Thursday, 13 September 2012

Carol Parsons Reviews New Karina Fabian Title


 
Live and Let Fly
by Karina Fabian.
Author's Web site: http://www.karinafabian.com
ASIN: B007Y5TCHG
Genre: fantasy
Originally published on Amazon
5 stars
Publisher: MuseItUp Publishing
 
Reviewed by Carol Parsons

 
My favorite dragon PI, Vern, is back in Let and Let Fly, a delightful spy spoof by Karina Fabian.Laced with tongue-in-cheek humor, this adventure tale is loaded with sparkling dialogue, and Clifford Simak followers will enjoy the lighthearted crossing of Faerie and Mundane as the “Sam Spade” of dragon detectives uses his talents in the real world.
Vern, a reformed dragon and his partner, Sister Grace take on an innocuous amusement company which serves as a cover for evil overlord antics of world domination – not just the mundane world, but faerie as well.
I’m not a fan of first person stories, but there’s just something likable?, lovable?, intriguing about getting inside a dragon’s head. Especially this one with his whimsical, sometimes pointed, perception of human versus faerie lifestyles.
Vern’s idea of the perfect working day? “The usual Monday morning activity: drug busts, thefts and muggings, the occasional prostitute. No magic. No mad science. No evil demigods bent on world domination. My kind of busy.”
My kind of dragon tale. This is a keeper and one well worth re-reading.
How you look at the world, depends on where you are.
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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor. As a courtesy to the author, please tweet and retweet this post using this little green retweet widget :

Wednesday, 12 September 2012

Basked on Military Journal: Iraq, Religion and Spirituality

Title: Not in the Wind, Earthquake, or Fire
Author: Philip Sharp
Genre: Iraq War/Religion & Spirituality
ISBN-13: 978-1470159986
ISBN-10: 1470159988
 
 
Synopsis
Not in the Wind, Earthquake, or Fire is a book based on the journal Staff Sergeant Sharp wrote during his second deployment to Iraq from 2006 to 2007. The setting is in what was known as the "Triangle of Death", a hot bed of activity and sanctuary for the insurgency. The Iraqis called it, "The Graveyard of the Americans". During this deployment 21 soldiers from Task Force Polar Bear (4-31 Infantry, Fort Drum, NY) were killed, 3 were captured, and far more were wounded. It is in these conditions that Staff Sergeant Sharp recorded his events, reflected on the reality of life, and vented over the circumstances. You will see the daily life of combat soldiers and the conditions they worked under. Not in the Wind, Earthquake, or Fire is not just a book about the Iraq War; it is also a testimony of a soldier's walk with God during those times. Philip Sharp carefully recounts many spiritual lessons that he learned while deployed and appeals to the reader to see God in their everyday circumstances.
 
 
Author Biography
Philip Sharp has served for 20 years in the US Army Infantry during which he graduated from Ranger School, completed 22 parachute jumps, and served as a Drill Sergeant. He has worked in a variety of locations to include South Korea and the jungles of Panama. He deployed to Iraq three separate times from 2003 until 2010. He has published articles and war game simulations in Strategy & Tactics magazine and currently is a contributing columnist for Modern War magazine. Philip is retired from active duty service and now lives in West Virginia with his wife Heather and four children were they are creating an all-natural farm and serving in church ministries.
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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor. As a courtesy to the author, please tweet and retweet this post using this little green retweet widget :

Tuesday, 11 September 2012

Terry Whalin's Jumpstart Will Jumpstart Any Author's Book

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Title: Jumpstart Your Publishing Dreams
Subtitle: Insider Secrets  to Skyrocket Your Success
By Terry Whalin
Publisher: WTW Press, Scottsdale, AZ
Author’s  Web Site: http://jumpstartdreams.com
ISBN :9781935085546
Available on Amazon
Also available as an Audio Book
Review originally published on Amazon

Reviewed by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, multi award-winning author of fiction, poetry, and the HowToDoItFrugally Series, one series for writers, one for retailers

Terry Whalin’s Jumpstart Your Publishing Dreams is a book that can truly give any writing career a nudge, but it will be invaluable to those who write nonfiction. For inspiration we have a foreword that tells the unforgettable success story of the Chicken Soup series  from Mark Victor Hanson. It illustrates his theory that persistence counts. He says, "I believe if at first you don’t succeed, so what?” He also uses his story to show writers how we must be ready to change our course if we want to succeed.

So here’s the thing. Once you’ve hopped on the wagon to success like Hanson suggests, Terry Whalin tells you how to steer it, how to keep  it in repair, even how to put it in the race. You’ll learn how

·        to plan,

·        how to get experience,

·         how to strengthen your story,

·        how to build your platform,

·         why you should get an agent

·        and how to get a good one. 

Even better. Whalin provides resources to help you along the way. Both in this book and to reliable sites online including his own helpful blogs and Web site. It sort of doubles the bang for the buck...er, book.

And here’s the real beauty of this book. It is based on Whalin’s real life experience in the publishing industry. We should not take lightly the advice offered by someone who knows, rather than someone who has merely researched, stirred, and served up the same old, same old hash.

Carolyn Howard-Johnson an author who has published every which way—from self-publishing to traditional. And in many genres—from poetry to nonfiction including the multi award-winning Frugal Book Promoter. She has taught for nearly a decade at UCLA Extension renowned Writers’ Program and was named Woman of the Year in Arts and Entertainment by members of the California Legislature.  She reviews books on writers' craft and marketing.
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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor. As a courtesy to the author, please tweet and retweet this post using this little green retweet widget :

Sunday, 9 September 2012

Book for Writers Does Online Tour

7 Easy Steps to Write Your Book
Subtitle: How to Get Your Book Out of Your Head and a Manuscript in Your Hands
By Ann McIndoo 


Synopsis:
7 Easy Steps to Write Your Book' teaches you how to write your book using examples and exercises. Totally interactive, the reader participates in learning how to prepare to write, creates a writer's Identity and their own powerful Writer's Power Tools. The book offers solutions for procrastination and strategies for dealing with "writer's block." The reader learns how to "Schedule Your Success" and get the book out of their head on to the paper.

Reviewed by Brenda Schinke, originally for Amazon


I recommend to all my clients who are wanting to write their book. Ann's makes writing your book fun and simple. If you think writing a book takes years, Ann's book is a must. Her easy process makes writing enjoyable. This is a must for every author to be and for those authors that took years to write their first book."

If you click the link to her book below, please "Like" Ann's book on Amazon. 7 Easy Steps to Write Your Book: How to Get Your Book Out of Your Head and a Manuscript In Your Hands! (Paperback)

 

Submitted by
Denise Cassino
http://www.bestsellerservices.com/
"Make your book an Amazon #1 Bestseller"
Publicist & Book Marketing Specialist
303 838 3399
skype: denise.cassino
www.BestsellerServices.com
www.mybestsellerlaunch.com
http://www.facebook.com/denise.cassinohttp://www.twitter.com/denisecassino

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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor. As a courtesy to the author, please tweet and retweet this post using this little green retweet widget :

Friday, 7 September 2012

Fictional Collection of Inspirational Archaic Quotes Published




 

Title: Vertical Algebra

Author: Mansu Edwards/Crater Rock Alien

Website: www.thedisappearanceofhate.wordpress.com (Currently working on a new one)


Genre: Sci Fi/Personal Development

ISBN: ISBN- 13: 978-0-9828699-4-9 ISBN- 10: 0982869940, ISBN- 13: 978-0-9828699-5-6 ISBN- 10: 0982869959


Title: Vertical Algebra
Author: Mansu Edwards
Genre: Sci Fi/Personal Development
ISBN: ISBN- 13: 978-0-9828699-4-9
ISBN- 10: 0982869940
Soon available for Kindle



 
Synopsis: A fictional collection of inspirational archaic quotes by late Black Englishman, Sir Kedcuv Rhineclavu IV from England. His words champion a positive mindset in overcoming mediocre thoughts and negative people. Rhineclavu's words are translated into Modern English and Extraterrestrial language by Mansu Edwards and The Crater Rock Alien from Mars.
 

BIOGRAPHY

Mansu Edwards is an Inspirationalist from Brooklyn, NY. He's self published two paperbook books, “The Disappearance Of Hate” and “Mental Diet”. “The Disappearance Of Hate” took readers on a poetic journey of negativity to a positive state of mind and action. “Mental Diet” was an inspirational cookbook of fictional recipes which encouraged and motivated people to achieve a higher standard of living. In August 2012, he released a Sci-Fi/Personal Development ebook entitled “Vertical Algebra”. It consists of inspirational success quotes from a Black Englishmen named Sir Kedcuv Rhineclavu IV, translated in Modern English by Mansu Edwards and into Extraterrestrial language by South East Crater Rock Alien from Mars. It's an innovative approach to conquering people's fears and insecurities. However, Mansu Edwards has entertained audiences with his literary talents at various venues in New York City such as the Harlem L Lounge, Alphabet Lounge, Nuyorican Poets Cafe’s “Night Of The Living Poet”, "Five Spot Soul Food Restaurant & Café “Sneak Preview Mini Promo Concert” and Sweet Grapes Winebar.
 
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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor. As a courtesy to the author, please tweet and retweet this post using this little green retweet widget :

Thursday, 6 September 2012

HEADACHE: The Hair-Raising Sequel to BELLYACHE
By Crystal Marco
http://www.CrystalMarcos.com
Genre: Children’s Book
ISBN: 978-0984389919
http://readersfavorite.com/review/6690

 


Book Review

Reviewed by Joy H. for Readers Favorite!

“HEADACHE” by Crystal Marcos continues the whimsical adventures of Peter and Lina and the Candonite people that she introduced in her first book “Bellyache”. Peter and Lina were hoping to never see the villain again, but unfortunately he shows up, and this time in their own hometown. Goaltan’s main goal was to destroy all of the candy stores around, including the one owned by Peter’s papa. And Goaltan is willing to go to the extremes to get what he wants! But Peter and Lina are not alone either. They are both surprised to see their new Candonite friends from Maple Town show up to help in the fight to save the town’s sweet shops from Goaltan and his horrible Peblars.


Candonite people? Never heard of them? Me either, until I read this book. Candonite people are those little people made out of candy, but then are they real people too? Crystal Marcos creates a wonderful cast of unique, exceptional characters that tell the story of “Headache” so very well. I didn’t read the first book, but this one kept me hopping! With all of the twists and turns, I had to keep reading to see what would happen next with these fun kids. I love the idea of “Candy Kids!” It makes for such a sweet story! I highly recommend this wonderfully well-written book. It is a tale that will keep you smiling well after you finish its pages. And a wonderful read for your child around eight and over, because I think it is a bit too long for younger age children to read. I think you will be very happy you purchased this exciting children’s book.


Author Biography

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Crystal Marcos has been a storyteller her entire life. Being the oldest of five children, she had a lot of entertaining to do. She is a member of SCBWI. Crystal lives on the Kitsap Peninsula in Washington State with her husband and their daughter, Kaylee. BELLYACHE: A Delicious Tale is her first book in her children's book series.

BELLYACHE was nominated for the 2010 CYBILS Awards and a winner of 2011 READERS FAVORITE Silver Award.

Visit her at www.CrystalMarcos.com

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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor. As a courtesy to the author, please tweet and retweet this post using this little green retweet widget :

Wednesday, 5 September 2012

Jersey Girl Reviews Goose Pimple Junction

Title: Murder & Mayhem In Goose Pimple Junction
Author: Amy Metz
Author's Web site link: http://amymetz.com/
Genre: Southern Mystery (cozy)
ISBN-13: 978-0985138875
Publisher: Iconic Publishing
 
Reviewed by Kathleen Anderson Originally for Jersey Girl Book Reviews



When Tess Tremaine, recently divorced and looking to start over in a new town, settles into Goose Pimple Junction, she has no idea what she's in for! Meeting the townsfolk, learning "southern speak" and "goosepimpleisms," working in a bookstore, and an attraction to local celebrity Jackson Wright is enough to keep her busy ... or is it?

A 1935 bank robbery leads to the 1937 unsolved murder of witness John Hobbs. Seventy-five years later, Tess is living in John's old house, and while renovating the house, she finds an old key and decides to look into the unsolved murder mystery case. But someone doesn't want the past to be stirred up ... with Tess and Jack investigating ... murder, mayhem and a little bit of southern romance is sure to follow!

Murder & Mayhem in Goose Pimple Junction is an entertaining whodunit story with a southern twist! The author weaves an intriguing southern cozy murder mystery tale told in the third person narrative that immediately draws the reader in with its quirky humor and fast-paced action that has enough twists and turns that will leave your head spinning! Rich in detail and vivid descriptions, the story takes place in Goose Pimple Junction, Tennessee, a picturesque southern town with a lot of heart and charm. The description of the town and surrounding area was wonderful, there's nothing better than down home country charm and living. I loved how the author weaved the two time periods, the 1930s murder mystery and the present day, into a suspenseful and riveting story. This laugh-out-loud mystery story will keep you in stitches as you turn the pages following along with the townsfolks' southern charm, quirky "goosepimpleisms," and the drama and mayhem that follows Tess and Jack on their quest to solve the old murder case.

The author has created a cast of characters that are quirky and lovable, their southern charm, crazy antics and hysterical dialogue will keep you in stitches. The reader is transported to lovely southern town of Goose Pimple Junction, Tennessee, where the friendly townsfolk welcome you with open arms and sweet tea! I really enjoyed all of the characters, but my favorites were Tess, Jack, Lou and Pickle. I loved how the author balanced the murder mystery with romance, while the drama and suspense kept me guessing, it was Tess and Jack's lighthearted romance that kept me smiling.

Murder & Mayhem in Goose Pimple Junction is a riveting southern cozy murder mystery that will engage you to join in the investigation of the decades old murder mystery, while providing you with a dose of good ol' southern charm and humor. So pull up a rocking chair and set down for a spell with some sweet tea while the townsfolk of Goose Pimple Junction tell y'all their story!
 
 
----- The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor. As a courtesy to the author, please tweet and retweet this post using this little green retweet widget :

Tuesday, 4 September 2012

p.m. terrell's Newest Suspense Novel Reviewed

Vicki's Key
By p.m.terrel
Author's Web Site: www.pmterrell.com
Genre: Suspense
ISBN 978-1-935970-03-3

 

Reviewed by Amy Lignor, author of Tallent & Lowery, originally for Suspense Magazine


Terrell has certainly proven that she knows the ingredients to creating a mystery that's filled to the brim with seduction and intensity. And, if possible, she's getting better with each and every novel she creates.

Vicki Boyd is the most capable woman working for her boss, Sam, at the CIA. In fact, she has a gift that no other agent will ever know. She can, quite literally, fly inside her own mind to places never before seen to uncover everything from drug schemes to political plots. She can find these locales like the best GPS on the planet, and provide latitudes, longitudes, even speak about the clothing of the people who live there. Unfortunately, her gift brings her to witness a terrible crime and she leaves the CIA in order to achieve a stress-free life.

Taking a job as an assistant to an elderly woman who spends her time breeding tropical fish, Vicki finds herself in a brand new location--a quiet one, but one that will turn out even more frightening than her last CIA mission.

Upon arrival at the Maguire's house, she finds that her new employer has had a stroke and is confined to her bedroom. She meets her nephew, Dylan, and is charmed by his Irish accent. Dylan, with the help of the slightly angry housekeeper, shows Vicki around, but the woman who hired her remains a mystery.

When her CIA boss suddenly arrives back in her life and on the Maguire's porch, Vicki finds herself dragged into yet another perilous journey in her own mind, stumbling across the fact that she's stuck in a truly frightening situation with no way out.

Parts of this story will make the reader feel as if they are the ones walking up that flight of stairs leading to Mrs. Bates' door in Psycho. The obsessive romance, the dark recesses of Vicki's mind, and the trouble that's been brewing in the Black Swamp area will come to life in rapid succession, forming a truly riveting read!

~Author p.m.terrell is the award-winning, internationally acclaimed author of more than fourteen books. She is also the co-founder of The Book 'Em Foundation whose slogan is Buy a Book and Stop a Crook and the co-chair for Book 'Em North Carolina, an annual event that raises awareness of the link that exists between high crime rates and high illiteracy rates. More about Book 'Em's next event can be found at www.bookemnc.net. Learn more about p.m.terrell at www.pmterrell.com.

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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor. As a courtesy to the author, please tweet and retweet this post using this little green retweet widget :

Monday, 3 September 2012

Amazon Top Ten Reviewer Gives Book a Great Shoutout!


Title - Return to the Aegean
Author - E.J. Russell
Literary Fiction – mystery/romance
ISBN-10: 1467935255
ISBN-13: 978-1467935258
Available as Kindle


Reviewed by Eleni Ergina, a top 100 reviewer for Amazon.UK
5.0 out of 5 stars GREAT !!! 21 April 2012


Thalia, a successful deep sea diver, travels around the world, trying to escape the ghosts of her past and the tragedy that struck her family thirteen years ago, until finally she decides to return to the Greek island of her childhood, to discover the truth about the loss of her mother and her twin brother. In the Greek island Katafigio, after a long quest, Thalia discovers the truth, but most importantly she discovers herself, finds solace in the love and care of old friends and reclaims something she thought she had lost for ever; the sanctuary of her childhood.

The excellently written book is a story of self discovery as much as it is a mystery. In modern day Greece, Thalia investigates her brother's case, rekindles old relationships and reestablishes her roots in the beautiful island of Cyclades by the fictional name of Katafigio. Throughout the story, brief flashbacks masterfully unfold the history of her family, without interrupting present events. The story is gripping, well paced and wonderfully immerses the reader into Thalia's world.

The characters are very well developed, realistic, and although not always likable, drawn with great insight and humor. However, the greatest quality of this book is the beautiful atmosphere. I cannot praise enough the brilliant use of imagery, the amazing descriptions of Greek nature, and the detailed accounts of the island's customs and everyday life. It is truly a love letter to the island and its people.

I was given a free copy by the author, but that did not influence my opinion in any way.
 


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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor. As a courtesy to the author, please tweet and retweet this post using this little green retweet widget :

Sunday, 2 September 2012

Reviewer Promises Book Will Put Imagination in High Gear

"Fred"    
By Aaron T Knight

ISBN: 13: 978-1463653002
Humor/fantasy
Create Space
Available on Amazon and Kindle

 

Reviewed by Trudi LoPreto originally for Readers Favorites

“Fred” by Aaron Knight will make you smile. It is a funny book. Astro Robo Servant, Inc. has created the perfect six-armed robot that will clean your house, entertain you, cook for you and have a personality that matches your own. The robots cost thousands of dollars but they are designed to suit the wants and desires of each elite customer. These robots are a dream come true – that is until “Fred”. An angry employee has tinkered with “Fred” and programmed him to be antisocial and very shrewd. Sam Bass, aka SB, the founder of Astro Robo, is furious when he discovers that “Fred” is loose somewhere in New York City. SB sends Stanley, his not too favorite son-in-law/unsuccessful salesman to locate and unprogram the rebellious robot. Stanley’s wife, John and some Russian programmers also join in the escapades of locating “Fred”. The adventure that ensues will make you cheer on ‘Poor Stanley’ and laugh at ‘Crazy Fred’. Fred manages to escape each time his capture is near by disguising himself in costumes of Groucho Marx, an old-time gangster and Santa Claus that he has cleverly stolen.

Aaron Knight will put your imagination into high gear with this book. “Fred” offers the reader humor, romance, suspense and a lot of originality. “Fred” is a great book for all ages and all who enjoy a very funny look into the future world of living with robots. I really enjoyed reading this book and was sorry to turn the last page. It is a winner.

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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor. As a courtesy to the author, please tweet and retweet this post using this little green retweet widget :

Saturday, 1 September 2012

Reviewer Calls "Seismic Influences" Great Read

Novel Title: Seismic InfluencesAuthor: Priscilla Audette
Author website: http://www.priscillaaudette.com
Genre: Literary Fiction
ISBN: 147520180X

 

Reviewed by Dakota Jean originally for Amazon 

 
Be prepared to not be able to put this book down. It started as if it was a murder mystery, but it is way more than that. Joy finds a body, but the story is really about her transformation from a clueless 19-year-old college drop-out waitress to someone who has experienced life on many levels. I found myself thinking more about philosophy of life after reading this novel, than after reading non-fiction books written for that purpose. Along the way, there was humor, lots of sex and romance, and a cast of characters that you both loved and despised (some at the same time). The writing is smooth--and sassy! As a retired librarian, it almost makes me want to go to work again so I can recommend this to library readers.

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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor. As a courtesy to the author, please tweet and retweet this post using this little green retweet widget :

Friday, 31 August 2012

Military Writers Society of America Reviews Angel of Bataan

Title: Marcia Gates: Angel of Bataan
Author: Melissa Bowersock
Web: www.newmoonrising.net
Genre: non-fiction, biography, historical
ISBN: 1460973194
Book Trailer:   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ym4AmLynvfo&feature=g-upl

Reviewed by Edward Kelly for Military Writers Society of America's Dispatches E-Zine


Author's SummaryMarcia Gates was an Army nurse and prisoner of war during WWll. As an "Angel of Bataan," she spent three years in a Japanese internment camp in the Philippines. This is her story, told through her letters and the newspaper clippings, photos and letters collected by her mother. Melissa Bowersock is the niece of Marcia Gates.


MWSA ReviewThis is the true story of a nurse, Marcia Gates, during World War II and her experiences during the battle of Bataan and three years as a prisoner of war. But it is more than that because this story also relates how the families at home were feeling- frustrated and concerned about their lack of information about Marcia and her safety.

This book is easy to read and many will find it difficult to put down as one wants to know- does Marcia make it home? The format is also augmented by actual letters written by Marcia, other nurses and from family members to Marcia. It may be difficult for some who are so used to the modern e-mail system to even imagine the problems of letters not arriving home for months and how that effected the family who used every resource they could to get any information they could of their daughter. The author uses these letters to carefully weave a true account of what was happening on both sides of the world.

I found the story excited, surprised by some of the descriptions of conditions and wondered why I hadn’t heard this story before. The author has brought out one of the untold stories of World War II- about a nurse. I believe this book will have wide appeal to many audiences including: medical personnel, historians, veterans and anyone interested in good story with a happening ending.


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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor. As a courtesy to the author, please tweet and retweet this post using this little green retweet widget :

Thursday, 30 August 2012

Literary Lady Reviews YA Fiction by Book 'Em Pariticpant

 


Title: The Cadence of Gypsies
Author: Barbara Casey
Website Link: www.barbaracaseyagency.com 
Genre: Young Adult Fiction
ISBN-10: 0982081286; ISBN-13: 978-0982081280
Review published: Amazon.com
Review Rating: 5 stars
Publisher: Gauthier Publications

 Reviewed by Literary Lady Patricia Daly-Lipe, www.literarylady.com

The Cadence of Gypsies was written for young adults. However, this old adult loved it. To me, the book has rhyme and cadence like a song being interwoven, its parts coming from seemingly unintended attributes. Yes, a Deceptive cadence which does not resolve itself until the end. Or perhaps the analogy would be Scrabble. Author Barbara Casey has truly fitted parts in a way that challenge the reader. Plus she uses her writing skill to entice and elicit inquiry and research. "Why?" you question as you hurry to turn the page only to be presented with another "Why?" Little by little, the parts fit. The diagram takes shape. While all the intrigue is going on, the reader is loving (or loathing) the characters, sympathizing, recognizing, or qualifying each person as he and she is presented.


To the delight of this reader, in addition to the construction, this wonderful book incorporates places, names and facts. The Voynich Manuscript is real. The famous vineyards and territory of Frascati and the historic Villa Mondragone are beautifully and well depicted. The story evolves while being nourished by historical and relevant data including musical, mathematical, and artistic references thanks to the three FIGS (females of intellectual genius).

Yes, The Cadence of Gypsies is a book to share with all members of the family and one to add to the Classics in our libraries. Thank you, Barbara Casey.


More about BARBARA CASEY

Barbara Casey is the author of eight award-winning novels, written for both adults and young adults, and numerous articles, poems, and short stories. In addition to her own writing, she is an editorial consultant and president of the Barbara Casey Literary Agency which she established in 1995. She makes frequent guest appearances at universities and writers’ conferences across the country, and will be guest speaker at Book’Em NC in February 2013 held in Lumberton, North Carolina. Barbara lives on a mountain in Georgia with her husband and Benton, a hound-mix who adopted her.
 
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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor. As a courtesy to the author, please tweet and retweet this post using this little green retweet widget :

Wednesday, 29 August 2012

Horror Novel Gets Great Kirkus Comment

Title: One Blood
Author: Qwantu Amaru
Author's website: http://www.qwantuamaru.com
Genre: Horror
ISBN: 978-0982719367
Rating: Kirkus Star: A novel of remarkable merit

One BloodKirkus Book review calls One Blood, "A novel of remarkable merit that blazes trails, plotted at breakneck speed that won't let up."

Learn more about the author:
Qwantu Amaru
Author of the Award-WInning Supernatural Thriller, One Blood
On Sale NOW Everywhere books are sold
www.qwantuamaru.com
www.facebook.com/onebloodbook
www.facebook.com/qwantuspeaks
www.pantheoncollective.com

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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor. As a courtesy to the author, please tweet and retweet this post using this little green retweet widget :

Thursday, 23 August 2012

Award-Winning Novelist Reviews Book Aimed at Emigrants and Foreigners

What Foreigners Need To Know About America From A To Z
Subtitle: How to Understand Crazy American Culture, People, Government, Business, Language and More
By Lance Johnson
Author's Web Site
Amazon  Paperback: http://Amzn.to/ForeignersAmericaUS
 
 
Reviewed by Leora Skolkin Smith originally for Amazon

As the daughter of a foreign-born mother who had to struggle to assimilate into American culture, reading Lance Johnson's book was an occasion for me to rejoice. Literate but accessible and undidactic, it defines American icons and expressions while providing brass tacks definitions and down-to-earth suggestions.

It's sometimes hard for Americans to realize that our culture needs to be demystified and made available to others without stress and/or giving them a feeling of remaining a perpetual outsider. Lance Johnson invites everyone to enjoy and penetrate some of the unique American mysteries we take for granted. A spectacular, important book and a toolbox full of relevant resources for all.

 
About the Reviewer:
Leora Skolkin-Smith’s first published novel, EDGES was edited and published by the late Grace Paley for Ms. Paley's own imprint at Glad Day books. EDGES was nominated for the 2006 PEN/Faulkner Award by Grace Paley. Recently, her novels were selected by Princeton University as part of a series on women writers whose background is from the Middle East and whose work is personal, reflecting the current diaspora. The Princeton Series in funded by The National Endowment of the Humanities and called: "The Fertile Crescent Moon Series."

THE FRAGILE MISTRESS, a feature film based on EDGES, is currently in pre-production, scheduled to begin shooting on location in Jerusalem, Jordan, and New York, produced by Triboro Pictures, directed by Michael Gunther. http://www.thefragilemistress.com  

Articles by Leora Skolkin-Smith have appeared in The Washington Post, Psychology Today, The National Book Critic’s Circle, “Critical Mass”, “Readysteadybook.com”, the Quarterly Review and others. Learn more about her at http://leoraskolkinsmith.com


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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor. As a courtesy to the author, please tweet and retweet this post using this little green retweet widget :