Review # 121: One Hundred and One Nights by Benjamin Buchholz

Description:

     After studying medicine in America for thirteen years, Abu Saheeh travels back to his native Baghdad in order to start over and relinquish his past. His new life is a lot to get used to, but the mobile phone shack he manages seems to be doing well, as does his relationship with a spirited young Iranian girl, Layla, who visits him daily with questions and comments about American culture. As their innocent friendship grows, tension mounts in the world around them and Abu must wrestle with his past and the painful memories that accompany it. Will Abu be able to ignore what he has left behind and regain control of his new beginning? Or will his past take over, forcing him to endanger everything around him?

Review:


     Benjamin Buchholz's One Hundred and One Nights is a novel full of vivid detail, intrigue, and  heartache. It starts off slow, but after a couple of chapters I started to get a true sense of Abu's character and his shady history, as well as Layla's spirit and fervor for America's western views. The characters are well-developed and realistic, and the dialogue is written beautifully. The whole time I was reading I couldn't help but wonder how the characters would interact with and change each other. There's a sense that Abu's decisions are ultimately going to lead him to a dark place, but Buchholz mastery of words kept me guessing at each turn until the last shocking page. The story-line impressed me the most, but I will not give away any spoilers because the readers need to experience every plot twist for themselves. The imagery is breathtaking, but also devastating; it will affect readers at their core. Recommended for adults. I will definitely be waiting for Benjamin Buchholz's next novel.


Rating: On the Run (4/5)


*** I received this book from the publisher (Little, Brown and Co.) in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Review # 120: 101 Things You Thought You Knew About The Titanic... But Didn't! by Tim Maltin with Eloise Aston

Description:

      101 Things You Thought You Knew About The Titanic... But Didn't!, was released to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic on April 15, 1912. It contains exactly what the title promises, 101 little known facts about the Titanic, its passengers, and the fateful night that it sank into the frigid sea.

Review:

     I, like a billion other people on planet earth,  have watched the fictional James Cameron version of The Titanic more times than I'd like to admit. The ship, the sea, the romance, Jack and Rose in the back seat of a Renault... You get the picture, but disregarding the epic love story, what really "went down" on the largest ship in the world in 1912? Well, Tim Maltin has written a guide for the misinformed masses detailing the facts and the myths pertaining to: the ship, the omens, the maiden voyage, the passengers, the iceberg, the collision, the SOS, the Californian incident, the women and children, the final moments, the rescue, the statistics, and the aftermath. Quite an impressive list for such a small book! I was impressed by the amount of facts it held and how much I really didn't know. For example, if the Titanic would have crashed into the iceberg head-on, the ship wouldn't have sank! The book is easy-to-read, engaging, and full of interesting facts that even the biggest Titanic enthusiast can enjoy. I only wish that there had been more photos and illustrations to accompany the quotes and text. Highly recommended to any age group.

Rating: On the Run (4/5)

*** I received this book from the author (BookTrib) in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Review # 119: Imprint by Annie Frame

Description:

     Imprint follows Hercular Rose's journey through the past lives she has lived - her Soul Journal - in order for her to come to terms with her past(s), learn from them, and move on.

Review:

      Having heard from other reviewers that Annie Frame's Imprint was a must-read, I knew that I had to get my hands on a copy - and I am very glad that I did! I have always believed that there are people in the world who are more attuned to the souls of the past and the future, so the idea of reincarnation has never bothered me - just interested me. The idea that a person could have past lives and actually recall them is amazing. I have heard of using hypnosis to bring thoughts and alternate consciousness' to the surface, but I have never read about the methods used by Rose's character. The book is very short, ~74 pages, but the way the words and emotional descriptions leap off the pages allows for an amazing visual journey through each life and its connections. That said, Imprint is only a mere taste of the reincarnation experience, unlike Frame's The Quiet Road which delves deeper into past existence. Detailed, well-developed, and realistic characters paired with a captivating plot will leave readers open to the possibility of clairvoyance and past lives. Highly recommended for all readers.

-> I also love the cover!

Rating: On the Run (4.5/5)

*** I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Review # 118: The Eternal Child by David Wasserman

Description:

     Vampire Alex Montera has had a bounty on his head for a couple centuries, so he's no stranger to laying low and staying out of the spotlight; but when he saves a human, Iris Lisante, he finds himself completely enamored and unable to stay away from her, especially when he figures out that she's the target of a host of paranormal creatures, including Alex's sire, William. Can Alex protect Iris from a centuries old feud that could destroy everything they both love?

Review:

      The Eternal Child is a fast-paced supernatural YA read that's action-packed and easy to love, especially the characters! Alex and Iris' relationship is realistic and fun, and their personalities often complement each other. I like reading books where the character relationships have time to grow and change, not "instant" love; so I was relieved that Alex and Iris were drawn to each other but still had to work on their relationship. The dialogue was well-written, but there were a few sections that felt over-worked. The story-line seemed to flow quite smoothly, although there were a few strange transitions, but they didn't take focus away from the book as a whole. Teens will like the amount of action and the mild romance, but may be disappointing that they have to wait for a sequel... No spoilers. I recommend this book for teens and adults who like to read supernatural YA.

Rating: Bounty's Out (3.75/5)

*** I received this book from the author (Bostick Communications) in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Review # 117: Maggie For Hire by Kate Danley

Description:

     Maggie MacKay is a tracker; she has the ability to cross between dimensions and track down the monsters that want to start trouble in the human world. So when Killian, a messenger from the Elf Queen, shows up with a job - stopping a group of vampires from using humans as juice boxes - Maggie can't turn down the opportunity to kick some blood-sucking butt. Unfortunately, her family is more entwined with the inter-dimensional brawl than she realizes, and the only way to stop the madness is to find a couple magical objects and unleash a secret that could put everyone - and everything - in danger. With the help of Killian, her family, and a few otherworldly allies, can Maggie find the relics and stop the approaching apocalypse? Or will the world end with her neck on the chopping block?

Review:

    After seeing the cover art and reading the blurb, how could someone not want to read this book?! I have always been a fan of the otherworldly, especially when it involves a no-holds-barred heroine who doesn't take any B.S.  from anyone - or anything, and can dole out a mean arse-kicking. That's why I loved Maggie For Hire! Maggie is a great character; well-developed, strong-willed, and full of attitude. She reminds me of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, but more sure of herself and less fragile. The plot is action-packed, full of gory detail, and overflowing with the "unladylike behavior" promised on the back cover. I had a lot of fun reading, and was surprised that it was over so fast. The chapters were a nice short length, and the dialogue was fun and feisty. I only wish that I would have taken my time so there would be more to read! I hope that there is a sequel because Kate Danley is one heck of a writer! Recommended to older teens and adults who want pulse-pounding paranormal action that will leave them craving more!

Rating: On the Run (4.5/5)

*** I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Review # 116: Death Drops by Chrystle Fiedler

Description:

     Willow McQuade, a naturopathic doctor, decides to take an extended vacation to New York and visit her Aunt Claire, owner of Nature's Way Market and Cafe. Aunt Claire is excited and can't wait to tell Willow about a top-secret natural anti-aging cream she's developed. Unfortunately someone else is after the formula, and after returning from a meditative stroll, Willow finds Aunt Claire dead at the store; but the vial near the body doesn't just smell like flowers, it smells like murder! Can Willow work with officer Jackson Spade to find the killer and the formula before they go missing for good, or will they find themselves facing a "natural death" six feet under...

Review:
      
     Death Drops definitely caught my attention when I saw the blurb on BookTrib. The characters seemed fun and interesting and the plot sounded new and intriguing; I couldn't wait to start reading, thinking that it would be one of my usual mystery/comedy/romance compilations that would keep me up all night. Sadly, that was not the case. The book got off to an okay start, the storyline kept my attention and the characters - even the cats - had their own personalities; the dialogue was good too. I actually enjoyed learning about the natural remedies at the beginning of each chapter, but the balance of "mystery versus remedy" started to tip in the latter direction after chapter 7. There was so much detail about natural remedies that the mystery became lost. I had trouble staying focused on the content because I was constantly wondering when Willow and Jackson would get back to solving the case. However the book did "re-route" itself in the end and I did enjoy the ending. I feel like I would have liked the book better if it had been more of a murder mystery with a few naturopathic remedies mixed in, instead of all the excess. I wouldn't mind reading Chrystle Fiedler's future books or her non-fiction.

Rating: DNR (2.5/5)

*** I received this book from the author (BookTrib) in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Review # 115: Ann's Amazing Adventure by Jeanette Brancaccio

Description: 

     Nancy's beloved doll, Ann, is lost in a family move and is found by another family. For many years she is a companion of a little girl, Julia, and her special toy collection, but never gives up on finding Nancy and her real family. When Julia grows too old for toys, Ann and the rest of the toys are packed away and loaded onto a truck. They try to stay positive, but after awhile they all decide to sleep. When the box is opened, (years later), Ann is surprised to see that they are being sold at a flea market, but is even more surprised to see a grown up Nancy standing before her.

Review:


      Ann's Amazing Adventure is a heart-warming and beautifully illustrated children's book that teaches kids to be patient, make the best of bad situations, and never lose hope! Sara Petrous' illustrations are vivid, cute, and fun, coupled with Jeanetta Brancaccio's well-worded and child-friendly story. I loved how the author based this story on her daughter's lost doll experience; writing from experience always makes a book so much more genuine. The family photo album and acknowledgements were a nice touch too! Recommended for children ages 8 to 12 and the people who read to them.

Rating: Clean Getaway (5/5)

*** I received this book from the author (Bostick Communications) in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Review # 114: The Lucado Inspirational Reader - Hope and Encouragement for Your Everyday Life by Max Lucado

Description:

     The Lucado Inspirational Reader is a collection of devotional quotes and stories compiled from the writings of best-selling Christian author Max Lucado. Topics include: the Bible, the church, creation, faith, family, forgiveness, heaven, Jesus, miracles, prayer, salvation, second chances, spiritual refreshment, and many more.

Review:
   
      I have not read books by this author before, but after reading close to 450 pages of The Lucado Inspirational Reader, I feel like Max Lucado is a dear friend, and reading his words/stories brings me closer to God. I enjoyed reading the whole book; the sections were small - yet effective, easy to read, and were a welcome escape from everyday stresses. There were also some really great quotes that made me think about God's plan and life's deeper meaning. I definitely recommend this devotional to anybody interested in getting inspired!

Rating: On the Run (4.5/5)

*** I received this book from the author (BookSneeze) in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Review # 113: Nitt Witt Hill by Sebastian Gibson

Description:

     Mark, a political consultant, and his canine friend, Twain, embark on a mission to find out why America is in the mess it is in, and who is to blame. Along the way they meet up with America's top Clowns, Turkeys, and Nitt Witts, (including Sarah Palin and the President), in order to determine why the American public thinks the banning of bras will fix the economy. The pair discovers one conspiracy after another - and inevitably become part of a few - before administering their own brand of "common sense" to America's growing ills. Are bras really to blame? Or will Mark and Twain find the real culprit and bring the country together as they journey through Nitt Witt Hill? 

Review:

     I am not partial to either side of the political spectrum, but I am knowledgeable enough to know that Sebastian Gibson has written an uproarious satire about today's political parties and their descent into literal and figurative madness. From page ix, my curiosity was peaked - Turkeys, Clowns, Nitt Witts, and... boobs? I hadn't laughed that much at politics since the George W. Bush skits on SNL. I was pleasantly surprised by the book's progression - the characters were hilariously caricatured, the plot was easy to follow, and no sides were taken. Each party was berated equally, without suffering crude or malicious blows to their egos, and the issues - although absurd - served to enlighten me on the strange-but-true inner workings of the American political system. I definitely recommend this book to all readers, teen through adult, as well as all political parties - be them Clowns, Turkeys, or even Nitt Witts!

Rating: On the Run (4/5)

*** I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Review # 112: Hope: A Tragedy- A Novel by Shalom Auslander

Description:

     Solomon Kugel, a death obsessed neurotic, yearns for a fresh start for his family; so he moves them from the hustle and bustle of NYC to a farmhouse in the little known, (and little known for), Stockton, NY. Unfortunately, escaping his past - and his neuroses - proves an impossibility due to continuing family drama, his mother's hoarding and dementia, an arsonist who's goal is to burn down every farmhouse in the neighborhood, and a mysterious and annoying tapping coming from the attic. Thinking the tapping could be some sort of rodent infestation, Solomon ascends, with a flashlight in hand, into the box-crammed attic and finds none other than Anne Frank - old, alive, crude, and cranky - who is trying to write a sequel to her original bestseller The Diary Of Anne Frank... No Spoilers!

Review:

     Honestly, I didn't' know what to expect from Shalom Auslander's Hope: A Tragedy, especially after examining the strange cover art and reading the blurb on the back cover. I hadn't read other books by this author, but had heard mixed reviews - funny, dark, twisted, pessimistic, paradoxical, etc... Well, after reading all 292 pages, I wholeheartedly agree! It is one of the few books that I have read that left me laughing-out-loud one minute, depressed about life the next, and scratching my head in confusion and dismay a couple pages later. It's a very "far-out" and cynical read, and I am sure that this book isn't for everyone; some readers may even find it crude, over-the-top, nonsensical, unstructured, and repetitive, but that is how it is written. The format actually does a lot for the book overall - particularly when the reader considers the personalities/neuroses of the characters, Solomon especially. The characters are strangely comical, but I couldn't relate to a few of them which made a couple sections boring; those involving Professor Jove weren't my favorite. I did however enjoy Solomon's relationship with his mother and her constant reminiscing about her faux stay in a concentration camp. The plot is not evident at first, but once I got into it I found it easier to grasp. One of the main reasons I was tripped up a few times was that there were no quotation marks in the dialogue, so I had trouble following who was speaking in the conversations. Overall, I did enjoy Hope: A Tragedy and recommend it to those interested in reading something deviating from the norm that will make some laugh, some scowl, and leave others dumbfounded.

Rating: On the Run (4/5)

*** I received this book from the author (Penguin Group USA) in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Review # 111: Princess Rose and the Crystal Castle by Pepper Thorn

Description:

     When Princess Rose was born, Great Aunt Bathilda accidentally spoke the words that would change her life forever, "Everyone who meets Rose will just love her..." And from that moment on, no man, woman, or child could look upon her without falling in love with her. Not the worst thing to be cursed with right? - Until she reaches marrying age and every royal suitor becomes infatuated with her - not for her looks or her personality, but because of the curse. That is, all suitors except Prince Raven. He is mysterious, handsome, and has a genuine interest in Rose - but his intentions aren't what they seem; especially after he takes Rose away from her kingdom and to the Crystal Castle - a place with a past so dark that it threatens to steal her soul. Will Rose find a way to escape? Or will Prince Raven Make sure she never leaves?

Review:

      Being an anime/manga fan, I couldn't help but love the cover art! Such a beautiful illustration and an exciting glimpse into the kingdom of the Crystal Castle - I had to read it as soon as it came in the mail! As a child, I loved reading fairy-tales with my parents, (both the happily- and the creepily-ever-after versions), so I was excited to see into which category Pepper Thorn's story fell. I am happy to say it walked the fine line between both, keeping me entertained and ready for more. The story is great! Full of fantasy, action, mystery, and a writing style suitable for both kids and adults. I found the story and characters creative and fun to read. I can definitely see kids falling under the Princess's spell - especially if it becomes animated! I would love to see the characters come to life on screen! Highly recommended for kids and adults ready for a new fairy-tale classic. I really hope there's a sequel!

Rating: Clean Getaway (5/5)

*** I received this book from the author (Typing Cat Press) in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Review # 110: The Hour of Tiamat by Lisa M. Taylor

Description:

     A group of teenagers decide to free a powerful group of demons called the Ancient Ones in order to become Gods; but what Celicia, Malaki, Tristan and Tara don't know, is that the Ancient Ones have their own agendas. So when Tristan decides he doesn't want to risk "Hell on Earth", he has to come up with a way to stop his friends, send back the evils they have already awakened, and prevent the end of the world. With the help of a woman who accidentally witnesses the ceremony, can Tristan find the power within himself to go against his friends and the unspeakable evil they have unleashed? Or will his change of heart come too late, and at too high a cost?

Review:

     At first glance, I loved the eye-catching cover-art and the title font - Yes, I said the font, I am a big fan of typography! The "pencil-sketched" look was just the right amount of color versus shading to capture my attention; just like the book's first couple pages. The Hour Of Tiamat started off at a good pace, and the content peaked my curiosity. I found the story-line well-written, full of action, and realistic enough to be unsettling. I particularly enjoyed the descriptions of the wolves/demons and how they moved, but the characters lacked structure and often seemed "flat". I like characters I can relate to, someone with body, depth, and a well-defined personality; unfortunately, the characters and some of the dialogue took away from my reading experience. Even with the few problems I mentioned, I still really liked the book overall, and I will be recommending it to readers interested in supernatural/fantasy/occult fiction. I will be on the lookout for Lisa M. Taylor's future books - her writing definitely has potential!

    

Rating: Bounty's Out (3/5)

*** I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.