Karen Duvall

4/5

Amazon.UK
Amazon.com

This is an attractive looking cover. A romance, obviously, and set in or around the desert. It looks modern and a bit gothish (notice the piercings the man has in his ears). The title, again, speaks romance and from that I'm thinking it's about an alpha male looking after a, maybe ditzy, woman. Maybe she's in the wrong place at the wrong time...

The blurb opens with the protagonist who receives a suicide letter from her brother, Jake, so I'm a little surprised that the book begins with the other leading character, Sam, but what a hook it was: What a perfect night for a kidnapping.

In the beginning, Desert Guardian was a little Mills and Boony with it's endless sickly sweet description of 'peach shaped bottom' etc, which I found annoying but I'm glad I stuck with it because, after the slow start, it zipped nicely along and I was able to dismiss the flowery descriptions.

The book has a mixed POV mainly between the leading characters Kelly and Sam but also with the secondary and the 'baddies' of the book. Sam and Kelly both had a past, which was gradually fed into the story, making them real fleshed out characters.

At the opening Kelly had already arrived at the cult. She's there to bring Jake, her young brother, home after he ran away due to an argument with their father but she has no idea of the danger they are in, neither has she realised the cult has begun its brainwashing on her already.

Sam 'The Arrow' has been sent by her father to get her out. He does, but she still wants to find her brother and so hires Sam knowing she hasn't any money to pay him. He is smitten with her and decides to help her (he was once a member of the cult and so has 'unfinished' business with them). They are both attracted to one another but have no 'I hate you/let's have sex' going on which, considering it's opening, I was very certain was about to happen.

Sam and Kelly work together to rescue Jake, and Sam's newly discovered little girl (I did say he had unfinished business in the cult, didn't I?). It isn't a quick rescue and Sam isn't a superhero. He doesn't fling Kelly over his shoulder and shoot guns with his free hands. He's very human and has limits, and when things so wrong with the rescue, things go wrong big time! And I must admit I was turning the pages quickly to find out how it would be resolved.

Of course it ended happily, it was a romance, after all. But the ending wasn't one I saw coming. I hadn't a clue how Sam and Kelly were going to rescue Jake and Sam's daughter, and then Jake went missing... But all ends were tied with a nice satisfactory conclusion.

A nice little gem of a story, and worth a read. 

No editing issues that I noticed.

Blurb: 

When Kelly Bancroft receives a suicide letter from her brother, she knows the star-worshipping cult he belongs to is to blame. She travels to the California desert to try talking him into leaving the deadly Star Mother cult, but he's nowhere to be found.

Cult intervention specialist—and ex-cultist—Sam Reed, aka The Arrow, has his work cut out for him when he teams up with Kelly to rescue her brother. Sam has good reason to avoid the cult that killed his mother, but he's made it his mission to save those who have fallen under Star Mother's spell.

Deluded by their fantasy beliefs, the cult's followers await a starship that will deliver them to utopia on another planet. The caveat? All passengers must leave their bodies behind.

Will Sam’s and Kelly’s romantic relationship help or hinder them in their struggle to stop a mass suicide? Or will they themselves fall victim to the cult’s fatal madness?

Marie Flanigan

5/5

One Big Beautiful Thing

Amazon.UK
Amazon.com

They say never judge a book by its cover, well people do, and with this book I'd walk on by. It's dull with a capital D. A pot of paintbrushes on a dirty blue background. Very unappealing.

It doesn't really say anything about the book, either. Maybe the main character is an artist? Even so, I wouldn't care. As for the genre, I couldn't say. It could be a thriller, crime, romance... anything but a horror or an erotic read. Two things I got from it (other than boring) was gentle or religious.

The title and the author's name are far to too small. Insignificant was the word that came to mind. The title didn't excite me and the author's name was almost an apology (after reading the book I get that the author was trying to make the cover look like a hanging painting. But it still needs more work). It's a book that wouldn't get noticed in the sea of other books on Amazon, and you what, now I've read it, that's a huge shame.

Within the first paragraph in the 'look inside' sample I'm reassured that it's not heavy on religion (the main character 'couldn't remember the last time she'd gone to church') and I'm relieved. The writing style is chatty and contemporary. It's also fast and in typical 'chick lit' style, and I find I have read the sample in no time at all. 

The protagonist is called Kate (Mary Katherine to her mum) and she has come home to grieve after the death of her boyfriend, Robert. And while her mother is away nursing her sick grandmother Kate has volunteered to step into her mum's shoes at the catholic school where she teaches art.

The relationship between Kate and her mother (Anne) is very volatile and at first I thought she gave her mother a hard time but as the story progressed I realised why they had this love/hate relationship. It was fed to me very expertly and gently until there was some genuine heart-felt moments between the two.

Kate meets Aiden and feels an instant connection. He's has a few problems of his own in the name of an ex with mental health issues, and feels he needs to 'protect Kate' from her wrath by keeping their relationship light and away from common knowledge. At first, Kate is happy with this because she's feeling guilty about moving on after Robert's death and wants to keep Aiden casual anyway.

Kate is an artist, a very good one, and Marie Flanigan was very confident in getting that across. She had either research it very well or is an artist herself.

I loved this book, and felt the story was well told. It had a few laugh-out loud moments, but over all the book was heart-rendering. I especially cried a few tears when Kate ran away to her boyfriend's grave and subsequently went to find his grieving mother, where, it was discovered, never approved of her relationship with her son. Very nicely done.

The book ended not with a complete happy-ever-after but with an ending where you suspect things would turn out well for all concerned and I liked that. Kate, her mother and Aiden all had issues and it would have been too unrealistic to have a warm, cheesy ending with all of them hugging and ending happily.

A great début novel, which I'd be happy to recommend. It had no real significant editing issues either. A double whammy!

Blurb:

In this touching début novel, artist Kate Abernethy is trying to put her life back together after the death of her boyfriend. At first, moving back in with her mother seems like a good way to sort out her finances and re-evaluate her life—instead it proves to be a minefield of doubt and recrimination. Floundering, she pushes herself to take new opportunities so she can rebuild her life and have a second chance at happiness.

Marylu Zuk

4/5

Whose A&& Is That?

Amazon.com
Amazon.UK

The cover of a large-bottomed female, struggling with her shopping hooked me before I saw the title. It was bright, nicely illustrated and resonated with me straight away. 

The title is clever and eye catching. It made me stop and laugh but I thought that, and especially the author name, could be bigger. There's a lot of white space not being made use of.

The price of this short eBook did make me wince, and I think it'd put off  some potential readers. Also, because of it's lack of length there wasn't a 'look inside' to view and again, another fail. Who'd want to buy a 56 paged book costing $5.03/£3.27 without having a look inside? But saying that, these are the types of books you see in card shops, or on the counter of books stores to tempt you as gift ideas.

The book was a short story told in rhyme. It was delightful, funny and cute. The illustrations are excellent and fun, and helped tell the story of a woman shocked by the largeness of her derrière to eventually come to terms and learned to live with it. 

The rhymes roll off the tongue and are fun even though possibly true for some of us: It's obvious I seem obsessed with the bountiful gluteus maximus of which I have been generously blessed.

Basically, it is a fun look at how women perceive themselves, and through this book we are able to laugh at ourselves.

Whose A&& Is This? is described as a gift book and I can see this cute little book being bought as birthday present or as a Christmas stocking filler, but it's a book to buy in real form. It doesn't quite work as an eBook unless you have a state-of-the-ark eReader.

*Author, Marylu will be interviewed on WWBB 10th September. If you have any questions for her use the contact button top left of the screen and I'll put them to her.

Blurb:
Filled with whimsical illustrations and witty rhyme, Whose A&& Is That? encourages women to laugh at our collective selves. Author Marylu Zuk reassures us that we are indeed perfect regardless of the size or shape of our buns. Whose A&& Is That? permits every woman to relax her abs, exhale, and laugh at what we rarely see - our own backsides! This quick read is a delightful gift for your female tribe - sisters, aunts, coworkers, and friends.

K.C. Ball

Amazon.com
Amazon.UK

Lifting up Veronica

I loved this cover it drew me in utterly. It was beautifully illustrated and spoke contemporary yet intrigue too. The title only enforced this belief, so when the blurb tells me it's suspense set in the 60s I'm a little surprised. But I can't take my eyes off that cover! Love it. I'd advise the author to have her name a little larger though because it's completely obscure.

The opening line in the blurb is powerful: The smaller the town, the bigger the drama. A great promo line for Twitter! I think the blurb is almost spot-on for pulling in readers, but this line Mix in an assistant looking for fame and a beautiful woman who longs to become a mother, and it's a recipe for disaster... is contemporary ie 'chatty'. What am I about to read?

The opening in the look inside bit was disappointing. An epilogue is usually obscure, but it IS meant to intrigue a reader and draw them in. I wasn't drawn, at all.  Chapter one was better and I began to get to know the characters and the mean lead, Michael Kovac. He's come to West Virginia to film a documentary about a Christian sect and their handling of venomous snakes in their sermons. On this basis, I bought the book.

It's very atmospheric with the era wonderfully drawn. I could visualize myself in 1960 West Virginia, such was the strength of the writing, but, and it's a big 'but' Lifting up Veronica has a lot of characters and many with their own POV. It becomes even more confusing when the author uses their first and then the last name to identify them--and then there are the nicknames. 

Michael and Irene's attraction seemed a little sudden, but maybe I missed a bit. I'm finding I'm skipping pages to get the main points in the book. It's a slow burner, for sure, and might appeal more to fans of literary fiction.

I'm afraid I only got as far as chapter six. I didn't find any of the characters appealing enough to make me want to stay with them. It's a shame, and I don't think it has anything to do with the writing it's just one of those things because the genre isn't for me.

I haven't starred the book because I haven't read the book fully.

Blurb:
The smaller the town, the bigger the drama. In the summer of 1960, sociologist Michael Kovac travels to an old acquaintance's hometown in rural West Virginia to shoot footage for a documentary about Signs Followers — a Christian sect best known for their practice of handling venomous snakes. When money changes hands and the church elders are divided, Michael's involvement could lead to jail or worse. Mix in an assistant looking for fame and a beautiful woman who longs to become a mother, and it's a recipe for disaster...

K. D Mclean

The Story of Rachel

Book 1, Tales of Pandora

3/5

Amazon.UK
Amazon.com

The title is boring and tells me nothing other that this is a story about a woman called Rachel. The cover is raunchy and because of the blindfold I'm thinking erotica. Eeek! 

I've not read an erotic book before so this could be interesting. I found the cover sexy and I'm expecting lots of hot stuff inside.

I move to the blurb. It's long-winded and could easily be cut--the first two paragraphs, in fact. But I realise this book will have more depth than 'just a story about sex'. If I were a type of reader who wanted pure titillation I may have been put off.

The 'look inside' introduces me to the main lead, Rachel, as she waits for her blind date. It's a disastrous one, and slightly humorous.  There was an awful back story where Rachel had a conversation with her reflection over her lack of luck with men, which seemed to be there just in order to get the information out.

From the first chapter I learn that Rachel is a journalist for Canada Weekly and she's been assigned to write about an erotic artist and heads to the gallery to see his work for her article. Michael Evens, keen in BDSM, is there viewing and they meet, chat and feel a spark for one another.

You'd think it'd be pure sex from here on, but it's a story of romance, as well. Michael takes Rachel under his wing and tells her all there is to know about BDSM for her article. It's obvious to Rachel that he's heavily into BDSM himself, but this only excites her.

Fetishes aside, Michael seems a nice, well-rounded character and very well drawn. I realise that the title is a little misleading because I felt the book was as much his story as it was Rachel's. I was surprised by both their ages, though (Rachel was 36, and Michael 42). Rachel, especially, seemed very naive and immature.

Michael becomes Rachel's 'dom' (dominex) and Rachel finds she enjoys being his submissive. It's all very tasteful and romantic in a kinky sort of way. Nothing hardcore, although the Pandora club, where Michael takes Rachel is pretty steamy (Rachel and Michael are just spectators).

Their relationships builds and seems too good to be true, and for Rachel it is because due to past issues Michael is scared of falling in love and puts a stop on their budding romance. This is where the story falls down, in my opinion, there are a lot of tedious chapters with both him and Rachel moping about until Michael realises he can't live without her and then his past problems are just swept under the rug as they declare undying love and live happily ever after.

I do wonder if the continuing books (this book has no cliffhanger, and therefore can be read as a stand-alone read) will be about Rachel and Michael's adventures into the Pandora club (where the BDSM takes place) and become hotter still.

Editing wise, the book had a few problems. Mainly the classic 'I said': 'Please let me go.' She said. And also a lot of over-writing, but apart from that, clean.

If you're new to erotica this book may be the one to ease you in. I would be interested in reading the next instalment and seeing what becomes of Rachel and Michael.

Blurb
Rachel Collins is praying. And not for world peace. Thirty six years old and single, her prayer is self-centered. "Kill me now, Lord," she pleads during her latest attempt to meet Mr. Right via the internet.

She’s not hoping for a billionaire or even a millionaire, just a guy who can strike a spark to her tinder! Is she asking too much? She's a great gal! Just ask her parents! She might be a bit naive about some things, but capable enough- she's a correspondent for a major magazine, after all. So there! 

On assignment she meets Michael, 42 years old, also a writer. The attraction is immediate and intense. Rachel, who sees vanilla as only a baking ingredient, enchants him. Michael can whip up some pretty hot delights himself, outside of the kitchen. He introduces a curious Rachel to powerful experiences of sensuality. Her sense of propriety engages in a running battle with her now sparked desires. 

Michael is an excellent cook and knows how to turn up the heat. Sampling the flavors offered, Rachel experiences humorous hiccups. On a date, Michael ramps up the risque, resulting in a memorable skirt swirling salsa dance. Rachel's "What the hell, I ain't getting any younger" attitude spurs Michael to take her to the exclusive, adults only club Pandora's. Here, Rachel witnesses even more variations of earthly delights, and begins a lifelong friendship with another guest. 

Michael is a realist, convinced that within 90 days, his affair with Rachel will be but another painful memory of loss. He is neither willing nor able to yell 'Geronimo' and fall for her. He can't, and that's that. 

Maybe he should just get a damn dog. 

This modern, urban, grown up love story is a recipe –three cups romance and one cup of slapdash humor. Blend in spices of eroticism, and beat until smooth.

Garry Rogers

4/5

Cor Syl the Warrior

Amazon.com
Amazon.UK

I don't like fantasy and when I received this book for review I was going to turn it down, but the cover was interesting. Is that an elderly man overlooking Earth? He's a warrior, I got that from the title, so I would expect a fantasy about warring people, maybe over a kingdom or something. The title is plain: Corr Syl the Warrior and seemed childish in its simplicity. The blurb introduces me to the main character, Corr Syl, who is a young warrior signed to investigate the Danog group who is coming into their district. It isn't until I begin reading the sample that I realise this could be a very powerful book... and its main character is a rabbit.

Watership Down it ain't. It's a futuristic story with the humans (Danog) and intelligently evolved animals who call themselves Tsaeb (beast spelled backwards) and they all live together in semi cooperation. After the strong prologue the first chapter was a little confusing, I didn't understand whether I'd been reading about a battle or a dream that Syl had. It also had a lot of characters. And I have to admit I did struggle with the sample and put the book down several times, but the original concept of evolved animals (humans came from primates, so why not a human type person evolving from rabbits, or other animals?) made me pick it up and persevere. And I'm glad I did.

I thought I was reading a child's book until I got to part one and then something sinister began to take place (Dean Koontz took over the writing - or so it seemed!), the writing and storyline really heated up! The Tsaeb stopped becoming 'silly little animals' and became REAL people. People I could relate to and like.

In part one a spider called Lactella was able to control a Danog by sinking its fangs into the flesh and injecting venom. It was able to 'listen' to thoughts and 'speak' through the said human. It was an interesting turn, but the hook could be too long in coming for some.

Corr Syl and his co-warrior, Rhya (and a bunny love interest) are investigating the Danogs who begin to take an unusual interest in the Tsaeb community. The Danogs have practically ruined Earth, they are stupid (in comparison to the Tsaeb) and are ruled by their desires and when Lactella takes over the body and mind of Ivan Johns the new Mountainview City Manager of the Danogs things begin to hot up and we see Corr Syl battling against a great evil.

Over all, I found Corr Syl the Warrior over written in parts with far too many characters, but it was fascinating to read (from part one). I wouldn't go as far as to say gripping, but it's close enough.

I think people who love fantasy will really enjoy this book.

Blurb:

When an armed Danog patrol crosses the border into Wycliff District, the Wycliff Council sends a young Tsaeb warrior named Corr Syl to investigate and recommend a response. Corr soon learns that spies have infiltrated his district, and already many lives are at risk. He catches a glimpse of something truly evil, and with no time to spare, must choose between a safe response that might fail, and a sure response that might start a global war.

Melanie Jo Moore

3/5

Letters to Young Chong

Amazon.UK
Amazon.com

It's hard to review a memoir  They are personal, so it's like criticizing a diary. Nevertheless . . . 

I didn't like the cover and ordinarily I'd have overlooked this book because of it. There seemed to be no effort in producing it at all: a photo of two young people and a shot of urine on a brown background - ugh. The title was too small and in even smaller writing the name of the author. It doesn't look like a professional book. It looks like someone has thrown it together at the last minute--maybe they had a plane to catch? 

The blurb sounds promising. I like the chatty style of the author as she explains the book in a concise way: Booze, sex, and good times. What more could you ask for from a memoir? Sounds fun, and the book is vindicated but normally I'd not have got this far.

Look inside started very slowly with introductions from Melanie Jo Moore and how she discovered another girl in her class called Melissa Moore, but the style was chatty and like the blurb promised, fun, and I must admit, even before I'd finished the sample read, I'd forgotten I was reading a non-fiction memoir.

In all, the book is about two girls with similar names. They meet at school, and hate one another. Then they become best friends. As adults they go on their separate journey through the trials of love, bad men, tears and happiness. Some things in the book aren't pretty, but the relationship between the two women stays strong. I love their bond, which is there through thick and thin. I'd describe this book as contemporary - it's a little too 'gritty' to be classed as chick lit in my opinion  It's funny, shocking at times, with plenty of 'aw' moments.

The writing was strong, and the storyline, even though a little slow in places, managed to hold my wandering attention. I would recommend for those who like a bit of real life 'grit' in their stories.

Blurb:

Booze, sex, and good times. What more could you ask for from a memoir? Letters To Young Chong is much like the pickled ginger on a sushi plate. As a reader, sometimes you need something spicy to cleanse your palate between complex books. That is what you will find here.

Letters To Young Chong is based on the friendship that developed between Melissa Moore and myself. No relation at all. We were often confused as the same person or considered twins. It was a rough start having to share my name. I was sure I would hate that name stealing girl for all of time. Thank goodness I finally got over that. I could not imagine life without her.

Through the beginning chapters, you will read how our friendship was built. In our rural area, we weren’t provided with the luxuries of entertainment big city kids have. We learned how to keep ourselves occupied with fast cars, booze and each other.

The friendship survives years of separation and abusive relationships. When we finally meet up again, we fall right back into step. It is obvious though that time has taken its toll and the situations we have lived through change our outlook on the world forever.

So grab a stiff drink and join the Young Chong experience! Jump on the crazy train that readers are describing as an addicting, rowdy story that will make you bust out laughing and cry your eyes out. If you survive this ride, you’ll definitely want to stay tuned for the sequel!