THE ALIGNED IS HERE

Book Review: Kindred by Erica Stevens

Kindred is a paranormal novel bursting with emotional turmoil, spilling feelings all over the prose like the wet tears of Cassie, the protagonist.
From the first page I was held captive by a scene of unrest. We learn that events of the past have dictated a rather unsteady future for Cassie and her two best friends. Born vampire hunters with inherent gifts to equip them against the fanged miscreants intent on wiping out their race, they've come to accept their responsibilities. In the first few chapters this is made quite clear, a scene even detailing a face off between hunter and vampire - action at its best.
Then a stranger by the name of Devon moves to town, and suddenly Cassie is disarmed by his charm, the effect he has on her and the aloof manner that sets him apart from others. What is it about her that draws him near, and for that matter, why can't he seem to stay away from her?
Honestly, I had to take a step back and remind myself that not every book that starts with action and twisted secrets will continue on that path. This novel is clearly an exploration of romance and the conflicted emotions of two people at war with their own inner demons - the journey being how they overcome their differences.
I appreciated the author's dedication to honesty and the insatiable urge to describe every little caress, thought and expression crossing her character's faces. I never doubted the significance of each encounter or the feelings portrayed. What did annoy me was the constant repetition, paragraph after paragraph of the same conflicting emotions readdressed without resolve or reason for reminding the reader of its significance. I also found the prose heavily burdened with unnecessary adverbs; 'sighing softly', 'laughing lightly', 'frowning heavily' - just to name a few.
Apart from a few personal grievances, I did appreciate the simplicity of the story and the heightened sense of drama crafted in every page. I'll be rating Kindred three out of five fangs.

Synopsis:

What do you do when the one you love is also you worst enemy? Trapped in a destiny she does not want, Cassie finds herself lost and adrift, until he walks into her life, turning it upside down and awakening her in ways that she never dreamed possible. 
Cassie is stunned and devastated to learn that she belongs to a long line of vampire slayers known as The Hunters. A murderous rampage by a group of elder vampires has left the Hunter line decimated and the remaining Hunters scattered around the world. With her friends Chris and Melissa’s aid, Cassie struggles to rid the world of the monsters that murdered her parents. Though Cassie knows it is her fate, she chafes against her heritage, and is resentful of the shortened lifespan that has been placed upon her by the circumstances of birth. Struggling to get through every day, Cassie finds herself simply going through the motions of living. That is, until Devon arrives. Tall, dark, and mysterious his arrival turns the school, and Cassie’s life, upside down. Fighting against her fierce attraction to him, and the chaos he represents in her carefully ordered days, she is irresistibly drawn to him. Though worried that what she truly is will place Devon in danger, she is unable to fight her feelings for him. He is the one light, and the only source of hope she has in a world that revolves around death and fear. What she does not know is that Devon has some dark secrets of his own, secrets even more frightening and dangerous than hers. Secrets that threaten to tear them apart forever.

Book Review: Crossroads by JJ Bonds

If you've read the Vampire Academy series by Richelle Mead, then you're going to enjoy Crossroads by JJ Bonds. Why? Because Crossroads is a school full of vampires, studying, feeding, and training to excel among the elite of their own kind. There's no pretense about what they are or where these teens stand in the food chain - Vampires are simply the diamonds among the rough of humanity.

Katia is a vampire transfer, an unpolished diamond uncertain about her new surroundings at Crossroads. In fact, she's uncertain about a lot of things - her foggy past as well as the nefarious dreams taunting her night after night, a red-eyed man chasing her endlessly. Katia's been able to temper that fear in the past, thanks to the comforting embrace of an uncle she didn't know she had until a year ago. Money and prestige has protected Katia, but now that she's at Crossroads, her uncle's influence can't protect her from adolescent petulance, unwanted male affection or even the dead bodies piling up outside of town.

What I liked about Crossroads? Everything. The novel is well executed with concise language, matched by an even paced plot that finishes with an action-packed, gripping final chapter. Droplets of information are littered consistently throughout the novel, building each character's construct and offering the reader ideas about where this series may progress.

There's also a touch of romance, though nothing overly amorous to throw you off the point of the novel. Sexual tension does weave its way through the pages, but the focus is entirely on Katia's growth, her ability to determine her dreams, tamper her blood lust and uncover the secrets of her past.

Crossroads rates four out of five fangs - a great start to a series, though I hope for more action in the next few novels.

Synopsis:

When Katia enrolled at Crossroads Academy she knew things weren’t exactly going to be easy. The sole heir to the worlds’ most powerful vampire, her presence was bound to cause a stir. But nothing could have prepared her for this. Whispers follow everywhere she goes. So does trouble.

Bodies start turning up in nearby Rutland and Katia is sucked into a twisted web of danger and deceit. Haunted by nightmares she can’t explain and a thirst for blood that is never sated, Katia will do whatever it takes to keep her past buried.

Nothing at Crossroads is what it seems and Katia’s secrets may be the darkest of them all.

Book Review "The Prey" by Andrew Fukuda

The Prey is the second installment in The Hunt series. As you might have read, I thoroughly enjoyed The Hunt, and The Prey was no exception.
We're thrown back in the thick of the action, Gene, and the previously trapped humans from the dome, are still on the run. They could be the last hepers on the planet, and they're endlessly hunted by a mutated race of humans with fangs and a potent hunger for flesh. They'll stop at nothing to find these escapees, only hampered by the bright rays of daylight.
Gene and his new friends have a goal, following the river towards the mountains in the hopes of finding a mythical land promised to be packed with humankind; the kind without fangs.
Dreary days and endless nights of torment drift by, until finally they meet with the end of the road. A mysterious cabin in the woods spills secrets, and soon leads them on a path towards a place known as 'the mission'.
Salvation seems within grasp, and they pluck at its promise, praying that their days of running from blood-thirsty tormentors is over. But are they finally safe? Have they found the haven they've been searching for?
I can't tell you without ruining the story, but let me just say, that even though you have sneaking suspicions, the twists and turns are immense and entirely too thrilling.
Once again the writing is elegant and compelling in its use of descriptive language and succinct story-telling. The action is mostly towards the end of the novel, but the narrative is in constant motion, more often than not, driving the story via character point-of-view.
To say that I'm enjoying this series is understatement, and will most definitely be buying the third book once it's released - four out five fangs.

Synopsis:

For Gene and the remaining humans—or hepers—death is just a heartbeat away. On the run and hunted by society, they must find a way to survive in The Vast... and avoid the hungry predators tracking them in the dark. But they’re not the only things following Gene. He’s haunted by the girl he left behind and his burgeoning feelings for Sissy, the human girl at his side.
When they discover a refuge of exiled humans living high in the mountains, Gene and his friends think they’re finally safe. Led by a group of intensely secretive elders, the civilisation begins to raise more questions than answers. A strict code of behaviour is the rule, harsh punishments are meted out, young men are nowhere to be found—and Gene begins to wonder if the world they’ve entered is just as evil as the one they left behind. As life at the refuge grows more perilous, he and Sissy only grow closer. In an increasingly violent world, all they have is each other... if they can only stay alive.

Book Review: Lord of Misrule by Rachel Caine

This is the fifth book in the Morganville Vampires series - Lord of Misrule - simply put, an action-packed read that once again does not disappoint.
Claire Danvers takes starring role, supported by her friends and roommates,  Michael  - recently turned vampire, Eve - goth chick extraordinaire, and Shane - love interest with a passionate dislike for all things fanged.
These four are inevitably in the thick of any Morganville drama, and in this installment, we have front row seats to the brewing war between the town's founding vampire, Amelie, and her sadistic father, Bishop. Humans are no longer protected by their vampire sponsors  as everyone is fighting to survive under the threat of Bishop's immense power and seemingly unquenchable blood-lust. Throw in a manic storm with a raging tornado, and burning buildings and crazy vampires seem to be the least of everyone's problems.
Once again, I found myself drawn into this little world of constant tumultuous activity. There's never a dull moment as the author even finds time to spot us just a little bit of romance.
I can't say that the writing is filled with brilliant imagery or that the words read like poetry in motion, but I can say that my interest in the story never wanes. My heart sets a rhythmic beat of excitement paired with a simple enjoyment for this fast-paced series that's filled with endless plot arcs and surprises.
Another four out of five fangs novel.

Synopsis:

In the college town of Morganville, vampires and humans coexist in (relatively) bloodless harmony. Then comes Bishop, a master vampire who threatens to abolish all order, revive the forces of the evil dead, and let chaos rule. But Bishop isn’t the only threat. 
Violent black clouds promise a storm of devastating proportions. As student Claire Danvers and her friends prepare to defend Morganville against the elements—both natural and unnatural—the unexpected happens: Morganville’s vampires begin to vanish one by one. Discovering why leads Claire to one last choice: swear allegiance to Bishop... or die.

Book Review: The Den by Jennifer Abrahams

The Den by Jennifer Abrahams is a novel of succinct wording, best described as short sentences loaded with abrupt instruction and no discernable flow. I expected to be drawn into this vampiric story based on supposed actual events, when in actuality, I was a little let down by the short and sharp prose with little descriptive content.

Following Skyla Jane Judge, a restless college student and then waitress, we see her initial journey into the world of the supernatural upon a reading with a psychic. Warned of dangerous men, nefarious ghosts, and a past life that could literally come back to bite her, and we are suddenly in New York City.

Enter Alex, a mysterious stranger that Skyla believes harmless and a possible romantic dalliance, and before we know it, having only just met, they are planning a road trip to New Orleans.

At this point I’m shaking my head thinking, ‘you’re going to be strangled and dumped on the side of the road by this psycho’. Naturally, after one week of knowing each other, it’s like fate has stepped in and Skyla is exactly where she needs to be – in the middle of the French Quarter, surrounded by a strange den of ... others.

If all this didn’t happen a little fast for you, Skyla is soon chanting around candle light with her new friends, drinking blood, and denying her role in it. Pressed for affection from one of the would-be vampires, and then reminded of a centuries past tie from another, and Skyla’s soon running again.

What I liked about this novel is the possibilities and the rather odd vampiric/witch ties to this strange assortment of individuals. I enjoyed reading about their hunt, and was curious upon Skyla’s initial Tarot reading. Unfortunately, with an over-paced plot with limited explanation and then quicker resolve sliding to indifference, and I was left with a million question marks without clear parameters as to where the plot would head in the hands of a flighty, inconsistent protagonist.

Two out of five fangs – not terrible, but not stirring, either.

Synopsis:

Is it possible to run away from yourself? No. Skyla Jane Judge should know.
Fresh on the heels of a breakup and college graduation, Skyla Jane Judge feels an inexplicable urge to accompany an attractive stranger on a road trip from New York to New Orleans. Maybe it has something to do with what a psychic has told her about a past life. Maybe some old friends stuck between lives are waiting for her there.
Whatever the case, she gives in to the lure of Louisiana’s voodoo country and doesn’t look back. Longing for change, she uncovers a “den” beneath the haunted cobblestone streets of the French Quarter and, in the company of vampires, begins to discover her true self.
Skyla embarks on a journey to self-awareness that ultimately uncovers a secret ceremonial path to love and eternal enlightenment. Though change is what she wanted, is she ready for the irrevocable change her “new” friends offer her?

Book Review: The Hunt by Andrew Fukuda

I may be about the one-millionth person to say this, but The Hunt is Vampires meets The Hunger Games, and yet, decidedly better. It's impossible not to compare these lottery based novels involving a death defying hunt, as truly it's the purpose of the book.
The Hunt follows the story of a human, or heper, as the vampires refer to them, with the designation - Gene.
Gene isn't normal. At least not by this world's standards, a world where vampires are the dominate race and hepers are a dying breed - their only purpose - to serve as fodder in the hunt.
Gene is extremely intelligent and has been taught by his now deceased father the value of assimilation. Masking body odours, shaving hair, and wearing fake fangs are all part of the camouflage. Partaking in the strange animalistic rituals is also a must – frothing at the mouth at the thought of human flesh, scratching wrists when amused, and schooling all emotion is all part of Gene’s survival techniques.
And then he is selected for the hunt. Randomly? We never really find out, but to also be paired with Ashley-June, the vampire he is inexplicably drawn to can only lead to heartache.
Will the heper institute learn of Gene’s ongoing deceit? And will he finally be exposed to a species he can finally relate, perhaps form relationships with the very creatures he’s been selected to hunt and kill?
What I loved about this book was that clear skip of detail regarding how the world became vampire ridden, or how humans were hunted into non-existence. Andrew Fukuda’s writing is such, that as a reader, you merely accept the world as it’s painted with information supplied when necessary and without complication. Paired with sumptuous imagery, and strange, albeit compelling characteristics of the vampires, and you find yourself enraptured.
With strong, descriptive prose that was filled with enough moments of suspense and interspersed action to keep my heart stuttering within my chest, and I can say without a doubt this is one of the best novels I’ve read in a long time. Thank you, Andrew Fukuda for the wild imagination – five out of five fangs.

Synopsis:
Against all odds, 17-year-old Gene has survived in a world where humans have been eaten to near extinction by the general population. The only remaining humans, or hepers as they are known, are housed in domes on the savannah and studied at the nearby Heper Institute. Every decade there is a government sponsored hunt. When Gene is selected to be one of the combatants he must learn the art of the hunt but also elude his fellow competitors whose suspicions about his true nature are growing.

Book Review: Feast of Fools by Rachel Caine

Feast of Fools is the fourth book in the Morganville Vampires series by Rachel Caine, and yes, I will be reading all of them. Why? They are just that good.
I'm not going to lie, it's not Shakespearean text, and you won't learn anything particularly new or exciting about vampires, but what it does have in spades is mystery, scenes of action-packed drama, and just a trickle of romance to stop those throbbing pulse points from icing over.
Feast of Fools starts relatively slow. We are introduced to a couple of new characters, and as always, they are out for blood. Bishop is the founding vampire's father, a sadistic bastard covered in the stain of past indiscretions. He cares for no one, and he certainly has an agenda. Those who get in his path are mere fodder - vampire and human alike. Bishop will stop at nothing to retrieve what he's searched Morganville up and down to find, even if that means destroying his own daughter and the town she's built in the process.
The last third of the novel is where the action and intrigue really comes to a head. As always, protagonist Claire Danvers is sticking her nose in where it's not wanted, a quest to save her family and friends. With the very best of intentions, Claire pairs up with a vampire not quite in his right mind, and attends a feast in honor of Bishop's arrival.
Claire soon realises this feast is an offering ceremony, every vampire in Morganville either swearing allegiance to this rebel outsider, or their human companion to become part of the feast. As the action unfolds and blood is spilt, we see little Claire resolute and brave - a real fire starter and defender of the weak.
What I love about these stories is the never-ending drama paired with the equally vicious vampires and passionate drive to succeed. There's never a moment when Claire wonders if she'll fail, merely pushes ahead despite her fears, knowing she must to protect those that she loves.
With witty dialogue, amply described action and great narrative imagery - I'm hooked and again rate this novel four out of five fangs.

Synopsis:

In the town of Morganville, vampires and humans have learnt to live in relative peace. Still, Claire Danvers knows that after dark, her homework can take a backseat to staying alive. But this tenuous harmony is turned on its head with the arrival of Mr Bishop.
Bad to the bone, the ancient old-school vampire cares nothing about keeping the peace; staying at the top of the food chain is enough. What he wants from the town’s living and dead is unthinkably sinister. It’s only at a formal ball attended by vampires and their human dates that Claire realises Bishop’s plan—and the elaborately evil trap he’s set for the warm-blooded souls of Morganville…

Book Review: The Indigo Spell by Richelle Mead

The Indigo Spell is the third book in the Bloodlines series by this supremely talented story-teller, Richelle Mead. Once again I was drawn into the crazy, non-stop action-driven world of Sydney Sage, a rebellious Alchemist torn between duty and the the vampire Moroi that she's been drafted to protect.
The Indigo Spell, as with all Richelle Mead's novels, crafts multiple sub plots throughout. Thankfully in this installment we focus specifically on Sydney and her moral struggle with performing magic, her questionable feelings for a playboy vampire, and the hefty price splitting her loyalties may bring.
Tasked with uncovering a youth-stealing witch while simultaneously deciding whether or not to trust in a indigo-tattooed, ex-alchemist with a similar agenda, and Sydney has her hands full. Avoiding magic has been a doctrine of her upbringing, but to master it may mean saving her life and those she cares about. Also finding a way to link unsavoury Alchemist activities offers Sydney a chance to explore areas previously forbidden - her growing love for Adrian Ivashkov.
The Indigo Spell is filled with non-stop drama and enough tension-riddled moments of romantic angst to make you throw the book at the wall. Imagery, as always, is sufficient and succinct and the words cleverly crafted to keep motion within the plot. I was especially drawn to Adrian in this novel, Richelle mead offering up just a few new snippets of sensitivity that make you unexpectedly swoon.
With nothing negative to report, other than the fact the writer in me was supremely excited to find two technical errors via the editing in a professional writer's book - a lesson we are all human - and I can happily rate this novel four out of five fangs.

Synopsis:
In the aftermath of a forbidden moment that rocked Sydney to her core, she finds herself struggling to draw the line between her Alchemist teachings and what her heart is urging her to do. Then she meets alluring, rebellious Marcus Finch--a former Alchemist who escaped against all odds, and is now on the run. Marcus wants to teach Sydney the secrets he claims the Alchemists are hiding from her. But as he pushes her to rebel against the people who raised her, Sydney finds that breaking free is harder than she thought. There is an old and mysterious magic rooted deeply within her. And as she searches for an evil magic user targeting powerful young witches, she realizes that her only hope is to embrace her magical blood--or else she might be next.

Author Interview with James Garcia Jnr

Today I have the fabulous James Garcia Jnr visiting the blog, an author I've admired for his cleverly crafted novels and constant appreciation of my ridiculous blog posts and Facebook statuses. We both share a passion for vampires, treadmills and the written word - so let's see what he has to say about my twenty warped questions ...

James Garcia Jnr

Describe your novel in twenty words or less.

Paul Herrera inherits an old house and comes to grips with ghosts that haunt both his past and present. *wipes forehead* Nineteen! That was too close!

What were some of the biggest obstacles that you had to overcome while writing?

Well, I’m a late bloomer. Although I discovered a love for reading and writing back in junior high school, it really wasn’t until middle age that I began to put the proverbial nose to the grindstone. I’m forty-four now, but was when I turned thirty-eight that I really began to feel the regret that I would feel when I was old and gray if I never gave writing the college try. My latest novel will be my third. I have an understanding family. They don’t love the time I spend on my laptop, but they allow me that space. The only obstacle I have is provided my eleven hour day job where I’m an Administrative Supervisor.

Kristy: I hear you, Jimmy! I want to kick those authors who brag about staying home all day to perfect their craft while we're slaving away only getting better at pen-pushing.

Are you also a reader, and if so, what’s your preferred genre?

I prefer horror and suspense. I won’t read just anything, however. I much prefer The Silence of the Lambs over The Texas Chainsaw Massacre. I do like to deviate from that now and again. My favorite novel is actually not frightening in the least. It is Beach Music by Pat Conroy.

Peter O'Toole

If you could have dinner with one person dead or alive, who would it be and why?

Hmm? That’s a tough one. We run the risk of discovering that our heroes are creeps sometimes. Lots of names popped into my head when I saw this question. Being a huge music fan, I thought of the late Freddie Mercury of Queen. I have read a few biographies and was struck by one I read on the late Katherine Hepburn. However, I think I’ll go with actor Peter O’Toole. I just love to listen to him speak, and I know he won’t be much longer on the planet. I should like to sit with him for a few hours...sip some wine...and just chat (See, he’s rubbing off on me. I sound like him already).

Kristy: *Shakes Head*

Do you have any weird little habits that get you in the writing mood—downing a bottle of wine, eating an entire bar of chocolate, fornicating on a porch swing?

Sadly, no. Although I can very easily down a bottle of white zin during a networking session, I really don’t have the time to play around. I usually only attempt one writing project every year and a half or so, thanks to my long day job. If I’m writing I have to race home, clean up and squeeze it in.

What sets your book apart from others in the same genre?

Recently, I found myself answering a question like this one by saying I might very well be the Nicholas Sparks of horror. I never meant to say it. It just came out. Perhaps it’s fitting. We’ll see what the readers think.

Okay, so I bet you secretly hate one of the characters in your novel. Who is it and why?

Interestingly I don’t. I guess as being their creator I hate the things some of them do, but use those dirty deeds against them and spin them for good.

You’re on death row and it’s your last meal. What will you choose to eat?

Eat, Hell! Where’s the Crown and Coke?? I guess I’d go with a steak. Maybe a T-bone, cooked medium. I’ll take the mashed potatoes and green beans. Can I get a Margarita with that, please? No? Damn!

Tell us three crazy things about yourself that you wish no one else knew (I promise I won’t post this … but I lie).

*Crickets* Seriously, I’m so square! I’ve got nothing. *lies* Hand over that Crown and Coke and maybe I’ll sing...

Are you a scruncher or a folder? (Yes, this is a toilet paper question)

Folder, and I probably use more than a woman. Ask my wife. She’ll tell ya’.

Kristy: Sorry, folders must be slapped. No one should be that organised in the toilet.

If you had to pick one song to be the soundtrack to your novel, what would it be and why?

“Heaven” by Warrant. I’m an old 80’s headbanger, but when you read the novel you’ll see why.

Do you have any future projects lined up that you want to tell us about?

Sleeping. Taking my kids to the movies – they don’t need me to do it anymore since they’re 15 and 19, but I miss hanging out with them. My treadmill. Sitting with my wife without whipping out my smartphone every ten minutes. *Laughs* Okay, okay. I’ve got a collaborative writing project that 13 authors are working on, but that’s all I am at liberty to say about that until it’s done. I’ve never done anything like this and am a bit nervous. I might start the third novel in my crossover Dance on Fire vampire series, but we’ll see. Stay tuned.

E-book or paperback, what’s your preference?

I would prefer a hardback, so I’ll say paperback. However, I also much prefer old record albums, too. There was nothing like reading the lyrics and staring at the album artwork while the record played; the smell of a brand new album. Yet, there I am every Tuesday, sniffing around iTunes, trolling for new music! You just can’t beat the ease of buying, storing and reading books on an e-reader. A year or so ago, I remembered that Sammy Hagar had an autobiography out that day. I grabbed my Kindle and less than one minute later I was reading that bad-boy!

What books or authors have most influenced your writing style?

For this, I will once again refer to the genius that is Pat Conroy. If I could write half as well as he does, I could die a happy man. In my genre, I will note Author Michael Slade. That is the pen name of the father/daughter team that writes the Special X Royal Canadian Mounted Police thrillers. The first one, Headhunter, might be the greatest horror/crime novel I’ve ever read.

If you were stuck on a deserted Island would you choose:

a)            A total hottie to keep you company over the lonely nights ahead.

b)            A solar powered Kindle with limitless reading potential.

c)            Tom Hanks and Wilson to help get your ass off the Island.

The hottie would be lovely for the first couple of days, but eventually I need someone to really talk to. I know it sounds corny. I can read a lot, but not that much. I guess I’ve got to go with Hanks and Wilson. Wait! Was the hottie gorgeous and intelligent? Nah! Never mind. She’d just get rid of me, so she could end up with Hanks and Wilson...

Where can we find you?

Sun Maid Growers of California for eleven hours, five and sometimes six days a week... What? Oh! ;) I’m in the California Central Valley, near Fresno. Beyond that, you can find me attached to this laptop. Just ask my wife. She’ll tell ya’. I hope you’ll look me up on Facebook, among other places.

Who has been your biggest support on your writing journey, and please, feel free to add my name here …

Kristy Berridge. She’s both super awesome, a hottie and supremely intelligent. Unfortunately, I think she’s secretly planning my demise so she can help Tom Hanks get off the island and forget all about Helen Hunt... Seriously, it’s the wonderfully supportive writing community. They have encouraged me and cheered my meager success, and have offered a shoulder when I have thought about giving it up. They are the greatest, and Kristy Berridge is definitely among their number.

Kristy: *fist pumps the air* See? Coercion works every time.

What is one of your favourite scenes from your novel? Feel free to provide a small excerpt to entice the readers.

In Seeing Ghosts, there are ghosts both inside and outside a large two story house that my main character has just inherited. Paul has befriended one of them, a very young boy who has become lost. He reads to him at night. His name is Paul, too. In this scene, he has misplaced his Kindle...

Gingerly, I turned the knob and pulled. I braced my left knee against the door, in a manner of preparing for someone or something to attempt to rush me and gain access. I peeked through the tiniest of gaps in the door and glanced about. There wasn’t much moon, so I had to wait quite a while before my eyes adjusted to the dark. When they finally did, I opened the door a little more.

The overturned bench still lay where Flora had thrown both it and me much earlier the previous evening, but I could see no further. I stuck my head out into the night air and quickly checked behind me. As I opened the door just a bit more to accommodate this, something fell. I couldn’t stifle a surprised cry and a curse. I looked down.

My missing Kindle. It had been left for me, propped up against the door. Perhaps it was to be a peace offering after all.

I knelt down and retrieved the device. I slid the switch on and a moment later, it came to life. Cool to the touch after having sat outside, it appeared none the worse for wear. As I prepared to rise back to my feet, the wind started again. I looked up just in time to see it and realized—it was no wind at all, but a man. One no longer the man he’d once been. He glowed white and ran past the front of the porch. Beyond him in the yard were more just like him. I dropped the Kindle.

They were all shapes and sizes of ghosts. Men, women and children, even the occasional dog and cat. One of the dogs was barking and it sounded familiar. Thankfully, it didn’t seem to be looking for me this time. They all seemed to ignore me and one another. They just ran. Some waved their arms. A few stomped about like zombies. From the expressions on their faces, none were at rest. This was a horror among horrors.

I sat down there and watched the pain as it unfolded about me, frozen by it. Somehow it felt as if I’d just survived a plane crash that had killed everyone else and my brain was short-circuiting because it was simply too much to fathom.

“They’re so sad,” a voice said beside me on the left. I nodded, but couldn’t pull my eyes from the dead. “This is because of the bad lady,” Paul announced. He stood beside me in the doorway. Mercifully, he didn’t touch me. It might have been the last straw that, once removed, would make the whole construct that was me crumble towards nothingness.

“Yes,” I said, finding my voice.

“We must do something to stop her.”

I turned at this and looked upon the boy standing there before me, who stared past me at the scene in the yard. Interesting to behold—he was very young, but unafraid. Glancing down at me, he nodded as if resigned to some duty.

“We must,” he said. I felt very proud of him at that moment for some crazy reason. I recall shaking my head in astonishment.

If you had to cast your characters, who would you reconcile to play their parts?

Hmm? You know, perhaps it has to do with my limited time, but I have never dreamed of actors for any of my characters. Perhaps I’m boring that way. That’s not to say that I haven’t dreamed of selling film rights or being summoned to Hollywood to assist with the screenplay. I have dreamt of that quite a lot. *laughs* Especially the part where I pen my two week’s notice and walk away from the eleven hour day job. That’s a favourite dream of mine!

Any last words? (feel free to write Kristy Berridge is super awesome right here)

I believe we have covered quite well the fact that Kristy Berridge is super awesome, even discounting the part where she plans my death in order for her to leave the island with Tom Hanks. Whether it was our short time together on the island or this interview, it was fabulous while it lasted!

Seriously, I want to thank you for this opportunity, Kristy. I thank you and your readers for taking the time to give my writing a chance. For the writers out there I urge you to press on. If we push ourselves and give it our all, no one can take it away. What we don’t want is to sit in our rocking chairs in our old age and be saddled with regret for not ever having tried. Happy reading and writing, my friends.

Well, thank you so much, Jimmy! It's been great having you, and an absolute pleasure to support a talented author like yourself. Make sure you all check out James's work and get yourselves a copy of his books ASAP!

Get your Kindle Copy Here

Get your Kindle Copy Here

Book Review: Midnight Alley by Rachel Caine

So it might be obvious that I'm planning to read and review the entire series in Rachel Caine's Morganville Vampires. Midnight Alley is book number three and I don't see any signs of this fast paced supernatural fiction from slowing.
With an ever-thickening plot, enriched characters and a whole host of unfurling action that never seems to get tiresome, I can honestly say that I'm hooked. Just when you think you can't be exposed to any more two-faced vampires, raping college students and the sick and twisted minds of the humans spewing vampire hate, I'm thrown into the washer of a thrilling wordsmith.
Morganville is a town run and dominated by vampires, the humans that co-habit are either fodder or chess pieces easily manipulated for nefarious intent. Those who choose survival often find themselves faced with soul damaging choices and almost always wind up hurting or killing someone they love.
Claire Danvers is no exception. Recently making a deal with the founding vampire known as Amelie for protection, Claire is once again out of her depth. Teamed with a crazed vampire with a brilliant mind, she is tasked with absorbing his knowledge, unlocking the secrets of Morganville's extraordinary powers of concealment as well as finding a cure for a damaging vampire virus.
Yes, the vampires are slowly going out of their minds. And if crazy fangers wasn't enough to have you hiding under the bed sheets, then perhaps an ex-con who enjoys the slow torture and mutilation of the local college girls will do it for you.
Rachel Caine has once again produced a effortlessly spun plot of intrigue, suspense and action. With character consistency and well constructed imagery, I'm always tagging along on unfolding events. Once again, this novel rates highly at four and half fangs, though I do wonder how long this high-paced conflict can continue without numbing the reader to expectation.

Synopsis:

When Claire Danvers learnt that her college town was run by vampires, she did what any intelligent, self-preserving student would do: she applied for a transfer and stocked up on garlic. The transfer is no longer an option, but that garlic may come in handy. 
Now Claire has pledged herself to Amelie, the most powerful vampire in town. The protection her contract secures does little to reassure her friends. All of a sudden, people are turning up dead, a stalker resurfaces from Claire’s past, and an ancient bloodsucker extends a chilling invitation for private lessons in his secluded home.

Kristy :)

Book Review: The Dead Girl's Dance by Rachel Caine

Well, here I am back lickety-split for round two in this supernatural series. The Dead Girl's Dance is the second book in Rachel Caine's cleverly crafted Morganville Vampires series, and once again, I was not disappointed.
Claire and her roommates at the Glass house; Michael, Shane and Eve, are faced with a whole new round of challenges - family being the ultimate problem in a town ruled by vampires. With fanged miscreants and a whole lot of past emotional turmoil, resentment is sure to brew between all involved. But from that resentment a plan is formed, one more dangerous and life threatening than those involved could have ever imagined.
Not only is Claire still bullied by the college sorority clique, she also now has to deal with Eve's jailbird, psychopathic brother intent on raping and strangling the town's young girls. Teamed with Shane's biker dad and his gang of vampire-hunter cronies, and poor Claire is torn between dragging Shane (her romantic interest) from his father's fallible plans and deciding whether or not to form alliances with any vampire that will listen.
With endless nights filled with torment and sticky situations, Claire appears constantly in the thick of it. Once so small and mousy, she now stands strong, beaten but not broken by the twisted ways of this blood-run town.
Once again Rachel Caine has crafted a novel that keeps you guessing how her protagonist can possibly succeed against stacked odds. With a healthy dose of action and an endless stream of possibilities introduced to keep the side plots moving forward, it's almost impossible to lay this series to rest.
Characterisation is ever evolving and dialogue is believable when paired with the detailed imagery. The fact that I devoured this book in one sitting suggests I should be rating it five out of five fangs.

Synopsis:
Claire has her share of challenges. Like being a genius in a school that favours beauty over brains; homicidal girls in her dorm, and finding out that her college town is overrun with the living dead. On the up side, she has a new boyfriend with a vampire-hunting dad. But when a local fraternity throws the Dead Girls' Dance, hell is really going to break loose.

Kristy :)

An Interview with John Hundley

Today I have the pleasure of interviewing Mr John Hundley, a sublime indie author with vast talent. I've read both of John's books to date, and I can honestly say that I really enjoyed both of them, ploughing through each page with gusto.
Usually indie authors display potential but often fall short with their editing techniques, but it is more than clear that John has taken the time to smother his manuscript with love but cut the 'unnecessary' with brutal efficiency, thus drawing parallels between himself and other quality writers of his genre such as, Richelle Mead and Karen Chance.
Needless to say, adding John Hundley's books to your 'to-be-read pile' is a must - you won't regret it! 
So now let the twenty questions commence, and apologies to John for my warped sense of humour. You were a good sport!

Describe your novel in twenty words or less.

Turned into a werewolf to fulfil a prophecy, Clifford Crane must discover what it is and why. (Damn, that was hard!)

Edgar Rice Burroughs

What were some of the biggest obstacles that you had to overcome while writing?

The Draculata Nest was my first novel. I struggled with verbosity (hence the struggle with your first question) and pace. My editor suggested I cut 100,000 words from the first draft, but I could only bring myself to get rid of half that. I think I did better in the second book, The Dragon of Doughton Park, both with pace and word count.

Are you also a reader, and if so, what’s your preferred genre?

Since I’m writing a paranormal fantasy series, that’s mostly what’s on my kindle at the moment, but it’s a toss-up between that and science fiction.

Isaac Asimov

If you could have dinner with one person dead or alive, who would it be and why?

Oh, that’s easy. Edgar Rice Burroughs. No, he might have been too British-y (probably wouldn’t want to eat the same stuff as me, you know?) Isaac Asimov! No, he’d probably be too smart. You know, I’d really like to ask Taylor Swift a few questions. No, wait, forget that – no privacy. Maybe Richelle Mead. Yeah, her. I’d love to pick her brain about some of her writing and characters and she knows so much about different religions and cultures. As long as we didn’t have to talk about music and fashion. Wow, that’s not as easy as it sounds. Maybe Kristy Berridge?

Taylor Swift

Do you have any weird little habits that get you in the writing mood—downing a bottle of wine, eating an entire bar of chocolate, fornicating on a porch swing?

None of those would work. I’d just want more of the same. I dedicated my first book to the baristas at my favourite coffee shop, so that should tell you something. Most of my writing is done in coffee shops. I have too many distractions at home, although pictures of your writing cubby have inspired me to try and set up something similar for myself. I always play a game of FreeCell before I start, but I play a game of FreeCell before I do anything. I have to keep my kindle and a little notebook on the left side of my laptop.

What sets your book apart from others in the same genre?

Good question! All the marketing gurus say I need to promote that aspect of my books. But what is it? There is so much in this genre right now. How can there be anything new and different? But I think the thing that stands out most is the perspective of a character who’s been around the block a few times. I really enjoy exploring the dynamics of relationships between old and young, especially romance-wise. And supernatural characters that live for a thousand years or more get to carry around a lot of emotional baggage. It’s fun to speculate how that works out.

Okay, so I bet you secretly hate one of the characters in your novel. Who is it and why?

Hate is a strong word, Kristy. But the character that’s giving me a lot of grief right now is Cynthia Lamelle, best friend of Heather Felton, Clifford Crane’s current romantic interest. I made her Cajun and although I love the accent and I hear it in my mind so clearly when she speaks, I cannot translate it to the page. I have a Cajun blogger friend, Maghon Thomas (Happy Tails and Tales Blog), who is trying to help me, but... argh! It’s frustrating.

Kristy: Haha! I knew it.

You’re on death row and it’s your last meal. What will you choose to eat?

There’s a little barbecue restaurant in Salisbury, North Carolina, that has the best barbecued chicken... ever! I’d have to order a half chicken plate from Hendrix BBQ, with creamy cole slaw and hushpuppies (not fries). Damn the heartburn. I’m gonna be dead anyway, right?

Tell us three crazy things about yourself that you wish no one else knew (I promise I won’t post this … but I lie).

One of my all-time favourite movies is an old Disney B-grade with Michelle Trachtenberg and Hayden Panettiere called Ice Princess. I have the DVD, and I’ve watched it maybe 50 times. I cry at the end every time. I’m a sucker for that sappy shit.

Kristy: Okay, I've seen this movie a few times, I get where you're coming from, but I laughed myself stupid when I read this. Oh John ...

I have an old hiking stick with a wood-spirit face carved into the handle. I like to twirl it when I’m on the trail by myself, and I keep hitting myself in the head. It really hurts, and I know it’s going to happen every time, but...

Kristy: Still laughing ...

I like to sit around the house naked. No, it’s not a pretty sight, but I live alone, so... Anyway, I enjoy it so much that I have this recurring vision of the future, when senility sets in big-time, and I start wandering around the neighbourhood. Yeah, I’m pretty sure it’s gonna happen eventually. Sigh.

Kristy: Really laughing now, but I suspect this could be me very soon.

Are you a scruncher or a folder? (Yes, this is a toilet paper question)

It depends. There are times when you need to conserve, like when backpacking in the woods, where folding is the best way to achieve a consistent, even ply. But there are other times, like... uh, why are we talking about this again?

If you had to pick one song to be the soundtrack to your novel, what would it be and why?

Oh, I’m determined to write my own theme, and I have a number of local singers and musicians in mind to assemble as the perfect band to perform it. But, if that doesn’t work out, well... naw, I’m drawing a blank here. That’s going to require a lot of research.

Do you have any future projects lined up that you want to tell us about?

I’m writing the third book in the Red Wolf of Prophecy series right now, Red Wolf Rising, which will complete what was originally conceived to be a trilogy. But Clifford’s story, and the overall struggle among the Fae over the fate of humanity goes on for at least another thousand years. I’m outlining something with the working title of Half Human Enterprises that picks up three or four hundred years into the future. I also have a short story in progress with a sword-and-sorcery-type character who’s vying for a novella... or more.

E-book or paperback, what’s your preference?

I vaguely miss poking my nose into print and paper and always being able to flip the book over and look at the cover, but I’m head over heels in love with my Kindle. And if it weren’t for ebooks I couldn’t afford to publish. I feel so fortunate to live in an age when I can hone my craft to a real audience rather than having to write just to please a publisher before I can even get my books in front of a real, honest-to-god reader. E-book power, yeah!

What books or authors have most influenced your writing style?

My greatest writing influence has to be Stephen King, although I doubt you could tell by reading my work. But the books he’s written in the third person, shifting character perspective, are what I’m trying hardest to emulate.

15.          If you were stuck on a deserted Island would you choose:

a)            A total hottie to keep you company over the lonely nights ahead.

b)            A solar powered Kindle with limitless reading potential.

c)            Tom Hanks and Wilson to help get your ass off the Island.

No way I’m leaving the island with Tom and Wilson. Me, I’m staying. Are you sure I can’t have the total hottie and the Kindle? Sigh. In that case, I’d probably be better off with the Kindle. Tom would probably end up with the hottie anyway.

Where can we find you?

Alas, I still don’t have an official website. Soon, I promise. In the meantime, I try to post once or twice a week on my blog, and I include links to all my books at the bottom of each post (you know, for your convenience J). I also have a Red Wolf Novels page on Facebook, feel free to go ‘like’ it or send me a friend request.

Who has been your biggest support on your writing journey, and please, feel free to add my name here …

You know, Kristy? I was really surprised when some of my close friends embraced this unexpected writing path I embarked upon. I can’t thank them enough. But the first author group I joined on Facebook, one of the administrators sent me this lengthy email with all kinds of wonderful advice and immediately hooked me up with other bloggers and writers who were willing to read, review, and network. That led me to connect with you (my favourite, of course) eventually, but I’ve been completely blown away by the helpfulness and camaraderie of this global writing community from the beginning. It’s one of those debts you can’t repay to one individual. You just have to keep passing it on.

Kristy: You know what, John? I couldn't agree more. Supporting others enriches your own life in so many ways.

What is one of your favourite scenes from your novel? Feel free to provide a small excerpt to entice the readers.

Clifford’s vampire friend, Kent, was based on a real friend of my own from days gone by. *Spoiler alert* I can’t believe I killed him off in the first book, because Clifford could really use a friend right now, but I loved some of the scenes between the two in the first book. Here’s a little quickie that shows their interaction, just driving in the car...

No one said anything further until Clifford came to a stop at the intersection of Seventh Street and King’s Drive, signaling for a left turn.

“Where are you going?” Kent challenged.

“I’m going to go up Trade and cut over on whatever-the-f@#$k street so I can park on Third.”

“Why don’t you just continue on Seventh and cut over on Whatever-the-F@#$k Street?”

“Don’t give me any shit. I’m going this way.”

“Seventh would be faster. Well, it would have been. Too late now.” Clifford had made the left turn and was halfway down the block.

“Let me drive,” Clifford said. “We’ll get there this way just fine.”

“Eventually,” Kent retorted. “You got two extra lights this way, and you had the sequence going Seventh. It would have been green all the way.”

“F@#$k you. We’re going this way.”

Clifford turned on Trade, heading uptown. Sure enough, he had to stop for the red light at McDowell. Kent sighed. They caught another red light at the next intersection. Kent sighed again.

“F@#$k you,” Clifford reiterated, chuckling.

“I didn’t say a damn thing,” Kent deadpanned. “Oh look, here it is, Whatever-the-F@#$k Street.”

If you had to cast your characters, who would you reconcile to play their parts?

It’s funny, because every movie I watch these days, I go, “Wow, she’s perfect for Danielle,” or “He should play Kendall.” I’m afraid I’m too wishy washy, so I’d have to leave the casting up to the director. However, I’m definitely holding out for Natalie Portman as Nicole. We have to hurry, though, because like all of us, she’s getting older. No matter, I love her, and she’d have no trouble pulling it off.

Any last words? (feel free to write Kristy Berridge is super awesome right here)

You are super awesome, Kristy! You know I’m a fan of your writing, and I hardly ever miss one of your blog posts. Your reviews of my books have been a big help both in getting the word out and for the constructive criticism. It’s a huge delight to be featured here! Thanks so much. Keep up the great work and, dammit, get The Damned ready for my Kindle, hear? I need to find out what Elena’s up to.

Okay, so that's the illustrious John Hundley who I now can't stop thinking about sitting in the buff, banging his head with a spirit stick LOL!

Anyway, head over to Goodreads and add his fabulous books to your TBR pile, I promise you won't regret it. Or, just go straight to Amazon and buy these fantastic books!

Have a good one,

Kristy :)

Book Review: Glass Houses by Rachel Caine

Glass Houses is the first book in the Morganville Vampires series, a fabulous introduction to this intriguing town filled with rabid vampires and bullying teens.
The town of Morganville is the black-hole of chilling alliances and underhanded deals. Regular blood donations act as town taxes and the local college students are fodder for the blue collar fang-bearers. Anyone who tries to leave finds their memories replaced by a fog of uncertainty and anyone who may remember even a hint of their existence in this shady town often find themselves, or their family, six feet under. 
When Claire Danvers comes to Morganville it's for advanced placement in the local college. Smart and seemingly persecuted for this quality, Claire finds herself the victim of brutal and unwarranted attacks. Pushed down stairs, beaten bloody and hosed down with acidic chemicals, it's understandable why she moves out of the dormitory and into the Glass House.
Claire doesn't realise that certain humans in the town are under vampiric protection, others offering their duplicitous services in exchange for immunity. No one in the Glass house is anything but genuine and honest. Though reluctant to aide a minor, they understand the dangers this town presents and are not nearly as surprised as they should have been when Claire draws unending trouble their way.
With endless bouts of bullying, vampiric intrigue and the final chapters dripping with enough mystery to sink a ship, I simply could not put the book down. Hesitant in my initial approach, I'm almost sorry I waited so long to read the start of this dynamite little series. With gently erupting romance, intense and gritty action teamed with a real, evolving story, and this well written novel is a winner. I happily rate Glass Houses four and half fangs out of five.
I will definitely be back for seconds!

Synopsis:
It’s a small college town filled with quirky characters. But when the sun goes down, the bad comes out. Because in Morganville, there is an evil that lurks in the darkest shadows—one that will spill out into the bright light of day.
Claire Danvers has had enough of her nightmarish dorm situation. The popular girls never let her forget just where she ranks on the school’s social scene: somewhere less than zero. And Claire really doesn’t have the right connections—to the undead who run the town.
When Claire heads off campus, the imposing old house where she finds a room may not be much better. Hew new roommates don’t show many signs of life. But they’ll have Claire’s back when the town’s deepest secrets come crawling out, hungry for fresh blood...