trying to flee?

Thrown right into pulse-pounding action from the first page, readers will find themselves transported back in time to a believable, full-colored past, and then catapulted into the present once more. The historical back-and-forth adds a constantly moving element of suspense to keep readers on the edge of their seats.

Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/1GcsGbS

About the author:
  

Rick Barry is the author of Gunner's Run, another World War II novel, Kiriath's Quest, and over 200 articles and fiction stories. In addition to being a World War II buff, he is the director of church planting ministries at BIEM, a Christian ministry operating in Eastern Europe. He holds a degree in foreign languages, speaks Russian, and has visited Europe more than fifty times. Rick lives in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Connect with Rick online: website, Twitter, Facebook

Landing page:

http://litfusegroup.com/author/rbarry

The Crawling Terror by Mike Tucker ~ Review

My Review:

A small town is being over run with frightening insects of unusually large size, and not only that but they are attacking the population and slowly transforming the townsfolk into zombies.

Will The Doctor and Clara be able to get to the root of the problem and save the tow from the fearsome creatures?

Clara and the Doctor join together with the townspeople to get to the bottom of the mystery, surrounding the enormous insects and the reclusive scientist who may be behind it all.

This book is set (according to Clara's timeline) somewhere in the middle of season 8. Full of adventure, and brimming with creepy creatures, this is a book sure to put doctor who fans on their toes!

I liked how the side characters were well developed and added a depth to the story that really made all the difference.

Overall, this is a book great for fans of the hit TV show, the content is much as you would expect from the show, with some mild language sprinkled in. A well done adventure, which makes me wonder how they possibly choose episodes from all the wonderful ideas!




Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

Silhouette by Justin Richards ~ Review

My Review:
Only the second Doctor Who novelization I have read, this one was tons of fun, set in Victorian England with the Pater Noster Gang.

The Doctor and Clara join Madame Vastra, Strax, and Jenny solving a mystery of missing carnival performers. Can they solve the mystery before any more are killed?

A fun and exciting adventure, with the 12th Doctor and Clara along with some of my favorite familiar faces. A quick and engaging read, blending humor and adventure in the classic Doctor Who way, this book is excellent for those who are tired of waiting for the next Doctor Who episode. The few books that I have read, have been excellent and very true to the television series, with some of the plots being in my mind even better than the ones that made it to air on television. So for anyone with doubts about the books being as good as the show, I would advise them not to worry, the books are just as well done, and written by true fans who work hard to make them true to the brand.

Overall this was a great adventure, lighter than some, but full of Strax's hilarious and obliviously serious humor. There was some brief language for those concerned with that, but nothing too serious. I don't want to spoil any of the plot by telling you what happened and what marvelous things and being they came across. I think one of my favorite things about this book was the Pater Noster Gang more of the wonderful Strax! Definitely something I would recommend to Who fans!



Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

Doctor Who: Engines of War by George Mann ~ Review

My Review:

I think that most people know about my serious addiction to Doctor Who, so this review should be no surprise. To be honest I've never read a Doctor Who novelization, so I wasn't sure what to expect, but this book definitely lived up to my high hopes.

This book follows the War Doctor, who is only really seen in the 50th Anniversary Special, and it was fun seeing him get an adventure and companion all his own. I felt that the author did a terrific job with the story, telling a tale of hope and sacrifice, amidst the turmoil of the terrible Time War.

It expands more on the character of the War Doctor, as well as building on the setting and what it was like for Timelords during the Time War, when others feared and despised them.

Cinder is a wonderful companion, who is trained to be a skilled Dalek hunter. She and the Doctor get along well, and honestly it's sad that this story isn't a TV episode, because it is rather well written with a great, and surprisingly poignant ending. I think this would make a fantastic bonus episode.

Overall, a great one to check out if you are a Who fan and curious about what adventures the War Doctor might have had :)




Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."