The Sunday Post is a weekly meme hosted by Kimba the Caffeinated Book Reviewer ~ It's a chance to share news ~ A post to recap the past week on your blog, showcase books and things we have received and share new about what is coming up on our blog for the week ahead.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
It's been a quick week. And Saturday was gone in a blink. How does that happen?
We got to see Kiddo's senior pictures yesterday. Wow! He looks amazing. Hard to believe he'll be a Senior this year. His school year starts on Monday. Exciting things!
I've slowly been trying to catch up on a few tv series on SyFy I was interested in but couldn't get to.
Wynonna Earp - There were only 3 episodes but it was catching. I like the idea of the family curse from back at the gun slinging days. Wynonna is the next to inherit the gun to kill remnants.
Then I've started The Magicians. The images from the commercial reminded me of the talented images of the story of The Gearheart by Alex White. I was really curious. I'm three episodes in to the first season and taken with the magic! I'm reminded of an adult version of Harry Potter meets Narnia in these first episodes. I'll be finishing out the season and catching season 2 in 2017.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The Fit Booker:
Goal: Workout in any form of exercise (or on Wii Fit) 2x's a week. (to feel better and hope to drop a few pants sizes)
How did I do last week... I didn't exercise as I'm still not suppose to until I have my follow-up doctor appoint, which is Tuesday.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
What's Happening in Books:
Current Read:
Exploration: Through the Wormhole anthology
The Side of Good / The Side of Evil edited by Danielle Ackley-McPhail
Current Audiobook:
The Heir to the North by Steven Poore
Current Podcast Book Listen:
Stonebriar Casefiles: Bad Alchemy by Laura Nicole Spencer (You can listen for free too!)
Six Stories, Told at Night by KT Bryski
Finished Last Week:
Tempered Hearts by Starla Huchton
Audiobooks from Audible:
The World Beneath by Rebecca Cantrell
Finished Podcast Book Listen:
xxxx by xxxx
~~~~~~~~~~
Last Week on the Blog:
Cover Reveals: (click titles to go to post & learn more)
Guest Posts:
Author Guest Post: What Fairy Tales Taught Me
Posts:
Spellbound in a Flash:
This week I posted pictures of a local band, Neon Swing X-perience. There was so much energy from the band that people were dancing too!
The Palace, Neon Swing X-perience
Challenged Writers:
I'll post at beginning of September, but you can always see previous posts.
Around the Internet...
Reviews:
The Machines of Bellatrix by Cary Caffery
"This book starts like the previous ends, and my kind of story. Action and danger at each decision. I believe the girls would be in trouble if Sigrid doesn't act, yet it was her action that could bring danger to their doorstep and gives Sigrid the reason to correct what was started."
Ancient Magic by Linsey Hall
"I really enjoyed this story, it was fun and relaxing for me. I look forward to more books with these characters and their secrets."
Hidden Design by Tia Tormen & CK Stone
"This book is not my normal read, but I wanted to keep going for the mystery and to see the Adveni more."
Podcast Review:
Mama Bitchstress Reviews:
GIVEAWAYS:
~~~~~~~~~~
This Week to Come on the Blog:
I have 3 reviews.
~~~~~~~~~~
Received Last Weeks:
Review & Review Consideration:
Emergence edited by Tim Marquitz
Releases Sept 20th.
Goodreads Synopsis:
AN ANCIENT TRIGGER GENE buried deep in humankind's DNA is sporadically activating, evolving some humans into something superhuman. Influenced by comic-book culture, many of these 'chimerics,' as they have been dubbed, have taken on costumes and adopted codenames. Organizations have risen to either train, exploit, or police these chimerics, and the entire world is at odds about their very existence.
In this open-ended series, Ragnarok gathers authors to write superhuman fiction in a shared universe. It begins here with book #1, Emergence, shipping in fall 2016. Look for book #2,Chimeric, featuring stories by Dan Wells, Rob Duperre, Steve Diamond, and more, in 2017.
Emergence collects nine tales, each with a unique perspective on what it might be like to be superhuman in the modern age.
"From the Barrel of a Gun" by Jeff C. Carter
"Whiplash" by Tim Marquitz
"Never Go Half Supervillain" by C.T. Phipps
"We Can Be Heroes" by Eloise J. Knapp
"Perennial" by Edward M. Erdelac
"The Other" by Rob J. Hayes
"Avenger" by G.N. Braun
"Bring It On, Hero" by J.M. Martin
"(They Call Me) Epilogue" by Steve Diamond
In the Humanity 2.0 cosmology, the stories are set in a shared universe. Characters cross over, events have impact, establishments are consistent. It's an open-ended series and the stories, like the chimerics of H2.0, will continue to evolve.
Explorations through the Warmhole
PICK UP AT AMAZON
Synopsis:
It's 2052 and the first known wormhole appears in lunar orbit. Earth sends a ship to investigate and the future of space travel changes forever. The Solar System develops in many ways over the centuries, but one thing remains constant: the wormholes continue to appear.
Join many of today's most exciting indie science fiction authors as they chart a shared universe and future-history, each telling us stories of:
Explorations: Through the Wormhole
Audio Books Requested for Review:
Mirror Mage by Linsey Hall
PICK UP AT AMAZON
Goodreads Synopsis:
Cass Clereaux likes her job. It’s simple—steal the magic, don’t get killed. FireSouls like her are perfect for magic treasure hunting. Their dragon soul helps them find treasure, their wicked powers help them steal it. But there’s a big freaking downside—FireSouls are hunted. If either of the magical governments figures out what she is, she can kiss her life goodbye.
When the Alpha Council comes to her with a special job, it’s a no-brainer to turn it down, no matter how much money they’re offering. Shifters who can sniff out her weird magic are the last supernaturals she needs to be around. Worse? They have a history of hunting FireSouls. But when Cass learns that a little girl’s life is at stake and Cass is her last hope, she doesn’t have a choice.
With her sisters and Aidan Merrick at her back, she’s got a chance at saving the girl and keeping her deadly secret—until she learns there’s far more to this kidnapping than meets the eye. It’s far too similar to what happened to her as a child, and everything new that she learns scares her even more.
Glisten by Chess Desalls
PICK UP AT AMAZON
Goodreads Synopsis:
Marian Spritz won’t gain guardian fairy status if she fails her summer school project. But when she hears a call for help—a song felt only by Glistens—she must choose between not letting her schoolwork and teammates suffer and protecting a ward who faces grave danger.
A guardian can't shine without the song of her ward.
Codename: Night Witch by Cary Caffery
PICK UP AT AMAZON
Goodreads Synopsis:
The unthinkable has happened. Sigrid Novak, the most dangerous and wanted person in the history of the Federation of Corporate Enterprises, has been captured. For the women of New Alcyone—women just like her, genetically reengineered and trained since childhood to be the most effective killers in the galaxy—this is a staggering loss. For the Independents, the rebels who captured her, this is a boon beyond measure.
If they can figure out how to control her.
Now, six years have passed since the events of Bellatrix, and for six years Sigrid Novak has been gone, vanished, with no sign, no word and no trace. But all has not been quiet within the Federation. The Council for Trade and Finance has been murdered, assassinated, and the death toll among the Federation's ruling elite continues to rise.
With every corporate enclave that falls, the legend grows. They call her the Night Witch. A champion to some, a nightmare for others. Wherever she goes, death is soon to follow.
Then, in an abandoned CTF research facility—and after so many years lost—a woman awakens. Her name is Sigrid Novak. And she is very, very angry.
The Dark Levy by Alaric Longward
PICK UP AT AMAZON
Goodreads Synopsis:
Sisters Shannon and Dana have always suffered from mysterious issues. On the verge of their adulthood they are visiting their wise, old grandmother in Ireland on a very special day, and finally learn why their life has been strangely affected by something they have not previously understood. That day is the very day a harrowing creature of the Nine Worlds calls out for special, talented humans of the Tenth world. Our world.
Dana performs an irreversible deed that opens the gate to the strange world of Aldheim, and they meet the strange creature calling for them. In this world they find their true calling, their very special talents, the truth of the gods and also a world of mystery, cruelty and adversity. Shannon and Dana struggle with their previous relationship as one grows cruel and power-driven, while the other learns to value friendship. Much is demanded of Shannon, who is struggling with her loyalties.
Despite the many dangers and their apparent hopeless situation in the new, dangerous world, there is hope, for Shannon has some very special, coveted powers of healing, reserved to the chosen of the gods. If she perseveres, she can change the past and bring back even the gods.
But the price will be great.
Purchased/Winnings/Gifts:
Book:
Audio:
Lock and Key: The Gadwall Incident by Ridley Pearson
PICK UP AT AMAZON
Goodreads Synopsis:
The New York Times bestselling author of the Peter and the Starcatcher and Kingdom Keepers series, Ridley Pearson, brings us the stirring digital prequel to the Lock and Key series, which reimagines the origins of the rivalry between Sherlock Holmes and James Moriarty.
In The Gadwall Incident, readers get a glimpse into James’s life a mere twenty-four hours before the tipping point—before life as he knows it changes irrevocably and his childhood slips into the shadows. Readers will come to know the dangers that surround the Moriartys before James and Moria are sent off to the hallowed halls of Baskerville Academy, where they first meet the insufferable, inexhaustible Sherlock Holmes. It’s a tale full of intrigue and false starts and daring getaways, one that will leave readers desperate to know what's next.
Free Ebooks:
(On my Kindle App) Links to books under title. They may or may not be free at this time.
Queen of Someday by Sherry Ficklin
PICK UP AT AMAZON
Goodreads Synopsis:
ONE GIRL WILL BRING AN EMPIRE TO ITS KNEES...
Before she can become the greatest empress in history, fifteen-year-old Sophie will have to survive her social-climbing mother’s quest to put her on the throne of Russia—at any cost.
Imperial Court holds dangers like nothing Sophie has ever faced before. In the heart of St. Petersburg, surviving means navigating the political, romantic, and religious demands of the bitter Empress Elizabeth and her handsome, but sadistic nephew, Peter. Determined to save her impoverished family—and herself—Sophie vows to do whatever is necessary to thrive in her new surroundings. But an attempt on her life and an unexpected attraction threatens to derail her plans.
Alone in a new and dangerous world, learning who to trust and who to charm may mean the difference between becoming queen and being sent home in shame to marry her lecherous uncle. With traitors and murderers lurking around every corner, her very life hangs in the balance. Betrothed to one man but falling in love with another, Sophie will need to decide how much she’s willing to sacrifice in order to become the empress she is destined to be.
In a battle for the soul of a nation, will love or destiny reign supreme?
To Hide in Plain Sight by KT Bryski
PICK UP AT AMAZON
Goodreads Synopsis:
Elizabeth Sinclair, working on the fringes of the Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences, is called in to find a thief. Her unusual set of skills means she is particularly suited to this task, but she is not the only one able to hide in plain sight, and the museum of the University of Toronto has many secrets and dangers within its walls.
Tales from the Archives are short stories set in the world of the Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences (Phoenix Rising / Das Zeichen des Phönix, and the Janus Affair / Die Janus-Affäre) by Pip Ballantine and Tee Morris. They explore events mentioned in the novels, characters seen and unseen and may include novel teasers of things to come.
Ngaire and Whakamua by Pip Ballantine
PICK UP AT AMAZON
Goodreads Synopsis:
New Zealand like the rest of the world, has been broken and remade by the zombie apocalypse. Humanity is scattered, sheltering as best it can in isolated settlements. However, there is hope, and it rests with one old woman and her machine.
Whakamua, the track laying train's mission is to connect Ngaire's home to the rest of civilization. As they set off for Wellington, where they hope to find more survivors,Ngaire knows it is going to be a long road, but she can't anticipate the dangers that are waiting for them just outside the gate.
A short story by the co-author of the Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences, and the author of the Books of the Order, Philippa Ballantine.
Spell Slinger by K.N. Lee
PICK UP AT AMAZON
Goodreads Synopsis:
Skeleton Key Book Series
One Skeleton Key. Endless Adventures.
https://skeletonkeybookseries.com
Yara Ortuso always knew she'd follow in her father's footsteps as a Spell Slinger. The Ortuso clan has kept order in the West District of Allarya since the beginning of time, but a greedy king wants all of the magic for himself.
After King Loric executes her father, Yara vows to end the reign of murder and tyranny. But when the skeleton key transports Yara and her companion—a crow shifter named Hero to the distant future, she must adapt to this new world.
The future is an alluring and mysterious place, where a handsome bar owner yearns to warm Yara's cold heart—and King Loric still lives.
What's a Spell Slinger to do when faced with a threat that could not only ruin her chance for love but send her to the Soul Haven for all eternity?
The Cogsmith's Daughter by Kate M. Colby
PICK UP AT AMAZON
Goodreads Synopsis:
In a desert wasteland, one king rules with absolute power and unquenchable lust, until the cogsmith’s daughter risks everything for vengeance.
Two-hundred years ago, the steam-powered world experienced an apocalyptic flood. When the waters dried up, the survivors settled around their moored steamship in a wasteland they named Desertera. Believing the flood and drought were caused by a scorned goddess, the monarchs demanded execution for anyone who commits the unforgivable sin—adultery.
Today, King Archon entraps his wives in the crime of adultery, executing each boring bride to pursue his next infatuation. Most nobles overlook King Archon’s behavior, but when Lord Varick’s daughter falls victim to the king’s schemes, he vows revenge.
When Aya Cogsmith was a young girl, King Archon had her father executed for treason. Orphaned and forced to turn to prostitution for survival, Aya dreams of avenging her father’s death. When Lord Varick approaches Aya with plans for vengeance, she agrees to play the king’s seductress—even though it puts her at risk for execution.
Packed with high-society intrigue, dappled with seduction, and driven by revenge, The Cogsmith’s Daughter is a steampunk fantasy novel with the perfect mixture of conspiracy andromance.
Join Aya's quest for revenge. Add The Cogsmith's Daughter to your shelves today.
A Quest of Heroes by Morgan Rice
PICK UP AT AMAZON
Goodreads Synopsis:
A Quest for Heroes revolves around the epic coming of age story of one special boy, a 14 year old from a small village on the outskirts of the Kingdom of the Ring. The youngest of four, the least favorite of his father, hated by his brothers, Thorgrin senses he is different from the others. He dreams of becoming a great warrior, of joining the King’s men and protecting the Ring from the hordes of creatures on the other side of the Canyon. When he comes of age and is forbidden by his father to try out for the King’s Legion, he refuses to take no for an answer: he journeys out on his own, determined to force his way into King’s Court and be taken seriously.
But King’s Court is rife with its own family dramas, power struggles, ambitions, jealousy, violence and betrayal. King MacGil must choose an heir from amongst his children, and the ancient Dynasty Sword, the source of all their power, still sits untouched, waiting for the chosen one to arrive. Thorgrin arrives as an outsider and battles to be accepted, and to join the King’s Legion.
Thorgrin comes to learn he has mysterious powers he does not understand, that he has a special gift, and a special destiny. Against all odds he falls in love with the king’s daughter, and as their forbidden relationship blossoms, he discovers he has powerful rivals. As he struggles to make sense of his powers, the king’s sorcerer takes him under his wing and tells him of a mother he never knew, in a land far away, beyond the Canyon, beyond even the land of the Dragons.
Before Thorgrin can venture out and become the warrior he yearns to be, he must complete his training. But this may be cut short, as he finds himself propelled into the center of royal plots and counterplots, ones that may threaten his love and bring him down—and the entire kingdom with him.
With its sophisticated world-building and characterization, A Quest for Heroes is an epic tale of friends and lovers, of rivals and suitors, of knights and dragons, of intrigues and political machinations, of coming of age, of broken hearts, of deception, ambition and betrayal. It is a tale of honor and courage, of fate and destiny, of sorcery. It is a fantasy that brings us into a world we will never forget, and which will appeal to all ages and genders. It is 82,000 words.
A Fate of Dragons by Morgan Rice
PICK UP AT AMAZON
Goodreads Synopsis:
A FATE OF DRAGONS is book #3 in the Bestselling series THE SORCERER'S RING, which begins with Book #1, A QUEST OF HEROES.
A FATE OF DRAGONS (Book #3 in the Sorcerer's Ring) takes us deeper into Thor’s epic journey to becoming a warrior, as he journeys across the Sea of Fire to the dragon’s Isle of Mist. An unforgiving place, home to the most elite warriors of the world, Thor’s powers and abilities deepen as he trains. His friendships deepen, too, as they face adversities together, beyond what they could imagine. But as they find themselves up against unimaginable monsters , The Hundred quickly goes from training session to a matter of life or death. Not all will survive.
Along the way, Thor’s dreams, along with his mysterious encounters with Argon, will continue to plague him, to press him to try to learn more about who he is, who his mother is, and what the source of his powers are. What is his destiny?
<br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: