Today is the last day for you to enter the pre-loved Tami Hoag giveaway (click below)
http://smbslt.blogspot.com/p/pre-loved-giveaways.html
Please leave a link to your blog or email address so I can contact you to get your details for sending and I will also announce the winner on here and link to your blog.
Good luck!
Saturday, 30 April 2011
Friday, 29 April 2011
My review on the Authors site!
I am super excited!
Well he has linked it on his site but it is the same thing and it has turned a not very good day into a much better one :D
This is his website http://writing.cwbuecheler.com/2011/04/26/new-reviews-of-the-blood-that-bonds/
The book is The Blood That Bonds by Christopher Buecheler, I reviewed this very recently. It is available free on the kindle (or you can download to you pc on the amazon kindle for pc again free) and for those who aren't interested in the electronic readers the book in now available in print.
Well he has linked it on his site but it is the same thing and it has turned a not very good day into a much better one :D
This is his website http://writing.cwbuecheler.com/2011/04/26/new-reviews-of-the-blood-that-bonds/
The book is The Blood That Bonds by Christopher Buecheler, I reviewed this very recently. It is available free on the kindle (or you can download to you pc on the amazon kindle for pc again free) and for those who aren't interested in the electronic readers the book in now available in print.
Follow Friday (possibly number 4)
To join the fun and make now book blogger friends, just follow these simple rules:
1. (Required) Follow the Follow My Book Blog Friday Host { Parajunkee.com } and any one else you want to follow on the list
2. (Required) Follow our Featured Bloggers - http://startingthenextchapterbooks.blogspot.com/
3. Put your Blog name & URL in the Linky thing.
4. Grab the button up there and place it in a post, this post is for people to find a place to say hi in your comments
5. Follow Follow Follow as many as you can, as many as you want, or just follow a few. The whole point is to make new friends and find new blogs. Also, don't just follow, comment and say hi. Another blogger might not know you are a new follower if you don't say "HI"
6. If someone comments and says they are following you, be a dear and follow back. Spread the Love...and the followers
7. If you're new to the follow friday hop, comment and let me know, so I can stop by and check out your blog!
The question Q. Keeping with the dystopian and apocalypse theme that seems to be running rampant on parajunkee.com, I have one very hard question for you: If you were stocking your bomb shelter, what books would you HAVE to include if you only had space for ten?
I would take my kindle which would last a month, 8 of my fattest books which are myths and legends so lots of different stories which I would never remember all so that would keep me entertained and an Edgar Allan Poe short stories as it is taking an age to get through.
On a seperate note for FF anyone I follow (which is a lot) I make the effort to go back to as I dont see the point in following (or having lots of followers) who never go back it kind of defeats the point. If you comment I will always comment back and the same with following, have a great Friday whilst this one is working.
Review Beyong Exile (day by day Armageddon) by J L Bourne
This is the second book in the journey of a mans survival in a world over run by the dead. Again as with the first book we are reading his journal entries day by day and sometimes more than one entry per day.
It picks up where the first book has left off (with a small recap of the previous incase you hadn't read it). When you think most of the fast pace and excitement was covered in the first book you would be wrong, my heart has been thumping reading this one.
More nerve wracking situations as the survivors try to keep ahead of the dead, get supplies and maintain some(any) kind of normal existance. We are introduced to more characters and more depth of those we know and knew, and heart stopping action all in the name of survival.
I love this book and was not disappointed, sometimes with sequels it can drag or you are let down but this is definately not the case this time. I was hooked from book one and continue to be so, great paced and well written.
5/5 for me.
It picks up where the first book has left off (with a small recap of the previous incase you hadn't read it). When you think most of the fast pace and excitement was covered in the first book you would be wrong, my heart has been thumping reading this one.
More nerve wracking situations as the survivors try to keep ahead of the dead, get supplies and maintain some(any) kind of normal existance. We are introduced to more characters and more depth of those we know and knew, and heart stopping action all in the name of survival.
I love this book and was not disappointed, sometimes with sequels it can drag or you are let down but this is definately not the case this time. I was hooked from book one and continue to be so, great paced and well written.
5/5 for me.
30 day book challenge - day 14
Day 14 - An author of a book you just don’t get. Hmm I can't think of any to be honest. Parts of the God delusion by Richard Dawkins yes but otherwise it was either love, hate or like.
Thursday, 28 April 2011
30 day book challenge day 13
Day 13 - A book that disturbed you. And this one has to go to American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis. I am by no means easily shocked and love horror films and novels but this one has some pretty gruesome stuff in it!
Have you read it? What did you think?
Have you read it? What did you think?
Wednesday, 27 April 2011
Review - The Thieves Of Heaven by Richard Doetsch
Meet Michael St. Pierre, a convicted thieve and now a reformed character. But what do you do when the life of the one you love is threatened and the only way you can pay for the medical treatment is to go back to a life you promised you never would.
Michael has no time for religion but loves his wife who never misses a Sunday at chapel and has religion in her heart. Events push Michael to confront his lack of faith and reassess everything he has thought true and face mans unholiest enemy!
I didn't know what to think when I started this to be honest. The first chapter grabs you with a breath taking daring rescue and then jumps to normal everyday events. However a few chapters in an everything becomes clear. It is a whorl wind story with romance, crime, murder and religion which the last I hadn't expected to be such a huge part in the book.
The fight between good and evil becomes a huge part of the book and whilst a lot of people hate reading about it and God and the Devil I think this is a great read and with so many turns and twists it definately kept it interesting.
4/5 for me.
Michael has no time for religion but loves his wife who never misses a Sunday at chapel and has religion in her heart. Events push Michael to confront his lack of faith and reassess everything he has thought true and face mans unholiest enemy!
I didn't know what to think when I started this to be honest. The first chapter grabs you with a breath taking daring rescue and then jumps to normal everyday events. However a few chapters in an everything becomes clear. It is a whorl wind story with romance, crime, murder and religion which the last I hadn't expected to be such a huge part in the book.
The fight between good and evil becomes a huge part of the book and whilst a lot of people hate reading about it and God and the Devil I think this is a great read and with so many turns and twists it definately kept it interesting.
4/5 for me.
30 day book challenge day 12
Day 12 - A book you think should be made into a film, any of Christopher Brookmyre books. Action & dark comedy and one of them was a tv thing (quite ugly one morning I believe).
Tuesday, 26 April 2011
Last week for the giveaway (UK and International)
http://smbslt.blogspot.com/p/pre-loved-giveaways.html
Please make sure your name is added if you have already put in for it and I have a way to contact you. Either leave your blog url or email. Good luck and thanks for taking part.
Please make sure your name is added if you have already put in for it and I have a way to contact you. Either leave your blog url or email. Good luck and thanks for taking part.
30 day book challenge day 11
Day 11 - Your favourite book that has been made into a film has to be the green mile I think (or the Shawshank Redemption) both by Stephen King. The film stuck very close to the book and the actors played the characters brilliantly.
Monday, 25 April 2011
The Blood That Bonds by Christopher Buecheler (review)
I loved this book (no suprises there with it being a vampire book!). Add to that it is absolutely free for the Kindle and now available in tree book form (http://www.thebloodthatbonds.com/) it is a win win.
Two is living a life going nowhere, controlled by a deadly addiction and dangerous way of life ruled by her pimp and going through the paces surviving day to day. Suddenly a client comes along requesting her by name and things start changing fast and furious.
Two delves into a whole other world, where one addiction is traded for another but here she has freedom of choice, love, feelings and emotions she thought had long since gone. But just as things are looking up and she is back on her feet the Elder has other plans that conflict with Two and Theorans and suddenly hers and everyone she has touched in her new lives existance is threatened.
This book has great pace, excitement and a few new turns for a vampire book. The only thing I would say is there are a few sex scenes which are quite graphic (as well as all the blood) that some people might be uncomfortable with.
This is the first installment of the series and the second one is currently being written and due out this year YAY.
5/5 for me
Two is living a life going nowhere, controlled by a deadly addiction and dangerous way of life ruled by her pimp and going through the paces surviving day to day. Suddenly a client comes along requesting her by name and things start changing fast and furious.
Two delves into a whole other world, where one addiction is traded for another but here she has freedom of choice, love, feelings and emotions she thought had long since gone. But just as things are looking up and she is back on her feet the Elder has other plans that conflict with Two and Theorans and suddenly hers and everyone she has touched in her new lives existance is threatened.
This book has great pace, excitement and a few new turns for a vampire book. The only thing I would say is there are a few sex scenes which are quite graphic (as well as all the blood) that some people might be uncomfortable with.
This is the first installment of the series and the second one is currently being written and due out this year YAY.
5/5 for me
30 day book challenge day 10
Day 10 - A book you’ve always meant to have read and never got - Charles Dickens Great Expectations. I have this on my tbr (somewhere) and will get round to it. I am sure there are tons I have meant to read but never got round to and I just don't remember
Shock horror - I got a kindle
kindle
[:O]
Basically I hate taking books abroad as the heat wrecks them as does getting banged about in the case and with weight restrictions I have to leave them behind. This upsets me as your not guarenteed it wont be binned. So I was going to buy a cheap e-reader a friend posted a fab link for the cheapest one in Makro on RISI) but noone had a card for there. I searched the net for ages as I think the price of a Kindle for just to use abroad is just a bit much so I searched and searched for a cheapo option.
O/h said if I was spending £40 or £50 I am aswell to get a decent one but again I think that is a lot to use purely on holiday. Anyway long story short he halfed me for it and I am now testing it out to make sure it works as holiday is about 6 weeks time.
I am happy I wont have to leave any books behind (I will still buy some as their Target shop has great books for cheap) and I must say I am impressed with the pictures however it couldn't ever replace my proper books. I will certainly take advantage of the freebies for it but my first love shall always be the treebook.
[:O]
Basically I hate taking books abroad as the heat wrecks them as does getting banged about in the case and with weight restrictions I have to leave them behind. This upsets me as your not guarenteed it wont be binned. So I was going to buy a cheap e-reader a friend posted a fab link for the cheapest one in Makro on RISI) but noone had a card for there. I searched the net for ages as I think the price of a Kindle for just to use abroad is just a bit much so I searched and searched for a cheapo option.
O/h said if I was spending £40 or £50 I am aswell to get a decent one but again I think that is a lot to use purely on holiday. Anyway long story short he halfed me for it and I am now testing it out to make sure it works as holiday is about 6 weeks time.
I am happy I wont have to leave any books behind (I will still buy some as their Target shop has great books for cheap) and I must say I am impressed with the pictures however it couldn't ever replace my proper books. I will certainly take advantage of the freebies for it but my first love shall always be the treebook.
Review - Ellan Vannin by Lyn Andrews
Ellen Vannin is our stories main character. We are introduced to her at the age of 10 and her relationship with her papa (and background of her mother). It is a sad tale that just gets sadder, father and daughter share a close bond until her fathers sudden death. Ellen finds her world turned upside down and having to live life with Aunt Maud, a devout religous woman with 3 children of her own, a sharp tongue and no affection.
It goes from sad to heartbreaking as Ellen goes through life battling on from one heartbreak and dissapointment to another however she soldiers on and must make a life for herself and family.
The book then splits into Ellens life and Aunt Mauds and her sons and goes back and forth although it is easy to follow.
The book is set in the early 1900s and tells the story of a young woman battling to survive against societys attitude. And shows that one womans spirit can withstand heartbreak and tragedy and find acceptance and strength in the most unexpected places.
A really good read, a bit sad and at one point thinking oh my God how much more can possibly happen but it isn't all doom and gloom and a great example of how strong the human spirit can be.
3/5 for me as I wanted more from the ending (you will need to read it to see what I mean).
It goes from sad to heartbreaking as Ellen goes through life battling on from one heartbreak and dissapointment to another however she soldiers on and must make a life for herself and family.
The book then splits into Ellens life and Aunt Mauds and her sons and goes back and forth although it is easy to follow.
The book is set in the early 1900s and tells the story of a young woman battling to survive against societys attitude. And shows that one womans spirit can withstand heartbreak and tragedy and find acceptance and strength in the most unexpected places.
A really good read, a bit sad and at one point thinking oh my God how much more can possibly happen but it isn't all doom and gloom and a great example of how strong the human spirit can be.
3/5 for me as I wanted more from the ending (you will need to read it to see what I mean).
Sunday, 24 April 2011
30 day book challenge day 9
Day 9 - A book you read when you feel down. I don't really have a specific read for when feeling down, however one that does makes me laugh (and sad) would have to be Marley and Me. Great book and a great movie
Saturday, 23 April 2011
30 day book challenge day 8
Day 8 - Day 8 - The book you can quote best. Actually only one and that is the scene from Gone with the wind "frankly my dear I don't give a damn" and to be honest I am no 100% that is the wording in the book but it is in the movie (which I seen first).
Friday, 22 April 2011
Review - Day by day armageddon by J L Bourne
A zombie book and I loved it, no suprise there!
This for me was a zombie story with a difference. It is a day by day account of a Navy officer from just before the epidermic hits and daily (sometimes more than one entry per day) journal entries. Normally it is all kill kill kill to keep you hooked and get your imagination going but not so with this book.
You follow his very early methods of self preservation and survival to meeting other survivers and bonding and struggling to stay together and survive a world of horror.
The book is at a great pace, riveting and keeps you guessing to what is going to happen next. Everytime he ventures out will he be next to die? I feel I should elaborate more but to be honest it is so good you just need to grab a copy for yourself.
There is also a guarentee of a follow up book so watch this space, 5/5 for me.
This for me was a zombie story with a difference. It is a day by day account of a Navy officer from just before the epidermic hits and daily (sometimes more than one entry per day) journal entries. Normally it is all kill kill kill to keep you hooked and get your imagination going but not so with this book.
You follow his very early methods of self preservation and survival to meeting other survivers and bonding and struggling to stay together and survive a world of horror.
The book is at a great pace, riveting and keeps you guessing to what is going to happen next. Everytime he ventures out will he be next to die? I feel I should elaborate more but to be honest it is so good you just need to grab a copy for yourself.
There is also a guarentee of a follow up book so watch this space, 5/5 for me.
Follow Friday (3)
This is my third one (I think) and to be honest from the few I have tried this one if fun, it works and some people actually come back and forth with you rather than a one off visit which I feel is pointless. What is the point in having a big list of followers who never actually respond to anything you write or you to them? I always reply to a comment and tend to visit back (more than once) with the people who are ineterested in what you say and take the time to respond to something you have written (wether on your site or theirs).
You can find more details on the FF by clicking below
and if that doesn't work head over to http://www.parajunkee.com/
This weeks question, what is on your playlist?
Mine is potential wedding songs which I can't share with you at the moment. Pink is always on there and some oldies :D
Happy blogging and FF peeps
P.s the pre-loved giveaway for Kill The Messenger is still open (until the end of the month) Just reply and let me know how to contact you (not everyones profile clicks to their blog) you can leave your email if you wish or your blog url :)
http://smbslt.blogspot.com/p/pre-loved-giveaways.html
You can find more details on the FF by clicking below
and if that doesn't work head over to http://www.parajunkee.com/
This weeks question, what is on your playlist?
Mine is potential wedding songs which I can't share with you at the moment. Pink is always on there and some oldies :D
Happy blogging and FF peeps
P.s the pre-loved giveaway for Kill The Messenger is still open (until the end of the month) Just reply and let me know how to contact you (not everyones profile clicks to their blog) you can leave your email if you wish or your blog url :)
http://smbslt.blogspot.com/p/pre-loved-giveaways.html
30 day book challenge - day 7
Day 7 - A book that reminds you of somewhere
Danielle Steels Daddy. I remember this in Tenerife, it was my first holiday away from my mum and friends and being out the country. I bought it over there and read it twice.
Danielle Steels Daddy. I remember this in Tenerife, it was my first holiday away from my mum and friends and being out the country. I bought it over there and read it twice.
Thursday, 21 April 2011
Wedding Season by Katie Fforde
Meet Sarah Stratford, a cynical wedding planner (not known to her clients of course) after being badly hurt in the past she has given up on love, but loves arranging a good wedding. Her partners in crime are Elsa a fabulous dress maker whose life is her work and has no time for all that love nonsense and the final part of the trio is Bron. A multi-talented hairdresser who lives with her demanding self obsessed boyfriend who would rather she was at home looking after his every need than out doing hairdressing!
Sarah finds herself doing the biggest wedding of her career and roping her friends in to help. If that isn't enough she has a family wedding to plan on the same day and can't let either one down.
What follows is a fabulous story delving a bit deeper into the girls characters/lives and why they are the way they are and slowly following them and their attitudes growing and changing as they all get more involved.
This is quite a girly read (no kidding sherlock with the title) but I really enjoyed it. Not challenging in the least, easy to follow and most of the time the characters are really likeable.
It also reminded me a bit more of a padded out Mills and Boon with a bit more story to it, definately a good pick up book or even a holiday read 4/5 for me.
Sarah finds herself doing the biggest wedding of her career and roping her friends in to help. If that isn't enough she has a family wedding to plan on the same day and can't let either one down.
What follows is a fabulous story delving a bit deeper into the girls characters/lives and why they are the way they are and slowly following them and their attitudes growing and changing as they all get more involved.
This is quite a girly read (no kidding sherlock with the title) but I really enjoyed it. Not challenging in the least, easy to follow and most of the time the characters are really likeable.
It also reminded me a bit more of a padded out Mills and Boon with a bit more story to it, definately a good pick up book or even a holiday read 4/5 for me.
30 day book challenge day 6
30 day book challenge for day 6 - Day 6 - A book you either couldn’t finish or struggled to. Again I mentioned this book in most hated was Moby Dick Hermin Melville, and for the same reason. 12 pages of describing the ship decking and lots of other examples like that by the time anything was actually happening I was too dulled down to grasp on catch it. Then put into it they are hunting an animal I think even if it had been a great read I wouldn't have enjoyed it.
I did finish it (it took a week). No matter how bad a book is I can't not finish it which is an annoying habit I have.
If you want to take part in the challenge the details are
30 Day Book Challenge - 30 days, 30 books.
Description
Day 1 - Your favourite book of all time
Day 2 - Your least favourite book of all time
Day 3 - Your favourite book to recommend to friends
Day 4 - A book you lent out once, never got back and miss
Day 5 - A book that you’ve read the most times
Day 6 - A book you either couldn’t finish or struggled to.
Day 7 - A book that reminds you of somewhere
Day 8 - The book you can quote best
Day 9 - A book you read when you feel down
Day 10 - A book you’ve always meant to have read and never got round to
Day 11 - Your favourite book that has been made into a film
Day 12 - A book you think should be made into a film
Day 13 - A book that disturbed you
Day 14 - An author of a book you just don’t get
Day 15 - A book where you wish you were one of the characters
Day 16 - A book that is a guilty pleasure
Day 17 - The most over hyped book you have ever read
Day 18 - A book you have that belongs to someone else
Day 19 - The most romantic book you have ever read
Day 20 - The saddest or most emotive book you have read
Day 21 - The book that made you look at life in a different way
Day 22 - A book you wish was real life
Day 23 - Your favourite book by a non-British author
Day 24 - Your favourite book as a child
Day 25 - Your favourite book of last year
Day 26 - A book you honestly read in one sitting
Day 27 - Your favourite non-fiction book
Day 28 - Your favourite autobiographical book
Day 29 - Your favourite series of books
Day 30 - The book by your bed right now
You just post day 1 and copy the text for that day and then answer, and go from there each day
I did finish it (it took a week). No matter how bad a book is I can't not finish it which is an annoying habit I have.
If you want to take part in the challenge the details are
30 Day Book Challenge - 30 days, 30 books.
Description
Day 1 - Your favourite book of all time
Day 2 - Your least favourite book of all time
Day 3 - Your favourite book to recommend to friends
Day 4 - A book you lent out once, never got back and miss
Day 5 - A book that you’ve read the most times
Day 6 - A book you either couldn’t finish or struggled to.
Day 7 - A book that reminds you of somewhere
Day 8 - The book you can quote best
Day 9 - A book you read when you feel down
Day 10 - A book you’ve always meant to have read and never got round to
Day 11 - Your favourite book that has been made into a film
Day 12 - A book you think should be made into a film
Day 13 - A book that disturbed you
Day 14 - An author of a book you just don’t get
Day 15 - A book where you wish you were one of the characters
Day 16 - A book that is a guilty pleasure
Day 17 - The most over hyped book you have ever read
Day 18 - A book you have that belongs to someone else
Day 19 - The most romantic book you have ever read
Day 20 - The saddest or most emotive book you have read
Day 21 - The book that made you look at life in a different way
Day 22 - A book you wish was real life
Day 23 - Your favourite book by a non-British author
Day 24 - Your favourite book as a child
Day 25 - Your favourite book of last year
Day 26 - A book you honestly read in one sitting
Day 27 - Your favourite non-fiction book
Day 28 - Your favourite autobiographical book
Day 29 - Your favourite series of books
Day 30 - The book by your bed right now
You just post day 1 and copy the text for that day and then answer, and go from there each day
Wednesday, 20 April 2011
FREE BOOK ALERT (UK and International)
I am finally doing my first pre-loved give away
http://smbslt.blogspot.com/p/pre-loved-giveaways.html
you can access it on the pre-loved giveaway tab or here
Pre-loved giveaways
My first pre loved giveaway is going to be Kill The Messenger by Tami Hoag
Blurb taken from the back cover
At the end of a long, hard day bettling Los Angeles traffic, bike messenger Jace Damon is called on to make a pick-up from the office of sleazy defence attorneyLeonard Lowell. Jace is tired, and needs to get home to check up on his little brother who he's single handedly bringing up. He makes the collection, but the delivery adress turns out to be a vacant lot, a car tries to run him down, and Jace only just escapes. He returns to the attorney's office to find that Lowell has been murdered - and Jace is the prime suspect.
Jace is forced to elude both the police and the men who want him dead whilst he attempts to find evidence to clear his name. And he must keep his brother safe from someone who is prepare to kill...
This is a pre-loved book and in good condition from a smoke free home. To be in with a chance either email me
http://www.blogger.com/profile/07564778178609301461.html , reply to this post with a simple yes (or anything else you want to say) and I will also put a post you can comment there if you wish.
I will put all names into a bowl and pick one out at the end of the month.
Rules - there aren't any. You don't have to be a follower (although it is always nice), as long as you have someway for me to get in touch to get your details and send the book on your welcome to enter.
http://smbslt.blogspot.com/p/pre-loved-giveaways.html
you can access it on the pre-loved giveaway tab or here
Pre-loved giveaways
My first pre loved giveaway is going to be Kill The Messenger by Tami Hoag
Blurb taken from the back cover
At the end of a long, hard day bettling Los Angeles traffic, bike messenger Jace Damon is called on to make a pick-up from the office of sleazy defence attorneyLeonard Lowell. Jace is tired, and needs to get home to check up on his little brother who he's single handedly bringing up. He makes the collection, but the delivery adress turns out to be a vacant lot, a car tries to run him down, and Jace only just escapes. He returns to the attorney's office to find that Lowell has been murdered - and Jace is the prime suspect.
Jace is forced to elude both the police and the men who want him dead whilst he attempts to find evidence to clear his name. And he must keep his brother safe from someone who is prepare to kill...
This is a pre-loved book and in good condition from a smoke free home. To be in with a chance either email me
http://www.blogger.com/profile/07564778178609301461.html , reply to this post with a simple yes (or anything else you want to say) and I will also put a post you can comment there if you wish.
I will put all names into a bowl and pick one out at the end of the month.
Rules - there aren't any. You don't have to be a follower (although it is always nice), as long as you have someway for me to get in touch to get your details and send the book on your welcome to enter.
Tami Hoag - Kill The Messenger
Blurb taken from the back cover
At the end of a long, hard day bettling Los Angeles traffic, bike messenger Jace Damon is called on to make a pick-up from the office of sleazy defence attorneyLeonard Lowell. Jace is tired, and needs to get home to check up on his little brother who he's single handedly bringing up. He makes the collection, but the delivery adress turns out to be a vacant lot, a car tries to run him down, and Jace only just escapes. He returns to the attorney's office to find that Lowell has been murdered - and Jace is the prime suspect.
Jace is forced to elude both the police and the men who want him dead whilst he attempts to find evidence to clear his name. And he must keep his brother safe from someone who is prepare to kill...
My review - It starts off at a fairly good pace and the action is well on the way within the first few chapters which is always a good start. I didn't warm to the characters immediately but the story had me hooked enough to keep with it. Once the plot thickens and the characters are explored a wee it more they become either more likeable or you hate them more. Jace annoyed me somewhat, maybe it was because he is a young character and this reflects his actions but I just wanted to shout NO don't do that you need to do this which is usually a good indictaor your enjoying the book which is the whole point really. There is a lot of bad language through out the book and fitting to some of the characters. The last quarter of the book is brilliant resulting in not being able to put it down so you can find out what is going to happen and then a few unexpected suprises thrown in.
4/5 for me, I quite enjoyed it.
At the end of a long, hard day bettling Los Angeles traffic, bike messenger Jace Damon is called on to make a pick-up from the office of sleazy defence attorneyLeonard Lowell. Jace is tired, and needs to get home to check up on his little brother who he's single handedly bringing up. He makes the collection, but the delivery adress turns out to be a vacant lot, a car tries to run him down, and Jace only just escapes. He returns to the attorney's office to find that Lowell has been murdered - and Jace is the prime suspect.
Jace is forced to elude both the police and the men who want him dead whilst he attempts to find evidence to clear his name. And he must keep his brother safe from someone who is prepare to kill...
My review - It starts off at a fairly good pace and the action is well on the way within the first few chapters which is always a good start. I didn't warm to the characters immediately but the story had me hooked enough to keep with it. Once the plot thickens and the characters are explored a wee it more they become either more likeable or you hate them more. Jace annoyed me somewhat, maybe it was because he is a young character and this reflects his actions but I just wanted to shout NO don't do that you need to do this which is usually a good indictaor your enjoying the book which is the whole point really. There is a lot of bad language through out the book and fitting to some of the characters. The last quarter of the book is brilliant resulting in not being able to put it down so you can find out what is going to happen and then a few unexpected suprises thrown in.
4/5 for me, I quite enjoyed it.
30 day book challenge day 5
Day 5 - A book that you’ve read the most times. Lord Of The Rings trilogy by J R R Tolkien. I have also seen the movie a fair few times :D
Tuesday, 19 April 2011
Respect the ARC
I have not been doing this long as you all know (and can tell by a lot of my amateur attempts at doing things on here), however in my browsing I came across a blog post about ARC (Advanced Reading Copies). Authors send these out to people so they can review them (also spell check and any other comments I believe). This is a great idea, however there are people spoiling this by then selling on these copies(for a lot of money) before they are out to buy. THIS IS ILLEGAL! If this continues publishers will have no other choice than to stop sending out as many copies which is unfair for those fortunate enough to get their hands on a copy of a new unpublished book.
The bottom line is RESPECT the ARC, enjoy it for what it was intended and not try to make a quick buck off it or ruin it for others. Please feel free to spread the word
This was inspired by the post found here (also more info on the ARC http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=7302205253318488863 and the blog author also has a few fab wee buttons to spread the word and show you respect the ARC.
30 day book challenge day 4
Day 4 - A book you lent out once, never got back and miss
Flowers in the attic by Virginia Andrews
http://img1.fantasticfiction.co.uk/images/n0/n25.jpg
I eventually bought another copy and then found out it was a series and bought them too. I loved this story, a family from unnatural origins. A dirty family secret and the repercussions of forbidden love and how the children have to survive it. I totally loved this and think I will need to reread it again sometime soon.
Flowers in the attic by Virginia Andrews
http://img1.fantasticfiction.co.uk/images/n0/n25.jpg
I eventually bought another copy and then found out it was a series and bought them too. I loved this story, a family from unnatural origins. A dirty family secret and the repercussions of forbidden love and how the children have to survive it. I totally loved this and think I will need to reread it again sometime soon.
Monday, 18 April 2011
I won I won
I win nothing, never ever (ok I win once in a blue moon but they are few and far between so therefore I get to say I never win!).
Anyway I entered the UK giveaway over at http://www.booksforcompany.com/2011/04/winners.html
And whats more its a book :D or books by Franny Billingsley woohoo another new author for me, I am delighted and will have to sort out a giveaway here soon as lets face it new or pre loved we all love free books coming through the door YAY!
Anyway I entered the UK giveaway over at http://www.booksforcompany.com/2011/04/winners.html
And whats more its a book :D or books by Franny Billingsley woohoo another new author for me, I am delighted and will have to sort out a giveaway here soon as lets face it new or pre loved we all love free books coming through the door YAY!
30 day book challenge day 3
Day 3 - Your favourite book to recommend to friends is Chris Mooney - Remembering Sarah. It took me ages to actually get this book (finally bought it from America).
http://www.chrismooneybooks.com/remembering-sarah.php
Taken from Chris Monney website
Mike Sullivan is determined to raise his six-year-old daughter Sarah to become a tough, independent woman. His own mother left him when he was twelve, promising to return and rescue him from his father, an abusive and violently unpredictable thief who, Mike believes, is responsible for her disappearance. But Mike's wife, Jess, has an overprotective need to shelter Sarah. Rebelling against her paranoia, Mike waits until Jess leaves the house and then, against her wishes, takes Sarah sledding.
Only Sarah doesn't want to go up the hill with her father. Sarah wants to go up with her best friend. In love with his daughter's stubbornness, Mike grants her wish, and when Sarah doesn't come down, he finds himself stuck in the middle of a snowstorm, his daughter gone.
Five years later, Sarah is still missing. The only suspect, Francis Jonah, the former priest believed to be responsible for the disappearance of two other girls, is dying of cancer. On the anniversary of Sarah's disappearance her jacket is discovered—by Jonah.
Battling a failed marriage and desperate for the truth, Mike is in a frenzied race to unlock Jonah's monstrous secrets before he dies. What is the connection between the disappearance of Sarah and Mike's mother? And why has Mike's father suddenly reappeared? In this story of gripping loss, compassion, and forgiveness, Mike must confront a family history steeped in lies, deceit, and, hardest of all, the persistent suspicion that his daughter might still be alive.
I really enjoyed this book and sent it out on loan around the country, gave my friend a loan of it and she still has it
http://www.chrismooneybooks.com/remembering-sarah.php
Taken from Chris Monney website
Mike Sullivan is determined to raise his six-year-old daughter Sarah to become a tough, independent woman. His own mother left him when he was twelve, promising to return and rescue him from his father, an abusive and violently unpredictable thief who, Mike believes, is responsible for her disappearance. But Mike's wife, Jess, has an overprotective need to shelter Sarah. Rebelling against her paranoia, Mike waits until Jess leaves the house and then, against her wishes, takes Sarah sledding.
Only Sarah doesn't want to go up the hill with her father. Sarah wants to go up with her best friend. In love with his daughter's stubbornness, Mike grants her wish, and when Sarah doesn't come down, he finds himself stuck in the middle of a snowstorm, his daughter gone.
Five years later, Sarah is still missing. The only suspect, Francis Jonah, the former priest believed to be responsible for the disappearance of two other girls, is dying of cancer. On the anniversary of Sarah's disappearance her jacket is discovered—by Jonah.
Battling a failed marriage and desperate for the truth, Mike is in a frenzied race to unlock Jonah's monstrous secrets before he dies. What is the connection between the disappearance of Sarah and Mike's mother? And why has Mike's father suddenly reappeared? In this story of gripping loss, compassion, and forgiveness, Mike must confront a family history steeped in lies, deceit, and, hardest of all, the persistent suspicion that his daughter might still be alive.
I really enjoyed this book and sent it out on loan around the country, gave my friend a loan of it and she still has it
Sunday, 17 April 2011
30 day book challenge day 2
Day 2 - Your least favourite book of all time is either a clockwork orange or Moby Dick by Herman melville
http://bfgb.wordpress.com/2010/02/19/moby-dick-by-herman-melville/
I actually thought I had posted this today, must have been facebook! I think 12 pages (or close to that) of describing the ship decking is just ridiculous and a lot of the book dragged like that so that by the time something had actually started to happen I had lost the will to read it. I ended up leaving it behind in a hotel room in Paris and it took me over a week to read. I am one of those people who hate giving up on a book no matter how bad it is.
The other contender
http://www.audiobookbargains.co.uk/ekmps/shops/okantfossaudios/images/anthony-burgess-a-clockwork-orange-unabridged-cd-audio-book-1443-p.jpg
I was told the movie was brilliant so I paid nearly £18 for it and really disliked it. I then got the book and thought maybe that would be better, I HATED it, the way they spoke, the way it was written. The language used, infact I can't remember one thing I liked about it yet there are people who loved both of them yet for me it was torture.
http://bfgb.wordpress.com/2010/02/19/moby-dick-by-herman-melville/
I actually thought I had posted this today, must have been facebook! I think 12 pages (or close to that) of describing the ship decking is just ridiculous and a lot of the book dragged like that so that by the time something had actually started to happen I had lost the will to read it. I ended up leaving it behind in a hotel room in Paris and it took me over a week to read. I am one of those people who hate giving up on a book no matter how bad it is.
The other contender
http://www.audiobookbargains.co.uk/ekmps/shops/okantfossaudios/images/anthony-burgess-a-clockwork-orange-unabridged-cd-audio-book-1443-p.jpg
I was told the movie was brilliant so I paid nearly £18 for it and really disliked it. I then got the book and thought maybe that would be better, I HATED it, the way they spoke, the way it was written. The language used, infact I can't remember one thing I liked about it yet there are people who loved both of them yet for me it was torture.
Ladies an author would like your help
so she can proceed with the next part of her book
https://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/notes/dj-westerfield/ladies-i-need-your-help-with-this-new-project-please-/139777636095620
Want from Men? Tell Them Now!
I am doing research for a book about relationships between men and women. Men don't seem to get what women want, and women can't seem to make men understand. So, if you could tell the man, or future man, in your life what you TRULY WANT from him...what would you say? Now is the chance to be HEARD!
Sunday, April 17, 2011
What do you really want?
If you could tell the man in your life, or the future man in your life, what you truly want, what would you say? What is most important to you? What do you think is the most important trait in a man? What do you really want out of a relationship?
Honesty? Respect? A relationship with God? Hot sex? Help with the kids? Help around the house? Someone who will listen? Do you want your man to take out the trash more, or mop the floor, or spend more time tending to your sexual needs?
Do you often feel like the men in your life just don't get it? If you could be completely and totally honest without worry about the fall out or consequences...what would you tell men (or your man)?
Now is your chance. I am doing research on a book about what women really want from men. I want complete and total honesty about what is really important to women.
TO ANSWER:
* COMMENT here on this page
* COMMENT On my facebook fan page, http://www.facebook.com/pages/What-Women-Really-Want-from-Men/101400759948313?
* OR use this form to PRIVATELY tell me what you want. http://mywritingapron.com/blog/index.php?plugin=formidable&controller=forms&action=preview&form=421af5
No holds barred. I want the REAL truth.
By answering this, you are giving me permission to quote you. ALL answers will be considered ANONYMOUS unless you give a first name. If you feel comfortable, please give your age. (YOU MUST BE 18 TO ANSWER)
Please share this with your women friends. I need a minimum of 100 answers before I can begin this portion of the book.
Posted by DJ Westerfield, Author, Speaker, Freelance Writer at 5:47 AM 0 comments
https://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/notes/dj-westerfield/ladies-i-need-your-help-with-this-new-project-please-/139777636095620
Want from Men? Tell Them Now!
I am doing research for a book about relationships between men and women. Men don't seem to get what women want, and women can't seem to make men understand. So, if you could tell the man, or future man, in your life what you TRULY WANT from him...what would you say? Now is the chance to be HEARD!
Sunday, April 17, 2011
What do you really want?
If you could tell the man in your life, or the future man in your life, what you truly want, what would you say? What is most important to you? What do you think is the most important trait in a man? What do you really want out of a relationship?
Honesty? Respect? A relationship with God? Hot sex? Help with the kids? Help around the house? Someone who will listen? Do you want your man to take out the trash more, or mop the floor, or spend more time tending to your sexual needs?
Do you often feel like the men in your life just don't get it? If you could be completely and totally honest without worry about the fall out or consequences...what would you tell men (or your man)?
Now is your chance. I am doing research on a book about what women really want from men. I want complete and total honesty about what is really important to women.
TO ANSWER:
* COMMENT here on this page
* COMMENT On my facebook fan page, http://www.facebook.com/pages/What-Women-Really-Want-from-Men/101400759948313?
* OR use this form to PRIVATELY tell me what you want. http://mywritingapron.com/blog/index.php?plugin=formidable&controller=forms&action=preview&form=421af5
No holds barred. I want the REAL truth.
By answering this, you are giving me permission to quote you. ALL answers will be considered ANONYMOUS unless you give a first name. If you feel comfortable, please give your age. (YOU MUST BE 18 TO ANSWER)
Please share this with your women friends. I need a minimum of 100 answers before I can begin this portion of the book.
Posted by DJ Westerfield, Author, Speaker, Freelance Writer at 5:47 AM 0 comments
Night Warriors by Graham Masterton
Out of innocence came forth unspeakable evil...
Henry was the first to reach the body, while Gil and Susan walked cautiously closer, and then stood watchinf. It was the body of a beautiful young girl, naked, like a peacefully sleeping mermaid. Never in their most traumatic nightmares could they have imagined the convulsive violence which followed.
From the first few pages you are hooked and horrified from the discovery of a young girl ripped apart by terrifying creatures and as the horror unravels more evil is revealed as is the trios destiny to fight it. Some of the scenes in this novel are really brutal and descriptive. Not only in a violent sense but also strong sexual descriptions. Definately not for the faint hearted or easily offended.
The book then takes on a battle between good and evil and these ordinary everyday people take on 'the devil' and its spawn. The battles take place in the dream world where the playing field is altered and we delve into the history of the night warriors and the beast itself.
The book goes along at a fairly decent pace with interactions and a build up of the characters and their familys aswell as the preparations for battle although I felt somethings could have been dealt with in more depth and somethings wouldn't have been missed had they been left out as it didn't have any impact on the main story.
I would definately read another of his books but this one is a 3/5 for me.
Henry was the first to reach the body, while Gil and Susan walked cautiously closer, and then stood watchinf. It was the body of a beautiful young girl, naked, like a peacefully sleeping mermaid. Never in their most traumatic nightmares could they have imagined the convulsive violence which followed.
From the first few pages you are hooked and horrified from the discovery of a young girl ripped apart by terrifying creatures and as the horror unravels more evil is revealed as is the trios destiny to fight it. Some of the scenes in this novel are really brutal and descriptive. Not only in a violent sense but also strong sexual descriptions. Definately not for the faint hearted or easily offended.
The book then takes on a battle between good and evil and these ordinary everyday people take on 'the devil' and its spawn. The battles take place in the dream world where the playing field is altered and we delve into the history of the night warriors and the beast itself.
The book goes along at a fairly decent pace with interactions and a build up of the characters and their familys aswell as the preparations for battle although I felt somethings could have been dealt with in more depth and somethings wouldn't have been missed had they been left out as it didn't have any impact on the main story.
I would definately read another of his books but this one is a 3/5 for me.
Saturday, 16 April 2011
Random Acts Of Kindness in April
This is my first time trying this, so I do hope I have done it properly.
We often do RAK on RISI(known there as book fairys) but as I am fairly new to the whole blogging world I have decided to give this a go too.
Have also been trying the meme follow Friday which has been fun and finding lots of new and interesting blogs out there.
Watch this space.
We often do RAK on RISI(known there as book fairys) but as I am fairly new to the whole blogging world I have decided to give this a go too.
Have also been trying the meme follow Friday which has been fun and finding lots of new and interesting blogs out there.
Watch this space.
30 day book challenge (as posted on facebook)
Day 1 - Your favourite book of all time
Day 2 - Your least favourite book of all time
Day 3 - Your favourite book to recommend to friends
Day 4 - A book you lent out once, never got back and miss
Day 5 - A book that you’ve read the most times
Day 6 - A book you either couldn’t finish or struggled to.
Day 7 - A book that reminds you of somewhere
Day 8 - The book you can quote best
Day 9 - A book you read when you feel down
Day 10 - A book you’ve always meant to have read and never got round to
Day 11 - Your favourite book that has been made into a film
Day 12 - A book you think should be made into a film
Day 13 - A book that disturbed you
Day 14 - An author of a book you just don’t get
Day 15 - A book where you wish you were one of the characters
Day 16 - A book that is a guilty pleasure
Day 17 - The most over hyped book you have ever read
Day 18 - A book you have that belongs to someone else
Day 19 - The most romantic book you have ever read
Day 20 - The saddest or most emotive book you have read
Day 21 - The book that made you look at life in a different way
Day 22 - A book you wish was real life
Day 23 - Your favourite book by a non-British author
Day 24 - Your favourite book as a child
Day 25 - Your favourite book of last year
Day 26 - A book you honestly read in one sitting
Day 27 - Your favourite non-fiction book
Day 28 - Your favourite autobiographical book
Day 29 - Your favourite series of books
Day 30 - The book by your bed right now
Day 1 - Your favourite book of all time. A Time To Kill by John Grisham http://www.boekensite.net/engels/Coversenglish/222eng.jpg quite liked the movie too
Day 2 - Your least favourite book of all time
Day 3 - Your favourite book to recommend to friends
Day 4 - A book you lent out once, never got back and miss
Day 5 - A book that you’ve read the most times
Day 6 - A book you either couldn’t finish or struggled to.
Day 7 - A book that reminds you of somewhere
Day 8 - The book you can quote best
Day 9 - A book you read when you feel down
Day 10 - A book you’ve always meant to have read and never got round to
Day 11 - Your favourite book that has been made into a film
Day 12 - A book you think should be made into a film
Day 13 - A book that disturbed you
Day 14 - An author of a book you just don’t get
Day 15 - A book where you wish you were one of the characters
Day 16 - A book that is a guilty pleasure
Day 17 - The most over hyped book you have ever read
Day 18 - A book you have that belongs to someone else
Day 19 - The most romantic book you have ever read
Day 20 - The saddest or most emotive book you have read
Day 21 - The book that made you look at life in a different way
Day 22 - A book you wish was real life
Day 23 - Your favourite book by a non-British author
Day 24 - Your favourite book as a child
Day 25 - Your favourite book of last year
Day 26 - A book you honestly read in one sitting
Day 27 - Your favourite non-fiction book
Day 28 - Your favourite autobiographical book
Day 29 - Your favourite series of books
Day 30 - The book by your bed right now
Day 1 - Your favourite book of all time. A Time To Kill by John Grisham http://www.boekensite.net/engels/Coversenglish/222eng.jpg quite liked the movie too
Friday, 15 April 2011
It's that time again (follow Friday)
and this weeks question is
Q. Do you have anyone that you can discuss books with IRL? Tell us about him/her.
Yes, I often share with my o/h who is not always receptive lol. There is someone I work with and it is great as she reads so much more than me (which is pretty impressive) and we share books sometimes. I also have my risi friends www.readitswapit.co.uk who are always tempting me into new authors and books!
Monday, 11 April 2011
The Field Of Blood by Denise Mina
This book had all the ingredients it needed for a great book but I just couldn't gel with it. The characters annoyed me a lot of the time and for a good while all I could think about was the James Bulger case. I was confused over Paddy at first with gender and age (although later on in it does explain). I felt the jumps in the story didn't do much except to confuse me and overall they didn't seem to have any reference to the main story or maybe I was just missing something. I will try this author again sometime in the future and see if I get on any better but sadly 2/5 for me.
Friday, 8 April 2011
Woohoo A zombie book challenge
I am and always have been a big zombie fan. No matter how dire a movie or bad a write up a zombie book or movie gets I will have to see or read it. Well imagine my delight and suprise when I stumbled upon this http://booksoulmates.blogspot.com/2010/12/zombies-satisfy-your-undying-hunger.html
A zombie book challenge! I have a few in my collection I will need to dig out and jsut going to send a zombie book out to someone, very very exciting.
A zombie book challenge! I have a few in my collection I will need to dig out and jsut going to send a zombie book out to someone, very very exciting.
Follow Friday
This is my first one and knwoing me I will have done it wrong :P
Its a great idea, find out more here
Incase I have done the html wrong you can read about it here http://www.parajunkee.com/search/label/FF
Do you judge a book by its cover? Would a bad cover put you off the book?
I may judge it thinking oh I don't like the look of that (as I have done by the title of a book) but it has never put me off actually taking the book and reading it. Sometimes authors don't get a say in the book cover so much as I might not like the look of a cover or fancy the book title I will usually always give it a go anyway.
Its a great idea, find out more here
Incase I have done the html wrong you can read about it here http://www.parajunkee.com/search/label/FF
Do you judge a book by its cover? Would a bad cover put you off the book?
I may judge it thinking oh I don't like the look of that (as I have done by the title of a book) but it has never put me off actually taking the book and reading it. Sometimes authors don't get a say in the book cover so much as I might not like the look of a cover or fancy the book title I will usually always give it a go anyway.
Thursday, 7 April 2011
House Of Silence by Linda Gillard - my review
House Of Silence starts with the introduction of our main characters, how they meet and the build up of their relationship.
Gwen has no family to call her own so when she gets the chance to meet and spend christmas with Alfies she jumps at it. Alfie isn't keen on spending Christmas with his family but it is tradition and the only time he does. He warns Gwen he is different around them and to prepare her for the meeting.
As the story progresses we see a different Alfie and pick up on the families waryness at a stranger being brought in and more so when Gwen starts to notice things aren't quite what they seem. Relationships bloom and secrets threaten to spill out aswell as an unexpected attraction. Marek is the gardiner, quiet, mysterious and knows a lot about the family and Gwen finds herself drawn to him.
This story has so many levels to it. Half way through I thought it was going to flag but instead found myself glued to the next page to find out what the secret is and how it all unravels. A totally unexpected conclusion but I really enjoyed this book and glad I got this as and at £1.90 it was a total steal. 5/5 for me.
Gwen has no family to call her own so when she gets the chance to meet and spend christmas with Alfies she jumps at it. Alfie isn't keen on spending Christmas with his family but it is tradition and the only time he does. He warns Gwen he is different around them and to prepare her for the meeting.
As the story progresses we see a different Alfie and pick up on the families waryness at a stranger being brought in and more so when Gwen starts to notice things aren't quite what they seem. Relationships bloom and secrets threaten to spill out aswell as an unexpected attraction. Marek is the gardiner, quiet, mysterious and knows a lot about the family and Gwen finds herself drawn to him.
This story has so many levels to it. Half way through I thought it was going to flag but instead found myself glued to the next page to find out what the secret is and how it all unravels. A totally unexpected conclusion but I really enjoyed this book and glad I got this as and at £1.90 it was a total steal. 5/5 for me.
Sunday, 3 April 2011
House of Silence by Linda Gillard
Sadly this isn't available in print yet but people are showing their loyalty and love of Lindas work by downloading it and reading it on their PC(or kindles/e-readers/blackberrys etc). I am not a fan at all of any electronic reading device as nothing cuts it for me over the paper book in your hand. However I am showing my support for a great author and for £1.90 you really can't complain. So why not try something new and help get her to no.1
HOUSE OF SILENCE is now available to buy on Amazon for Kindle (£1.90.) Go people!!! Buy it, read it and *please review it on Amazon* because Amazon reviews (and the price) are what make e-book buyers click.
SYNOPSIS
"My friends describe me as frighteningly sensible, not at all the sort of woman who would fall for an actor. And his home. And his family."
Orphaned by drink, drugs and rock n’ roll, Gwen Rowland is invited to spend Christmas at her boyfriend Alfie's family home, Creake Hall - a ramshackle Tudor manor in Norfolk. She's excited about the prospect of a proper holiday with a proper family, but soon after she arrives, Gwen senses something isn't quite right. Alfie acts strangely toward his family and is reluctant to talk about the past. His mother, a celebrated children's author, keeps to her room, living in a twilight world, unable to distinguish between past and present, fact and fiction. And then there's the enigma of an old family photograph...
When Gwen discovers fragments of forgotten family letters sewn into an old patchwork quilt, she starts to piece together the jigsaw of the past and realises there's more to the family history than she's been told. It seems there are things people don’t want her to know.
And one of those people is Alfie…
Praise for Linda's fourth novel HOUSE OF SILENCE…
"Linda Gillard is a great favourite of us here at Bookbag because she writes intelligent fiction. It's the sort that you read and enjoy and then go back to the beginning and read again to find our how she did it. They're always brilliant reads and tremendous value.
HOUSE OF SILENCE is like life: it doesn't work out quite the way you expect and it's only when you look back afterwards that you understand why.
The book is intricately plotted, with some great characters who stay with you long after you've finished reading. I've surprised myself by being just a little bit in love with one of them - but I'm not going to tell you who!
Linda Gillard makes the writing of a book appear effortless, but believe me, plots like this require real talent (and perhaps a little bit of blood, sweat and tears)."
www.thebookbag.co.uk
“A story layered deep in pretence and secrecy, HOUSE OF SILENCE provides readers with the puzzle-solving pleasure of golden age detective fiction, complete with letter fragments from the past and the gothic backdrop of Creake Hall. The writing is sharp and crisp, with an edge of dark humour. Unwinding through the narrative like a chain is the hold that the dead have upon the living. I loved it.”
ROSY THORNTON (The Tapestry of Love)
"A totally engaging read, full of warmth and perception.”
VICTORIA CONNELLY (A Weekend with Mr Darcy)
http://www.amazon.co.uk/HOUSE-OF-SILENCE/dp/B004USSPN2/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&m=A3TVV12T0I6NSM&qid=1301732135&sr=1-2
Praise for Linda Gillard’s other novels…
“Haunting, lyrical and intriguing.”
ISLA DEWAR (Keeping up with Magda)
“I can heartily recommend Linda Gillard… Excellent.”
ADELE GERAS (Facing the Light)
“The emotional power in these novels makes this reviewer reflect on how Charlotte and Emily Bronte might have written if they were living and writing now.”
NORTHWORDS NOW
HOUSE OF SILENCE is now available to buy on Amazon for Kindle (£1.90.) Go people!!! Buy it, read it and *please review it on Amazon* because Amazon reviews (and the price) are what make e-book buyers click.
SYNOPSIS
"My friends describe me as frighteningly sensible, not at all the sort of woman who would fall for an actor. And his home. And his family."
Orphaned by drink, drugs and rock n’ roll, Gwen Rowland is invited to spend Christmas at her boyfriend Alfie's family home, Creake Hall - a ramshackle Tudor manor in Norfolk. She's excited about the prospect of a proper holiday with a proper family, but soon after she arrives, Gwen senses something isn't quite right. Alfie acts strangely toward his family and is reluctant to talk about the past. His mother, a celebrated children's author, keeps to her room, living in a twilight world, unable to distinguish between past and present, fact and fiction. And then there's the enigma of an old family photograph...
When Gwen discovers fragments of forgotten family letters sewn into an old patchwork quilt, she starts to piece together the jigsaw of the past and realises there's more to the family history than she's been told. It seems there are things people don’t want her to know.
And one of those people is Alfie…
Praise for Linda's fourth novel HOUSE OF SILENCE…
"Linda Gillard is a great favourite of us here at Bookbag because she writes intelligent fiction. It's the sort that you read and enjoy and then go back to the beginning and read again to find our how she did it. They're always brilliant reads and tremendous value.
HOUSE OF SILENCE is like life: it doesn't work out quite the way you expect and it's only when you look back afterwards that you understand why.
The book is intricately plotted, with some great characters who stay with you long after you've finished reading. I've surprised myself by being just a little bit in love with one of them - but I'm not going to tell you who!
Linda Gillard makes the writing of a book appear effortless, but believe me, plots like this require real talent (and perhaps a little bit of blood, sweat and tears)."
www.thebookbag.co.uk
“A story layered deep in pretence and secrecy, HOUSE OF SILENCE provides readers with the puzzle-solving pleasure of golden age detective fiction, complete with letter fragments from the past and the gothic backdrop of Creake Hall. The writing is sharp and crisp, with an edge of dark humour. Unwinding through the narrative like a chain is the hold that the dead have upon the living. I loved it.”
ROSY THORNTON (The Tapestry of Love)
"A totally engaging read, full of warmth and perception.”
VICTORIA CONNELLY (A Weekend with Mr Darcy)
http://www.amazon.co.uk/HOUSE-OF-SILENCE/dp/B004USSPN2/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&m=A3TVV12T0I6NSM&qid=1301732135&sr=1-2
Praise for Linda Gillard’s other novels…
“Haunting, lyrical and intriguing.”
ISLA DEWAR (Keeping up with Magda)
“I can heartily recommend Linda Gillard… Excellent.”
ADELE GERAS (Facing the Light)
“The emotional power in these novels makes this reviewer reflect on how Charlotte and Emily Bronte might have written if they were living and writing now.”
NORTHWORDS NOW
Friday, 1 April 2011
Another new author?
I was browsing through the blogs on here and came across one called Murder by 4. A blog that interviews authors and the most recent was Raff Ellis. After reading a lot of reviews on here and discovering so many authors I have never heard of what makes this one stand out? The authors story of how he sells books "one at a time" He carries a business card and passes it out on his travels. It was the story of one older lady he met on a plane, how he took the time to chat with her, mentioned his book and gave her his card. His book was in his case already checked in and he thought that would be the end of it. A month later he gets a letter from the lady saying she bought his book and loved it. This lady will now have a story to tell everytime she talks about her book and some free publicity for the author but how nice is it to have an author take time out and promote his book on a one to one basis like that!
Wether it is the kind of genre I would read or not I will give it a go because I like the way he does his promotion!
I found the interview here http://murderby4.blogspot.com/2011/04/how-do-we-sell-books-one-at-time.html and there is a listing of authors upcoming chats too. I just thought it was nice and would share.
Wether it is the kind of genre I would read or not I will give it a go because I like the way he does his promotion!
I found the interview here http://murderby4.blogspot.com/2011/04/how-do-we-sell-books-one-at-time.html and there is a listing of authors upcoming chats too. I just thought it was nice and would share.
1st To Die by James Patterson
Introducing Homicide inspector Lindsay Boxer in the first of a series of thriller/crime. When a young couple are killed on their wedding night the case is tough for the only female homicide inspector in San Franciso. Discovering and battling a life threatening condition you immediately feel for the lead detective. From this creates the women's murder club with the most unlikely ladies getting together to use their wits and solve the case before anymore people die.
The killer strikes again and seems to be taunting the police and always staying two steps ahead. When the investigation finally uncovers a name that can be linked to the victims it seems like there might be too much sensationalism. Do they have the right guy?
From there we have much twists and turns, the plot thickens and I was left guessing who was the actual killer. I thought I had it for sure only to be totally thrown. Was ever so slightly upset by the events in the last few chapters but it made for great reading and kept me hooked to find out what would happen next.
I will definately be getting the next few in the series and see how I get on with them. 4 out of 5 for me.
The killer strikes again and seems to be taunting the police and always staying two steps ahead. When the investigation finally uncovers a name that can be linked to the victims it seems like there might be too much sensationalism. Do they have the right guy?
From there we have much twists and turns, the plot thickens and I was left guessing who was the actual killer. I thought I had it for sure only to be totally thrown. Was ever so slightly upset by the events in the last few chapters but it made for great reading and kept me hooked to find out what would happen next.
I will definately be getting the next few in the series and see how I get on with them. 4 out of 5 for me.