Ethan Justice: Origins Review & Interview ~ Simon Jenner

I would like to start this blog off by saying I'm sorry I have been MIA. The weather is improving, things are busy and finding time to myself to read and write is almost impossible lately!
I have been working on this blog for several weeks and trust me this book is WELL worth the wait. 
4.5 STARS worth!

So what are we waiting for! Let's get on with it......

It's time to Switch Gears!
I've had lots of romantical sexy-esq posts as of late (and more to come) so much so that we need to head off in another direction before my "non-romantical" readers start jumping ship!

What a great thriller to ignore the housework with!!

Here is the book description from Amazon.com:

In the morning, he’s struggling to remember. By the evening, he’s struggling to survive. John Smith’s risk avoidance policy just expired!

Waking up beside the gorgeous Savannah Jones, John is shocked to learn she was for hire, and he can’t pay the price - a thousand pounds or broken legs. In desperation, he turns to best friend, Mark, for the money. Only one problem - Mark has a dagger in his back.

John and Savannah are plunged into a dangerous world where wits and adrenaline are their only weapons and trust in each other their only certainty. As the body count mounts, they discover Mark wasn’t the person John thought, and his terrifying invention may well end up killing thousands, John and Savannah included.

A race to recover the missing invention pits the unlikely pairing against ex-SAS psychopath, Gregory Fisher, a man who will stop at nothing and kill anyone in his way to wreak revenge against the Government who stole his livelihood.

When Smith and Jones team up, the result is explosive.

Ethan Justice: Origins is a fast-paced, action-packed, character-driven thriller, guaranteed to make you laugh out loud, cringe, cry and cheer.


My Take:

Where to begin?

Simon Jenner is an author who is full of potential and is has the makings of a hit on his hands!

I love a book with a first chapter or prologue that hooks you and this novel had it!!
I winced at how creepy and sadistic the mysterious killer was off the bat. He clearly has no morals and the question's I had are as follows: What the *bleep* crawled up his ass and died to make him that way? What is he up to.....? WHO is he?

The main protagonist is none other than "John Smith"
Haha! First I have to address the irony that his real name is John Smith and he is on his way to a new identity and name. It is an amusing part of the story line to say the least.
(The name thing made me chuckle on several occasions!)
Smith is quite the character. Literally.
Born to a wealthy family, John is seemingly the dead beat son who really needs to get his ass in gear and find employment.
Little does he know one drink with a friend changes his life and sends him on a wild adventure to becoming the 32 year old 'man' he is! (And he starts saying 'goodbye' to his inner 18 year old)

John meets Savannah Jones (and when I say meets, I mean 'wakes up in bed' with) ...She's a prostitute...I mean... *ahem* ESCORT.... that isn't so good at her new career. A nice girl who got sucked into a rotten job by an idiot friend. (People, let me just take a moment to say.... if your 'friend' encourages you to turn tricks for easy cash, consider college instead...and ditch the friend.... just sayin!) She's got problems of her own and getting involved with John has just made it worse (or better??)

Both Savannah and John are very insecure and lost individuals. For a man in his thirties, John comes off a lot younger, but events teach him to grow. We learn he is quite resourceful and talented. Savannah while young, due to her hard knock life, is a bit older for her age. They make a great team and fit each other perfectly. He is the Yin to her Yang. The Bread to her Butter... The Orange Juice to her Vodka.....The....(oh okay... I'll stop now)
The question is, will this relationship take a romantic turn or be an epic fail?

There are several story lines that end up culminating into one very large adventure for both John and Savannah.
Can they trust Earthguard Agents Wilson and Johnson?
Who the hell is the creepy evil guy looking for the weapon?
What about Savannah's disgusting boss and his horrid plans for her future?

This book is jammed packed with that will keep you turning the pages.
While I was reading, this book could not be pried from my hands!!
The best part.... Author Simon Jenner has tricked us! JUST when you think 'Okay, this is getting a bit predictable....' and figure the book is reaching the end....BOOM..... Major twist you don't see coming!

A few things to note:

The chapters change perspective (love) so we get into the minds of several of the characters.
I love how this book introduces you to exactly how an ordinary guy get's sucked into a world of intrigue.
This book is not only suspenseful but fun. I really enjoy the authors sense of humor!
If you loved my recommendation of Andrew McAllister's "Unauthorized Access" you will NOT want to miss getting a hands on a copy of this novel!! Very much comparable!
I look forward to the rest of the series!

The Bottom Line: I want you to read it! Simon Jenner wants you to read it! Make sure at the end of the Author Interview you catch the Contest and GIVEAWAY!!

                                 ** Author Interview**

Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

I'm 50 which really stinks but it’s probably not as bad as 51.  I have a great wife and son who do nothing but support me – my son is always keen to impart his crazy story ideas and my wife helps with beta reading, keeping my butt at the computer and printing out good reviews and sticking them all around the house.  I keep telling them perhaps they should get on with their own work but they are the stubborn, lazy sort.  Just kidding - they're the best.  We live in the UK with our German Shepherd, Spencer, who is perhaps the least ferocious dog his breed has to offer.  The young me was very outgoing and adventurous, getting into many a scrape along the way to adulthood which hit me at around 48.  The older me still enjoys an occasional drink but keeps most of his adventures on the written/digital page.

Who are your inspirations?

I love to read and watch films – these really ignite my already over-active imagination.  I don't have particular authors that I follow or specific genres of film that I watch, so other than the general desire to lose myself in a good story, my inspiration comes mostly from within and the support of a great family.  If I had to sum it up in one word it would be "madness".

What is the most challenging thing you face as an author?

My greatest challenges are marketing and self-doubt.  Marketing takes an age and you're never sure where to best allocate your time.  It interrupts your writing and distracts you at every turn.  Self-doubt rears its ugly head when you read through yesterday's work and find it has turned from literary genius to unfathomable dog crap.  It can takes weeks to turn back and sometimes it stays as dog crap so you just have to start again.

What inspired Ethan Justice: Origins?

I knew I wanted to write a thriller (as that is the genre I prefer to read) and it grew from there.  I used to have a love /hate relationship with writing – one week I would be really keen and the next I would go off the boil but my wife really got Ethan Justice moving when she said: "Write it or go and get a proper job."  What more inspiration does a man need?

Without spoiling the story, what is YOUR favorite part of Ethan Justice: Origins?

I actually have a few favourites but one is at the Ritz, where Savannah and Ethan are trapped in their bathroom, with gunfire all around them, a psycho and a pimp trying to break the door down and death by toothbrush about to play out.  I'll say no more!

There is one shocking turn of events in the novel, which has me wondering….When you wrote this novel, did you have the plot set in your mind or did you go where the story took you?

I tend to plot a few chapters at a time after coming up with a clear view of the antagonist’s plans and motivations and an idea for how the story might end.  If I plot too much in advance I struggle with what the characters will do in each situation – I find writing in the moment works best for me. Sometimes it's great to be at a point in the book, following the general plan,  and then throw an unexpected spanner into the works.  I love it. If I'm not sure what will happen next, then it’s doubtful the reader can guess! So to answer your question: the story was a mixture of plotting and gut feel for where the characters wanted to go as I wrote.

I’m always big on books to TV/film ….If your book was cast as a television series, who would you cast in the lead roles??

I don't really see the book as a TV series as I think the plot and pace would better suit film but then I would choose Ryan Gosling to play Ethan and Mila Kunis to play Savannah.  I'd need to listen to their English accents first, mind you!

Can you give us a teaser about what to look forward to in the next book? How many books do you have planned for the series?

The second Ethan Justice book, “Relentless”, is being edited. This time around Ethan and Savannah end up in a dangerous cat and mouse game of pursuit and survival when they cross paths with Richard Windal, a cool, confident and highly influential yet psychotic entrepreneur.

I’m currently planning on having three Ethan Justice books but while “Relentless” is being prepared for publication, I have started writing the first book in a new series. It is another action thriller about a man who has fallen on hard times in the current financial crisis. He gets recruited as an assassin to pay the bills, but all is not as it seems!

                                                            

                                 **GIVEAWAY TIME!**

 

This Giveaway Is Closed! Congrats to the Winners who were posted on the Facebook Page!! 

You've read the review. You've read the Interview....Now it's time to own a copy!
Simon Jenner has kindly offered some copies up for grabs!
ONE hard copy novel and 3 E-book's (Winners choice PDF, E-PUB, Kindle) ... so pay CLOSE attention... here's how it's going to work......

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY BEFORE ENTERING:

The Hard Copy Prize is for only Canada or U.S. participants.
Those entering the Hard Copy Draw are also eligible to enter to win one of the three E-books.
HOWEVER should you win the Hard Copy, you are automatically disqualified from the e-book draw.
It's nice to give others a chance!

E-Book Prize: There are no country limitations on the E-book prize. Please note the novel is in English. 

HOW TO ENTER:

ONE E-MAIL ENTRY per person!

All you have to do to enter either draw is email me your name, age, province/state/country and let me know one of the following:
a) ONLY Hard Copy - Canada-U.S Only
b) ONLY E-book
c) BOTH draws-Canada-U.S Only

That's it! You're name will be entered to win!

The drawing will take place on Tuesday June 4th at 7pm and winners will be announced via my Facebook Page as well as contacted by email.

Good Luck and Happy Reading!!

Unauthorized Access 2.0 ~ Event! Interview! Giveaway!

When you believe in a book and an author so much, what do you do?

Promote, Promote, PROMOTE.

 Yes, I have talked about 'Unauthorized Access' before, twice actually (but who's counting) however.. I have some exciting and fun stuff to share!!!

If you have no idea about this novel I have declared 'Phenomenal' than please click this link to read my original blog review!
 
So why all the fuss? Why am I pushing this book at you AGAIN? (Well, for one, I can't exactly beat you over the head with it... saying 'Read me' 'Read me' so this will have to do!)
 Besides it being a MUST HAVE for your book collection, Unauthorized Access is celebrating a brand new cover!! 

 HOW exactly does one celebrate a brand new cover? By offering the e-book FREE for a THREE DAY event!! Andrew McAllister has graciously invited the world to read the suspenseful story he has created! Not just that...oh no...Not only can you get this gem for your Kindle for free at his event, please see the end of this blog for a print edition GIVEAWAY! (I really sound like a used car salesman, eh?)

On March 6th thru to March 8th Unauthorized Access will be FREE for Kindle on Amazon.com!!!

 http://www.amazon.com/Unauthorized-Access-ebook/dp/B00896U00C

If you are on FACEBOOK than please RSVP to the event using this link!!
(Tell Andrew I sent you!)

I recently interviewed Andrew McAllister where he discusses everything from the new cover, to how he got started writing. Even sharing his dream cast if Unauthorized Access were to become a movie!

Moi: What made you decide to give the book a fresh new look? Who designed the cover? 

Andrew McAllister: First of all, a big thanks to you, Reenie, for featuring me on your blog once again. You’re a wonderful supporter of indie authors and it is much appreciated! (You are very welcome Andrew!)

I work with Thomas K. Matthews Illustration out of San Diego. The original book cover for Unauthorized Access was purposely designed to have the look and feel of an old-fashioned pulp fiction paperback, with an edgy feel to it. After doing numerous book signings and other public events, however, I decided I would rather present a modern look and feel, more consistent with the story and with today’s thriller genre. I couldn’t be happier with the result! And so far reader response to the new cover has been amazing.

Moi: What was the process like?

Andrew McAllister: The process was amazingly interactive, despite the fact that I live 3,000 miles from San Diego. First we brainstormed a few general concepts that we thought might work on the cover, basically drawing from scenes in the book. We thought of a young woman running through the woods at night, for instance. We finally settled on an urban look because that matches the story. Then Tom Matthews worked up several concept covers, using different images, color schemes, layouts, typefaces, and so on.

We settled on the one we liked the best and then had a series of interactive work sessions. That was a blast! Through the magic of Skype and email we were able to work as if we were in the same room. We fiddled and tweaked the details until the result satisfied both of us. The process took a few weeks but I feel like the result is well worth it!

Moi: Do you have any other novels or plans for one in the works?

Andrew McAllister: Absolutely. I try to avoid saying too much about my works in progress because I have a tendency to think out loud and paint myself into a corner. I don’t want to decide I’d like to go in a different direction with some part of the story, and then feel like I can’t because I already mentioned a particular detail publicly. The book is another thriller, though, in a similar vein as Unauthorized Access. There is plenty of raw emotion and uncertainty over how the characters can possibly end up okay. The main character is a college student who reaches out over the Internet to someone he has never met, hoping this stranger can help him out of his situation. His message? “I think someone is trying to kill me.”

Moi: What inspired the novel Unauthorized Access?

Andrew McAllister: Some number of years ago the itch to write a novel became so great that I couldn’t possibly ignore it, so I started spending my idle moments wondering about story ideas. Besides being a writer, I am also a computer scientist, so I had a vague idea that the story should have an Information Technology angle. They say to write what you know, right? Then one day I was listening to an interview with an Internet security expert on public radio. “Can you imagine what would happen,” he said, “if someone managed to take down the systems at a bank?” His remark got me imagining exactly that scenario, and Unauthorized Access was born.

My first decision was that the book wasn’t going to be a story about the cyberattack, but rather about the people affected by the attack. I was thrilled when one reviewer commented on this, saying that Unauthorized Access “…may have a computer-based premise, but the novel is entirely the story of the protagonists, not their computers.”

Moi: When did you begin writing?

Andrew McAllister: For me, writing began as a natural spinoff of reading. I was a voracious reader growing up, and I still am. The idea of writing didn’t occur to me, however, until I was an adult. Then one day the idea just strolled fully formed into my brain. “You’d like to be a novelist,” the idea informed me. I agreed, and we’ve been partners ever since. I started the way most writers do, with short stories, writing contests, and writing classes. I’m still quite fond of the short-short story that was a contest winner with Alfred Hitchcock’s Mystery Magazine.

Then one day I decided to take the plunge and write a novel. After that initial effort crashed and burned, I picked myself up, dusted off my ego, and had another go. Before long I was working on Unauthorized Access.

Moi: You are an avid reader. Can you share your biggest literary influences?

Andrew McAllister: I’m an omnivore when it comes to books. I’ll read just about anything if it has conflict and can hook me enough to keep turning the pages. I have to admit, though, that my fave reads are action and suspense. I love World War II history, so authors like Alistair MacLean, Jack Higgins, and Ken Follett are naturals for me. In fact, an audio book version of Follett’s The Key to Rebecca is currently plugged into my car stereo. Other notable reads that come to mind are Jaws by Peter Benchley (which I read in a single sitting), The Godfather by Mario Puzo, and everything by Stephen King. The Stand is my favorite book of all time.

The bulk of my reading over the years, however, and the greatest influence on my writing has been the work of thriller writers like John Grisham, Lee Child, David Baldacci, and Christopher Reich, to name just a few. I love it when characters are thrown into terrible messes and must scratch and claw their way back some semblance of normality.

Moi: You have had so many wonderful 5 star reviews. Can you describe that moment when you read the first one?

Andrew McAllister: You know, if there is one aspect of the published novelist experience that has surprised me the most, it might be online reviews. Some of my expectations turned out to be true, for instance that reviews have become an important “currency” by which an ebook is judged while someone is considering whether to read it.

One thing that surprised me, though, was that almost everyone who reviewed Unauthorized Access on Amazon or Goodreads has reached out to me beforehand. People have sent me emails, Facebook posts, text messages, even phone calls to let me know how much they enjoyed the book. The idea of writing a review often comes up as part of these conversations, and once the idea has been broached, most people are happy to help out by writing a short review.

My first 5 star review followed an email I received from a young Canadian college student who was traveling in Europe last summer. She downloaded Unauthorized Access onto her Kindle on a recommendation from one of her girlfriends. She ended up reading the entire book in a single sitting while on a long train ride. It was a delightful feeling to have that email pop up in my inbox. In some sense this type of feedback is a validation of years worth of effort.

Moi: Are there any genre’s you enjoy that people might be surprised about?

Andrew McAllister: Like I said, I’ll read anything that holds my interest, but it’s usually more about the individual book than the genre. I’ve never been much into romance books, but I recently read On The Island by Tracey Garvis-Graves. It was wonderful! The first night I started reading it I was up half the night. In this case the cliché was true – I couldn’t put it down. I also truly enjoyed The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks. I’m not sure if reading two books is enough to classify me as a romance-aholic, but I can certainly appreciate some books in the genre.

Moi: As I mentioned in my blog, I could picture Unauthorized Access as a Hollywood Blockbuster. If that were to happen, who could you see in the lead roles?? Cast your movie!!

Andrew McAllister: It makes me happy that you’re not the only person who has suggested the idea of a movie. Of course that’s the kind of validation only a few authors ever get to enjoy. It’s fun to dream, though, so here goes.

I should start with Rob and Lesley, the young couple who are also the two main protagonists. I’ve described Rob as having dark, spiky hair, so I thought someone like Josh Hutcherson would look the part. For Lesley I chose Odette Annable. What a handsome couple! Do they look like they belong together or what?

Tim Whitlock is the same age, but he’s a complex character, a little on the geeky end of the spectrum, with many different sides to his personality. My bet is that Michael Cera could pull that off.

Stan Dysart is the bank president. He’s charming, professional, and ultra capable, but he’s no shrinking violet. He has a surprisingly ruthless side that not every reader sees coming. I’m going with the very distinguished Eric Roberts.

Then there’s the ultimate menacing bad guy, Ray Landry, who also has a cultured side. One look at Jason Statham’s face and you know he could pull off that role!

Finally in Chapter 1 the reader meets Mary, Stan Dysart’s capable office manager. Who better to play this role than our very own Reenie!

(I would LOVE to! Have my people contact your people!!) ;)

                                            GIVEAWAY!!!

Do you want to own your own print edition of Unauthorized Access compliments of the author?? I have ONE up for grabs and if you ask my previous winner (or the people I have gifted this book too) they will tell you 'it's goooood!'

The rules are simple:

Open to residents of Canada & the United States.

One Entry Per Person.

You can enter one of two ways!!

Email me your name, age and province/state at reeniediva@gmail.com to enter OR visit my Facebook Page and send me a message with the same information.

Contest Closes March 9th at 7pm EST.


Happy Reading Everyone!

Speeding Tickets GIVEAWAY!!!!

                             ****Giveaway Now Closed!!!****

                                                         Congrats to our winner Bethany W.! 

                                                             Thanks to all those who entered!!


I previously blogged about Speeding Tickets and now here is YOUR chance to win it!! If you are interested in a light, fun romance with a bit of mystery, than this GIVEAWAY is for you! (Who doesn't like a free book?)

Win This!

                                               **Prize Includes** 

                  1 Print Edition of 'Speeding Tickets' signed by author Valley Brown
                                                         2 cat fridge magnets 
                                                         3 Bookmarks

Did you miss the blog and wonder what exactly this novel is about? Here is the link for my review!

GIVEAWAY RULES:
Open ONLY to residents of Canada and the United States. (sorry everyone else, it's a shipping thing!)
One Entry Per Person

HOW TO ENTER:

It's so simple. Email me at reeniediva@gmail.com with your name, age and province/state and I will enter you in a draw!

Contest Closes on February 28th 2013 at 7pm EST!
All entries will be placed in a draw to be held as soon as the contest closes. The winner will be announced via my Facebook Page and contacted by Email!



                                                         Good Luck!

Voluspa ~A Magical World Review & Giveaway!!

 The 'Fountain of Youth'....A mythical place where one drinks the magical water in hopes of being eternally young and beautiful. Sounds good right? (YES!) Who's in? (Me!) Well too bad, it doesn't exist! (Damn it!)
Eternal Youth is something a lot of us (again ME) long for. We turn to creams, botox injections, plastic surgery, mini skirts, pigtails (eww!)... whatever we can do to look and feel young.
Women hit a midlife crisis and hit on young buff 20-somethings. *cough* Cougar *cough*
Men have a midlife crisis and decide they need not only a hot young tart, but a sports car that matches her lipstick. It's ridiculous.

Why is my babbling about eternal youth relevant to my next review? No, it's not because of my recent birthday (I turned 25 for the 7th time!!)...it's because I have a solution to capturing that 'Forever Young' feeling.
It's not a cream! You can't wear or inject it... and it doesn't involve throwing your back out trying to one up your kid with a hoola hoop. (I may have done that once....)

The solution is simple: If you want to feel young, just pick up a whimsical read and get lost in a story written for all ages to enjoy!

My latest read has a Harry Potter edge- Narnia vibe with a Twilight-esq twist! I'd like to welcome you all to the Magical World of Voluspa!

 Here is the book description from Amazon.com:

  "Twilight meets Harry Potter Amy, a forlorn fifteen year old girl from NYC, never thought that she would attend school on a magical mountain with wild animals as her classmates and that she would go to a prom on a flying carpet. Its love at first sight when Drake- a shape shifter rescues her from a pre-historic beast and befriends her. Little does she know that Drake’s father is the tyrannical leader who has always wanted Amy and her kind dead. In her struggle to challenge the supremacy in the magical world, she realizes her powers, confronts aspects about herself that she may not be comfortable with, makes lasting friends while excelling in her school - something which she had not been able to do in her human world. All hell breaks loose, as Drake goes missing and Voluspan mercenaries try to hunt Amy down. Amy and her friends use strategic warfare, pit adversaries among themselves and use every last drop of strength, skill and courage as they take on warriors far more ruthless and skilled than themselves. But Amy is in for a rude shock when she finally finds Drake."

 So what did I think?

I really enjoyed this novel! I'm not going to lie, initially when I started reading the first chapter, I found it a bit confusing. I did end up backtracking to re-read things due to the overwhelming amount of information and events.
There were a lot of details to take in (The clans and their powers, characters, locations, beasts, battles etc...) and things happen rather quickly in said chapter. I felt dropped into the story and wished it had eased me in  a bit more gradually.
HOWEVER.... (Here is a lesson) If you find yourself in that particular situation, just keep reading! Things did end up eventually being explained as the novel progressed. You just have to be patient. (I am very glad I kept reading!!)

 As the story continued I fell into a better rhythm and ultimately it became a page turner I couldn't put down.
 After a hard-knock life, and dealing with a recent tragedy and upheaval, Amy is now on a quest to discover her family history and beings a journey of self acceptance as she comes into her own. She embraces Voluspa and it's inhabitants wholeheartedly. With the help of the mysterious Helen, Drake and her new friends Jacek and Amilio, she eases into the Voluspian society and learns to grow her Empath powers. She excels in her exciting new school, making friends and enemies along the way.
Amy also discovers a few secrets that could destroy her if the elders in Voluspa ever found out. Secrets and information she also needs to keep from Drake.

The romance between Amy and Drake while it is similar to Bella and Edward (Twilight) in my opinion it comes off with less sexual tension and more innocence. They have some obstacles to overcome. One very large one is the fact that being from two separate clans, they are forbidden to ever marry. A tough pill to swallow for soul mates. When Drake is captured, Amy doesn't care what it will take. She is determined to save him no matter what.
Naturally we have to wait for the other books to see how their relationship progresses.

There are so many aspects of this novel I feel I could review and chat about, however this could get long or possibly spoil the magic for you. So I will condense it to some highlights:

**I love the people of Voluspa and how they are divided into four separate clans. Each clan has their own unique talents and powers:   
                           Empath - Mind reading & Astral travel
                           Morphus- Shape-shifting
                           Pulchrous -Great Warriors
                           Menden - Healers
 They live in harmony, but with a rule that they are not to inter-marry. 

** I loved the imagination put into the creatures and characters in Voluspa. One of my favorites being the Garden Gnomes. Don't try picking their flowers without permission! Other creatures include Gangrels, Tyrannos, Dream Catchers, Naiad's, Witches, Griots, Sirens, Ogres.. I could go on and on...

** I liked how the authors tackled the subject of humans and Earth in the novel. In it we (Earth-bound) are in another realm, some of our myths and legends mention Voluspa, but naturally we don't pay attention. In Voluspa they are very aware of Earth and while they are more advanced, there are many similarities between the two cultures.

** This book helps illustrate that you never know what a person is going through in their life and why you shouldn't pick on people for being different. A big lesson to draw from it is that like the character Amy, just because you don't fit in with one crowd in one place, doesn't mean you don't fit in with anyone anywhere. As the mother of a child who has encountered bullies, I appreciate this theme and the strong message this book sends.

Like most books I read, I really do wish certain parts of the book had been longer. At times the scenes fast forwarded or jumped a bit when I felt they could have been longer and more descriptive. I also think this particular novel needs an index of characters and creatures or even a map of Voluspa in it's pages for reference. My oldest daughter looked up from reading it and said  'Mom, I wish it had some pictures!'(She would love a few pictures of the strange creatures that show up~ like the Gangrels)

At the end of the day, if you are thinking of botox, or buying a lipstick colored car... let me suggest the easier, more affordable solution to your anti-aging battle: Become a 15 year old again... Hang out with a Morphus Clan member in the city of Bol Holnap, make friends with a Dream Catcher or even take the challenge Herio Mountain...all of this can be accomplished by simply using your Imagination! (Okay, so you will still get old and it wont prevent wrinkles, but hey, you get to read a great and imaginative story out of the deal!) It's a book you and your kids (10+) can enjoy together!

The next installment of this series is due out in November, and I look forward to reading more!! This novel I most certainly will read again... if my daughter ever gives it back to me......

                         **Your Chance To Win A Copy After The Author's Interview!**

Watch the Book Trailer for Voluspa HERE!

Visit Voluspa's Website for more information!

*******************************************************************************
  Sometimes after reading a story, I have some questions I would love to ask the author. Ray East was kind enough to oblige!

Me, Myself and Irene: It's such an imaginative tale, where did you come up with the concept?

Ray East:  I have always wanted to write a fantasy novel. To create a believable magical world was what prompted me to write Voluspa. The concept developed further as I decided upon the major characters and themes of my story.

 Me: There is so much detail and thought put into this novel. How long did it take from the birth of the concept to having it published?

Ray East: I am really glad that you appreciate the detail and thought we put in the novel.

 It took us 7 months from the birth of the concept to getting it published.

Me: Where do you draw your inspiration from?

Ray East: I derive inspiration from life - things happening around me, my family and friends, places I visit, old books or movies that I like.

Me: The topic of bullying makes an appearance at times throughout the novel. Amy has had her share of being an outcast and runs into several situations where she is put down by others. Was the anti bullying theme deliberate and do you hope that your readers (especially the younger ones) take away an anti-bullying message from Voluspa?   

Ray East: The message of anti bullying is a deliberate one.  Anybody can be a victim of bullying and it is one of the most difficult challenges faced by our youngsters today. It is important to create strong role models that will inspire the younger generation not only to stand up to bullies but also for the misguided souls who commit this act to think twice before doing it.

Me: How many books are planned for this series?

Ray East: I plan for two more books in this Voluspa series.

          **CONGRATS TO THE CONTEST WINNERS!!!**

                       SARAH S. FROM CALIFORNIA

                                            AND

                       SARAH G. FROM ONTARIO!!! **

         They each won a copy of Voluspa A Magical World! 

A Suspenseful MUST read ~ Unauthorized Access!

If I could describe my next recommended read in one word, it would be.......

                                                    PHENOMENAL!!!

Win this book! Enter the Giveaway below!

If you love a wonderfully told, suspenseful novel that will surely keep you on the edge of your seat, than you are going to thank me for introducing this book into your life!
 (I will accept flowers, wine, and visa gift cards ;))

Unauthorized Access by Andrew McAllister is a novel that needs to be catapulted into the "Bookish Big Leagues" (aka Best Sellers lists) Another debut author who has delivered and I will be reading this novel again!


Honestly, I am so excited about this novel I don't even know where to begin!

Here is the book description from Amazon:

 "Young computer programmer Rob Donovan receives an emergency call from his boss at the First Malden Bank in Boston after the first successful cyber attack in American banking history scrambles thousands of account records. First Malden’s survival is on the line as furious customers and voracious reporters descend on the bank. Rob is part of the team trying to fix the damage, until the FBI charges him with the crime and brings his world crashing down. Facing prison time and the loss of his fiancée Lesley, Rob’s only chance of reclaiming his life lies in cutting through a web of mistrust and betrayal to uncover the startling truth behind the attack."

When I read that excerpt, I was immediately hooked. It sounded like it had page turner potential. I was not disappointed!

Why was that? Well read on....

From page one I was impressed with Mr. McAllister's writing style. It was descriptive, witty and overall had a great flow. The character dialogue was natural, and you almost felt immersed IN the story, rather than just reading it. This book would make an amazing movie! (Listen up Hollywood!)
It's a book that while entertains, certainly makes you think! In this day in age with terrorism, cyber-theft, and relying on technology are YOU prepared should your bank suddenly be sent into a panic? This book may have you hollowing out a teddy bear for stashing emergency funds. (Sorry Ted!)


 The story is told with all key players points of view. Watching their stories unfold from the start always adds that extra thrill. It helped build the novel into an amazing climax with a fantastic ending!

The lead character Rob Donovan is one of the most 'down to earth' characters I have ever read as a lead in a suspense or thriller. He doesn't have the skills of a cop, FBI agent or that of which you typically see in the role of a hero. (I could probably handle a gun better than this guy)  The struggle he endures throughout the book is close to home as what any human being put in that position would go through. It's a very realistic portrayal, and it's enough to put knots in your stomach.
Can you imagine being accused of a crime and not one single person believes you, including those you love?
*shudder*
How do you think you or your loved ones would react in a situation where you are cleverly framed?

Lesley McGrath is not only Rob's fiancée, but her uncle is Rob's boss (The Bank CEO), and she is a news reporter for a local television station. (Oh what a tangled web we weave...) Her situation is tremendously complicated. How do you cope when you may not know your partner as well as you think? How do you maintain your professionalism and bias at your job, when two people you love are involved in the biggest story making headlines?

Tim Whitlock is Rob's best friend and coworker. Scheming, mislead and delusional are all appropriate descriptions for his character. Passive Aggressive to the core, he is by far one of the more complex and interesting characters in the story. His emotions and involvement in events are twisted. Not the kind of friend you want at all.You'll end up loving to hate him.

Stan Dysart is Lesley's uncle and President and CEO of the First Malden Bank. He's a shrewd businessman who loves his family, and his business and will do what it takes to ensure his bank and customers (even niece) are taken care of. He was one of my favorite characters...both lovable and sly. Following his particular storyline made the story that much better.

One word to describe the relationships and portrayal in the novel: Real.

 I can be picky about the conclusion of my novels, that is why I am extremely pleased with how this book ended. I won't spoil it for you at all. You have to read it and see why I am thrilled! The only teaser you get is after the amazing climactic scenes, the ending was brilliant! Perfect! The Epilogue was my favorite, right down to the final sentence. Unlike most books I have read, I couldn't exactly 'see' where this was going, and I like it that way.The author keeps the reader on his/her toes.

One word to describe the conclusion: Satisfying

It's not a book that you can easily put down (Yes... I am enthusiastic, deal with it)  I have several people in mind who I know will enjoy suspense and thrillers (**cough** DAD **cough**) and I am going to make sure they pick one up! I am completely championing Andrew McAllister and look forward to his next novel! Click here to find a copy in paperback or kindle edition!

NOW that I have convinced you that this book is for you.... It's time for some fun!!

                         GIVEAWAY WINNER:

CONGRATS TO MELISSA F FROM ONTARIO!!! :)

She has won an autographed copy of Unauthorized Access!!