Hale and Gemini (Alder Tales #3) by RS McCoy | ARC | A Book Review

It's live ! RS McCoy's third installment of the Alder Tales is finally out. Congratulations RS McCoy!

This is a re-imagining of the story of Hansel and Gretel. In this case, they are not siblings but rather friends - childhood friends who grew up together.

I have waited for this book to come out. The story just keeps getting better and better-more interesting, more engrossing and more surprising. I just love the surprises that came with this book. Things are looking really really good. Everything seems to be hopeful. But like all good things, they get worse before they get better. My favorite characters in this story had to go through pain, heartbreak and sorrow before they finally find the reason behind what fate had given them. And in the end, it all worked out for the best. Of the three books, this is probably the most hopeful, things are looking up and getting brighter for the Franes. But then again, classic RS McCoy leaves the readers open-mouthed and tongue-tied because something unexpected happened before this book closes. And that makes the readers even more addicted to this story.

Let's talk about Hale and Gemini. Hale is Blossom's third older brother and Gemini is Blossom's best friend. Hale used to comb and plait Gemini's hair when they were younger since Hale is Blossom's default bodyguard. He goes where Blossom and Gemini are. And since Blossom and Gemini are inseparable, Gemini sort of became Hale's adopted little sister. But that kind of relationship changed when they left the Alder forest to runaway from their pains and the reminders of these pains. Unexpectedly, these two were thrown together and in turn formed a bond that is different from what they had. A far stronger bond. Gemini became Hale's companion and the only person who understood what he was going through. And Hale, promised to protect and keep Gemini safe from all that threatened to take her away or harm her.

This book is more than what I was hoping for. It gave me more than I wanted and turned the story into a very fascinating adventure and quest for purpose. Each character started with a mission to find what other purpose s/he has to fulfill in life. Why s/he was given this specific lot and why not the other way around? As the story came to an end, they were answered. At this point in the story, everyone seemed to have found their place and things have sort of fallen into place. Which in truth what every reader expects or wishes for every story but in this case, you never see it coming. I never expected that things will be resolved because the story is far from over. And I understand, because some other issues took their place. New hurdles are to be overcome. This is good news because there is definitely another book. I hope this story does not end with the next book. I think two or three more books will do.

I give this book 5/5 tattoos of trees. I just love how this story is unraveling and progressing. I have no complaints. It is far more than I could ever imagine it to be. I am looking forward to the next three books of this series. Please... RS McCoy let there be more of this series. I am so privileged to have read this series from the start and I am hoping that I would be able to see this through to the end. I will make sure of it. Thank you so much RS McCoy for the ARC. Again, Congratulations! This is absolutely fantastic!

His life was nothing more than the rubble after an earthquake. Each piece was recognizable as something it had been before, but every facet of him was shattered.

- RS McCoy, Hale and Gemini - 

Other books in the series:

Blossom and the Beast (The Alder Tales #1)

Raene and the Three Bears(The Alder Tales #2)

Snow Owl (The Alder Tales #4)

Hale and Gemini (The Alder Tales #3) by RS McCoy | Cover Reveal

 Hale and Gemini

Author: RS McCoy

Genre: Paranormal Romance/Fairytale Reimagining

Cover Designer: Kit Foster Design

Pre-Order: http://amzn.to/2srWOVb

Release Date: July 18, 2017

  

The third son of the Bear Clan, Hale thought he had his life figured out. He had a stunning bride, his iron faith in the Mother, and has spent the last five years training to be the future clan leader. But when his life comes crashing down around him, Hale knows he can’t stay home. 

Leaving behind everyone he’s ever known, Hale is alone with his thoughts as he crosses the Alderwood in search of his sister. Then Gemini—the clan flirt and known gossip—follows him, demanding his protection. She’s just as determined to leave her life behind. Hale doesn’t know what made her leave her sisters or suitor, but he has no choice but to continue with a helpless girl at his side. Neither ever expected just how dangerous the Alderwood could be. 

Oblivious of Hale’s departure, Parson and Raene travel to Terrana to ask political favors in exchange for their clan leader’s freedom, but lingering injuries threaten their arrival—and their lives. They’ll need the help of an unlikely ally if they hope to succeed. 

Rachel McCoy is a Texan living in New Jersey. Between binge-watching MTV reality shows and baking gluten-free treats, she writes paranormal fantasy and science fiction novels. She is the self-published author of the Sparks Saga trilogy, The Alder Tales series, and The Extraction Files. Back when she lived in the real world, Rachel earned a degree in marine biology, which contributed to her die-hard love of manta rays. 

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The Lightning Luminary by RS McCoy | Blog Tour

Title: The Lightning Luminary

Author: RS McCoy

Genre: Urban Paranormal Romance

Cover Designer: Kit Foster Design

Now Available

Talia Stanley may look like the typical wealthy New Yorker, but she's hidden her secrets for more than a thousand years. One of the last surviving members of an ancient race called Luminaries, Talia has suppressed her ability to control lightning in exchange for safety. 

And for generations it worked. Talia's hermit lifestyle protected her from strong Luminaries that want her power. All that changed the day Mason Rathbone walked into her life. 

A good-looking artist, Mason is just the guy to get Talia out of her penthouse apartment and show her what it means to live again. But just as she starts to get comfortable, Talia gets sucked right back into her vicious past.

Buy Links:

Amazon US

Amazon UK

Amazon CA

To read my review of The Lightning Luminary, click here.

Dr. Hershey’s waiting room was as colorful and bright as she was. The walls were the color of fruit punch with large white polka dots. A massive swatch from Minnie Mouse’s wardrobe. The left side of the room was covered in large, multi-colored waffle pieces, with a tiny Crayola table with chairs, a box of toys, and a wall of kiddie books.

Mason froze mid-step. Clearly he was in the wrong place.

“Come on in, Mr. Rathbone.” Someone called from the depths of the office labyrinth. Mason followed the voice until he found Dr. Hershey buried behind a desk. It was cluttered with stacks of files and papers, binders and books, with jars of candy mixed in. Her pen scratched against a yellow legal pad, her brow knitted with concern over whatever it was she wrote.

“I thought I was in the wrong—”

She pointed her pen around the room without looking up. “My associate, Dr. Lemore, is a child psychologist. It helps them feel comfortable before their appointments.”

Mason looked around her white office. Various degrees and certificates hung on the walls. A few awards, even. Apparently, the sweet, little Dr. Hershey was quite accomplished. “And what about you? You pass out chocolates?”

Dr. Hershey reached into the nearest jar and fetched a fun-size Twix bar. Without looking, she tossed it at his chest. Mason caught it and smiled.

She put down her pen and leaned back into her chair. The new distribution of weight sank the chair back toward the ground. It almost looked as if she might tilt over backward. “How are you feeling today?”

Mason shrugged and thrust his hands into his pant pockets. In fact, he woke up rested and relaxed. He actually slept in a bit thanks to his appointment. “My brain didn’t try to kill itself, so I guess I’m feeling fine. And a nice lady gave me a chocolate.” He winked at her.

Dr. Hershey’s cheek twisted into a half-hearted smile. From the lively giggles of yesterday to this morning’s dreary mood, Mason could hardly believe it was the same person.

“You okay, doc?”

She nodded and put on a fake smile he was sure she used often. “One of my patients committed suicide last night. I was just going over her file—” Mason swallowed as Dr. Hershey rubbed her eyes. “But now, you’re here.” This time, the smile was easier, less forced.

“Aw, thanks doc.” His bashful act was dampened by the mention of her tragedy. Mason felt compelled to add, “I’m sorry for your loss.”

She nodded her thanks. “Who have you lost, Mr. Rathbone?”

The question made him uncomfortable, as if Dr. Hershey had known to ask. It wasn’t often he talked about his past, especially not with people he’d just met. Still, this was his doctor. “My mom. Breast cancer three years ago. My dad and brother when I was in high school.”

“Which explains why you have no next of kin.”

Mason thought that was a very polite way of saying he was an orphan.

“Any change in your condition?”

“Nope. Slept pretty well. And it’s only been twelve hours since I saw you at Sinai…”

“Have you tried using the microwave yet?”

“No, but—” Too late Mason realized she teased him. He shook his finger in the air and chuckled. “That’s a good one, doc.”

Rachel McCoy is a Texan living in New Jersey. Between binge-watching MTV reality shows and baking gluten-free treats, she writes paranormal fantasy and science fiction novels.

She is the self-published author of the Sparks Saga trilogy, The Alder Tales series, and The Extraction Files. Back when she lived in the real world, Rachel earned a degree in marine biology, which contributed to her die-hard love of manta rays. 

To connect with RS McCoy (or swap recipes), visit her on her website (www.rsmccoyauthor.com) or check out her Facebook page (www.facebook.com/AuthorRSMcCoy). You can also join her newsletter to receive release updates, free stories, and bonus extras (http://eepurl.com/YItp1). 

Author Links: 

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub | 

Newsletter Sign-up 

The Lightning Luminary (The Luminary Chronicles #1) by RS McCoy | A Book Review

This is another series by RS McCoy. I have become an avid fan after I read The Extraction Files. Her stories are so original, even if some of them are retellings like The Alder Tales series. RS McCoy has earned a spot in my favorite authors list because of her amazing talent and skill in spinning stories that had me hooked right from the start. The Lightning Luminary is again another start one of these very gripping series.

This story is based on the ever-popular Greek mythology. And you may ask, what's so original in this story? A lot of books, novels and series have been based on Greek mythology. In fact, it's like Greek mythology is a go-to subject for almost all writers, whether bestselling or not. It's a very rich and broad subject that authors can play with it, whichever way. What's the difference in this story? These are exactly the same questions I asked when I learned that this was based on Greek mythology. But being familiar with RS McCoy's writings, I know there are always fireworks of twists and a bombarding surprise waiting. Well, what I could tell you is, this is not a book about demigods. Luminaries are a set of humans with powers. According to this book, the stories about the Greek Gods were actually about the Luminaries that were twisted, added on and changed as it was passed on through the ages. There is some basic truth to them but they are not all that accurate.

As I said, having read all the other stories from RS McCoy, I think this one was slower in pace. It seemed to take its time. There seemed to be no hurry. It has its own pace. But it doesn't mean that it was not gripping or less entertaining. The plot alone is very curious. With Greek mythology stories abounding and given a spin a thousand one times, you wonder what this story can offer. This is another unique take. The characters are all very interesting with their own personalities and quirks. The main male protagonist, Mason, I think is not all that he seems. I think he is not just an ordinary human or Void as what humans with no powers are called in this story. I think he has something more in him that even he doesn't know. I guess, I will have to find out in the next books. I am looking forward to it. 

This first book like most series starter, introduced the important characters of the series. A hint and a primer was laid to at least give the reader what could be expected in the next book. A strong, vicious and formidable enemy was established and note--he can't be killed. This alone made for a very very tasty sampler of chaos and grand quests to come. Aren't you teased?

And the ending, could it be true? Have our good friends (the good guys) found another ally? And is this one for real or he has his own motives? Questions. Questions and more questions are all I have after reading this book. This is just the start, yet our good friends are already up against a very mighty foe and if stories are to be believed, he can't be vanquished. What does this mean? Ah, yes, series are sometimes frustrating because you will have to wait for the next book to find out what will happen next. In the same way, it fuels your imagination while waiting for the next book to come out. And if it does, then the author was effective because she has roused your creative cells from their deep or temporary slumber. And we all could use a little creativity or just a little brain function.

I give the book 4/5 bolts of lightning. Four because of the unhurried pace. Four because the series is just starting and I know that a lot of surprises are in store in the next installments. I can't wait.

They were tip-toeing around the minefield of their histories.

- RS McCoy, The Lightning Luminary - 

Thanks again, RS McCoy for the copy.

Schism (Sparks Saga # 3) by RS McCoy | A Book Review

This is the last and the conclusion of the story of Lark and Kea. After all these two have been through, it is sad to say goodbye to them and their story. For me, the ending was sad too. It was not what I had expected and up to now, I am still trying to get over it. If it were up to me, I would want another ending. A happier one. Yes, you have been warned, this amazing and engrossing story will have an end that you will not ever imagine. It will stun you and leave you immobile.

Every time I think about Schism, my mind goes on autopilot. It directly goes to the ending. Yes, the ending. I have to talk about it  or else I might just explode. I did not ever expect it, though in fairness to RS McCoy, it did make sense if you have really followed the whole story. But then, I hate saying goodbye to characters who I have become very invested in. They are like part of my family. I hate to say that I wished the ending was something else. I wish it did not have to be that way. But being Lark and Kea and knowing they have come to love their island-home, it made sense to go out through the most honorable way as known by the people they have come to love. They have fully embraced the culture and the people, so it was just fitting to choose  to leave this earth the way the brave do. Ah, it was still so sad. I had my mouth hanging open for long after I read that part. It was so hard to accept.

Well, moving on, as I have no choice in the matter but accept how the series ended. It wasn't all that sad. Lark and Kea, after defeating Mathias and Lheda, lived a great life with their son Tona, Lark's father and sister Estha. There was peace and prosperity. No more war and greed. All the hardships that Lark and Kea had to go through did pay off. This story was actually a very great wrap-up but the ending. It was all great and sunshiny until the epilogue. Yes, still can't move on from it. Anyway, with the ending, I was looking forward to another series with Lark and Kea's successors as the main characters. It would be great to know how Tona and Estha fared out.

Even with great sadness as to how this series ended, I still give this a 5/5 great ships. The journey of Lark and Kea has been a very memorable one. From a hard life to a life of greatness and prosperity. I had an absolutely great time sharing their journey and being part of their adventures. I won't ever forget this two amazing and strong characters. I am sure, I will read and revisit this tale again and again when I feel like it. So, it's not goodbye at all, but until then, Lark and Kea. Thank you for a great story.

That's the funny thing about home, isn't it? You think it's a place, but it's not. It's the people that make a place, not the other way around.

- RS McCoy, Schism -  

Thank you again, RS McCoy for the copy.

Sparks (Sparks Saga #1) by RS McCoy | A Book Review

This book was the first book RS McCoy wrote. This is also the first in a trilogy. 

I am a member of the rep team of Rs McCoy. I signed up to be part of her rep team because I really enjoyed her works and I also believe in her talent. I read about two of her series (The Extraction Files and The Alder Tales) when she wanted people to be a part of her rep team. I readily signed up  and thankfully, I got in. Now, I get to enjoy her books for free while helping her tell the world of how amazing and engaging her books are. 

Last December, we were celebrating The Extraction Files. This month, we are spreading the light on the Sparks Saga. Sparks was free for a week until yesterday on all platforms. This week, Spirits is reduced to $0.99 and next week, Schism will be at the same reduced price also. And as a member of her rep team, I will be holding a giveaway for Spirits and Schism before the month ends. To be exact, on January 22. So, please watch out for the giveaway on Instagram.

Sparks is the story of Lark and Khea. These two were from a very impoverished place that they were forced to leave their family and home to seek fortune in another place when the opportunity came. Lark had to leave his parents in exchange for money so they can afford to buy the cure for his ailing mother. Khea, on the other hand, is an orphan. These two were bound to be together, more than poverty, the same hometown, and their need to survive.

This book was very impressive. Granting that this was the author's first book. The characters and all the details were impressively woven with great attention. I was brought to a different time and to an exotic place, much to my fancy and delight. I eagerly embraced the new characters as part of my ever-growing imaginary family. I love Lark and Khea. I feel protective of them knowing they started as two hungry, scrawny and dirty kids away from home.

Another fascinating character in the story is Avis. He is Lark's assigned mentor. I was so shocked that his character was mean to Lark when they first met. I really hated him. Good thing, it was not all he is. There was a reason to his madness. I grew to like him as the story progressed, just like how Lark felt about him.

There were a lot of characters that were not really who they are. There were hidden agendas and hunger for power. Though this book had teenage characters in them, there were scenes that were a bit mature but were written with care, that did not in any way diminish the wholesomeness of the story. I think it was done with ample sensitivity which I really like so this book could be at least suitable for some teens. Although, I think, this book was not really intended to be a YA novel.

This was a very wonderful and exciting adventure. I am looking forward to the next two books. I actually can't wait to read them and see where the rest of the story will take me.

I give the book 4/5 copper rings. This book is in a way like The Avatar, The Legend of Korra, only the Avatar is much more gifted and more lovable. She is not as moody and impatient as Korra (I liked Aang better than Korra). I find this book and its two heroes very captivating. Unlike the animated series, I was not let down or in any way irritated by the actions and decisions of Lark and Khea. 

Reading books turned out to be much easier than reading people. Words are rather straightforward in a way that humans could never be.

- RS McCoy, Sparks - 

#theLethalAgentGiveaway December 13-20, 2016

Hi, Everyone! December is a month for The Extraction Files. RS McCoy  has set up events and giveaways for the series. I am proud and honored to be a part of her Rep Team.

Here are the events:

1 

The Killing Jar was free on Amazon from December 8 to 12, 2016. I hope you were able to download your copy. 

If you were unable to download a copy, don't worry. On December 20th, I will be running another giveaway for (3) three ebook copies of the book. So, watch out for my post on my Instagram account @iamnotabookworm on the said date to enter.

2

As promised on my Instagram account @iamnotabookworm, starting today, December 13, I will be giving away three (3) ebook copies of RS McCoy's The Lethal Agent. This is book two of The Extraction Files. 

Yesterday was the last day for book one -The Killing Jar free on Amazon. If you have downloaded your copy and want to continue your journey and adventures with Mable and the rest of the crew, enter #theLethalAgentGiveaway. All you have to do is head over to my Instagram account --https://www.instagram.com/iamnotabookworm. 

*Like the picture below.

*Follow me @iamnotabookworm

*Follow @r.s.mccoy

Additional entries for:

*reposting this photo and tag #thelethalagentgiveaway

*tagging your friends

This is open to all. 

Giveaway is from December 13 to 20, 2016. Giveaway will close at 11PM EDT of the 20th.

3 Winners will be drawn and announced on the 21st.

This giveaway is of course from RS McCoy. This is not in any way associated with Instagram.  

3

And on December 20-24, 2016, The Lethal Agent will be discounted and will be on sale for $0.99 on Amazon. Mark your calendars and make sure to take advantage of this limited offer.

4

On the same week as the sale, December 20 - 24, 2016, I will be running another giveaway for three (3) ebooks for The Killing Jar. Watch out for my post on my Instagram account on the 20th.

Please don't forget to post your reviews on Goodreads and Amazon.

Thanks you.

Gurlay

RSMcCoy Rep Team Member

#rsmccoyrepteam

Raene and the Three Bears (Alder Tales #2) by RS McCoy | ARC | A Book Review

For those who don't know, I started my blog January of this year. I am still overwhelmed by the number of free books I am getting and need to review. And they just keep on coming. Thank you so much. I realized, there's a totally separate world where only books hold power. I thought, I was familiar with this world already, but I was mistaken. It's so vast that I just reached a few steps from the threshold. There is still a long way to be able to grasp it entirely. It came to a point, where I started to question if I could keep this up. Could I keep reading and reviewing? It seemed like life was easier when I was just reading books and never cared about posting reviews. Although I used to write my reactions on the last page of each finished book, this still started to feel like not a hobby anymore. I began to wonder, will I go ever go back to reading books for no reason other than pure enjoyment? To never worry about getting a review out? Then, I sort-of get a bash on my head because I get introduced to new astonishing stories and very gifted authors. And, my dilemma is momentarily forgotten. This month has been the best month I ever had. Amazing after amazing books just dropped into my lap. Thank you for all the talented authors that I have met. I am so honored. I keep writing reviews because you deserve all the warm hugs for all the myriad of emotions you stirred inside me. And I hope that you will keep squeezing me back. 

Raene and the Three Bears is another example of those astonishing books I just mentioned. This is the second installment of The Alder Tales series of RS McCoy.  It is a retelling of Goldilocks and the Three Bears. 

The book picked up right where Blossom and the Beast ended. I thought that this book would just be about Raene. I started to worry about the fate that had befallen on Blossom. This will tell you whatever happened to Blossom after the last time we left her in book one. This also spoke of the fulfillment of the agreement and the binding promise between Da and Vice Syndicate Kaide Landel. If book one seemed complicated enough, then this spun a whole new web of events and episodes that you would need to be in your right frame of mind to be able to catch up. I did not have time to analyze each incident as the next one came bounding out of nowhere, surprising me out of my wits. Very clever! I am already looking forward to the next book - Hale and Gemini. The characters were just so memorable I couldn't help but feel for each of the heroes and heroines. Might as well, because, in my review on Blossom and the Beast, I already claimed to be a member of the Bear clan. And rightly so, because my last name actually stands for bear in Spanish. 

This book will make you start picking your favorites and get you annoyed. You will be asked to choose. You will be asked to take a side. It will ask you as to who are you rooting for? You will start to question if it was ever fair. And be careful, because you might get your heart broken.

I give this book all the rings in Raene's fingers. Gratefully, my heart is still intact. I was far from being heartbroken. I was satisfied and concurred with the turn of the events and how the story developed. I wouldn't have it any other way. I was so high from all the excitement that I could not think of any other course it should have gone. This book oozed with a shocking intensity that was hard to recover from. It took me about three days to write this review. I had to read light stories after this to manage the excitement. I didn't think I could take any more taxing adventures right after Raene and the Three Bears. I didn't want my heart and my brain to explode from too much involvement and invested feelings. I had to calm myself down before I take on any other complicated stories to process. So, you have been warned - this is intense.

How dark did a person become when they relished the misery of others?

- RS McCoy, Raene and the Three Bears -

Release Date: November 29, 2016

Thank you again, RS McCoy, for the ARC.

Other books in the series:

Blossom and the Beast (The Alder Tales #1)

Hale and Gemini (The Alder Tales #3)

Snow Owl(The Alder Tales #4)

Blossom and the Beast (The Alder Tales #1) by RS McCoy | A Book Review

This is another re-telling. This time it's a different take on Beauty and the Beast. I love re-tellings. I think this review is just timely since a new version of Beauty and the Beast starring Emma Watson is coming out in theaters this March 2017. 

Blossom and the Beast is an absolutely endearing tale of two people of different backgrounds falling in love with each other more as each day passes. It will make you swoon and fall in love with Blossom and Kaide.

Kaide is my kind of guy. The serious and brooding on the outside but really sweet and thoughtful. One whose decisions are well-thought out and well-meaning. 

I love Blossom. She's a no muss, no fuss kind of girl which I would like to think I am also. One who is not concerned with pretty dresses and parties. Free-spirited and loves to discover the world on her own. Stubborn as a bull but also kind and smart. I think Blossom and I have a lot in common. She could well be my alter-ego.

I love Argeron Frane or more fondly called as DA. He is the embodiment of a great father and clan leader. If I were one of the citizens of Alder, I would like to be a Terra and be part of Da's clan. He is fair and wise. His actions and decisions are also very reasonable.

Having read two of R.S. McCoy's works, I should at least be little familiar with her writing style. Those burst of surprises within the story and on the last chapters. Those things should not surprise me anymore but I was caught with my jaw open. It was shameful but I admit it was very exciting as well. To be surprised over and over is the best thing every reader could hope. I was stunned and had to remind myself that I have book two ready to continue my journey. And that is one of the best things about R.S. McCoy, aside from spinning astounding tales, she is also generous. When she sends you an ARC, if there is a book that came before it, she will always include it. I bear witness to this generosity twice. 

I give the book a hundred beautiful blossoms. I relished every word in this book. I was transported to the forest in Alderwood and to the bustling city of Pyrona. An amalgamation of both the crude and the advanced. Where the lifestyles of the inhabitants are polar opposites. Where people are of varied temperaments and priorities. But is not a far cry from reality. I think it may even be an accurate mirror of what real events are.

I think it's time I include R.S. McCoy to my favorite authors' list. She deserves it. She has continued to astonish me with her writing prowess. Her ability to create characters that are not far from real people. Not larger-than-life personas but relatable ones. Her stories are so engrossing that I sometimes forget they are not real because I want to live in them. Thank you for the great stories. You rock!

I'm also going because I want to know what it is. I want to know what parts of me are the strongest. I know that might not happen, but I have to take that chance.

- R.S. McCoy, Blossom and the Beast - 

Thank you again, R.S. McCoy for the copy. 

Other books in the series:

Raene and the Three Bears (The Alder Tales #2)

Hale and Gemini (The Alder Tales #3)

Snow Owl(The Alder Tales #4)

The Extraction Files (Book 1 and 2) by R.S. McCoy | A Book Review

I won an eARC of The Lethal Agent by R.S. McCoy on Instagram. And since, The Lethal Agent is the second book, she was kind enough to send me book one which is The Killing Jar.  The Lethal Agent was just released August 31, 2016. Yes, I got an eARC but was not able to read it until about two days ago. Still, I still think it's pretty awesome to be able to get an advance copy of the book. Thank you soo much R. S. McCoy. 

The Extraction Files is a sci-fi dystopian novel. I am not really fond of sci-fi but this book has me glued. I actually regretted not reading it earlier. 

The Killing Jar. The story starts in year 2232. The earth has been destroyed after a Third World War and a lot of nuclear bombs. The earth's atmosphere is totally covered with haze which is poisonous. So, in order for civilization to continue to exist, people were organized into three classes - Scholars, Artisans and Craftsmen. Scholars are those involved in sciences and are tasked to find another planet for humans to live. Artisans are of course artists and craftsmen are the farmers, etc. There are also rules that are set to be followed. Those that broke the rules or simply do not agree to them prefer to live underground. 

The first few chapters of the story introduces the characters. Each character is so varied and I was wondering how they will come together in one place. I know, I am getting ahead of myself. But I am also filled with anticipation. Right there, I know I am hooked. I had been putting off to read this because the last sci-fi novel I read was fun but not as engrossing. I was glad to be done with it. So, imagine my excitement on wanting to get to the rest of the pages of this book because I can't wait to get all the important characters in one place. And finally, they did. I was not disappointed. It was also so unexpected. This book had a lot of surprises that left my mouth open. Totally so unforeseen. Just so you know, I am a type of reader who tries to anticipate what's going to happen next. Some writers, often leave a trail of bread crumbs to clue in the reader what comes next and I am just the person who picks at those crumbs and just so eager to get to the next event before the writer obviously reveals it. It's fun trying to play Sherlock and gratifying if my guesses turn out to be right. But for this story, I was so clueless. There were clues though, but I was never able to guess what happens next. And the events are a bit fast-paced also. My brain was still trying to figure out what's about to happen and then boom! There it is.

I really flipped over because I was like one of those bugs totally caught in the clamp and had nowhere to go. And I was glad to find out also why this was called The Killing Jar. I think it was pretty smart to call it that. It does not become obvious until you're into the middle of the book. This has been a really really witty adventure. I am in awe how McCoy was able to come up with this story. Super out of this world, literally and figuratively. It also tries to tell us that we should take care of our mother planet. As far as the climate changes , global warming and all the environmental problems that we are facing, I think it is not too far off that the events in this book will likely happen. If we want to stay here and continue to exist, we must take care of our beloved Earth. After all, there is just no place like home.

I give The Killing Jar five stars. It was a fun ride and I was just so pumped to get started on book two - The Lethal Agent.

She felt like a shell of a person, as if someone had come in and scooped out the meaningful parts of her, leaving only the husk.

- R. S. McCoy, The Killing Jar -

The Lethal Agent picks up right where The Killing Jar left off. Good thing I have book two right after I read book one because if it were not, I would have been so restless to find out what happens next. The Killing Jar ended abruptly but not that it will leave you hanging but obvious enough that there is definitely a next book. Fortunately, I was spared that feeling because I have The Lethal Agent available and got on with my reading as if book one never ended. 

I have mentioned about bugs on the above, right? Well, let's just say that The Lethal Agent was more into looking for those bugs. I refuse to tell you where and how those bugs came about as it will definitely spoil the story. You have to read it for yourselves. I assure you, this is absolutely no waste of time. I love to read books but I am also honest and critical in terms of liking a book or not. I have a lot of books I bought because the summary on the back cover is really promising but ended up not finishing the book because it was not what I thought it was. The Extraction Files, I suppose was going to bore me but thankfully it did not and I think this series is one of the few sci-fi novels that I really really enjoyed. It didn't feel like it was too nerdy or used too many scientific words where it tends to get the readers lost and confuse. These books are just so creatively written that I often pause and try to understand where the author got her inspiration for all these characters and events. Freaking awesome! Also, it talks about family, relationships, our fears and insecurities and the things that we value most. I think this aspect of the novel makes it less a tumor-inducing read because it makes it more relatable and a little less fiction.

I admire how McCoy was able to put this into the story flawlessly.

Again, I give The Lethal Agent five stars. It was so worth it having two straight late nights just so I could finish them. Never a minute wasted. 

There were about five words in typo error but other than that I have no complains. 

Love is blind. Love is unfair. Love is cruel. Love is crooked. It gives and takes without care. It lets you believe you're happy then burns your dreams to the ground.

- R. S. McCoy, The Lethal Agent -