Review of the Novel: Save Nina

Save Nina

By: Ann Simpson

Rating: 5 Glasses

This is my kind of book, filled with action and adventure. Wesley has recently been released from prison for attacking a gang member who helped his father's killer enter the country. Wesley is set on trying to stay out of prison but the war on the gangs come back to him. He is embroiled in the fight and finds himself helping the one person he thought was his enemy. Full of action and drama this book held my interest and addressed several hot button issues in modern day politics. The issue of immigration and corruption in the gang wars were handled appropriately and given center stage in this drama. I would highly recommend for those who enjoy action/adventure books.

To Grab a Copy Click Here :)

Ana

Wattpad Wednesday

I have recently discovered wattpad and have added the first 6 chapters of Marie to it for anyone who wants to get an idea of what they are getting into before buying Marie. I have found a lot of wattpad only stories on there. Stories that are free to read and unique to the wattpad platform. As a result, I have initiated "Wattpad Wednesdays". Every Wednesday I will feature a wattpad only story here on this blog :) So if you have a wattpad story you would like for me to feature. Contact me on wattpad at https://www.wattpad.com/user/AnaEliseMeyer

Ana

Review of the short stories: Draconian POV Vol 1 &The Sitter

Draconian POV Volume 1
By: Mai Keyes
Rating: 3 Glasses

This is a very short story. It felt like almost the first two chapters of a novel. I appreciate the idea of the book from the Dragon's point of view but these two stories were so short that I was left confused. They are well written but left a lot to be desired. I hope the author is putting together a full book and these are just the intro.

*I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review

The Sitter
By: The Orator
Rating: 3 Glasses

Again very short and I wish there was more explanation. I think it is a premise for a great story line but for children? Maybe not. I would push more towards the teen population with the violence. However again it was well written and I liked it but it was too short. I know there is a second one so maybe that one will give us more.

*I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review

You can find both stories on Smashwords but not on Amazon.

Ana

Ana's Post

With the year coming to an end, it is time to reflect on this year and set goals for the coming year. First I want to thank everyone for your love and support. I am well on my way to 3000 hits and couldn't be happier with the response to this blog. I am working to keep up with the high demand for reviews but if I said I would review it, it will get done :) I have expanded my reach and have joined wattpad and you can read the first 6 chapters on there for FREE :). James is being released on my birthday February 3, 2016 and the initial reaction from beta readers has been great :) I am excited about what 2016 hold for me and look forward to sharing it with each and every one of you :)

Ana

Review of the Novel: Half a Mind

Half a Mind

By: Bruce M Perrin

Rating: 5 Glasses

Very impressed with this book. I love a book set in my home town and the familiar STL references made me attach to it even more. A murder mystery solved by science not brunt, I love it. I love the scientific side of this. The extensive use to scientific terms however may be difficult for some readers but for me it only added to the story. The idea of more fully utilizing the human brain took me back to Lucy, which I love, but with a new twist of the idea. This book is best for those who like the mystery side of things but enjoy a very intellectual read.

To Grab a Copy Click Here :)

Ana

Review of the Novel: Awakening: The Last Anakim Triology Book One

Awakening: The Last Anakim Trilogy Book One

By: Janet V Forster

Rating: 5 Glasses

The book takes us back and forth from Kate's present and Deb and Nick's past. Creatively and elegantly weaving the two together to tell Kate's history. I won't tell you what the Anakim stands for as that gives away a big piece of the story. That being said this book tells a great story to set up a trilogy that I really look forward to reading. The way it was pulled together was unique and intriguing. I was very happy to learn her history the way I did from two different points of view. If you love a little supernatural mixed with intrigue you will enjoy this book, I know I did.

To Grab a Copy Click Here :)

Ana

Merry Christmas :)

 

From my family to yours, I want to wish you all the best on this holiday :)

 

Ana

Review of the book: The Traveler

The Traveler

By: Melissa Silvey

Rating: 4 Glasses

This book was short, only 65 pages, but set up a great storyline. The idea of the time traveler altering the future of the world is not new but if done right can be very enjoyable. This book does that. I got through it in under two hours and was intrigued but the story it set up. Man comes back and unwilling becomes the reason he was sent back in the first place. I hope that Melissa continues the story and tells the whole story of the aftermath caused by his time travel. If you like a little science fiction mixed with romance you will enjoy this book.

To Grab a Copy Click Here :)

Ana



Review of the Novel: The Ark: Children of a Dead Earth Book One

The Ark: Children of a Dead Earth Book One

By: Patrick Tomlinson

Rating: 5 Glasses

I read this at just the right time. I was introduced to this author's work by a friend and I am very satisfied with what he has given us. I am in Star Wars mode lately and this SciFi/Space Opera was the perfect fit for my desire for space. It is well written and kept my interest. The main character "Benson" was an interesting character as he wasn't likeable but at the same time I didn't dislike him either. Humanity all on one ship, it creates an interesting situation. People reduced to cattle and segregation between crew and passengers. The implications are interesting and different for anything else I have read in this genre. The book can get a bit technical but I was able to stay focused despite the risk it poses for dragging a story down. Tomlinson keeps the story moving and the story interesting. For the Sci Fi fans it is a must read.

To Grab a Copy Click Here :)

Ana   

Review of the Novel: The Glorious Cause (Gideon Hawke)

The Glorious Cause

By: Robert Krenzel

Rating: 4 Glasses

Giving me a historical fiction is both a curse and blessing. One I am history buff so I am holding you to the truth (for the most part) and a blessing because it is my genre of choice. This book focuses on a young man coming of age during a time of war. The perspective of the young during troubled times have become a great way for young people to become interested and learn more about the time period being covered. It gives them something to relate to when learning about the time period. This book does this really well. The author focuses on telling the story of the revolution while at the same time giving a young person a perspective they can relate to. I enjoyed the read and never got bored with the more technical side of things but I fear some youth may. However if it one they should try, get a history lesson and a good story what could be better?

To Grab a Copy Click Here :)

Ana 

Ana's Post

This whole blog thing has changed a lot for me. Prior to beginning my journey as a book reviewer I was soooo picky about what I read. I was like "If its not good historical fiction I am not interested!" I snubbed my nose at romance novels and cringed at the thought of any vampire book since Twilight came out. When I started this blog I started it with one rule: Turn no book away. I had to get out of my tiny little book world. I had to expand my view and that one rule has changed everything. The first romance type book I got changed everything. I couldn't put it down. Yes it was raunchy and I blushed a couple times but it held my interest. I never thought I would read that type of book let alone enjoy it.
The world of indie books has opened a new door to me and I feel it has helped me grow. Not only as a writer but as a person. To see new perspectives and new worlds in a completely new light. Indie books get ignored in the publishing world and god forbid a literary agent even consider signing an author who indie publishes. So, help in promotion world of major media it out of the question. However these books are many times incredible stories that deserve recognition and I hope that this little blog will continue to grow and promote the indie world that I have grown to love so much.

Ana 

Review of the short story: Love and Self-Discovery

Love and Self Discovery

By: Samantha Fischer

Rating: 5 Glasses

I was pleasantly surprised by this short story. Coming of age is not normally my genre. This short story centers on a young girl discovering her sexuality and defying her religion to love who her heart wants her to love. This story is short and to the point. I found her situation more easily resolved than many young adults who are dealing with the same level of rejection as she was faced with. However I think it can give hope to other youth who find themselves in a similar situation, that there is hope that things will get better. I appreciate greatly that she placed resources at the end of her book for teens to seek help. I hope that this book can help at least one teenager out there who is struggling.

To Grab a Copy Click Here :)

Ana

Review of the Novel: Soul Mate (Immortal Love #1)

Soul-Mate Immortal Love Series- Book 1

By: Anna Santos

Rating; 5 Glasses

I'm giving it 5 glasses and I need 5 glasses. I was never a big romance novel fan but lately the books have been making me a fan. The vampire/werewolf world is not a area I have a lot of patience for. Twilight ruined it for me, I am old school Interview with the Vampire fan. However despite my dislike for the turn in the subject that Twilight caused this book kept my interest. I read through it in one night and was impressed with the descriptive writing style. The sex scenes are GRAPHIC! So beware! I wish the book had more action. I wanted a hybrid hunter type to be kicking butt more than having sex but still the book had the action to keep me happy. It gets 5 glasses because it takes a lot for me to pick up a book of this length and not put it down without finishing so it impressed me. If you love the erotic romance novel with action to ramp it up, you will love this book.

To Grab a Copy Click Here :)

Ana

Review of the book: Oscar Part One

Oscar Part One

By: L.N. Denison

Rating: 4 Glasses

This introduction to Oscar's story was an easy read. This book is mostly just an introduction to the character and to illustrate the horrors the family endures which set the stage for later events.  I have not read more of the series so I cannot comment as to what happens to Oscar but this novel has made me interested. It was short and to the point. I appreciate when an author doesn't drag a story out, ie too much detail for the sake of length or dull periods of time to fill pages. This book is the right length for the story it portrays. If you love the dystopian novels, check out this first book in the series to see if it is a right fit.

To Grab a Copy Click Here :)

Ana

Review of the Novel: The Last Alignment Cry of the Scorpions

The Last Alignment: Cry of the Scorpions

By: Nathaniel Stewart

Rating: 4 Glasses

This book could be a challenge for some people due to the multiple points of view but for me it just added to the story. I like to see things from multiple points of view as it builds a stronger foundation for the characters and the storyline as a whole. Nathaniel builds an interesting world as the characters grow to understand themselves and their friends. This book was a build up to the next book and I look forward to finding out what happens next to our heroes in the next book.

*I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review

Review of the Novel: The Runaway Couple

The Run-Away Couple

By: Maggie Tideswell

Rating: 4 Glasses

Oh Maggie....I read this book in two hours. I couldn't put it down. The sex scenes were.....well....HOT! I was very intrigued about the relationship and how it would turn out. I refuse to give details away as this is a PG-13 rated blog. I did wish the paranormal side of things were further explained as it seemed like a secondary thing to some very passionate love making. Don't get me wrong I enjoyed this quickie. However I needed a glass of wine once I was done. Lovers of romance novels will enjoy this shortly.

To Grab a Copy Click Here :)

Ana

Review of the short story: Maria's Journey

Maria's Journey

By: David Gallie

Rating: 5 Glasses

A young girl's journey to heaven after her death. Maria was the victim was severe abuse and neglect and her death at the hands of her father takes her on a journey from hell to heaven where she is reunited with the one person who loved her. It was a dark but sweet story of a little girl finding love again. It is a short story and an easy read that kept my interest throughout. If you are in the mood for a quick story that will move your spirit check this one out.

To Grab a copy click here :)


Ana

Ana's Post

Last week for my post I talked about grief and its effects on myself personally. I got the chance to talk to the little boy's mother after I posted it and it lifted my spirits and steadied my heart. Today I refuse to dwell on pain but to enjoy life and laugh. So I am sharing a little laughter from my life. The video below is of my smallest but oldest dog. Her name is Anabelle and she is a puggle that was rescued from a puppy mill when she was only ten weeks old. My sister had taught her beagle to sing a while back and I got jealous. I have a beagle mix, I told myself, I can teach her to sing to gosh darnnit. Well after about three years of trying I got her to do it. This video cracks me up because she is just so darn cute. So check it out and laugh with me. :)

Ana

Review of the Novel: Finding Elora

Finding Elora

By: Amanda Stoker

Rating: 3 Glasses

I want to say that this book has an audience. Unfortunately I am not it. Teenage angst and coming of age are great stories for the teenage population but for me it didn't hold my interest. I got through it pretty quick as it is an easy read. Bullying and relationship issues are real for teenagers and they were clearly explored in this book but for me her problems seemed petty, Will the boy like me? Am I pretty enough? I know these are real issues for teenagers but for an adult it just didn't work. This book is a good fit for young girls looking to find themselves as they can relate better with Elora than a 31 year old woman who can barely remember most of high school. Teenage girls this book is for you.

To grab a copy Click Here :)

Ana

Review of the Novel: The Bad Box

The Bad Box

By: Harvey Click

Rating: 5 Glasses

I would like to thank Harvey Click for preventing me from sleeping last night. This is horror at its finest. I will give nothing away as that spoils the joy of reading horror. You will root for the good guys as they are likable and fear the bad, they are terrifying. The ending was satisfying and fitting with the storyline. If you love a good scare then add this one to your bookshelf. Oh but read it with the lights on.

To Grab a copy Click Here :)

Ana

Review of the Short Story: Losing You: A Short and Sweet Romance Novel

 

Losing You: A Short and Sweet Romance Novel

 

By: PJ Haynie

 

Rating: 5 Glasses

 

Short, sweet, and to the point. I loved it. It was a great way to finish up an evening. It will only take you about 20 minutes to get through. This sweet love story about a couple rekindling their relationship after it all falls apart. I really enjoyed it and I think those who enjoy love stories will enjoy this quickie :)

 

 

To Grab a Copy Click Here :)

 

Ana



Review of the Novel: The Boy Genius Detective Agency

The Boy Genius Detective Agency

By: Robert Grey

Rating: 5 Glasses

This author found his audience....I am big Hardy Boys fan so I love the young detective stories. This one fits the mold perfectly. This book is a more updated version of the child detective stories, has all the fun with the futuristic setting. It is designed for the young adult audience and it is a perfect fit.
I really enjoyed reading this and got through it in half a day. I look forward to many sequels to see what mysteries the Boy Genius has to solve.

To Grab a Copy Click Here :)

Ana

Time to Check out some up and Coming Music :)

Normally, I stick with books and movies but this music has got me jammin, lol. Check this guy out at www.jblingcity.com

 

Jason Harris & Ron Vince

 

He is a great guy and an up and coming artist. Time to check it out!!!

 

Ana

Review of the Novel: Missing Dead or Alive

Missing Dead or Alive

By: Peter Martin

Rating: 5 Glasses

This book really intrigued me. I was thinking it was just a cut and dry missing child book but it had a deeper influence. It really focused more on the decline of a marriage as a result of the loss of a child. I found that aspect of the book very interesting. The book was more of an examination of the reaction of the parents to the missing child than a mystery as the boy's disappearance takes second stage to the decline of the parent's marriage. I will not tell more or it would give away plot points and that would ruin the book for you. Some parts were difficult for me to understand but I think that was more of an issue with the author writing in a different style of language then I am used to. Sorry Midwestern gal here more proper British writing will cause me to have to adjust. Overall it was an easy read with some interesting twists and turns. Lovers of mystery novels will enjoy this book.

To Grab a Copy Click Here :)

Ana

Ana's Post

As of today it has been over two weeks since we lost the little guy who made my heart full. It has been the worst three months of my life watching him deteriorate with nothing the doctor's could do to make it stop. Grief hits everyone differently and for me it has been devastating. I tried to find solace in my work but that failed miserably and my second book is far from being ready to be released on the December 20, 2015 date I set and that has been a hard pill to swallow. However I know that I will prevail and I refused to stop my work and give up despite the pain. I have pushed back "James" to January but I will finish and have it ready to join the world a indie books soon.

Thank you everyone for your love and support
Ana

Review of the Novel: Warzone Nemesis

Warzone: Nemesis

By: Morris E Graham

Rating: 4 Glasses

I love a good sci fi and this one was a fun time. It was imaginative and unique. I enjoyed how the story began on a Navajo reservation as I love it when books take us to less commonly used locations. At times the story could drag but I persisted and was glad I did. I wasn't a big fan of the symbols within the novel but I got past them and enjoyed the story. It was a easy read and a fun premise. If you enjoy sci fi/alien invasion, then you will enjoy this novel.

To Grab a Copy Click Here :)

Ana

Review of the Novel: Opium Warfare

Opium Warfare

By: Justin Bienvenue

Rating: 5 Glasses

An interesting look at the 1920s Shanghai, a place I, to be honest, don't know a lot about. However the author does a great job of putting you there. The feeling of the city being devoured by drugs was very compelling. I enjoyed the twists in the story and had trouble putting it down. It was a lot of fun to read and I would recommend for anyone who enjoys history mixed with fantasy and mystery.

To Grab a Copy Click Here :)

Ana

Review of the book: The Collected Works of Valerie Z Lewis

The Collected Works of Valerie Z Lewis

By; Valerie Z Lewis

Rating; 5 Glasses

This book was hard for me to pick up and hard to put down. They are great short stories that are fun and entertaining to read, it was knowing she would be giving the world no more stories that brought tears to my eyes. As someone who recently lost someone very dear to them the idea and pain of the loss of such a promising life was deeply moving. Yet beyond my tears she was able to bring me to laughter with the story of the pizza order and the misspelled name.....Girl I know that pain, many people in my life call me Elise and nobody gets it right and it drives me crazy!!!
Check this book out. Not only are they great stories but the purchase goes towards The Valerie Lewis Award for Excellence in Creative Writing at Mercy Collage where she taught.

To Grab a Copy Click Here :)


Ana

Review of the Novel: Regeneration X (Regeneration Chronicles #1)

Regeneration X (Regeneration Chronicles #1)

By: Ellison Blackburn

Rating: 5 Glasses

This novel really got me thinking....would I do it? Honestly I wouldn't go back to under 21 at least....I gotta have my wine. But the premise it puts forth is one so many people wonder on a daily basis, if I could go back and start again what would I do, what would I do differently? Ellison puts together a really interesting novel that gives you insight in how this would change a person's life. I enjoyed reading and would recommend to any lovers of insightful stories.

To Grab a copy Click Here :)

Ana

Review of the short story: Loot

Loot

By: Chris Keane

Rating: 4 Glasses

A short and fun story is the best way to describe this book. Sometimes you are just in the mood for a quick read and this one is fits it perfectly. It follows a group of teenagers who go in search of some easy money hidden at the home of one the boy's late great aunt. Entertaining and easy to read, if you are in the mood for a short mystery check this one out.

To Grab a Copy Click Here :)

Ana

Review of the Novel: The Jacq of Spades

The Jacq of Spades

By: Patricia Loofbourrow

Rating: 4 Glasses


I Love a good mystery and this one does not disappoint. I also love strong female characters and she fits the bill perfectly. I was kept entertained throughout the entire book. The only thing that slowed me down was almost over description. Which one cannot fault a writer for wanting to make sure the reader can clearly see not only their characters but also the surroundings. However it did slow the amazing mystery down a couple times. I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it for anyone who loves mystery books.

To Grab a Copy Click Here :)

Ana