Review: Down the Road by Bowie Ibarra

Down the Road

Author: Bowie Ibarra

Publisher: Gallery Books

ISBN: 1439180695
Purchase Information:
Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository

*Novel provided by the publisher

For more information please visit Bowie Ibarra's website.

Around the globe, the dead are rising to devour the living. Hospitals are overrun, and martial law has been declared. The streets are in chaos. Society is disintegrating.

George Zaragosa is a young schoolteacher living in the shadow of his fiancée’s unsolved murder. Now he just wants to go home to his family. He has made the journey before, traveling from Austin to San Uvalde. It is usually a short drive, but he knows this time is going to be different.

Along the way, George must negotiate military roadblocks, FEMA camps, and street thugs, not to mention hordes of the living dead. He is determined to make it home, but only one thing is certain: his trip down the road will be a journey like no other.

Review:

Down the Road by Bowie Ibarra was a thrilling fight for survival and absolutely one of the best zombie novels that I have had the pleasure of reading. Filled with blood, gore, violence and the inevitable journey through the collapse of both humanity and society, this novel delivers to fans of zombie horror like no other.

The world Ibarra created is a devastating and frightening mirror to our own allowing us to easily slip into George's situation. This easy accessibility paired with wonderful characterization helps to make the situations and emotions experienced by him and the other survivors he encounters more relatable, thus helping to allow the struggle and slow dehumanization of society to resonate within the reader.  From the onset, the downfall of the world and civilization is nicely introduced to readers bringing to life the devastating situation the world comes to find itself in. This quick yet easily followed introduction sets a nice tone and the chronicling of George's journey through the world as the downward spiral continues creates a wonderful decaying atmosphere ripe with desolation and the ever growing sense of conflict. The acute sense of purpose residing in George and the detailed descriptions of his struggle for survival help to portray the collapse of civilization. I think what really helped draw me into this novel was the sense of disbelief within the first few chapters. The reality of society's end hasn't quite struck the main character as he takes foolish risks underestimating the zombies' threat. As the plot advances, not only are the zombies a threat, but the government which is tasked with protecting civilians becomes one as well. The heavy handed nature of 'Government knows best' adds an atmosphere ripe with distrust and frustration in an already horrifically maddening world.

The characterization of George is nicely done as we follow him through the initial stages of disbelief to the slow yet eventual chipping away of his humanity. The characters himself, while not overly emotional does have some empathic appeal based on the dismissed murder of his fiance Esperanza. His sense of loss is evident, and yet I liked that he didn't let his grief over take him. Instead, he feels the loss, but isn't ruled by it keeping his head as the world crumbles around him. He ends up showing a resourceful, strong and resilient nature that really appealed to me as we followed his slow progress across Texas. Slowly, the underlying violence inherent within him comes out as his need for survival increases. The loss of empathy and the quicker rush to violence is wonderfully described and mirrored within the world George is thrust into. The voice George is given is also quite insightful into both the situations he comes to find himself in and the de-evolution of his character. This voice helps to keep the sense of purpose in the forefront as well as keeping readers focused on the necessity of his journey as his 'need' for home drives him across the great state of Texas to his ultimate destination.

The cinematic quality of this novel helps to keep the pace moving, making this an extremely quick read. In truth, I could see this novel unfolding in my mind as if I were watching it on film. This was something that I greatly enjoyed about this book because there was a slight immediacy to it, while not making the reader feel burdened by the disasters that befall George. It gives a sense of distance separating the reader from the horror leaving them free to relish in it, which isn't that the great thing about zombie movies? You can watch it with a sense of detachment and even enjoying the eventual slaughter of humanity. It's sick, yet so true! Also, what absolutely made me fall in love with Ibarra's writing was that he doesn't shy away from the hard ending, because really, who wants to have the 'happily ever after' when horror is involved? And yet, despite the ending, which I thought was perfect, I loved the sense of closure to the novel. It doesn't leave you hanging with unaddressed plot lines, instead having a somewhat ironic closure that ties up everything fairly neatly.

In the end, I highly recommend this novel to all you zombie lovers out there. With highly enjoyable story telling this was one hell of a ride! I can't wait to see what Ibarra throws at us next!

My Rating: 4 out 5 Scars

Advisory: Some sexual content and graphic horror related violence

February 2011 Book Releases

February 1, 2011

• S. Antcazk, Zombiesque
• Loraine Bartlett, A Crafty Killing (Victoria Square Series #1)
• Rachel Caine, Unseen (Outcast Series #3)
• Ashlyn Chase, The Werewolf Upstairs
• Catherine Coulter, Twice Dead
• Dianne Duvall, Darkness Dawns
• Cynthia Eden, Deadly Heat
• Steve Feasey, Dark Moon (Wereling #2)
• Joanne Fluke, Apple Turnover Murder (Hannah Swenson Mystery Series #13)
• Michael Thomas Ford, Jane Goes Batty (Jane Bites Series #2)
• Kimberly Frost, Halfway Hexed
• Yasmine Galenorn, Blood Wyne (Sisters of the Moon Series #9)
• Laura Anne Gilman, Pack of Lies (Paranormal Crime Scene Investigations Series #2)
• Reagan Hastings, Visions of Magic (The Awakening #1)
• B.B. Haywood, Town in a Lobster Stew
• Elizabeth Hoyt, Notorious Pleasures
• J.A. Jance, Fatal Error (Ali Reynolds Series #6)
• Darynda Jones, First Grave on the Right (Charley Davidson Series #1)
• Julie Kagawa, The Iron Queen, Iron Fey Series #3)
• Amanda Lee, Stitch Me Deadly (Embroidery Mystery Series #2)
• Lora Leigh and Michelle Rowan, Primal
• Gail Z. Martin, The Sworn
• Delilah Marvelle, Once Upon a Scandal
• Sean McCabe, Uprising (The Vampire Federation Series #1)
• Sarah McCarty, Reaper's Justice
• Anitra Lynn McLoed, Sinful Harvest (The Onic Empire #3)
• G. A. McKevett, A Decadent Way to Die
• Brad Meltzer, Dead Even
• Lucy Monroe, Moon Burning (Children of the Moon Series #3)
• Jana Oliver, Forsaken (The Demon Trappers #1)
• Lauren Oliver, Delirium
• Robert B. Parker, Split Image
• Kate Pearce, Simply Forbidden
• Michelle Rowen, Nightshade (Nightshade #1)
• Sharon Sala, Blood Stains
• Gena Showalter and Shannon K. Butcher, On the Hunt
• Cherise Sinclair, Make Me, Sir (Masters of the Shadowlands #5)

February 8, 2011

• Vivian Arend, Turn it Up
• Alex Finn, Cloaked
• Catherine Fisher, Incarceron
• Deborah Harkness, A Discovery of Witches
• Kinsey W. Holley, Yours, Mine and Howls
• Sue Ann Jaffarian, Ghost in the Polka Dot Bikini
• Cynthia Leitich, Blessesd
• Karen Mahoney, The Iron Witch (The Iron Witch Saga #1)
• Lisa McMann, Cryer's Cross*
• Tammar Stein, Kindred
• N.D. Wilson, The Chestnut King

February 14, 2011

• James Patterson, Angel (Maximum Ride Series #7)

February 15, 2011

• Kresley Cole, Dreams of a Dark Warriror (Immortals After Dark Series #11)
• Shannon Delaney, Secrets and Shadows (Thirteen to Life #2)
• Kimberly Derting, Desires of the Dead (Body Finder Series)
• Theresa Meyers, The Truth About Vampires
• Courtney Allison Moulton, Angelfire (Angelfire Series #1)
• Beverly Rae, Running with the Pack
• Maria V. Snyder, Outside In (Inside Out #2)

February 22, 2011

• Jennifer Armintrout, American Vampire*
• Amber Benson, Serpent's Storm (Calliope Reaper-Jones#3)
• Leah Clifford, A Touch Mortal
• Christi Cook, Haven
• Jeaniene Frost, This Side of the Grave (Night Huntress Series #5)
• Laurell K. Hamilton, Flirt (Anita Blake Series)
• Kim Harrison, Pale Demon (Rachel Morgan/The Hollows Series #9)*
• Molly Harper, How to Flirt with a Naked Werewolf
• Rachel Hawkins, Demonglass (Hex Hall #2)
• William Hill, Department 19
• Kelly Keaton, Darkness Becomes Her (Gods & Monsters Series #1)
• Caitlin Kitteridge, The Iron Thorn (Iron Codex #1)
• Sophie Littlefield, Aftertime
• Melissa Marr, The Darkest Mercy (Wicked Lovely Series #5)
• Suandra Mitchell, The Vespertine*
• Brandon Mull, Keys to the Demon Prison
• Pamela Palmer, Hunger Untamed (Feral Warrirors Series)
• Adrian Phoenix, Etched in Bone (Maker's Song Series #4)
• Douglas Preston, Gideon's Sword
• J.D. Robb, Treachery in Death (In Death Series #32)
• Lyndsay Sands, The Heiress
• Anton Strout, Dead Waters
• Tim Waggoner, Dead Streets (Nekropolis #2)
• Jaye Wells, Green Eyed Demon (Sabina Kane Series #3)*
• Alayna Williams, Rogue Oracle (Oracle #2)

February 28, 2011

• Kate Pearce, Blood of the Rose (The Tudor Vampire Chronicles #2)

* indicates a novel that I have reviewed.

This is not a complete list of upcoming releases and release dates are subject to change without notice. If you do not see a title listed that I have missed or a listing under the wrong date, please feel free to let me know and I will alter the listing.

Review: Sunrise to Sunset by Laurie Bowler

Sunrise to Sunset

Author: Laurie Bowler

Publisher: Esquire Publications

Series: Moon Rising, Book 2
ISBN: 1453835873
Purchase Information:
Amazon | Barnes & Noble

*Novel provided by the author for a honest review.

For more information please visit Laurie Bowler's website.

Nessy wakes from her unconscious state to find she can no longer remember who she is or her purpose in life. Charles battles to try and tell her as much information as he can about her former life, and eventually submits to telling Nessy her true immortal state.

Hera takes Nessy back to the past in the form of the Gulon, where she meets the other Gulon packs who have come to aid them while the covens have gathered hoping to glimpse their new queen and ruler of the underworld, little does Nessy realise that person is her!

The continuing threat from the detested sinister Tellis coven fight back with the remaining members and they join forces with another coven that have long since been known for their massacres and barbaric ways for feeding. Nessy has to battle to protect the human race from extinction and to protect her title for the good of races, the immortal race and the mortals that surround her, with Charles and the Gulon they must succeed.

Review:

Sunrise to Sunset is the second novel in Laurie Bowler's quaint paranormal romance series, Moon Rising. Once again, we follow Nessy on her journey to self discovery and true love in a world that is still stacked against her depite the death of her murderous and nefarious maker Hervidor. Now a full fledged vampire with unique DNA allowing her to retain her Gulon heritage as well as her humanity, she still finds herself the oddity among her kind. But, now the situation is made worse by the fact that she is the Queen of the Underworld and thus ruler of the Vampires, and not everyone is happy about this elevation. Covens plotting and manipulating their way closer to usurping her throne adds a nice twist of adventure while the alliance between Vampire and Gulon sparks some interesting controversy amongst the different races. Again, Bowler creates an interesting world with a sort of fairy tale flair that is interesting and unique.

The characters are nicely written, with great care given to their thoughts and motivations. However, they still felt a little one dimensional to me and the emotional connection that I hoped would grow in this novel was still oddly lacking. What I did really enjoy about this novel though was the deeper exploration into the Gulon culture and heritage. More is found out about their legends, rules and society and we get to see the various clans coming together and showing the varying attitudes and prejudices about the Vampire race. The bonds created by the allegiance of Gulon and Vampire, united under Nessy, are interesting to see as it is seemingly shrugged off by many as not being a big deal. In fact, despite the animosity between the two cultures, most aren't that perturbed by Nessy's mixed heritage. In fact, her unique mix of Human, Vampire and Gulon seem to unite the covens with a sense of goodwill and hope not seen under her villainous predecessor Hervidor. In truth, I found this novel to be more focused on the growing relationships between the species  with little snippets given to the main threat of the attacking Tellis/Cassis covens.

The world building is once again nicely done as Bowler explores lots of different angles throughout the novel. From the Gulon society, to what it means to be the Queen of the Vampires and even exploring new ground with addition of witches. The feeling of once again being thrust in to a fairy tale realm instead of a paranormal romance was once again plainly evident. And again the ever expanding of this universe is lovely to see as we explore more and more of the cultural differences between the species.

But, once again I also saw things that drew down the novel from what it could have been. Again, the dialogue often takes on an almost simplistic tone with the various characters' voices not being all that different from one another. Also, there is a lot of repetition in both the characters' thoughts and speech and often times the explanations get a bit confusing because they aren't boiled down to the simplest terms. Pacing can be a bit of a problem as well at times which paired with the repetition of thoughts and speech can be monotonous. However,  I found that I could look past these things and still enjoy the story.

In the end, I found that I really enjoyed this novel more then the previous in the series and am still captivated by the whimsical quality embodied within these pages. Bowler has quite a unique voice as an author, one I am more aptly able to describe using the term 'story teller', a quality that I feel is often over looked and under appreciated in today's literary circles. If you enjoyed Moon Rising then you will certainly adore this adventurous follow up!

My Rating: 3 out of 5 Scars

Review: Jericho's Walls by Michael Bret Hood

Jericho's Walls

Author: Michael Bret Hood

Publisher: Tiger Publications Inc.

ISBN: 0979262992

Purchase Information:

Amazon | Barnes & Noble

*Novel provided by the author for a honest review.

With deadlines looming, Riley O'Shea thinks she has realized her worst fear when she discovers that she can no longer write. Unbeknownst to O'Shea, she has a fervent admirer named Jericho Sampson. Sampson is an emerging serial killer who believes he can absorb his victim's inner energy by maximizing their fear and pain before he kills them.

Believing O'Shea will accurately chronicle his ascension; Sampson kidnaps O'Shea and embarks on his violent killing spree. Stuck in a dungeon-like basement, O'Shea realizes she has to write if she wants to live. While the corpses start piling up, O'Shea plays a dangerous game with Sampson convincing him that she is writing while a bored detective transplanted from Chicago to small town Illinois and a lifelong friend of O'Shea's get tangled in the intricate web woven by Sampson. Can O'Shea overcome her writer's block before Sampson finds out or will she become another victim of one of the scariest and most frightening characters ever imagined.

Review:

Jericho's Walls by Michael Bret Hood is not your average police procedural. This new spin gives an in depth look into the psyche of a serial killer making this novella a unique and interesting read that will give readers a new perspective on the predators that roam amongst us.

Hood masterfully utilizes his knowledge and insight into the criminal mind to bring to life a thrilling and suspenseful scenario that was both gripping and dramatic. However, I found the world itself to be a bit lacking in dimensionality as the author relies heavily on the characters' emotions to draw the reader in. It was a gamble, but overall, I think it worked well enough, though in future novels I would like to see the settings and crime scenes further explored. For instance, in this novel 'Jericho's walls' refer to the room in which Riley is held prisoner. I would have liked to see a bit more in relation to this room and the feelings of isolation and despair that the character must surely be going through. The atmosphere of this cell is never really captured and I think that's a real shame as the fear and horror this room could have evoked was quite potent.

The characters themselves are nicely developed, but they too at times are a bit short on dimensionality, though some are more highly developed than others. My favorite, oddly enough, had to be Jericho himself. I enjoyed the in depth exploration into what it was that caused him to become such a monster. The first hand knowledge of his childhood abuse by his mother and sisters actually made me pity him a bit despite the despicable creature that he became. The extent of his insanity is painfully obvious through the detailed first person segments and I liked seeing how the fear and agony that he inflicts on others brings him something akin to true joy. It's not often you get to tag along in the mind of a serial killer and I found this to be a very interesting experience. Also, I found the contrast between the killer's mind and Alan's, the detective investigating the murders, a welcome change. Alan is nicely developed with a great sense of duty, loyalty and justice. His need to solve the case using only the flimsiest of leads was endearing and I developed a quick respect for this man's character. Yet, while I loved watching the story unfold through the eyes of these two men, I would have liked to see Riley's character a bit more developed. Her emotions, while honest, failed to really ignite any of my own and I found her to be a tool within the story and not a real player. Her thoughts are only surface deep and I would have loved to get more insight into the thoughts of the victim who is so well educated on the history of other serial killers. I think those insights would have been quite interesting and helped to shed light not only on her as a person, but given another perspective into the twisted mind of Jericho.

Hood has a wonderful knack of keeping the story moving with a great dramatic flair and sense of suspense as well. The shifting points of view helped to keep all the players active and fresh in the reader's mind and serve to give insight into the particular natures and motives of the characters. The shifts also help to reveal the tragedy that Jericho leaves in his wake, though I would have liked to have seen this more fully explored. Also, the ever quickening tempo of the story builds into a wonderful climax that didn't disappoint with lots of nicely written action that had me glued to my Nook until the last page.

While this story was gripping and enjoyable I would have liked to see a lot more development in the crimes and characters. Emotionality while present, wasn't as powerful as I think it could have been. All in all, it felt like a lot was glossed over and I would have greatly enjoyed a bit more of the mechanics. What does that mean? Well, for starters I would have liked to see a bit more 'procedural' in this novella. While we see the clues that Alan follows, I would have liked to see more of the crime scenes and the horror evoked by them. The atmosphere surrounding the case would also have been a great help in making this a truly chilling read. Simple things like that which would have helped flesh out the novel a bit more.

Overall, this was a quick and interesting read that I really enjoyed reading. I really liked this unique spin on the police procedural which gave insight not only into the pursuing detectives but to the villain as well, and really, who doesn't enjoy reading about the psycho of the story? I definitely recommend this novella to anyone who enjoys a good thriller and look I forward to seeing what this author will come up with next!

My Rating: 3 out of 5 Scars

Want it Wednesday [11]

Want it Wednesday is an idea inspired by Rex Robot Reviews in which I books from my ever expanding wish list. Feel free to comment on the titles or suggest some of your own! I'm always open to new suggestions about great books to read.

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Night's Cold Embrace (Dark Brethren #1)
by Tracey O'Hara

Watching her mother being savagely murdered left Antoinette Petrescu inflamed with hatred for the vampire race, but she now realizes that to exact her revenge, she needs the help of one of their kind. Little does she know that the bloodthirsty Christian Laroque cloaks his own secret agenda. Guaranteed to raise the pulse of readers who crave dark vampire fiction with strong romance plotlines.

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Damnbable

by Hank Schwaeble

After being disgraced and wrongly imprisoned, special military operative Jake Hatcher finds himself standing watch against an unimaginable threat to humanity. For he's about to discover that the streets of New York City have become a secret battleground between forces he cannot comprehend.

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Earl of Darkness (Heirs of Kilronan #1)

by Alix Rickloff



The magic she tries to hide . . .

 
Born a lady, but reduced to surviving in the slums of Dublin, Catriona O’Connell has been hired to steal a mysterious book from Aidan Douglas, Earl of Kilronan. But Cat is secretly Other, an age-old mixture of Fey and human—something Aidan recognizes immediately when he surprises the lovely young burglar in his library, about to steal a magical diary.
 
. . . is the magic he desperately wants.
 
From the moment Aidan sees her, Cat’s spirited beauty enchants him, but her uncanny abilities are what he truly needs, for Cat can understand the mystical language in the diary he inherited from his murdered father. So Aidan makes an offer: translate the book or be thrown in prison as a thief. And as Cat slowly deciphers each page, she and Aidan are drawn together by passion . . . and into the violence of the Other world that is the Kilronan legacy. Can they defeat those who seek the book, or are their lives in even greater danger than their hearts?

Review: Cryer's Cross by Lisa McMann

Cryer's Cross

Author: Lisa McMann

Publisher: Simon Pulse
ISBN: 1416994815
Release Date: February 8, 2011
Pre-Order Information:
Amazon | Banes & Noble | Book Depository

*Novel generously provided by the publisher.

For more information please visit Lisa McMann's website.

The community of Cryer’s Cross, Montana (population 212) is distraught when high school freshman Tiffany disappears without a trace. Already off-balance due to her OCD, 16-year-old Kendall is freaked out seeing Tiffany’s empty desk in the one-room school house, but somehow life goes on... until Kendall's boyfriend Nico also disappears, and also without a trace. Now the town is in a panic. Alone in her depression and with her OCD at an all-time high, Kendall notices something that connects Nico and Tiffany: they both sat at the same desk. She knows it's crazy, but Kendall finds herself drawn to the desk, dreaming of Nico and wondering if maybe she, too, will disappear...and whether that would be so bad. Then she begins receiving graffiti messages on the desk from someone who can only be Nico. Can he possibly be alive somewhere? Where is he? And how can Kendall help him? The only person who believes her is Jacian, the new guy she finds irritating...and attractive. As Kendall and Jacian grow closer, Kendall digs deeper into Nico's mysterious disappearance only to stumble upon some ugly—and deadly—local history. Kendall is about to find out just how far the townspeople will go to keep their secrets buried.

Review:

Cryer's Cross by Lisa McMann is definitely not your average read. In fact, it was quite different from other YA novels that I've read focused on missing persons. While this novel didn't manage to meet my expectations  it was still well written with an interesting plot that kept me reading.

I think a lot of my issues stem from the fact that this novel was so short with most of the novel being dedicated to the world building, which was actually really nicely done. Cryer's Cross is a little blip on the map and McMann does an excellent job in bringing the reader into this small world away from computers, cell phones, and pretty much every other luxury we take for granted. You get a very intense look at what it is like living on a farm with a one room school house for high school students where the only fun break from the humdrum of work and school is a round of soccer. The atmosphere was a little lacking though. I had hoped since this novel would focus on teens going missing there would be more of a sense of unease or creepiness, but this novel was actually strangely anemic in this department. In fact, I found most of the atmosphere was created through the character's emotions, and not all the effectively.

In fact, for me, the characters we severely underdeveloped. That's not to say that I didn't enjoy them, I did. Kendall is an interesting girl and I loved how she dealt with her OCD. This is rarely addressed in novels and yet it's a very real problem for many. It was educational seeing what someone with this particular issue went through in their daily life and the constant worry about needing to stick to their routines even though the emotions and needs used within this novel were very broad and generalised. And yet, despite these types of little details and issues the characters had to cope with, I felt they were still very one dimensional with their emotionality severely underdeveloped for teens between the ages of 16-18. In truth, I didn't really come to feel any connection to them until more then half way through the novel when Jacian and Kendall finally start becoming closer. Their budding friendship followed slowly by the development of their deeper feelings was great to watch develop as the characters themselves started to grow. But, this romance was short lived and quickly glossed over, too much so for my tastes, leaving so much unsaid and unknown.

The writing style while mildly abrupt made this a really quick read. The sense of mystery was intriguing and kept me reading, curious to know what really happened to the two teens who disappeared in such a small town. The additional entries under the WE headings added a definite question about who or what had taken them. I wish I could go into further detail, but once again, I don't want to give away any of the major plot lines and because this was such a short book with such a small window of revelation that's extremely easy to do. Let it suffice to say that the climax for me was really anticlimactic if not a little silly, especially given the rest of the novel.

Now all of this isn't to say that this wasn't a good read because overall I did enjoy it, but like I've mentioned above there were a lot of things that could have been done to make this a really good novel versus an okay one. For instance, more characterization. It seems like most of the novel is spent creating a friendship between Nico and Kendall followed closely by her pining for her missing friend. In truth, I got the connection quickly and the rest was merely beating a dead horse. Instead I would have liked to see more focus put on Jacian and Kendall's growing friendship and the loss explored through that angle. Of course, this was done mildly through the novel, but it felt very ineffectual. All and all, this sense of loss and grieving is not so unusual, but it's the lack of emotionality that kept me from connecting to her and her situation. Also, the emotionality that we did get was very blase for a teenager. All the emotions and thoughts were merely hinted at, but not truly experienced. And again, there was Kendall's gradual friendship with Jacian. I would have liked to see more of this as I enjoyed Jacian's character, but again, their friendship was very tentative and not very deeply explored. In truth we don't really get to know much about Jacian which I found rather sad. And lastly, there was the climax of the novel. I think if we would have found out more about the history that led up to it, it would have helped. Or perhaps if the answer to the mystery would have been tied more closely to the ending instead of mentioned once seemingly at random, it would have seemed a little less ridiculous. Again, I'm sorry to be vague, but I don't want to spoil the ending for those who will enjoy it.

Overall, I found this was a decent enough read that kept me interested for the few hours it took me to get through it. It's not an overly heavy book and it's a quick and easy read for anyone looking for a bit of psychological horror on a YA scale.

My Rating: 3 out of 5 Scars

Advisory: Mild violence, language and some horror

[CLOSED] Interview + Giveaway with Toni LoTempio

About the Author

 Born in New York City, Toni began writing at an early age.  In 1995, she joined the staff of SUSABELLA PASSENGERS AND FRIENDS, where she has been a staff reporter for 10 years, winning their Margaret Sutton Award for Distinguished Writing in 1998.  In 2000, two of her novels were e-published.  A Spy in the Hand from PublishAmerica followed in 2004, and 2006 saw the release of Murder is Relative from PA and Nom de Plume from Chippewa Publishing.  Two more thrillers, BOUND BY BLOOD and EBONY will be released from Whiskey Creek Press in 2007. Toni lives in Clifton, NJ with her three cats and is working on two more novels in addition to a screenplay of MR. AND MRS. SPY!

 Author bio courtesy of T.C. LoTempio

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About the Novel

Communing with the dead is an everyday occurrence for PI Morgan Hawkes. A half-Wiccan witch who can commune with spirits of those caught between worlds, Morgan uses her talents to exorcise the trapped ghost or demon as part of the Paranormal Investigation Squad – until a string of murders with a voodoo slant prompts the Special Forces Agency to ask for her assistance.

Someone’s killing pureblood witches- and the SFA’s convinced Morgan’s heritage (her father was a voodoo priest) could be instrumental in solving the mystery. Teamed with dashing SF agent Cole St. John – an Inheritor Vampire that sets her blood racing – the two of them fight their attraction for each other as they race to stop a madman from unleashing a demonic force upon the world.

 Read my review of 'No Rest for the Wicca' here.

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Welcome to Black Lagoon Reviews, Toni!

BLR: To begin, why don’t you tell us a little bit about your newest novel ‘No Rest for the Wicca’?


TCL: No Rest is a novel about a girl, Morgan Hawkes, who has both wiccan and voodoo heritage. Saddled with guilt over the death of her partner years before, she left homicide and became a “ghost whisperer” – someone who helps trapped spirits travel over to the next plane. But when a string of murders with a decidedly voodoo slant begin occurring, the PSFU (Paranormal Special Forces Unit) enlists her aid to solve the murders, and she finds herself teamed with a hunky Inheritor Vampire – Cole St. John – who sets her mixed blood racing!

BLR: Your novel has a unique take on witchcraft and voodoo, what inspired you to write a novel focused on these aspects?

TCL: I’ve always been fascinated by both – and after I saw the movie THE SKELETON KEY it inspired me to write another voodoo-related novel, EBONY, which is available from Whiskey Creek Press. Wicca was written after another novel of mine was turned down by the editorial board at NAL as sort of a catharsis

'No Rest of the Wicca’ has a large assortment of supernatural and paranormal creatures; could you tell us a little bit about a few of your favorite types and how you developed their lore?

Trolls are always fun to do – I keep remembering those little dolls that were available when I was a kid with the different color hair (I guess I’m dating myself, LOL) Vampires have always fascinated me – I did an article on it for SUBURBAN VAMPIRE a few weeks ago – and I actually found some websites on them! So the premise is borrowed from actual fact – with a few embellishments.

BLR: ‘No Rest for the Wicca’ has a very unique feeling in a genre full of paranormal investigators and supernatural/paranormal realms. In your own opinion what do you think makes this novel so different and engaging to readers?

TCL: I think the blend of half-wiccan and half-voodoo in the main character – both are actually religions, but wicca’s main premise, do no harm,contrasts sharply with what most people associate voodoo with – dark magic.

Could you explain a bit about the world building you did within the novel? For instance, how you developed the various paranormal agencies, their relationship to the world you created and how this ties in with the supernatural creatures that inhabit the world?

Well, I’m a big true crime fan, so I just strung those words together to develop the PSFU – Paranormal Special Forces Unit. It’s an agency that keeps the peace between Others and humanity.

BLR: The aspects of Wicca and Voodoo involved within the story are very well developed, what sort of research did you do to prepare for it?

TCL: A ton, although I know some people think it wasn’t well researched – trust me, it was. Some liberties were taken, of course for story purposes, but 90% of the facts in there have a legitimate source. I have books on Wicca and Voodoo on my bookshelf, and I went through more Internet sites than I can count. I never knew there were so many!

This novel follows an enjoyable cast of characters; will we be seeing more of them in your future novels? If so is there anything that you can tell us about what we can expect to see happen to them in the future?

I do have a sequel outlined for NO REST, which I hope to get to soon, in between my other projects. We’ll explore more about Morgan and Cole’s individual pasts, as well as Morgan confronting the villain who killed her partner and got away.

BLR: Do you have any upcoming projects we can look forward to reading soon?

TCL: Yes: In March I have a YA fantasy coming out on Amazon and B&N, or, as I like to put it, :”Flying into your digital bookstores: MY SUPERHERO SISTER , A YA FANTASY: March 2011.”

After that I have another paranormal romance, RAVEN’S KISS, about a shapeshifting detective and parallel time, which will debut in late April.

I also have three more novels that I’ve almost completed, (including a complete rework of the NAL turn down) which I hope to interest an agent with. If not – they’ll be self-pubbed as well.

BLR: What are some of your must read books/authors?

TCL: Oh, gosh! Anything by J.D. Robb! I love her! and I also read Carol Higgins Clark, Victoria Laurie, Jill Myles, and Rita Mae Brown, anything by John Saul and the king of suspense, James Patterson religiously. Lately I’ve also become a big fan of Alex Kava and Tess Gerritson. I love both the paranormal and the suspense/thriller/cozy mystery genres.

BLR: If you could be any supernatural creature/being, what would you be and why?

TCL: hat’s easy – ever since I was hooked on DARK SHADOWS as a teen, I’ve always wanted to be Angelique – a sexy witch! I’d kill for those big, big, blue eyes! I always liked the way Elizabeth Montgomery twitched her nose on Bewitched and could conjure up just about anything! And, as we all know, all supernaturals are susceptible to magic.

BLR: Now that we know a bit about your writing, could you tell us a bit about yourself?

TCL: Well, I work full time during the day and I write at night and on the weekends. I live in beautiful New Jersey (LOL) with my four cats for inspiration. I’ve been a contributing writer for a magazine devoted to antique children’s literature, SUSABELLA PASSENGERS, since 1995, and I’ve recently joined the staff of NIGHT OWL REVIEWS as a contributing suspense columnist (debut article February issue). So my life is pretty much writing and working at this point LOL.

I appreciate your taking the time to interview me, and I also appreciate anyone who’s read my books. I love hearing from fans, so feel free to drop me a line at tlotempio@aol.com. You can also find me at my website (which is in bad need of an overhaul) at www.freewebs.com/toni1953, and also feel free to friend me on FACEBOOK!

Thank you, Toni!

For more information you can find Toni at:

T. C. LoTempio

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Giveaway

Toni has been kind enough to offer up a copy of 'No Rest for the Wicca' to one lucky commenter! The winner will have receive an eBook copy of her novel. Because this is an eBook, this contest will be open internationally!

Good luck to all!

Rules:

• Contest ends Feb. 4, 2011
• You do not have to be a follower of this blog to enter this contest.
• To enter comment with a valid email address.
• Winner will be chosen via Random.Org

Extra Entries:

+1 Spreading the word (please provide the links of where you posted about this contest)
+1 Being a follower of this blog (new or existing)
+1 Signing up to receive updates via email

Review: Pale Demon by Kim Harrison

Pale Demon

Author: Kim Harrison

Publisher: EOS

Series: Rachel Morgan\The Hollows, Book 9
Release Date: February 22, 2011
Pre-Order Information:
Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository

*Novel generously provided by the publisher via NetGalley.

For more information please visit Kim Harrison's website.

Condemned to death for black magic and shunned, Rachel Morgan has three days to somehow get to the annual witches convention in San Francisco and clear her name. If she fails, the only way she can escape death is to live in the demonic ever after . . . for ever after.

Banned from the flight lists, Rachel teams up with elven tycoon Trent Kalamack, headed for the West Coast for his own mysterious business. But Rachel isn’t the only passenger along for the ride. Can a witch, an elf, a living vampire, and a pixy in one car survive for over 2,300 miles? And that’s not counting the assassin on their tail.

A fearsome demon walks the sunlight, freed after centuries of torment to slay the innocent and devour souls. But his ultimate prey is Rachel Morgan. While the powerful witch with nerves of steel will do whatever it takes to stay alive, even embracing her own demonic nature may not be enough to save her.

Review:

Pale Demon is without a doubt the best book in Kim Harrison's best selling Rachel Morgan series yet! Filled with more action, more chaos and more suspense then ever before this novel is one that will leave you panting for more!

Harrison's world building has always been a huge draw for me when reading this series as Rachel's home town of Cincinnati is wonderfully built and throughout the previous eight novels has been vastly explored. This novel, however, offered up a fresh and interesting change of scenery showing the true extent of what happened to the world post-Turn when all of the supernatural beings decided to make their existence known. The barren landscapes Rachel and her friends travel through in this novel definitely gives a more in depth idea of what exactly happened to the state of the world once all of these so-called monsters decided to jumped out of the closet and into the light of day. I really enjoyed seeing the crumbling remains of the rural world and Harrison's vivid descriptions of these locales  really brought these place into life before my very eyes. Honestly, I think it's this attention to detail that I adore most about this series. But, not only is the depiction of the mortal realm spot on, but Harrison's depiction of the Ever After, the alternate reality where demons roam freely, which is masterfully painted for the reader. Once again, details just bring this alternate world to life and the wonderful atmosphere of foreboding is always present. But, not only is it the locales of this alternate realm that make this such an interesting landscape but the complex society she concocts for the demons themselves. There is a very specific hierarchy and rule system in effect that is interesting and and yet somehow fragile with each action or inaction creating an opportunity to advance within the society or making them easy prey to the whims of others.

Likewise, the characters are explored just as vigorously as the settings. And while this may be the ninth novel in the series, I am still not tired of these characters. I think a lot of this has to do with their constant development. Through every situation they come to find out more about themselves and each other and the bond between them only seems to grow stronger for it. This novel was no different as we tag along on Rachel's trip to self discovery and self acceptance and watch the group as a whole begin to become stronger as individuals. But for me this novel's exploration of trust and family was at the forefront as Rachel is forced to trust in the motivations and plans of two of her most trusted enemies. I know it's a bit of an oxymoron, but that doesn't make it any less true. In fact, I loved the character exploration of these two characters who have been such an integral part of Rachel's life and often her misfortunes. Finally, we come to see some of their motivations and their true feelings about Rachel. These feelings were often a bit surprising and yet somehow they were expected given their tenuous relationship with Rachel.  I don't want to go into much more discussion about this simply because to do so would spoil a lot of what I found enjoyable about this book and what I think other followers of this series will be pleased to read about. Just let it suffice to say while the animosity within some of these relationships will never change, the connotations drastically do.

So, moving right along, the plot of this story is yet again another round of 'Who wants to Kill Rachel?' and really, isn't that way we love her? Her ability to dodge the seemingly endless assasination attempts and the hatred of others? Well, this novel delivers big on that front and from the start this novel starts off with a bang and keeps on running. There is a lot of action going on throughout this road trip from Hell and seemingly endless conflicts keep popping up keeping the reader firmly rooted to their favorite reading chair. The sense of suspense throughout is truly marvelous as Rachel and her friends are thrust from the frying pan into the inferno with layers upon layers of plots overlapping to culminate nicely into yet another stellar ending. This of course left me cursing because of my desire for the next installment, desperate to know Rachel's next move and how the world will inevitably turn against her yet again.

Overall, this was my favorite novel in this series thus far and I can't wait to see what happens next. If you haven't read any of this amazingly addictive series, I highly recommend giving it a try! They're all relatively simple to jump into and I have actually read several of these out of sequence with no ill effects. In fact, my first foray into this world was book 5, The Outlaw Demon Wails, and I have been a fan ever since.

My Rating: 5 out of 5 Scars

Winner! - Moon Rising Giveaway

 

Tore

You will be notified via email shortly and I will forward your email information to Laurie!

Again, thank you Laurie for taking the time to stop by and for giving us some insight into your wonderful novels! If you didn't manage to win a copy of this novel, you can puchase both of Laurie's currently available titles Moon Rising and Sunset to Sunrise at either Amazon or Barnes and Noble.

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Want it Wednesday [10]

Want it Wednesday is an idea inspired by Rex Robot Reviews in which I post three books from my ever expanding wish list. Feel free to comment on the titles or suggest some of your own! I'm always open to new suggestions about great books to read.

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Moonshine (Cal Leandros #2)
by Rob Thurman

After saving the world from his fiendish father's side of the family, Cal Leandros and his stalwart half-brother Niko have settled down with new digs and a new gig-bodyguard and detective work. And in New York City, where preternatural beings stalk the streets just like normal folk, business is good. Their latest case has them going undercover for the Kin-the werewolf Mafia. A low-level Kin boss thinks a rival is setting him up for a fall, and wants proof. The place to start is the back room of Moonshine-a gambling club for non-humans. Cal thinks it's a simple in-and-out job. But Cal is very, very wrong.

Cal and Niko are being set up themselves-and the people behind it have a bite much worse than their bark...

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Darkness Dawns (Immortal Guardians #1)

by Diana Duvall

In this dazzling, sensual novel, Dianne Duvall beckons readers into a world of vampires, immortals, and humans with extraordinary gifts. . .where passion can last forever, if you're willing to pay the price. . .

Once, Sarah Bingham's biggest challenge was making her students pay attention in class. Now, after rescuing a wounded stranger, she's landed in the middle of a battle between corrupt vampires and powerful immortals who also need blood to survive. Roland Warbrook is the most compelling man Sarah has ever laid hands on. But his desire for her is mingled with a hunger he can barely control. . .

In his nine centuries of immortal existence, no woman has tempted Roland as much as Sarah. But asking her to love him is impossible--when it means forfeiting the world she's always known, and the life he would do anything to protect. . .

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Lucifer's Daughter (Book 1)

by Eve Langlais

Being Lucifer’s daughter can be hell.

Hi, I’m Muriel, the only white sheep in a sea of black ones, and a virgin to boot. I am determined to wait for love, but my dad, more commonly known as Lucifer, just wants me to stop being an embarrassment. I’m hoping the hunk that I met in my bar will turn out to be the one–just looking at him makes my insides melt like marshmallows over the coals of hell, but trusting is hard when it seems everyone I get close to ends up trying to kill me.

Not only am I dealing with an extreme case of lust, there’s a new threat in hell, one my dad says to ignore. Something easier said than done since it seems everywhere I turn demons are trying to kill me. But I’m okay with that, because one thing I’ve learned being a princess of hell is that sometimes I have to grab a demon by the horns and slap it around a bit.

A rebellion in hell, demon assassins and scorching kisses, could my life get any more interesting?(less

Review: Rogue's Curse by Jason Beymer

Rogue's Curse

Author: Jason Beymer

Publisher:  Lyrical Press
Series: Rogue Prophet Series, Book 1

ISBN: 1616501790

Purchase Information:

Amazon | Barnes & Noble

*Novel provided by the author for an honest review.

For more information please visit Jason Beymer's website.

Two thousand years after the Rapture, the world still sucks.

The talisman responsible for the Rapture has embedded itself in Doban's chest, making him the most wanted rogue in history. Pursued by a biblical prophet intent on ripping the talisman out, Doban must seek help from the only woman who ever loved him--a woman he once left to die in a tomb. Can they let go of the past long enough to stop a second Rapture?

This title contains graphic violence, off-kilter copulation, and nasty rogues.

Read an excerpt of Rogue's Curse here.

Review:

Rogue's Curse, the debut novel in Jason Beymer's Rogue Prophet series, is a wonderfully off kilter tale that I couldn't bring myself to put down. The roguish, lewd and often times crude humor had me laughing out loud late into the night while the never ending action kept me enthralled and wanting to know what happened next! Truly, this was a fun romp with a cast full of memorable characters that you'll want to revisit again and again.

Initially, I have to admit I was a bit skeptical about reviewing this novel. While the blurb sounded interesting, I was a little concerned about whether this would be a novel that I would actually really enjoy. Let me assure readers, the synopsis does not do this novel justice...Okay, well maybe the last sentence does because that's what actually sold me! I suppose with words like 'Rapture' and 'Prophet' one conjures images of stuffy characters and dry subject matter, but in this case that couldn't have been further from the truth.

The characters, however, are what made this a truly memorable novel for me, especially Doban. I mean, who couldn't love a man who names his horse 'Brown Bastard'? While he's an extremely simplistic man content to live up the easy standards of Rogue-hood, i.e. getting drunk and having lots of sex, he's a wildly entertaining character. Despite, or perhaps because of the fact that his intelligence is often called into question-as well as his judgement, his morals and his ethics-I found him to be completely endearing in his observations and actions. It's definitely a rare thing to see such a lovable anti-hero that no matter what he does, you still can't help rooting for him. But, by far Beymer's neatest trick was making me love the Stone of Rapture. The personification of the Stone was spot on, the cheeky snide humor allowing it to have a similar yet separate voice from Doban. Through the Stone we gain insight into the root of all the greedy scheming to lay hands on it and why everyone is so bent on killing the Rogue to possess it, most for very egocentric reasons. And while I would love to prattle on about the wonderful cast of characters aside from these main two, I fear that it would be impossible to go into them all, because let's face it, every single one deserves mention. Let it suffice to say they are all wholly unique, flawed (some more so than others), and completely unashamed of their sins and short comings. Each of them is also nicely developed and explored making this a stunning and unexpected ensemble piece.

The world building in itself is also quite creative with the satirical world being run by imbeciles and power hungry simpletons ruled by their nether regions. The highly developed characterization helps to aid in the settings of the story as the settings are perfectly tailored to help reflect the characters. Or rather, I should say the atmospheres of the settings do. For example, Doban is perfectly suited to the Rot Hearted Tavern, with its sense of 'anything goes short of blood shed' ruling. And yet, when the blood (and entrails) start flying, the odd sense of glee gleaned from it is still somehow fitting to his personality as he is never one to shy away from getting his hands dirty...should the deed benefit him in some way, that is. Also worth mentioning is the wonderful myths and lore created by Beymer about the Stone. While we get a great sense of the Stone's desires and purpose, we are left ambiguous on its ruling desires and ultimate plan because this clever rock most certainly has some form of plan for itself. This definitely leaves the door wide open for future novels to further explore and I look forward to seeing what mischief will be caused in the name of the Talisman in future novels.

Overall, this novel had a fun sense of adventure and a sick yet satisfying sense of humor that put me in mind of 'Monty Python and the Holy Grail'. This is definitely one series, and author, that I will be following closely and highly recommend to anyone who loves a good laugh. I definitely can't wait for the next installment in this highly addictive and enjoyable series!

My Rating: 4 out of 5 Scars

Advisory: Crude humor, some sexual content, crude sexual humor, graphic violence

Review: The Fallen: Raziel by Kristina Douglas

The Fallen: Raziel
Author: Kristina Douglas
Publisher: Pocket Books
Series: The Fallen, Book 1
ISBN: 1439191921
Release Date: January 25, 2011
Pre-Order Information:
Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Borders

*Novel provided by the publisher via GalleyGrab

For more information please visit Kristina Douglas's website.

Kristina Douglas’s sexy new series introduces a realm of fallen angels and ruthless demons, where an eternal rebellion is brewing . . . and one unsuspecting woman can change the fate of the Fallen forever.

She was just an ordinary mortal . . .

“You’re dead” is so not what Allie Watson wants to hear. Unfortunately, it explains a lot. Like the dark, angelically handsome man who ferried her to this strange, hidden land. The last thing she remembers is stepping off a curb in front of a crosstown bus. Now she’s surrounded by gorgeous fallen angels with an unsettling taste for blood—and they really don’t want her around. Not exactly how she pictured heaven.

. . . until death catapulted her into a seductive world she never imagined.

Raziel is unsure why he rescued Allie from hellfire against Uriel’s orders, but she stirs in him a longing he hasn't felt in centuries. Now the Fallen are bracing for the divine wrath brought by his disobedience, and they blame Allie for the ferocious Nephilim clawing at the kingdom’s shrouded gates. Facing impossible odds at every turn, the two must work together to survive. Raziel will do anything to defend his spirited lover against the forces of darkness—because Allie may be the Fallen’s only salvation.

Review:

The Fallen: Raziel, the first installement in Kristina Douglas's The Fallen series, is a wonderful paranormal romance that has a lot of potential. Filled with romance, action, and a highly developed mythos, this novel proves to be a complex new spin on the currently popular fallen angel trope.

I must admit, that after reading the first chapter I was utterly hooked. Douglas's writing style is so wonderfully descriptive it set the scene of Allie's demise with such cinematography that I could literally see it unfolding in my mind. Though, at the beginning, I must admit that I was quite hesitant about the altering first person point of views switching between Raziel and Allie, but the execution was perfectly done. Instead of being confusing, the voice of the characters blending beyond the point of recognition, I was pleased to find that the voices instead were quite distinct and that each characters' perspective offered a differing and enlightening insight into the situation. In truth, Douglas's ability to delve inside the minds of her characters and give the reader the sensation of actually tagging along within their thoughts was a unique and enjoyable experience. The seemingly random flow of thoughts and feelings offered up so many ways in which to entangle the readers in the world of Sheol and the battle between the Fallen and the Nephilim. These conflicting POV's also served wonderfully in building the hesitant, unwanted connection between the two characters, developing it in such a way that the simmering connection was an endearing cause for suspense and drama.

The characters themselves were extremely interesting. Allie is a strong and very determined woman use to being in control of her life and adapting to any situation. The fact that she is drawn into a situation prophesied by her zealot mother, only adding to her anger and outrage at being held prisoner in a situation she barely understands with creatures she thought couldn't possibly exist. She's truly a firecracker though with her snarky need to antagonize Raziel, it definitely created an amusing 'survival' tactic that I often had to smirk at.  Raziel too was an extremely interesting character; his insight into the history of the Fallen and how they came to be cast from above was enthralling. The altered perception of Lucifer as a hope rather then the ruler of the Underworld was a nice twist of pre-established belief that I can't wait to see further explored. However, while his past may be a point of interest the stoic demeanor he tries to wrap around himself leaves him a bit cold throughout the novel. He spends most of his time brooding and fighting his connection to Allie interested in....well, not much. He mainly occupies his time by searching for the Morning Star as a means of overthrowing Uriel, and ferrying souls to the Otherside. And brooding...did I mention that? But, despite his lack of emotions, I found him to be quite a complex character. Beneath the veneer he tries desperately to clutch at his emotions are still extremely evident in his actions, whether he chooses to accept it or not. In fact, the pairing of these two polar opposites added a lovely friction to the tale, sparking life into an otherwise lifeless Raziel and giving a place to belong to Allie who never really fit anywhere in life.

The complex new mythos that Douglas created for this novel helped to round out the wonderfully developed world to perfection. The vampiric attributes to the Fallen and the zombie like need of the Nephilim added a wonderful twist that was unusual and enjoyable. I was also quite entranced by the settings that the author conjured for Sheol, the simple atmosphere wonderfully detailed and articulated. The sense of being shrouded in mist in a place within the world but seperate from it was perfectly realized.

Yet, while I liked the novel there was still so much about it fell a little flat for me starting with Uriel. He's a mysterious enemy that never really shows up, the stories of his wrath and hatred of pretty much all things never really adding up to much else besides just that, stories. His plans for the Fallen and Allie are very ambiguous throughout, the question of if he actually knew Allie was Raziel's intended mate is up for debate. Like so much else, the actual depth of his involvement in her being assigned to Raziel to be disposed of and Raziel's realization that Uriel was harshly condemning souls to Hell, it just all leaves a lot of questions that were never answered. Personally, I like my villians to actually be present in the novel. But, instead we get a zealot minion to wreak his havoc for him...and as far as villains went, this novel definitely lacked in that department as well. In truth, I was a little disappointed when the story finally climaxed to reveal the traitor because it was so anti-climatic. The battle to defeat the traitor a half hearted attempt on both the side of good and evil. (I really don't want to spoil the novel, so I'll leave it at that.) My other issue was that after Raziel finally came to accept his bond with Allie, he was still so distant. The emotional quality, in both of them really, seemed to lack despite the obvious connection. As far as romance novels go, I definitely like to see my hero and my heroine have a little more passion in them. The somewhat blasé attitudes were a little off putting.

In the end, this was definitely a good start to a new series that holds a lot of potential for future novels. And it definitely offered up a little bit of everything one could want in a novel: romance, epic battles, and a huge freaking cliff hanger that makes you want to scream. And really, what more is there?

My Rating: 3.5 out of 5 Scars

Advisory: Some Sexual Content