The Artisan Heart by Dean Mayes | A Book Review

Happy New Year everyone! May the year 2020 bring in more blessings and adventures. May the new decade be filled with abundance and love. 

Christmas and New Year was a bit solemn for us because my brother-in-law had to be admitted to the hospital. What we suspected as just a spike in blood sugar and a slight stroke turned out to be a tumor in the brain which is blocking the fluids from draining and is growing near the brain stem. He had to undergo an operation immediately than risk a coma. Thankfully, we were able to borrow money for the operation. He was operated on the 26th to put a shant on his brain to drain the fluids and to lessen the building pressure. Another operation will be performed in a few days to remove the tumor which is benign and is just level one when tumors are concerned. Apparently, there are four levels or stages. At least, that's one thing we are thankful for and that we found it early, least he would just drop down into a coma while in the loo. That's how critical the situation would have been. We continue to pray that the next operation would be as smooth and there would be no complications and that he would make a faster full recovery. So, for those who will be reading this, please help pray for my brother-in-law. Thank you in advance.

When I chose this story as the first story to be reviewed for 2020, I did not have any conscious reason except that this should have been reviewed last year. After telling you about what our Christmas and New Year's celebration were like, I realized that this book has a lot of relevance to our experience mostly because the story is about a doctor. So, my telling you about my brother-in-law's case is actually a good introduction to this story or about the main character - Dr. Hayden Luschcombe.

Hayden is a very skilled pediatrician. He can easily spot things that most doctors would miss, thus is a very valuable asset to the hospital he works for. But after a very painful betrayal of his wife, he lost his cool while attending to a burned child at the emergency room and had an altercation with the child's father. He was suspended and might lose his license to practice. It was like Hayden's whole world came crushing down on him. His marriage is in shambles after he caught his wife cheating and now his career is lost as well. Worst, he had nowhere to go. No friends to find solace or comfort. His last and only resort was to go back to the one and only other place he knew - Walhalla. His hometown.

I had to reread the earlier parts of this story that led to Hayden's misfortunes. I had to make sure I had it right. What was imprinted in my consciousness was the part where Hayden spent in Walhalla after he lucked out, which is probably most of the story and the most amazing part. It turned out, life has a way of working out and for Hayden, it was Walhalla. Walhalla, along with its very kind-hearted people, had helped Hayden get back on his feet and rediscover his first love - woodworking. Aside from being a very good doctor, Hayden is a very skilled wood worker. It was in Walhalla where he found the strength and the inspiration to get his hands working again and create wooden masterpieces. It was also the place where he comes to terms with his past and his present and eventually, consider plans for his future.

Aside from Hayden, the two other inspiring characters in this story are the mother and daughter pair - Isabelle and Genevieve Sampi. Isabelle is a very talented baker. She could bake delicious and mouth-watering goodies. While reading this book, I could imagine the delicious aroma of bread baking and I can't help but miss the relaxing and uplifting mood baking brings to me. It's a very good form of stress relief which I have missed badly. I haven't done a lot of baking lately. But last New Year's eve, I got to relive the high of baking again because my sister asked me to make a banana cake when she saw that we had too many bananas that had gone too ripe. They were leftover from the hospital given by friends who visited. 

One very memorable scene in this story is how Hayden and Genevieve first met. It was a very hilarious one. The pint sized Genevieve packed a very mean kick and Hayden's unfortunate groin could attest to that. Also, Genevieve is deaf. She was so surprised that the doc is really good at sign language. These three souls (Isabelle, her daughter and the doc) turned out to find solace in each other and fix whatever is broken within themselves. As fate would have it, Walhalla is definitely the "Valley of the Gods" as it is called because these three people have found the healing they needed to start life over. 

This is a very touching story which tugged at my heart in so many different ways. I emphatized with Hayden. With him losing it and going ballistic with the parent was to me a very classic human reaction. I can understand his frustration and if I were in his place, I would have done the same thing. I would have creamed that abusive father till he admits to what he did to his own child. But then, society and values require us to be the bigger man, damn it! To be rational in a very frustrating situation. What the heck, right? But then, with the doc ending up in Walhalla, a place where he remembered he was loved, was a way for him to find hope once again.

Love, hope and that dreams do come through if you work hard enough, are the main themes of this story. In spite of the very unlucky start of Hayden, with his marriage and career ending, he found comfort and hope in the welcoming and very kind arms of Walhalla. He then resolved to fix his messes, starting with his parents' cottage. I guess, for some of us, whose issues aren't as tangible or the damage can't be literally fixed or put back together, we have to start the healing with the things that we can manually do something about. With Hayden, it was the cottage, then his dad's last wood work and then when he felt better enough about himself, he started fixing his life. The story tells us to take one thing at a time because to take on everything at once is too overwhelming. Instead of making things better, we may end up doing more damage. No one came back from the ashes in one go. Even the phoenix requires time to build strength and start the embers before rising to its rebirth. One step at a time because healing is gradual. It doesn't take overnight. It's a slow process. For others, much slower, depending on the person's drive to make things better and how much the emotional, physical and mental damage is. And it doesn't hurt also to have people who believe in you. That no matter how much you messed up, they believe that you can pull through because they've seen you when you were at your best. They have faith that you are a lot bigger than your messes. You can be better. You can do a lot better.

I give this book 5/5 doctor's bag. It's a very good story of starting over and doing what we truly love. And it couldn't be just one thing, but we could be passionate about many things. Just like Hayden, he doesn't have to choose between being a wood craftsman and a doctor, he could be both. He could do well with a chisel and a stethoscope. He's skilled at those two things. He could heal people with compassion and create works of art with wood with a passion. He could be an artisan doctor. He only has to be reminded of the joy that woodworking brings to him and from there he could feel better. To learn to forgive himself and start over. With that in mind, I hope that whatever our misses in 2019, we leave it there. We start over this year just like Doc Hayden, Isabelle and Genevieve and make a better life than the one we had the previous year or the years before that. To just aim to be better. Cheers to new beginnings and to living life with a passion and living our passions. If you have not found your passion or anything that makes you feel so alive, then find it!

What we were as children doesn't necessarily translate to the people we are now.

- Dean Mayes, The Artisan Heart - 

Thank you again Dean Mayes and Netgalley for the review copy. Sorry, this review took a whole year to come out. Happy New Year!

All the Hidden Pieces by Jillian Thomadsen | A Book Review

It's halfway of May already. It's summer here in the Philippines and it's scorching hot. We haven't been to the beach yet. My summer did have a good start. I went to Korea last April and it was spring there but it felt like it was still winter. The air was still freezing cold. I had a blast though. I had a lot of first experiences in South Korea which I will treasure for the rest of my life. I felt so alive and it's been quite a while since I've felt like that. 

So, this book is a suspense-thriller. At first glance, you may think that it's a bit of drama. I thought so. The title seems to suggest that some secrets are about to be uncovered. Major drama, right? Well, not too far out. This book is really a revelation. There's family drama, I give you that. Yes, secrets are about to be revealed and more.

I know I've said in my previous posts that I am a mystery, suspense, thriller fan. It's my favorite genre. The guessing game and the excitement keeps me glued to the stories. And being such a big fan, I have become familiar with some of the things that come with thriller stories. I then start to formulate my own theories as to how the rest of the story will unfold or who the killer is or what the big mystery is about. Unfortunately, in this book, my experience and great affinity with mysteries wasn't very helpful. This is a very riveting story and a few suspects were thrown in but were actually too far from what really is going on. And that's the best part. I love that a story could throw me out of my wits and keep me wondering. And at the end of it all, I was flabbergasted because it was totally different. It's a satisfaction every reader loves, to be thrown out of the loop, yet the ending is way way much better for it. I crave that kind of high. This story delivered it all with much gusto and much more.

Nothing could have prepared me for this story. The blurb may have been a bit longer than usual but there's more to it. You would think that it has summarized the story in all its essence but you are very very wrong. There's more and much more. I love it! That's why it's good to read blurbs to at least know what you're walking into. But it's much more satisfying, like ice-cold water after a parching walk under the sun, to read each page and find out that there's a great deal more to know. It's an adventure in itself going through each page and be more confused and horrified that all your theories had to be scrapped. It's a great satisfaction to realize that the author is a master and has played you cruelly in her hands. Cruel because you can never figure it out for yourself. 

I had the time of my life reading this book. I never put it down. I had to finish it if I wanted to maintain my sanity. I need to find all the hidden pieces and where each character fits into the story. The ending was so far out of my thoughts that it was a relief and really satisfying to finally know. Ah, what a great adventure it is having to accompany Detective Hobbs and be as astounded as she is when the truth finally hit her. It was wow! 

I can't say enough how I have enjoyed this story and how I was confused and bewildered by the turn of events. I was actually happy to be confused and be out of my wits figuring it out. It's one of the best things about this book. You will never know. So, I gave this 5/5 puzzle pieces. Everything just fits perfectly.

There was something about accepting an apology so many years after the fact that made it insufferable. It was like the nominal payment of a library fee many years after the book had been destroyed in a horrible fire - long after the fine was written off.

- Jillian Thomadsen, All the Hidden Pieces - 

Thank you again, Jillian Thomadsen for the review copy. I'm looking forward to your next stories that would make me confused yet satisfied at the end.

The Emergent Threat (War Eternal #2) by J. F. Cain | A Book Review

I've read this way back in July last year. Yes, I know. It took quite a while to write the review. As I've mentioned in one of my posts here, reading has never been a problem for me. It's the writing of the review that takes time. It's a bit of a process for me. Sometimes, I need to be in the mood to be able to come up with a really objective review. I just don't want to throw words out there. It had to be representative of what I feel and what feelings the story drew out from me. Sometimes, even if I intended to write a review for a particular book, I ended up writing a post for another one. Again, it's the mood. Sometimes the mood I'm in is not conducive or does not facilitate the writing of the review of a particular book. 

Right now, I'm not in any particular mood, so I think I can go ahead and finish this review. Alex and Aranes. These two are beings that have been with each other for years or maybe centuries. The only problem now is Alex can't remember his past or how he is related to Aranes. What he does remember is he's drawn to Aranes helplessly. 

This story continues the battle between good and evil. Here, Alex is starting to remember his past and why he's now on earth. What he's supposed to be and what's his role in the overall scheme of things. Aranes gave up everything for him and now he must do the same for her and to make sure that Lucifer does not succeed in his plans of dominion over heaven and earth. There are a lot more revelations here. Some are a bit disappointing because it may seem like Lucifer got the upper hand. The same way as the other characters were surprised by the revelations, I was too. 

One other notable character in the story which I think seems to be a wild card when you look at the bigger picture is the fallen commander of the Powers- Abriel. I am not really sure where his loyalties lay. I think he may still be playing the field. I think he has something up his sleeve which is probably the real reason why he's currently in Lucifer's lair. I'm going to go ballistic if this theory ever comes true.

So, there's a lot of things to look forward to in the next book. I can't wait to see what will happen next. A lot of things is going on and it seems that some of Lucifer's minions may have their own agenda. Of course, they're evil, they each had to look out for their own hides. Their selfish desires will always come before whatever Lucifer's main goal is. With that said, I give this book 4.5/5 pairs of black wings, reminiscent of Abaddon. I didn't want this book to end. I wanted to have more. I didn't like ending in this installment. It bodes for very dark things to come. But then again, I'm still rooting for the good angels to defeat the darkness. Just like how St. Michael's is represented in his statue - holding down Lucifer at his feet, defeated. I'm hoping in this series, it would be Abaddon who's going to rip Lucifer apart again. Just like in their previous encounters. 

Thanks again, J. F. Cain for the review copy. I'm really sorry for the delayed review. Thank you so much for your patience. 

3 Hour Dad: Reading is Believing by Adam T. Hourlution | A Book Review

This is an author's request. He contacted me via this blog and asked to review this book. 

At first, I wasn't sure what to make of the title of this book. Three-hour dad. What does that even mean? Does that mean being a dad for just three hours. That does not sound good to me.

As it turned out, Three-hour Dad means the author, being the dad referred to in the title, only found out he was going to be a dad three hours before his wife gave birth. Yes, they didn't realize that his wife was in labor until they've gotten to the hospital because they suspected his wife had appendicitis. Amazing, right? Or you'll wonder, how is that possible?

It was explained in the book how the unexpected pregnancy happened. How his wife never noticed any of the symptoms or never had any of the symptoms of a woman who's pregnant. It seemed like an anomaly or more like a miracle. 

This book came to be because the author wanted to document that very special and unique experience, including the overflowing and unexpected kindness they got from friends, co-workers and other people. As the couple didn't know that they were expecting, they were not prepared also. There were no baby clothes shopping, or a crib to be assembled. None of that ever happened. When the author called in his office to inform that his wife was in labor, his office mates and boss were just as surprised. The office mates rallied together and chipped in and bought baby supplies and clothes for the coming baby. Friends also were very excited for the couple that they too bought baby things to give to the couple and to welcome the new baby properly. The couple was so overwhelmed by this flow of kindness. They never expected that their friends would be so generous and help them get everything ready for the baby instantly. It gave them courage to be ready to be instant parents.

And with this very touching experience, the author decided that he too could pass on the same kindness to others. He decided that a random kindness or any small act of kindness goes a long way, just as it greatly helped his new family. So, with this in mind, he set out to do just that. Time and time again, he would go out into the streets and approach an unsuspecting stranger and give him a gift card to use for groceries or any other needs. You can watch a video of the same act here. Proceeds from the sale of this book also goes to helping more people. So, go and buy your copy now. It would go a long way.

But you might ask, why tell the world that he's helping people. Why not just do it and not publicize it? He took a video not because he wants to publish that he's giving people this and that, or he wants to become popular, or be the next  thing to be trending on social media. He posted a video because he wanted more people to be moved and join in the random act of kindness movement. He wants it to become a lifestyle - that everyone will show kindness to strangers, especially strangers, whether it'd be small or not. He wants to start a kindness revolution. He wants to make kindness very popular that it will no longer be a novelty. A time when kindness will be just as ordinary as saying hello or probably as easy as blinking an eye. Oh, I would love to see that happen in this lifetime.

With all that said, this book is worth your time. Reading through the author's personal miracle is just a wonderful feeling. That in spite of the problems and issues we are facing now and the world in general, there are still miracles that happen. There are still a lot of good things and good people. That there are still a lot of good hearts that could be moved and kindness that is absolutely deadly. Deadly because it will kill all selfish and self-centered thoughts. You will feel so grateful and thankful that you can't help but pass on the deed. You can't help but be kind also. You can't help but do the same kindness to someone and seeing the surprise and delight in that person's eyes is the greatest high one could ever experience. A thousand ways more potent than any drugs ever invented or any herbs ever discovered. Believe me, I have been a recipient of kindness a dozen or more times and true enough, the saying "Kill them with kindness," is absolutely true. I think I have died a dozen times and more and this is probably my 20th, 50th or 100th life.

I give this book, 4/5 sets of cute baby clothes. A child is a gift, just as any amount of kindness is a gift to anyone. To the giver, what you give may not be much but to the receiver, who's desperate, you might just have saved him or saved his day. So, go on and spread the kindness. Any little thing done out of pure generosity, thoughtfulness and willingness to help will go a long way. It might just be what that person needs. Hope, even just a tiny spark is still hope. And in a dreary, desolate and desperate world, hope can light it up, even the darkest of corners.

UCO - Unidentified Crying Object

- Adam T. Hourlution, 3 Hour Dad - 

Thank you again, Adam T. Hourlution, for the review copy. I salute you for starting this kindness revolution. You are not alone. I know many others also tried and are still trying to achieve this very lofty and noble goal. I hope you will continue to inspire more people to join this movement. I know I am one and I have always been thankful for all the kindness that came my way. I try to do random kindness as much as I can because I know how it feels to be in need and desperate. One little spark is all a person needs.

You can also visit the author's website here and Goodreads.

Bagging Alice (Babes of Brighton #3) by Laura Barnard | ARC | A Book Review

First paragraph into the story and I felt like I was scandalized. The first few lines were not exactly what I expected to welcome me. It was so graphic and I wished the story did not start literally that way. Of course, this is an adult story and I know that there will be mature content. I just did not expect that it would be literally the first thing I would encounter.

As the chapter progresses, that graphic start of the story explained a lot. That actually was a crucial part of the main character's dilemma here. So, I do understand the author wanting to put that there but I think it was too much too soon. Anyway, as I have said, in some way it was justified but it just did not sit well with me. That's just me.

Moving on into the rest of the story, it was actually entertaining. A set of very varied characters and some of them even involved with each other is fun to read. Though there were times you tend to lose track of who's who, which character is which, because there was quite a number of them to remember. And I think, even the author in a way felt a little that way too because I noticed an inconsistency. There was a part where one character said something and then when that character was referred to again, it was a different person altogether. In a way, it was chaotic because of these host of characters but it was also fun. It was like watching this big group of friends getting together and exchanging antics. Imagine that and in the center of it all is Alice. Alice is not exactly the best of the bunch but rather the one with the most problems. If she could magically disappear from the face of the earth to save herself from all the troubles she's bombarded with, she would have. Thankfully, these set of friends are here to the rescue and make sure she gets back her life.

Alice, not exactly a female gifted with a douche-detection system, unfortunately always ends up with douche bags and more than her heart broken. The last one, broke the internet because of the salacious picture of Alice shared on social media. Yes, Alice scored big time on this one. M-A-J-O-R douche bag. And here comes the best part, the only way to start getting back control of her life from slipping into oblivion is to let another douche bag live with her-as her roommate. Yes, good luck with that.

Well, as you may have expected, the roommate did actually prove that Alice was not a magnet for douche bags. This one actually realized he needs to change his ways and Alice made him see that. With that said, the story ended quite how I wanted. I actually really liked the part how Tom's issue with his boss who was harassing him was resolved. Yes, good thing Tom was man enough to refuse her advances. I too thought that with his reputation as a man-whore, he would sleep with just about anyone. Please excuse the word. That was how he was called in the story most of the time by Alice and some of her girlfriends. Apparently, Tom has some decency left in him because he actually does not sleep with cougars even if it could help his career. God job Tom!

So, except for the shocking beginning, this story turned out to be so entertaining. I am glad that both main characters, Alice and Tom, actually developed as the story progresses. As it came to the end of the story, both characters were way a lot better than where they started in their relationships, personal life, and career. Most shocking of all was the real culprit who was responsible for the downfall of Alice. Evidently, not all douche bags are out of Alice's life. One unfortunately can't be rid of. How can you get rid of an evil blood relation? Well, killing them is definitely not a viable option but tempting. But Alice can still live her life according to her own terms and screw her family. She can be what she wants and she will prove just that without their help. She has great friends anyway who have been very supportive to her more than her family. That's all she needs.

With that, I give this book 3.5/5 cute dogs. Yes, there's actually a really cute dog in this story. Pickles actually proved that Tom, the imbecile, can actually be responsible for a dog and can change into a better man because he has found the right woman. Love does change a man for the better and in so may ways.

And just like that, when you think your life has already hit rock bottom it goes and shows you there's a basement.

- Laura Barnard, Bagging Alice - 

Thanks again, Laura Barnard for the ARC. Sorry for the delayed posting of the review.

On Leopard Rock: A Life of Adventures by Wilbur Smith | ARC | A Book Review

It's October once again. The leaves are falling down. As the song by Bethany Joy Galeotti goes. It's autumn in some parts of the world. I think Autumn is a magical time of the year. The leaves are turning gold and falling from the branches covering the ground in soft carpet. I haven't experienced autumn yet. As you know, I'm from the Philippines and we don't have autumn, spring, or winter. It's all just summer and rain. I am hoping that one day I could actually spend autumn in New York or in Paris, or in any other beautiful city in the world. 

So, the book I'm going to be reviewing doesn't actually have anything to do with autumn in it because most of what's in it happens in Africa. And as you may well know, Africa doesn't have autumn as well. I was so thrilled that I was asked to review this book. Until now, I can't help but wonder how it happened. Wilbur Smith is one of my favorite authors and to be asked to review his autobiography is  such an honor. I thank the book gods that this book found me. This is such an incredible book. It's not just a peek but a close look into the life of this famed author and his experiences. Where his stories came from and his great influences in his life and writing. I was so enamored by the book that it felt like reading one of the author's sagas. It didn't feel like an autobiography at all but rather reading of Mr. Smith's great adventures.

What a delightful adventure this is. I actually feel envy knowing of Mr. Smith's life growing up because it was filled with a lot of adventures and time spent in the African landscape, which is just filled with wondrous gifts of nature. But it wasn't all safaris and fun, there were a lot of very scary incidents too that has marked the author for life. Though I could say, that his experiences with lions and snakes are ones I surely wouldn't survive, but reading them here is both frightening and, in a way, comical. 

The thing that strikes me the most in this book is the author's close relationship with his dad. That's another thing that I envy. He kept that relationship till he was older and till his dad passed away. His dad was his own hero and the inspiration in more than one of his great stories. His dad was a larger than life figure who had greatly influenced Wilbur Smith as an author and as a person. 

Reading this was a really great and immersing experience. To actually have a better understanding of the author as a real person and know how his stories came to life because of his rich experiences is such a rewarding experience. It was like being there under the African sun and having to relive the author's childhood, all his mischief, his failures, all his struggles before he became one of the world's most published and widely read authors and being shown his first high as the first of his many amazing stories were published. 

Like us readers, the author humbly admits that he too is inspired by his readers. He recalled in this book some of the times when some of his  readers have touched his life because they have read his books. And I count myself one of those lucky people who have greatly appreciated Mr. Smith's gift for storytelling. My first encounter with Wilbur Smith was through Reader's Digest condensed books. If I remember correctly, The Sunbird was the first book I've read and my life was never the same after that. Yes, if you're one of his avid fan and readers, you know that his books are quite hard, yet very engaging. Hard because it exposes the realities of life in Africa, or wherever the setting of the story is, the human struggles and frailties. It's blunt and honest and no holds barred. Not to mention, sex and violence. But all these weren't there just to sensationalize the story but rather because they help make the story more authentic. 

With that said, my only wish is long life for Mr. Smith so he can continue to enrich the world with his wonderful stories. As I have said, I am so fortunate to have grown to love this author and his countless stories. I don't think a bookworm's life is complete without having known him or be enthralled by one of his numerous stories.

I would say, I'm not fit to rate this book. There was no need for that. I think this author has earned his laurels and is way past needing reviews. I just gobbled up and allowed this book to take me to the author's childhood, his years growing up in boarding school and be regaled with his experiences in the African  landscape. It was definitely a great feast for the senses. Again, I am so honored to have been given the opportunity to experience this book. So, I give this a pride of lions. A fierce autobiography fit for a very fierce man and talented author, who have battled more than lions and deadly snakes in his life, who have accomplished more than most of the world aspires, yet still humble enough to admit that none of his stories ever came easy to him. Even at this stage in his success as an author, he still says, that he's just like the other writers who have struggles but he just kept on. 

Literature throws many great heroes at us, but real life invariably outdoes them.

The human need to seek out heroes is deep-seated and it’s been recognized by storytellers ever since Homer wrote his epic of the Trojan War, The Iliad, nearly three thousand years ago. My passion is to bring to life those heroes--and, if ever I need a model for one, all I do is remember that night when I was eight years old: my father, his Remington rifle, and three man-eating lions, rampaging in the night.

 - Wilbur Smith, On Leopard Rock - 

Thanks again, Gretchen Crary for the book copy and Mr. Wilbur Smith for sharing this wonderful experience with the world.

Clutch by Lisa Becker | A Book Review

According to this story, men are like bags. And I find the comparison very amusing and very fitting. The author is very clever to come up with this idea. It's amazing. And yes, I did enjoy the story. Thanks again, Lisa W. Becker for the review copy.

For a person who likes bags and at one point, thought that the more I have them, I could have more variety and more choices to choose from. I used to think that it would be amazing to have bags in all colors to match outfits or have a different one whenever you feel like it. I'm not one who buys expensive bags. I used to want to have different styles for versatility. But now, maybe it comes with age, I realized I don't have to change bags as often and I want my bags to last. I realized, I don't need a lot of bags. Just one functional and durable one. And just like in this story, you don't need all these bags but one. One you can hold dear. 

And I guess, it goes the same with men. Unlike the main character in this story, Caroline, who had the luck or the misfortune of meeting these different kinds of men,  depending on how you look at it, I've only been in love three times. I have a lot of guy friends but I never ever thought of comparing them to bags which is a very clever and hilarious idea. I think the closest thing I could compare to having a relationship would be my jobs or the companies I've worked for. I think the explanation is very lengthy, so let's not get into that.  I guess, reading of Caroline's experiences with men is hilarious but if this were real life, it's actually disastrous. Yes, I do admit it's interesting to meet these varied types of men but I prefer not to engage with them knowing all these things from Caroline. I am  good just watching Caroline from the sidelines here. I don't envy her. But having a man and a best friend like Mike in her life is what I covet.

Mike, he's a good sounding board. A very reliable best friend. But the best thing about him is he wants to carve a path of his own even if it's going to be hard. Even if it would mean he could be disowned and not have the comforts and luxuries in his privileged upbringing. Not a lot of guys would have the same strength of character to turn away from that.  I know normally, a lot would bet his life living on dad's money.

Mike and Caroline. I think the reason why these two took a long while to realize they are what each one needs is because they've gotten so used to the idea that they're perfect together as best friends. It never occurred to them that they're perfect for each other more than that because of the bond and experiences they have shared. They are each other's rock. And this is what I liked most about the story. The fact that these two just simply did not see right away that they are just meant to be. It was frustrating having to witness Caroline go through these different dates or relationships and knowing that none of them were bound to last. And after each fall out, Mike was always there to deal with the aftermath. No question. He was always there. It was part of how things are. The ever supportive best friend. Ah, I just love best friends who end up together. I wish the same is true in my life.

The book is very perceptive. Again, I can't stress enough how clever  it is to compare men to purses. And it's a very accurate and very interesting metaphor which every girl could very well relate to and understand. I guess, if you have a friend who have gone through a lot of boyfriends and have not realized that she had been buying the same type of bag, just in different sizes and colors but it wasn't what she needed because it was not functional, poor in quality, and does not suit her needs, letting her read this book will probably make her come to her senses sooner than all those heart to heart talks combined. I think this is a very good book to understand men. I think every girl should read this book. The entertainment value alone is so worth the time.

With that said, I give this book 5/5 clutch bags. Again, this is a hilarious, perceptive, and very educational story. Nothing more to be said except for all of you to read it. I'm so happy that this book was handed to me. 

I don't need to drive you crazy. You're close enough where you can walk there all on your own.

- Lisa Becker, Clutch - 

Spaceway Down by Casey Herzog | A Book Review

I got this through Facebook. The author messaged me and asked if I'd want to review this book. I agreed. It took quite a while for me to read this book. I should have gotten to it sooner because this was a very interesting story. Again, as I have mentioned here several times, I am not really a big fan of sci-fi but I have read a few that had made me open to the genre. This is one of those books that's worth the time spent reading it. Thank you again, Casey Herzog for the copy. 

This is a prequel, I think, for the Johnny Spaceway series entitled Dystopian Child Prodigy SciFi. Again, like other sci-fi stories that came my way, I am a bit hesitant in really diving into this right away. I am bit wary that it may be a let down or my being not so fond of the genre will take over. Fortunately, this story was written really well and very engaging. Not to mention that the main character is a very strong woman bent on not letting anyone control her life or affect her decisions. Even if she had been through a very difficult experience, she didn't let it deter her. She has to move forward and make a life of her own choosing. I adored Marna's character. She's smart and very observant. I really loved the part where she planned her life perfectly after she was released from the hospital. She planned everything thoroughly. I was very impressed, especially when she ordered those special items that would help her settle in her new home. That was the most impressive part of the story. 

This story is short but not too short to leave you hanging. It was complete enough on its own but it also promised a lot more on the next book. I am so looking forward to read the next stories. This has set the tone and introduced the characters and explained enough their circumstances. It hinted that more is coming which made me realize that I should have read this book sooner. 

I give this book 5/5 humanoid robots. This was really enjoyable and engaging. And trust me, I don't find a lot of sci-fi books that are enjoyable. So, this one is really a class on its own. And to think, this is just a prequel, it's not the full story yet. I imagine there's so much more of this on book one. I hope I get my hands on that one too. I can't wait to find out also if the author will be able to maintain the same engagement and interest in the next set of stories. Writing a sci-fi is a challenge in itself, making it as engaging is an added pressure.

...like washing away a layer of filth from the hospital. Like an insect shedding a layer of its skin, leaving behind a shell of what it once was, emerging from the chrysalis as something new. 

- Casey Herzog, Spaceway Down - 

Avenged (Circle of the Red Scorpion #2) by Charlene Johnson | ARC | A Book Review

This is an ARC. I was supposed to post this review in time for the blog tour but was not able to. I got the ARC from the author who reached out to me through the contact us form of this blog. Thank you again Charlene Johnson and Kingston Publishing for the ARC. I am sorry that this review came late but better late than never, right?

This is the second book of the series. I have not read book one but this book is comprehensive enough and is a stand alone. I was still able to keep up with the story even if I have not read the first book. This is a paranormal story where the characters are either half supernatural and half-human or full vampire, etc. There is a mix of supernatural beings here which is interesting. How they came together is all because of Broderick Devereaux. He founded the Circle of the Red Scorpion to bring together other supernatural beings that share his goal to protect humans from the other supernatural creatures who are exploiting humans for their gain. 

I think the best part of this story is its mix of characters. It's varied enough that some of them I haven't encountered in other paranormal stories that I have read. Other important characters that are also in the story are Drake, his mom Elise, and Ebony. Most of the story revolved around these three characters and Broderick. The villain, Solomon, was also very vicious that I ended up hating and wanting to end him myself. I think the author have played and explored his role effectively that I ended up wanting to be the one to put a stake to his heart.  

There were also a lot of revelations in the story that I so did not expect. Some of them were done cleverly while there were some that should have been milked by the author and delivered with great suspense but unfortunately they were not. They were just handed over without a lot of preamble. I would have liked them to have been given more fuss over as they were really astonishing revelations. Aside from that, I have no other complains. Be warned though, like most supernatural adult stories, this one is very steamy and has a lot of sex scenes. So, if you are a bit squeamish and prefers those clean and wholesome reads, then this might not be for you. I think, since most of the characters are half-human half-animal, I was not so particular with the story being clean and wholesome. I understand that the author may have to include those steamy parts.

So, I give this book 3/5 jaguars. I would definitely want to read the next book. The cliffhanger ending was enough for me. It promised that the peace and relief felt by the Devereaux and the Circle of the Red Scorpion is very temporary. Now, another enemy has surfaced bent on disturbing their lives. Let's see how the Circle will find and defeat the enemy this time. I am also excited for Ebony and Drake's twins to be part of the story. I hope they grow fast so they will be active and talking characters in the next installments. 

The constellations of Orion and the giant scorpion represented the battle between good and evil, arrogance and humility, and right and wrong.

Scorpio symbolized the attribute of determination, power, self-reliance, and resourcefulness. The red scorpion of India was the deadliest of its species. 

- Charlene Johnson, Avenged -  

Halfway Dead (Halfway Witchy #1) by Terry Maggert | A Book Review

I got this book from the author. He requested me to review all the four books in this series. This is the first book. This is also my first to read a book by the author. This is a story about Carlie. She's a cook at the town diner and is also a witch who people depend on to solve some problems and illnesses. One day, a handsome stranger came into town and Carlie had no choice but to follow him into the depths of the forest. There she encountered a thousand-year old vampire that had been trapped in the forest. Carlie had to attempt a few things she had never done before and to fight a very evil being. 

Halfway is a name of the town where Carlie lives and where the story is set. It's called halfway because of it's location which is exactly halfway in the middle of Utica, New York and the Canadian border. It's a tourist destination town and a repository for magical things which I think, both an advantage and disadvantage for Carlie being a witch. Just like her being a witch, it's both a gift and a curse and that's what's we're going to find out in this story.

Like all fantasy and paranormal stories, you'll meet here different magical creatures, including those evil ones. Carlie, being a new witch, has to navigate through this magical side of her life with the guidance of her grandmother and learn more about her abilities. Then, Jim Dietrich came to town to ask for Carlie's help. She didn't know that the help he requires may actually get her to use her gifts and go into the forest where something bad happened and Carlie may need her magic to put things to right. 

I did enjoy this story. What I really like was what started out as just a routine investigation to prevent corporate espionage has turned into a battle to get rid of evil spirits. It's a turn of events that you will not normally expect but it was done very well in this story. I was actually hanging on to every chapter because I was so curious. Then, it gets curiouser when other magical beings appeared and their origin is even more interesting. I'm glad that Carlie succeeded in this first mission of sorts with her using her abilities. I'm dying to know what adventures and creatures she had to exorcise in order to protect Halfway and it's people. 

I give the book 4/5 delicious waffles. This is a really good start to a new series. It's very suspenseful and you won't really know what's going to happen next in the succeeding chapters. I basically had no idea. I had no way of knowing. I did not formulate any theories as to what Carlie will do or what's going to transpire. I just enjoyed the story as it took me to where it went next and it was fun and a relief that Carlie succeeded. It was scary and nerve-racking having to watch Carlie face an enemy she had never seen before, except in books or heard from stories of her grandma. Having all these other mix of characters, both immortal and ordinary humans also add up to the whole dynamics of the story. I like the fact that in the first few chapters the author has laid it out that Halfway is a magical place. It's like a disclaimer or a warning. So definitely, you would expect supernatural and paranormal things to happen. I like that it somehow prepares the reader but not really that prepared because you'll never know what creatures are going to make an appearance. I'm looking forward to reading the next books in the series and how the rest of the book will unfold and as to what direction the story will take. This is a book that falls halfway between an easy and a not so easy read. Easy on the beginning but you will have to brace yourself in the later part because that's where the real fight begins. And then, you can take a deep breath of relief because Carlie was able to get out of that forest unscathed and probably just advanced into the next level, if there are levels in being a witch. After this assignment, she may have just become a newly-improved witch from being just a newbie.

But for now, I treat my magic like a new pair of shoes. Someday, we're going to love each other, but for now we're just trying to fit together comfortably.

You insult my waffles, and you've just launched the first salvo in a war.

Tea first, troubles second. 

- Terry Maggert, Halfway Dead - 

Thank you again, Terry Maggert for the copy.