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Showing posts with label horror. Show all posts
Showing posts with label horror. Show all posts

Monday, September 2, 2013

Review: Goodbye Nothing by Beck Sherman


Title: Goodbye Nothing
Series: No
Author: Beck Sherman
Published: TBA
Format: Ebook provided for review

Since the night of the accident, Cain Emmerick has felt different. Empty. What was important to him—family, friends, his job—doesn't matter anymore. His new life revolves around that Nothing inside of him and the extraordinary highs he gets from committing random acts of violence.

Seventeen-year-old Joey Morgan is blind, but that doesn't stop her from seeing. Something bad is about to happen. Something that could tear her world apart. For Joey, college life isn't quite turning out like she planned, because before good grades, fitting in, and love, comes survival.



I’d read Beck Sherman before, and I thought there was something special there. Now I know for sure. Are you a horror fan? I am. And Goodbye Nothing is a spectacular and horrifying treat. Seriously, Stephen King better look out – it’s that good.



Goodbye Nothing is about Cain. Cain is a good guy with a good family and a good job. Cain has a good life, by all counts. You get a small glimpse of that - just enough to foreshadow the positively evil that’s about to take over. Cain gets into an accident and everything changes. EVERYTHING. And then “holy-fuck-oh-no-he-didn’t!!!” happens and your brain is thrown into a tailspin as you try to grasp and come to terms with what happens right out of the gate.

“Hello Nothing. Let’s make plans.”

This book is eerie, creepy, and crazy. Beck Sherman went all out and gave us actual horror!! This isn’t sexy time mixed with some sexy-scary villain, wrapped up in a nice bow. Nope, it’s actual OMG horror. Goodbye Nothing made my skin crawl, it made me uncomfortable, it even made me think I wouldn’t be able to finish at one point. There was gore galore; blood and guts and rot – and the villain, Cain, enjoyed it. It was bloody fantastic to get lost in it.

Ok, so about the book? Cain changes. He’s filled with the Nothing. So nothing matters to him, and Nothing seemingly protects him. He can do whatever the piss he wants, and no one says a word. In fact, it’s like people are blind to it. And then Cain comes in contact with the man who hit him that fateful night, and he realizes life is about to change again. Cain transforms from a hunter into a hunter on a timeclock.

But while we are going along with Cain, we also get to meet a young lady named Joey. Joey is blind, but she is just the sweetest thing. You want to like her; you want her to be happy. She’s got a best friend, Ren, who I just fell in love with. He was just a wonderful guy and such a great friend. But everything with Joey was just a bit…off. Joey is like the calm before the storm, and you wonder if she is going to survive the hurricane coming.

Zombies and vampires don’t scare me (yet). What does scare me, and scares the life out of me, are actual people who kill for sport and for fun. The things that could actually happen in real life, right in front of you, scare me. This book touched on some things I normally stay away from in books. But I kept reading because I just enjoyed the author’s writing style so much. And I am so glad I stuck with it. What I got in return was a whirlwind of a story filled with so many things I was just in awe. Cain is a smart ass sociopath. He is evil (or is he just the absence of all evil and good…Nothing) And he is like something sparkly that I just want to grab and turn round and round until I see every facet.

“The athame has a dull edge because it’s for ceremonial use only. Sir, may I suggest you go home and rest. Rethink your plans.”

“By the way, have you heard what they say?”

“What?”

“Have you heard what they say?”

“I don’t know. What?”

“There’s no rest for the wicked!” Cain stuck out his tongue and shook his head.

He grabbed the athame, jumped on top of the counter, and drove the blade through the saleswoman’s right cheek, veering it upward at the last second.

This book is brutal. It’s not for everyone. You have to really enjoy authors like Stephen King and Dean Koontz. But if you like horror, I promise you will like Goodbye Nothing. All of the characters are so colorful and varied. You get to meet a few people in this book, and they are all written beautifully. I really felt like they were right there in front of me. The whole concept of the book is great too. The Nothing is something that is a character in itself. There is some snark and even some dark comedic moments. But the shining star is Cain, and the insane look you get to see into Nothing.

Goodbye Nothing isn't on Amazon YET.  As soon as it is, I will update this review.  Until then, here is Beck's page on Amazon

Find Beck Sherman Online

Previous Posts On Fictional Candy


Goodbye Nothing
Fictional Candy

Review: Goodbye Nothing by Beck Sherman


Title: Goodbye Nothing
Series: No
Author: Beck Sherman
Published: TBA
Format: Ebook provided for review

Since the night of the accident, Cain Emmerick has felt different. Empty. What was important to him—family, friends, his job—doesn't matter anymore. His new life revolves around that Nothing inside of him and the extraordinary highs he gets from committing random acts of violence.

Seventeen-year-old Joey Morgan is blind, but that doesn't stop her from seeing. Something bad is about to happen. Something that could tear her world apart. For Joey, college life isn't quite turning out like she planned, because before good grades, fitting in, and love, comes survival.



I’d read Beck Sherman before, and I thought there was something special there. Now I know for sure. Are you a horror fan? I am. And Goodbye Nothing is a spectacular and horrifying treat. Seriously, Stephen King better look out – it’s that good.

Sunday, October 21, 2012

Review/Giveaway: Locked SV Richard


Title: Locked
Author: SV Richard
Published: 2012, Wild Child Publishing
Format: Ebook provided for review

Tristan’s old home old home is not what it appears, and her friends have no idea what this visit will turn into. When the room Tristan’s mother always kept locked is opened, chaos breaks loose. One by one, they are locked away.

Will anyone survive?






This story starts out every bit the classic horror movie.  Four friends, deserted road that leads to a deserted house.  It was terrific, and I only felt like I should turn out the lights and grab some popcorn to enjoy the ride.  But I don’t have a Kindle Paper White, so that is not an option! (haha!)

Tristan, Jen, Wes, and Todd are going to Tristan’s old home because she needs to locate the deed to the property.  She has inherited the home, but can’t take full possession until she has the necessary paperwork.  Unfortunately for them, they can’t find it anywhere.

Then things quickly take a wrong turn.

Someone gets locked in a small space, the door to the outside world won’t budge.  And that is only the beginning.  There is definitely some fear inducing, pulse pounding moments in this story.  I started to rethink my decision about reading this book at night time.  But I kept on for you guys, my readers!  Yep, so if I need some therapy later, just remember, “That Liz sure is dedicated to her blog!”

I had relatively few complaints about this book.  There is some seriously eerie stuff that happens.  But, and this is with any horror story, I wanted to scream, “Why are you doing that?!?!” You know how it goes, the scantily clad coed runs inside the haunted house rather than staying out in the open.  Well, there were no scantily clad coeds in this book, but the first rule of horror is “Stay Together”.  Ok, maybe that’s not what Jamie Kennedy (from Scream fame) would say, but I think it’s a pretty damn good rule.   One that no one ever listens to!  In any case, this book was scary!  It is the perfect Halloween treat!

This book did leave me with some unanswered questions, but that’s the beauty of true horror.  You don’t always get the answer.  Afterall, you have to leave room for the sequel. (Pretend there is eerie closing music here, people!)





BUY LINKS:


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

After studying special education in graduate school, S. V. Richard became interested in writing for children and adults. She has published over 27 ebooks for children and teachers. LOCKED is her first young adult ebook. LOCKED was originally written as a low budget screenplay with four characters and one location, but it found a home as a short story through Wild Child Publishing. LOCKED II is coming soon and will pick up where LOCKED left off.

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Review/Giveaway: Locked SV Richard


Title: Locked
Author: SV Richard
Published: 2012, Wild Child Publishing
Format: Ebook provided for review

Tristan’s old home old home is not what it appears, and her friends have no idea what this visit will turn into. When the room Tristan’s mother always kept locked is opened, chaos breaks loose. One by one, they are locked away.

Will anyone survive?






This story starts out every bit the classic horror movie.  Four friends, deserted road that leads to a deserted house.  It was terrific, and I only felt like I should turn out the lights and grab some popcorn to enjoy the ride.  But I don’t have a Kindle Paper White, so that is not an option! (haha!)

Tristan, Jen, Wes, and Todd are going to Tristan’s old home because she needs to locate the deed to the property.  She has inherited the home, but can’t take full possession until she has the necessary paperwork.  Unfortunately for them, they can’t find it anywhere.

Then things quickly take a wrong turn.

Someone gets locked in a small space, the door to the outside world won’t budge.  And that is only the beginning.  There is definitely some fear inducing, pulse pounding moments in this story.  I started to rethink my decision about reading this book at night time.  But I kept on for you guys, my readers!  Yep, so if I need some therapy later, just remember, “That Liz sure is dedicated to her blog!”

I had relatively few complaints about this book.  There is some seriously eerie stuff that happens.  But, and this is with any horror story, I wanted to scream, “Why are you doing that?!?!” You know how it goes, the scantily clad coed runs inside the haunted house rather than staying out in the open.  Well, there were no scantily clad coeds in this book, but the first rule of horror is “Stay Together”.  Ok, maybe that’s not what Jamie Kennedy (from Scream fame) would say, but I think it’s a pretty damn good rule.   One that no one ever listens to!  In any case, this book was scary!  It is the perfect Halloween treat!

This book did leave me with some unanswered questions, but that’s the beauty of true horror.  You don’t always get the answer.  Afterall, you have to leave room for the sequel. (Pretend there is eerie closing music here, people!)





BUY LINKS:


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

After studying special education in graduate school, S. V. Richard became interested in writing for children and adults. She has published over 27 ebooks for children and teachers. LOCKED is her first young adult ebook. LOCKED was originally written as a low budget screenplay with four characters and one location, but it found a home as a short story through Wild Child Publishing. LOCKED II is coming soon and will pick up where LOCKED left off.

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Sunday, July 15, 2012

Review: Hellbound by Su Halfwerk


One-way ticket to Hell. 


Bart is a greedy morgue attendant with money on his mind. He gets more than what he bargains for when he chances upon a pain-letter, one he must pass on or bear the consequences of his inaction. 


Stan is a chiseler, a fake medium, preying on his unsuspecting clients’ earnings through bogus channeling sessions. When he meets mysterious Joanna Stark, he believes her promises of powers beyond his comprehension, powers blessed by the Netherworld. 


Jenna gives up her old life and career to settle down as Troy’s loving wife. He is a God-fearing man who will consent only to marriage. Except fate maps a different ending to their love story, a conclusion that takes them both down and never up again. 


Bart, Stan, and Jenna are destined to go on a long and abominable journey that sinks them below their expectations and forces them to endure pain and anguish beyond their worst nightmares. 


On the paths leading to the depths of Hell, their sins don’t matter!

Title: Hellbound
Author: Su Halfwerk
Published: 2012 Double Dragon Publishing
Format: Ebook provided by author for review

Su starts this story with a preface, a letter to the reader about how this book started.  I really loved it, a little glimpse into her mind.  So if you check out this book, be sure not to skip over that part!

Hellbound is a collection of three stories.  They are definitely creepy, gory, and all things wonderful that go bump in the night.  Or in the dead of day, you can take your pick.  Either way, I flew through this book.  Some of it was very grotesque and scary.  Su really has a way with words that makes you want to be in a certain place, and not want to be there at all, all at the same time! 

In The Deadening Bart works in the morgue, and he has a bit of a sticky finger problem.  Well now that problem has come to bite him in the end.  Martin Robinson comes in.  Apparent suicide via train, or at least that’s what the papers will read.  It doesn’t matter that Martin is mangled and bloody, Bart decides that stealing from him is a good idea.

Oh, you poor fool, Bart.  What he stole is not actually money, but a pain-letter.  Sort of like a chain-letter, but a million times worse.   I really loved this twist.  I’ve received a few chain letters in my time, and thankfully none of this promised the things that this pain-letter promised – because I didn’t forward them on! 

Su Halfwerk’s style of horror is excellent, you will definitely get your creep-meter filled in this story!

Next was The Substitute.  I think this story was definitely my favorite of the three.  Stan is an egomaniac type of guy, and he’s just passed out in a stalled elevator on his way up to his office where is channels ghosts for the people who feel they need to continue communication with the dearly departed.  Except for one thing, Stan is a total freaking fraud.  And he has no qualms about who he charges for his bogus services.  I hate to say it, but I kind of feel like he got what was coming to him in this story!  Karma is a bitch, and well, when you meet the Big Bad guy from Downstairs, you’d better not cross him.

Joanne is a ghost who has presented Stan with an offer he can’t refuse… mostly because she is making his life a living hell in order to force his decision.  It works, and then the real nightmare begins.   This story definitely has some shock value in it.  But you may think twice about finding yourself naked in the woods at night, summoning who knows what from who knows where after you read this story! 

Lastly, we have Scorned.  They say Hell hath no fury, and they were right.  Troy gallantly rescues a woman from some nasty fellas.  And then the girl, Jenna, rescues him right back.  It’s like a dream come true from a nightmare of reality.   They end up dating, and marrying, and life is just peachy keen.  Well, until its not.  Then its absolutely horrid. 

Troy turns into a major jerk, and that is the nicest way I can put it.  He becomes abusive and just a terrible human being.  Jenna could deal with that, she’s not exactly a stranger to the darker things in life.  But when Troy decides to flaunt his infidelity in her face, well… Troy isn’t going to have the type of life he had always dreamt of after that.  When Lilith (yes, the Lilith) gets involved, you know a fun time is about to be had.  Haha, at least for Lilith and Jenna!

This story had a great vengeance theme throughout, and any woman who has been scorned (ahem…) will probably take a bit of pleasure in this one.  Maybe that’s wrong of me?  Nah!!!!  The story was fantastic!

If you like some gruesome horror, you should definitely check this out.  The cover (shown giant here because it is so beautiful!) will draw you in, but Su’s writing will definitely keep you coming back for more!




Buy Links

Previous Reviews of Su's work

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Thursday, June 21, 2012

Review/Interview/Giveaway - Fairy Tail by Andrew P Weston


Title: Fairy TailAuthor: Andrew P WestonPublished: April 13th 2012 by Ruby Lioness PressFormat: Ebook provided by Sizzling PR for review

For the third year running, a ritualistic serial killer has struck again in the week leading up to Halloween, leaving a gruesome and bloody trail in his wake.

It’s the same every year. One murder every day, until his quotient of seven has been reached. Butchery doesn’t begin to describe what happens to those who he gets his hands on. Then the killer vanishes – only to return twelve months later as merciless as ever.


When he does resurface, he appears to strike randomly and at will. It cannot be established exactly how the killer selects his victims, or why. As such, the detective leading the case is no closer to discovering the identity of the ruthless predator than he was when the slayings began.

It’s only when the detective gets an unexpected break that things get interesting… 



I’ll make this a quick review since we have an interview to feature along with it and this story is about 20 pages, give or take. 

First let me start with this story was fantastic!  Written in first person point of view, we get the view of The Detective.  He has been working on this serial killer case; every year seven very gruesome murders pop up from the same murderer.  But then they stop just like that and the trail goes cold.  That aspect alone was very exciting.  But if you are a horror lover, you will definitely get that factor from the blood, guts and gore.  Because this serial killer definitely makes a bit of a mess.

The Detective again has no leads.  Then someone shows up at his house, and she is definitely not everything she appears to be.   The Detective and Arielle definitely have an erotic and sexual encounter.  So if you enjoy dark erotica, I think this story would be a perfect fit for you.  They have a wild night that results in multiple orgasms for the both of them.  What more can you ask for when a pretty girl shows up in your livingroom after a horrible day at work?

Like I said, this is a very quick read, so I won’t give any more away about it.  But I definitely think you should read it! I really loved its unique and dark nature, and the definite spin on a serial killer!


***INTERVIEW***


Hi Andrew!  Thanks for joining me today on Fictional Candy!

The synopsis for Fairy Tail is pretty thorough.  What can you tell us about this story that isn’t in the synopsis (with no spoilers, of course!)?
All I will say is…
It has a surprising gritty humor running through it that keeps you in touch with reality. Seriously! You can appreciate why the Cop is the way he is and why he reacts the way he does, especially when he discovers details about the murderer that weren’t apparent. Also, read the ending carefully. It might not end the way you imagine! (You’ll see).
  
This story is a bit erotic and a bit horror.  Did you find it difficult to mix the two?
No – not at all! In fact, because it was my first attempt at writing a story with some form of erotic content, I found it easier to present the erotic element with the horror/blunt humor mixed in. I was quite pleased with the way it turned out.
  
Andrew, you were a police officer in the past, not to mention also in the military.  How do you make the change from that type of work into the work of an author?
One of the best pieces of advice I was given when I started writing, was…”write about what you know.” I’ve been blessed with a life that has seen me doing things/surviving things that most people only ever get to watch on the TV or read about in books. So, by incorporating “real life mentality/experiences/know how” into the stories, it helps them stand out and makes the transition from “my previous life into this one” that much easier.
  
I see you have a new release coming later this year, Guardian Angels.  What can you tell us about that?
“Guardian Angels” is the first of a series of books in the “Guardian Series.”  To make it easier and keep it brief, I’ll use the blurb created for them – condensed down – to introduce them:
‘A small boy runs in front of a truck.
Miners trapped in the aftermath of a devastating underground explosion have no hope of escape.
A stricken passenger aircraft plunges thousands of feet towards the earth below.
Everyone survives!
Why?
Because they are among the first in a number of miraculous interventions that heralds to the world that, “Guardian Angels”, blessed with extraordinary powers and incredible technology, actually exist!
While society in general reacts with euphoria, not everyone is pleased!
There are those in power and those within the criminal underworld, who see their presence as a menace and as an anathema to their way of life. They therefore seek to counter the threat they feel these newcomers represent by violent action.
Early confrontations ensue, leaving many hungry for retribution, and…’

You’ll have to read the books to find out what happens!
“Guardian Angels” is a powerful and compelling story about the catalyst that could at last, galvanize society to unite and look towards the future with hope.
Sadly, it also reveals how fragile such a spark of hope could be.
  
Do you have any other projects coming up that you’d like to share?
Yes, I’m particularly excited about a pitch that was accepted by Ruby Lioness Press regarding a new trilogy – The Cambion Journals. I’m nearing completion to the 1st draft of the first book in that series, “The Cambion Journals – The Rage of Augustus”. It describes the life of Augustus Thorne, a human/incubus hybrid – a Cambion – and his quest over the centuries to hunt down the demon that abused his mother and cursed him with a hunger he has to fight to control each and every day of his long, long existence. His fight leads him around the world and into conflict with demon society who are keen to remain hidden among the human populace. Along the way, he discovers secrets about himself and his kind that have been hidden for centuries and this generates a number of hostile confrontations that are not only “steamy” in places, but will leave you…breathless too.
And through it all, Augustus strives for the one thing that has eluded him for over two hundred and fifty years – love!


Ok, this is a tough question.  If you could be any character from any book by any author – Who would it be (and why?) 
I had to think long and hard about this! If I could only choose one, it would be the character of Thomas Covenant from Stephen R Donaldson’s long running saga – “The Chronicles of Thomas Covenant – The Unbeliever.”
Why? Covenant is transported to a mystical, magical land that transforms his sorrowful narrow life a thousand fold, yet, he refuses to believe in it, even though the evidence of its reality shouts to every fiber of his being. They need a champion, fate has blessed him with a talisman of unbeatable wild magic, yet he keeps refusing to help them, allowing their greatest adversary to wreak unimaginable suffering on a beautiful world and its peoples. It’s written in a very clever way, making you constantly want to kick Covenant’s backside so hard, he’d never be able to sit down again. When I read the stories, I often used to think, ‘if that was me, I’d do….’ So yes, I’d jump at an opportunity like that and embrace it for all it was worth.


Andrew, do you have a favorite genre to write in?  And how about reading?
That’s easy. Science Fiction & Fantasy. When writing, it allows you a great deal of flexibility as to the exact nature of its content. It can touch on the supernatural, be action packed, erotic and contain all the elements of the best thrillers imaginable. I mean, look at the way ‘steam punk’ has evolved. That’s why I’ve always loved to read that genre too. A good author will keep it entertaining and fresh.


At the time of this interview, your book tour for Fairy Tail hasn’t started yet.  Nervous?  Excited?  Ready to roll?
Yes, I’m both nervous and excited because Fairy Tail was something of a surprise. I’d already submitted Guardian Angels to Ruby Lioness Press and we have a release date for later on in 2012. I’ve set up a lot of promotional advertising for it and that will soon kick off.
However, I’ve discovered Ruby Lioness Press like to encourage their authors to stretch themselves and develop as writers by dipping their toes into other genres. They suggested I have a go. I thought that was a great idea, so, as an experiment, wrote Fairy Tail (A supernatural erotic thriller). I was absolutely stunned when it was accepted and ended up being released at the end of April. Obviously, happening so quickly, I didn’t have a chance to organize any promotions, tours etc, so am very grateful the book tour will set the ball rolling properly and help readers get to know my distinctive style of writing. I’m really looking forward to seeing the reactions and where it will lead, as I’m keen to discover what “tweaking” I need to do, to keep future projects refreshingly different.


And we will end the interview with this:  If there is one thing you’d like your readers to take from your writing, what would that be?
Gritty realism & Freshness!
I’m a new kid on the block but I’ve seen an awful lot of life. I’ve also read literally thousands upon thousands of books. So, even though I’m new and still learning my craft, when I write – be it fantasy, paranormal, erotic etc – I want readers to taste that touch of “gritty realism”. I want it to remain fresh and entertaining and I promise to always do my best to keep it that way.


Andrew, thank you so much for taking the time for interviewing with me.  I really appreciate it, and I wish you luck on your tour!

Thank you for having me Liz, I look forward to interviewing with you again on another project in the future. 


***BIO***
Andrew P Weston was born in the city of Birmingham, in the UK, and grew up in the towns of Bearwood and Edgebaston, eventually attending Holly Lodge Grammar School for Boys where he was School Captain and Head Boy.
He was an active sportsperson for the school and a number of rugby, swimming, martial art and athletics teams throughout the city.
On graduation in 1977, he became a member of the Royal Marines and served in a number of roles both in the UK and abroad.
ln 1985 he joined the Devon & Cornwall Constabulary, serving as a police officer in a variety of uniformed and plain clothes departments until his retirement in 2008.
Over those years, he wrote and illustrated a number of private books for his children regarding the life of a tiny kitten entitled, "The Adventures of Willy Whiskers", gained further qualifications in Law and Religious Studies, was an active member of Mensa, and continued to be an active sportsman and instructor, providing lessons free of charge to various local communities.
An unfortunate injury received on duty meant Andrew had to retire early, but, after moving to the sunny Greek island of Kos to help speed his recuperation, he was at last able to spend time developing the "Guardian Concept'' he had formulated over his years in the military and police services.
When not writing, Andrew devotes his time to Greek dancing and language lessons, feeding his cats, and can be seen most evenings hunting shadows in the dark. He hasn't managed to catch any yet, but is sure he came close on two occasions.

Buy Links: Amazon




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Wednesday, May 9, 2012

Review, The Darkening Dream by Andy Gavin



Format: Ebook provided by author for review

Even as the modern world pushes the supernatural aside in favor of science and steel, the old ways remain. God, demon, monster, and sorcerer alike plot to regain what was theirs.
1913, Salem, Massachusetts – Sarah Engelmann’s life is full of friends, books, and avoiding the pressure to choose a husband, until an ominous vision and the haunting call of an otherworldly trumpet shake her. When she stumbles across a gruesome corpse, she fears that her vision was more of a premonition. And when she sees the murdered boy moving through the crowd at an amusement park, Sarah is thrust into a dark battle she does not understand.

With the help of Alex, an attractive Greek immigrant who knows a startling amount about the undead, Sarah sets out to uncover the truth. Their quest takes them to the factory mills of Salem, on a midnight boat ride to spy on an eerie coastal lair, and back, unexpectedly, to their own homes. What can Alex’s elderly, vampire-hunting grandfather and Sarah’s own rabbi father tell them? And what do Sarah’s continuing visions reveal?
No less than Gabriel’s Trumpet, the tool that will announce the End of Days, is at stake, and the forces that have banded to recover it include a 900 year-old vampire, a trio of disgruntled Egyptian gods, and a demon-loving Puritan minister. At the center of this swirling cast is Sarah, who must fight a millennia-old battle against unspeakable forces, knowing the ultimate prize might be herself.



When this novel is described as dark, its not kidding. I’m not sure what I was expecting from this author. Knowing his history, I think I expected something a bit less…serious. I’m not sure that “serious” is the world I am looking for, but its close. What I got was something scary and thorough. I’m also pretty sure this book was responsible for some less than savory dreams I had during the nights while reading .

Sarah is a young girl, I think she was aged at about 16 or 17 years old if I am not mistaken. She lives in Salem at a time in the United States when the modern era was just starting to take hold, and yet everyone is still holding on to the past. She is friends with Sam and Anne, twins. And together they all befriend Alex, a boy from Greece. He is different from them, and they don’t even realize how much when they happen upon him one day while going on a picnic. That’s a day that will forever change the course of all of their lives.

This story is mostly told from Sarah’s point of view, although there is quite a bit from Alex’s. I found them both to be intelligent teens, wise beyond their years and likeable as people. The rest of their friends really just paled in comparison. And as for the rest of the characters in this book? There were quite a bit of them, and oh-my-goodness they are a colorful bunch, and quite fascinating. Something good to remember about this book is that not everything is as it appears, because you will definitely be surprised by people here. No one is really what they seem, and the hidden parts are what truly made the story for me, as far as character development is concerned.

Let’s move on to the vampire… This vampire is definitely not at all like the modern vampires we usually read about. Everything about him screams old-styled, horror, and fear. The guy is gruesome, and he doesn’t really hold himself to any moral standards. Some of the things he did throughout this story were a bit gut clenching and some were downright horrific. I didn’t like him at all as a “person”, I felt no affinity to him. He is definitely an evil presence and does not claim to be anything else. As a fictional character he was vibrant and strong, and something to definitely be afraid of.

This story definitely had a lot of religious currents running through it, and many different religions at that. For my own tastes it was a bit much, but I can definitely see how it added to the story. There were a few parts that were a bit slow for me, and a few “false starts” as far as the action was concerned. But the web of all these peoples’ lives is certainly intricate, and I don’t think any of them could have avoided anything that happened to them. There is also several instances of violence, and it was gory. Personally, I wouldn’t recommend this book to young, or very sensitive readers. But it was written very well and kept my interest throughout. Overall I really enjoyed this story. Historical horror is a bit out of my normal reading, but I did like this. Once the secrets start coming out, you will absolutely be glued to the pages. I hope you give this book a try, if you like old-school paranormal and flat-out horror, you will definitely enjoy this. 

* * * *
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Andy Gavin is a serial creative, polymath, novelist, entrepreneur, computer programmer, author, foodie, and video game creator. He co-founded video game developer Naughty Dog and co-created Crash Bandicoot and Jak & Daxter. He started numerous companies, has been lead programmer on video games that have sold more than forty million copies, and has written two novels.




Find Andy Online


Sunday, March 4, 2012

Bird of Prey - Griffin Hayes




Title: Bird Of Prey

Format: Ebook won from Library Thing Giveaway

From Goodreads:
Nestled in the warm belly of the abandoned Keisel Steel Works, an ancient creature has begun to stir. A one-hundred-year cycle is drawing to a rapid close and with it the time when the beast must lead her newly hatched young to the feeding grounds. 

A handful of the oldest folks in town remember that time well. A time when the sky was clotted with flapping, leathery wings and monsters driven mad by the smell of human blood. They also know of the feeding grounds. They know them as the backyards in which their kids play and the streets of the tiny Alaskan town they call home. 

Buck Sanders didn’t know any of this the day he arrived at the steel works to pilfer a length of siding for the roof of his crumbling bar. And neither did his friend Tommy Hodgkins. But they are perhaps the only ones who can stop a curse that has been playing out for centuries. At stake is more than their lives. At stake is everything.

So as the synopsis says, Buck goes to the abandoned steel works to steal some siding to use on his leaky roof.  While there he cuts his hand pretty badly.  The scent of his blood brings about this giant…bird, wait no, moth, wait…man?  Who knows what it is, but it has a wingspan of like, nine feet.  He barely makes it away and gets back into town.

His friend Tommy says they will go back together, along with a couple others.  Allan, Tig, Tommy and Buck armor up and go after this thing.  Little do they know, the monster Buck fought off has a momma.  And she is much much larger.  Think a wingspan more like thirty feet!!

For such a short story there was some really vivid imagery within.  I completely felt like I was right on the outskirts of this little Alaskan town at an abandoned steel factory.  It felt cold and sparse, and quite eerie.  Then the Winter Moth shows its face, and it turns down right scary. 

                “We’re gonna need some help.  And guns, lots of guns.”

This was a great little horror story.  It quickened my pulse and the author really has a great way of explaining and painting the scenery for you.  There is a bit of gore and gross, so be prepared.  However it totally sets the scene for you, and completely lets you know – this is friggin serious!

I surely would recommend this to my friends who were into monster movies, those who liked a touch of horror into their fright.  I look forward to reading more from the author!


Available on Amazon

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

Death's Hand - SM Reine



Title: Death's Hand 
Author: SM Reine


Format: Ebook provided by author for review


From Red Iris Books
Policing relations between Heaven, Hell, and Earth is messy and violent, but Elise Kavanagh and James Faulkner excelled at it-- until coming across a job so brutal that even they couldn't stand to see one more dead body. 

Now they've been pretending to be normal for five years, leaving their horrific history a dark secret. Elise works in an office. James owns a business. None of their friends realize they used to be one of the world's best killing teams. 

After years of hiding, something stirs. Bodies are vanishing. Demons scurry in the shadows of the night. A child has been possessed. 

Some enemies aren't willing to let the secrets of the past stay dead..




This was a fantastic story, first in a series.  I had expected it to be good, and I am so happy that it was even better than I had hoped.

It starts with Elise and James.  The opening scene of the book is a very creepy scene, and it instantly draws you in – you have to find out more.  I’m not going to ruin the surprise of it, but let’s just say that the book definitely starts off on the right foot.  

Then the story jumps back in time for just a short moment, giving you some more history on Elise.
See, Elise is a kopis.  Translated it basically means “sword”, a warrior.  And James, he is her aspis, which translates to “shield”.  They are bound together for life, warriors against the forces of Hell.  And they’ve been together nearly Elise’s entire life.  But now she’s trying to retire, trying to lead a normal life – as normal as she can.  Her last job nearly killed her, and she wants to be done.  But when you are a warrior against the forces of Hell, can you ever really retire?

Elise seems to be a pretty dark person.  She’s a bit pessimistic about normal things, and seemingly just going through some motions.  It’s very understandable given the past.  She is a tough girl though, you definitely get the feeling that she can handle any situation that comes her way.  She’s not just strong, she is tough and smart, cunning.  And a bit of a hot head at times.  Otherwise, the perfect heroine for a book!  James seems to be more of the optimist in this pair – which isn’t a romantic pairing at all.

Which conveniently brings me to a point.  If you are looking for romance, look elsewhere.  This book is very light on the romance.  And it doesn’t need it.  The story works perfectly without it.

This book has zombies, demons, a succubus, witches, necromancers, exorcism… it’s got it all, and it all flows together in a perfect rhythm. 

Jump to the present.  Elise needs to come out of retirement, and she doesn’t want to.  She fights it, but like I said – when you are a warrior against the forces of hell, can you ever really retire?  She takes on the exorcism of a child, a demon who can invade your dreams and make them nightmares, who knows how many fiends, zombie like dead people intent on hurting her, pissed off witches and a demon who *really* has it in for her.  Oh, and she also has to protect her friends and the people she loves while she’s at it. 
Can she do it?  Will she do it? 

I also used this book as my Tuesday Teaser.  Click the link to read a couple sentences about the book. 
Let me know what you thought of this book, I’d love to hear your opinions.  As for me, I can’t wait to read the second installment in the Descent series.

Available for purchase at:

  

Sunday, November 13, 2011

Intricate Entanglement - Su Halfwerk



Title: Intricate Entanglement
Author: Su Halfwerk


Published: March 2011, Damnation Books
Format: Ebook provided by author for review


From Author Website:
Trapped in a lunatic asylum and compelled to listen to the stories of the deranged patients, Doug Pinkham becomes entangled in the twisted mind of a cold-blooded killer. As the reporter tries to get to the bottom of a mysterious murder case, he gets more than he bargained for. He must separate truth from fiction as he realizes he no longer controls his own world. But will Doug manage to escape the asylum, or will the killer's stories lure him into an enigmatic world full of mazes, each so fascinating that he can't stop listening?



This was indeed a very interesting story, a fresh approach at a compilation of stories.  I liked it quite a bit and would definitely recommend this to anyone who wants a quick read with lots to offer via horror, thriller, mystery and dark fiction.

First we come upon Doug Pinkham, a reporter on his way to a mental hospital to interview Dr. Martin regarding some visits a recently deceased man had made.  On the way his car breaks down, and he decides to walk, or run, the rest of the way.  It’s already eerie and that’s the first chapter.  There is a scary thudding noise, a strange absence of other sounds and movement, and fog that seems to disappear.

When he gets to the hospital Dr. Martin is with a patient, and an orderly offers to give Doug a tour to kill some time.  This is where the creepiness begins.  The orderly begins to tell Doug a series of stories of the patients living in the hospital; some gruesome, some horrific, some just very unusual.  But one thing is certain - you wouldn’t want to be in any of them!  My favorite is titled “Odd”.  I found that one to have a slight little surprise twist, and I enjoyed that.  But they all definitely had a sense of flair, and were all so different.  
Stories within a story, you definitely get to experience everything that is Equanimity Psychiatric Hospital. 

As this story goes on you find yourself looking for clues and trying to figure out what the heck is going to happen next.  It is definitely a fun and imaginative read!  I kept questioning myself if things were as they seem, and each turn of the page brought another surprise. 

Available on:


Saturday, October 8, 2011

The Kult - Shaun Jeffrey

Title: The Kult (Kindle) (Print) (Nook)
Author: Shaun Jeffrey


Format: Ebook provided by author for review


Notable Websites Related to book:
The Kult, Movie
The Kult, Amazon UK
The Kult, Smashwords
The Kult, Movie Trailer


From Amazon:
People are predictable. That's what makes them easy to kill.

Out of misguided loyalty, police officer Prosper Snow is goaded into helping his friends perform a copycat killing, but when the real killer comes after him, it's not only his life on the line, but his family's too. Now if he goes to his colleagues for help, he risks being arrested for murder. If he doesn't, he risks being killed.



"People are predictable. That's what makes them easy to kill."
"Look out, look out, there's a monster about."


And a quote I'm totally ripping off from a friend, but fits this book so perfectly: "The scariest monsters have human faces". 


This book was scary.  The beginning was pure horror.  10% into the book, and I was afraid to leave the house.  At one point near the beginning, I almost put the book down saying "no more".  But I didn't.  Putting the book down doesn't make the monster go away. 


Vengeance, Retribution, Bait... There's a lot of reasons to kill.  Detective Prosper Snow (coolest name ever, by the way) is now on a case to find The Oracle.  No one is safe from this serial killer.  If he gets ahold of you, you are definitely going to wish you were never born. 


I really enjoyed this book.  It had some very strong elements of horror.  In fact, I wouldn't recommend it for the very faint of heart or easily offended - unless you can skip over some parts.  In which case, you should get it, because the rest of the book is definitely worth withstanding some very scary parts.  


While taking notes for this book, I wrote down "I don't immediately like Prosper.  He seems like he has a dangerous secret".  But my opinion of the man drastically over the course of the story.  Prosper snow takes you on his journey with him, and you feel it all.  Stress, regret, fear, love, some more fear, a dash of paranoia, and so on and so forth.  But who do you trust when the evidence pushes you in every direction it can?  


Something else I really liked about this book is that I instantly felt like I connected with the victims.  That only made it that much more difficult when they actually became the victims.  


The characters are well written around a story that is well written.  You get a history on everyone, and really feel like you get to know them. I felt it was fast paced, and I finished it in just a couple days. 


And a really terrific addition to this book?  It has a movie!  How exciting is that?  Here is the trailer:







I encourage you to read this book, tell your friends about it too.  And the author tells me that there is a sequel to this book, about to published soon.  I will definitely keep my eye out for that one!