Books I like #14

Sparks by Susan Connell

Sparks by Susan Connell
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A fun detective romp...
This was an enjoyable, fast read. Detective Steve has to play psychic for a majority of this undercover stint, and he's probably the cutest psychic around AC--he's certainly not the most talented, especially when it comes to guessing Erin's secret. Love the chemistry between Erin and Steve. I even wish there had been more romping around, but maybe this isn't the last we see of them? ;) I hope...

Secondary characters Zoe, Nickie, Leon and even Nigel have their moments, and help to shape the main story and major dilemna: protecting two gals (one with a double life) while catching two thugs (one who happens to be a relative of both gals). I wouldn't say this story is a thriller or a mystery. The objectives and high stakes are pretty much straight forward. It's more of a detective romance: lots of wit, noir moments, a bit of bump and grind, and many sparks. Enjoyed it!

--G.P. (Kara via Gonilu Press)
I only post reviews on books I like. I found "Sparks" entertaining and enjoyable.

View all my reviews

The New Walking Dead Game or Why I Must Finish Editing ASAP!

Oh, the woes of a writer. How long have I promised myself that as soon as my edits were done I'd be rewarded with a week of nonstop gaming. Weeks go by, then months. Do I even remember how to use an XBox or PS3 controller? Will I get them mixed up again and run forward instead of hop backward?

But I have to finish. The Walking Dead Survival Instinct Game is out! What's even neater is that some of my former co-workers put their blood, sweat, and snot (they don't cry, mind you) into this game.

Here are some lovely pictures courtesy of the game's main website (links listed at the end of my over-excited gushing). These folks have done a fantasmagorastic job.

And this one...

Of course, this is just a taste to whet your appetite. Indeed. There are some scary shots that nearly made me wet my pants. Like a super dark set in a warehouse. Eeks!

To catch more of the action, and find out about cool features like Visceral Zombie Combat, Survival Tactics, Resource Management, and Survival Choices, and to see the trailers. Check out:

The Main Website: http://www.thewalkingdeadsurvivalinstinct.com/game-overview

Terminal Reality's Website: http://www.terminalreality.com/

Daryl. Crossbow. 'Nuff said...

-Kara xxooxx

Games I like #5

Okay! I've got more fun games to share. These are probably some of the most beautiful games I have played yet, and if you haven't checked out the Drawn series, well I say please do or I may have to set a dalek's plunger on you (Yes, I have just begun to accept Dr. Who into my life. What? Meh...I started out with Torchwood. Tough act to beat!). BTW, Drawn has absolutely nothing to do with Dr. Who really, that I know of but...

Oh well, just look at this picture...

And this one...

How about this one....

And though these are quite lovely--they ain't the half of it.  This is just a peek --not to spoil your gaming  appetites. Actually, I could probably show you the whole darn series here and you wouldn't be satiated--at least that is how I feel. The games are available on iPad, Windows and Mac. To learn more, check out Drawn's Website. 

This series was developed by Big Fish, in house. Check out the creatives -- Big Fish Team here.

Now I must note not everything is painted in shades of teal and orange. Every scene is a unique experience of puzzle solving. Perfect for the casual gamer who wants to experience something beautiful.
 --Kara xxooxx

Games I like #4

More to travel with...

Today I am highlighting a couple games I have and one on my wish list. These games were developed by Blue Tea Games and published by Big Fish. Namely, the Dark Parables Series. LOVE this group of games! Blue Tea has taken old fairy tales one step farther and created amazing 'point and click'ers, or in the case of the iPad--tappers. :)

Dark Parables: The Exiled Prince 

This picture comes from Blue Tea Games' website. Check out the site! If you like what you see, also 'Like' their FB Page. They update with some enchanting images.

The Exiled Prince is quite an adventure. In fact, from what I remember, it takes you all over the place. From a forest, to caves, to a city. The Prince has collected his beloved gals, and you are there to save the day. Sort of. I wasn't quite sure what the story line was (jet lag) but I remember wanting to get to the hotel so that I could continue playing. :)

Dark Parables: Curse of Briar Rose

Curse of Briar Rose is one of Blue Tea's older games that has finally come to iPad, but it does not disappoint. Eerie locations surround this Sleeping Beauty quest.

The next game is on my wish list becuase it hasn't reached iPad distribution yet. Bummer. But it is available for PC and Mac, if you're interested. ;)

Dark Parables: Rise of the Snow Queen

 Just Check out the image. Bright colors and paintings that tickle my fingers and eyes. Need I say more? (err... Maybe I've said too much.)

The only thing I wish is that all the Dark Parable games would get to iPad sooner. I hope they do. I am sure they will look amazing on the new iPad.  -Kara :)

Old Books on Kindle

From all corners of the world, authors are getting rights to their back lists and republishing old books as ebooks. Books that have been out of print for decades are finding new life in the digital age. All I can say is...hurray! 

Confession time: I am not one to typically reread books, especially those from my youth (sometimes they don't measure up to what I remember...) because I am a lazy reader. I experienced enough repetition practicing piano scales to last me a lifetime. And while I have no problem revisiting old sitcoms, movies, and comics a half-dozen or more times, I just don't crack open a book more than once. But the rekindling (forgive my pun, or don't...) of old memories, no longer at the expense of trees, if just fine by me. The first day I got my iPad, I downloaded all those old public domain books, from Mark Twain's works to Edgar Rice Burroughs's Barsoomian adventures (yay!) to the Meditations of Emperor of Rome Marcus Aurelius (I lost scalp scratching my head over that one). In regards to the latter, I still don't know if it was intentionally written in riddles or fell victim to a case of bad formatting...

There are some books I missed the first time around, and others that I am sure a new generation of readers would appreciate. So far, a few that I might actually enjoy rereading have not reappeared. 

Wishing for these in ebook format...

The Quest of the Riddle-Master Trilogy by Patricia A. McKillip

The Riddle-Master of Hed

Heir of Sea and Fire

Harpist in the Wind

This is a trilogy that stuck with me over the years. It had a profound effect on me and I remember thinking about the characters and their struggles for month afterward. I would love to revisit it, yet so far, I have only been able to acquire the second book, Heir of Sea and Fire.

Saturday, the Twelfth of October by Norma Fox Mazer

I read this story in grade school and I remember feeling transported to a past civilization right along with the main character, Zan. The book impressed me. Apparently, I'm not the only one who appreciated it, as the hardcover goes for $399. 

Do you have any books you would like to find again as ebooks? Please share. :)

-Kara

Games I Like #3

More games I like for traveling...

Today I am highlighting the Awakening series developed by Boom Zap and published by Big Fish. Easily, these are some of the most beautiful adventure games on iPad. They contain mini games, puzzles, and intriguing story lines. The games follow the adventures of Sophia as she tries to unravel the mystery of her identity, her family, and her purpose in the world. I never tired of these, and keep them on my iPad to replay them for their aesthetics. They are also available for PC and Mac.

Awakening: The Dreamless Castle -- Sophia awakes to find herself alone in a beautiful room fit for a princess. She doesn't remember much. She must find her way through the castle.  Luckily she has a helpful fairy to give her hints. Luxurious scenes, puzzles, and hidden objects.

Awakening: Moonfell Wood -- Beyond the castle, Sophia must find her way through Moonfell Wood. The forest holds even more wonders...

Awakening: The Goblin Kingdom -- We've enjoyed a fancy castle and a luscious forest. Now Sophia embarks upon an adventure into the cold, icy mountain range of the Goblin Kingdom. Gorgeous scenes await!





I just love these stories. I hope you do, too!
-Kara :)

Games I Like #2

Fun on the Kindle...

Today I've chosen hidden object games by DifferenceGames LLC. that work well on the kindle and nook.  Pretty music, gorgeous pictures, and pretty difficult-to-find objects highlight these three by  Phatpuppy.

Hidden Memory - Dreaming with Fairies. This was the first of Phatpuppy's games that I tried. I knew the art would be tops because she's done several book covers for my alter ego. The music is sweet, and the hidden objects are challenging. This is a gal who knows her colors! I chose Normal Mode (timed) and Display Object (rather than the word). These objects are tricky to find--squint worthy in many cases. But I enjoyed the challenge and the music as I searched. I think it was more challenging because I couldn't get my kindle to zoom in like I can with an iPad, typically. Guess I gotta figure out that maneuver on the kindle yet. Lol.

Hidden Object - Once Upon A Time. Phatpuppy gives the warning that some images might be too scary for young children. These are beautiful image manipulations that tell the fairy tales' darker sides. Since fairy takes are suppose to be scary--that's awesome in my book.

Hidden Object - Creatures Great and Small. I love this Hidden Object episode. There are so many beautiful pictures, I wished to be fast enough in the Bonus rounds just to remove all the objects. I wanted to see the final pictures clear of coat hangers and other odds and ends. I am especially particular to this game because (spoiler) a slight variation to my alter ego's book cover (A.H. De Carrasco's Teller of Destiny Series: Peasant Princess) is in the game! How fun is that?! Guess which one. Of course, You'll have to wait a little bit longer before the book is out. In the meantime, enjoy I guess. Hah!  :)

Now here's an even better scoop. I discovered that some pictures from the games are available in print. When the Phatpuppy option in the Main Menu is present, you can click on it and it will take you to them. Gorgeous.

Each game that comes out is better than the last. I look forward to seeing future hidden object games by DifferenceGames LLC. and Phatpuppy. 

-Kara xoxoxo

Books I Like #12

Since so many of my friends have young children, I'm highlighting some enjoyable children's books again! I especially like reviewing children's books because the artwork is always so amazing. These two are some of the cutest!

The Six Pirates by Lily Lexington. This books has everything a parent could ask for in a story: fun rhyming poetry, clean and crisp illustrations, and a nice story. I think this book will be wonderful for parents who like to read with their children.  It has great opportunities to ask them questions and to practice identification with words, colors, and objects. Not to mention, it also affords them an opportunity to discuss good and bad behaviors. Love the parrot.

Kevin and the Seven Lions by Martin Tiller. Illustrated by Carla Tracy. Martin Tiller has won a special place in my heart for creating this book. What writer or artist wouldn't have adored a teacher like Kevin's? Carla Tracy illustrates Kevin's daydreams superbly. I really like her style.

Check them out! 

-Kara :)

Games I Like

Games I Like  #01 --- While Traveling...

I love all kinds of games (RPG, first person shooters, co-op,  puzzles, adventure...you name it--it's all good to me! Old and new. Since I've spent too much time travelling lately, I've turned to games I can play on my iPad, like Midnight Mysteries by developer Mumbo Jumbo. Adventure games published by Big Fish have got me hooked once more, I'll admit it. It's fun to pass the time in flight with a 'point and click'er. Nothing beats it, this side of an alcoholic haze, to drown out the passenger snoring and to make the time fly by. ;)


MUMBOJUMBO MOBILE, LLC

I discovered MumboJumbo while I was sick in bed for a few days. I enjoyed the Midnight Mysteries episode Salem Witch Trials so much, that I've always kept an eye out for anything new from them. Ghosts of famous writers stop by for a visit and pull you from your den's cozy fireplace. They send you on quests to solve mysteries. Just my kind of adventure! I loved playing these on my iPad, but now they are available for the kindle as well.


In The Salem Witch Trials you'll team up with Nathaniel Hawthorne to solve the writer's death. Visits from the victims of Salem, a fun romp through the cemetery to scavenge for clues and many hidden object and puzzles await you. Just the thing to spend some relaxing time while sharpening your brain!

In Devil on the Mississippi, Mark Twain's ghost comes to visit you and steals you away to a spooky river boat filled with apparitions and puzzles, and scenes from the past. You'll travel to many locations in search of Shakespeare's true identity!





Let me know what you think of them. Like I said, I used the iPad version, which was great for zooming in on the objects. Many of Big Fish's games are available for PC, Mac and Kindle, as well! Enjoy!

-Kara xoxoxo

Romance Website Is Up!

My new website "Dey For Love" (deyforlove.com) is officially LIVE. Happy dancing feet. I wanted to dedicate a website to Romance books and authors, and I'm definitely looking forward to presenting the many Romance sub-genres on this new site.

As always, I only review the books that I like and I have three up already, plus an announcement for a new book on the market that sounds like fun! Check them out! Authors be sure to check out the Author's Guide Link on the right if you are interested in placing a book blurb or interview. The best news is right now blurbs are FREE!

Hope you enjoy it! And stop back if you like what you see! :)

-Kara

Books I Like #11

Today we are checking out two cute books for kids!

Samantha Loses the Box Turtle

Samantha Loses the Box Turtle by Daisy Griffin. From Daisy Griffin's website: "The Samantha Series of Children's Illustrated Chapter Books are written by Daisy Griffin and Illustrated by Matthew Gauvin. The books are a fun way for children to get to know more about animals while following eight year old Samantha's story."

I've reviewed this book and enjoyed it! I found it cute and educational for kids. What a fun read. And I especially liked the extra facts about turtles--everything I'd wanted to know about them since I was a kid, reading those "Fudge" books by Judy Blume. Parents will find educational questions in the back, for discussion.




Nimpentoad

Nimpentoad -- Story by Henry, Josh, and Harrison Herz, Art by Sean Eddingfield and Bill Maus.

The Niblings are a group of forest creatures who are slight of build. They've been bullied for a very long time, suffering under the cruelty of Goblins and other meanies. Can the Niblings find a safe haven with a giant?

Beautiful artwork and a compelling story. Really, these art pieces drew me in. What a wonderful interpretation of a story that tackles bullying and stresses perseverance  I especially like the note to parents at the back, which talks about positive lessons like teamwork, creativity and manners. Nice!

Check them out!

-Kara :)

Books I Like #10

HUSHED

Hushed by Kelley York. This book might not be for everyone. There is moral ambiguity in this piece, but I found the characters compelling. I understood where they were coming from, even though their actions were often rash and impulsive.

The characters got under my skin and I found myself reflecting back on their decisions days afterward. Not a light romp but worth the read, especially if you like to ponder over poor decisions and angst. It's on my Like List.




REAPER

Reaper (The Riser Saga) by Becca C. Smith. This story takes over where the first left off, and the pace does not slow for one moment, in my humble opinion. I learned more about the character's motivations and backgrounds, how and why they ticked (which is the most compelling thing for me as a reader, right next to character interaction).

Gotta give street cred to an author who makes us empathetic even toward the most deranged characters. Does not disappoint.

Check them out!

-Kara :)

Books I Like #9

ON PAR WITH A FAIRY

On Par with a Fairy  by Lyla Bardan 

Really cute love story. Pleasant, innocent. A breath of fresh air. For more details check out my interview of the author, Lyla Bardan on my website. Or click HERE.








RISER

 Riser (Riser Saga) by Becca C. Smith 

Necromancy was never more interesting than in this story. Becca C. Smith has created a believable world where zombies walk among us, animated by a few people with special powers. The main character Chelsan happens to be one of those with the gift.

This book gripped me with its opening line and never let up. And when it was over, I immediately bought the next. On the top list of my favorites. Highly recommended.

Check them out!

-Kara

Books I Like #8

APOCALYPSIS: BOOK 1 (KAHAYATLE)

Apocalypsis: Book 1 (Kahayatle) by Elle Casey-- A Canner? What (or Who) is that? A hungry young person you do NOT want to mess with. In fact, Bryn, the heroine of Apocalypsis, does everything in her power to avoid these bloodthirsty nasties, but she comes to their attention while helping out a young kid named Peter. A journey to safer land ensues, riddled with challenges, heartache, friendship and hope. Her group grows bigger and so does our bond with it. These characters are sympathetic and funny. Again, this was one I could not put down. Loved it.

PARIS BRATS

Paris Brats y Gwen Ellery--The heroine of Paris Brats is Fern, a rather well-off girl living in Paris with her friends. But will Fern's trust in others, including her family, leave her destitute? Fern's heart is golden. I just love this gal: quirky, spunky, and resourceful. And each friend or family member brings unique charm, adding to some great scenes. 

Need a light-hearted laugh? Gwen Ellery delivers.

Check them out!

-Kara

Books I Like #7

THE TRIAL OF TOMPA LEE

The Trial of Tompa Lee by Edward Hoornaert. This story gripped me within the first chapter and did not let go until I read the last page. Correction, it still has a hold on me. Hoornaert is an ambitious storyteller and world creator. No word is wasted as he fleshes out his characters, makes the reader care about them, and describes a place with unique customs and brutal justice. Truth and honor reside in the victor, however manipulative and savage. The story kept me on the edge of my seat, invested in the outcome. Would the innocent win against the mighty masses? And at what cost to the victor?





FROST ARCH

Frost Arch by Kate Bloomfield. The first book of Bloomfield's Fire Mage Trilogy takes us on Avalon Redding's exciting journey. A Fire Mage, Avalon runs away from home to Frost Arch, where she hopes to begin a new life and keep her family and its secrets safe. But placing distance between her past and her new life leaves her vulnerable to people who care more about class status than fairness. Frost Arch's lower magic-level inhabitants are treated like peasants, and Humans are treated even worse.

Bloomfield not only clearly explains a complicated magic system, but also adds extra details and symbolism that I noticed on second reading. For example: What would a tree, mentioned at the very beginning of the story, have in common with an animal Avalon adores? Read and find out. One note: some missing words and a Track Changes strike-through, which shows up near the end, might be distracting for some readers, but I believe these appeared as a result of formatting from AU to USA Kindle. Don't let these stop you. The story is wonderful. I loved it and can't wait to start on the next in the series.

A prequel, Raeven Blacklock, is available on her website and scribd.


THE INCREDIBLE ESCAPE OF THE SLY LITTLE FOX

The Incredible Escape of the Sly Little Fox by Lily Lexington. What a name! And what a cute children's story to go with it. Bright pictures and rhyming poetry will entertain your toddler for many years, and teach a nice lesson, too.  Recommended with a smile!







-Kara :)

Books I Like #6

TROLL OR DERBY by Red Tash

Troll or Derby by Red Tash. I love the author's voice in this story. A fun read, with real imagination and fast, witty dialogue. The book is written from the points of view of Roller Deb and Harlow on their first adventure: to save Deb's sister.

THE DISGUSTING CHILD by Christine McMahon

The Disgusting Child by Christine McMahon. Trapped in her parents' mansion,  Lydia is compelled by a strong wish to please her parents, but it seems nothing she does is good enough for Mother and Father.  As she repairs the strange house and comes across magic books and secret spaces, Lydia realizes the small, stormy world she is forced to live in isn't exactly what it appears to be. Jacket Art by Tim Mallos. 

I thoroughly enjoyed this tale. In fact, I read it in one sitting. Couldn't leave it. McMahon took me to a world of geckos and kittens, within enchanted rooms of revelation and danger. Her descriptions are beautifully crafted. I rooted for Lydia, at every challenge.  

MONSTER SOUP COMIC a series by Devin Blake

Last but not least--this noteworthy web-comic! While looking over a Spell Caster's drawing contest,  I came across Monster Soup, a comic by Devin Blake. The artwork is beautiful with clean, elegant lines. The story engages the reader right away. Funny characters, each with his/her own troubled past and agenda. Some language and adult content. Check it out!

-Kara :)

Books I Like #5

The perks of being a wallflower (Stephen Chbosky) -- Perhaps Charlie is one of the most loveable characters I have ever encountered in my reading. He feels geniune. Each mental hurtle he jumps and painful discovery he overcomes strengthens the bond between character and reader. Some sentences are packed with so much intent, I found it best to just set the book aside for a minute and mull them over. Having grown up around the time of this book, I was visiting an old haunt and looking back with better understanding. I am pretty sure there was a Charlie in my high school, and I wish I'd befriended him. High school would have had more meaning, immediately.

Catching Fire (Suzanne Collins) -- Gripping sequel to Hunger Games. Doesn't have the typical sag found in so many trilogies' middle books. By taking time to flesh out characters and introduce us to new ones, Collins has built an excellent bridge to her trilogy's dynamic, emotion-packed  conclusion.

On Dublin Street (Samantha Young) -- Okay this story is HOT. For adults ONLY. If you like steamy scenes and thoughtfully crafted plots that focus on relationships and sex, this is the ticket. Young takes extra time (and pages) to bring us along on Joss's journey, her path back to life after surviving tragedy. The fear, to let someone in, is a primary focus. I liked it and appreciated the patient development of characters--something that is sometimes lacking in the hotter books. Beautiful cover.

Books I Like

Today, I'm pointing out a few YA books I enjoyed reading recently. One is now a major motion picture. The next is a wonderful adventure that I would love to see on the big screen some day. After that is a great new twist on an old fairy-tale.  And the last is a blast from the past (2004) which I love for its wit and memorable characters.  I highly recommend these:

I know. I know. I am late. Everyone is talking about The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins.  I learned about this series at our annual Halloween party, two years ago. Many kids were dressed as Hogwarts but, in between magic wand fights, they talked excitedly about a character called Katniss and a book called The Hunger Games. They highly recommended it, and after finally reading it, so do I. Even if you see the movie, read the book! I loved it.

Note: For the more mature audience,  Battle Royale is both a manga and movie. Or so I have heard, but again--sigh--I am a bit behind and haven't seen those yet!

Above World by Jenn Reese is one of the best YA books I have read in the past year. I cannot recommend it more highly. Taking place sometime in the future, this story is about Aluna, a young girl whose people (the Kampii) have adapted to living underwater, in the sea. When Aluna and her best friend Hoku discover the Kampii's breathing devices are failing, they set out on a courageous quest to find a solution and save their families. They must journey to Above World. The worlds within the story are delightful in detail; the characters, lovable. It is a rare gift for the reader when an author takes the time to create such depth within her worlds. It's much appreciated!  Usually, I can guess an ending to a book a chapter in, but this story was so original, I was pleasantly surprised at every turn. I eagerly await the next book and recommend it to many friends, young and 'less' young!

Marissa Meyer delivers. Without a doubt. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. A great variation on the old fairy tale, Cinderella. Cinder is a cyborg. She's a strong, lovable character who faces a tough world with her street smarts and resourceful optimism. It's a world that spares little sympathy for her, but I had plenty of empathy to make up for that. By the end I was reading on the edge of my seat. I still am. Loved this book. Couldn't put it down.

Okay, this is one fun book. Its title says it all, and I can't really add to that. I enjoyed Hunter and Jen's adventure in So Yesterday by Scott Westerfeld and I think you will enjoy it, too.

Published eight years ago, this book is still relevant and, remarkably, very few elements feel dated. The story is a funny social commentary camouflaged within a twisting plot and hidden between some bright, clever characters skating above a 'ticking time bomb' pace.




-Kara

Lookey Likey --- Books, books, books...#3

I am not a speed reader, but I savor the books that keep my attention. Here's the latest list of books (some old, others new) that I enjoyed:

The Down Home Zombie Blues  by Linnea Sinclair
Fun premise. Engaging. Downloaded two more books of Sinclair's to my iPad. Enough said!

Spider Bones by Kathy Reichs
I love puzzle-solving, forensic thrillers, just didn't realize how much until I read this enjoyable book.

Naked in Death  by J.D. Robb
I know, I know, I'm a late comer to this series, but I'm hooked now.

Second Chance Dad  by Pamela Stone
Clever. And funny. A real treat.

Second Chance Ranch  by Leann Harris
Wholesome story about spiritually-inspired love's ability to help us overcome and heal.

The Truth About Vampires by Theresa Meyers
Yummy.

Flight: Volume Two  Edited by Kazu Kibuishi
Talk about savoring. Started this series from the beginning over the summer. Everything to love about these flights of fancy and gorgeous art. Timeless.
* Kazu Kibuishi's  Amulet graphic novel  series is on my wish list.

Lookey Likey --- Books, books, books...#2

Some books I recently read and liked: 

Assassin's Heart --- by Monica Burns

There is at least one book before this one, yet it stands up just fine on its own. I really enjoyed this story. The characters are compelling and I care about them. Now, I'll have to read the first book in the series--and gladly so.

The Prince of Val-Feyridge --- by Helen Johannes

I'm not the kind of reader to return to a book and reread passages, but with this book I did just that. I LOVE this story. I thought about it for days afterward. 

On Writing --- Stephen King

Sound examples, straightforward advice and encouraging words.   

The Pirate Primer --- George Choundas 

This must have been a labor of love, and it shows. Everything you might want to know about pirate-talk. I've used this for reference on my sexy space pirate project and probably will again! Nouns, adjectives, curses, ship terms, pronunciations, you name it. My favorite part is the large selection of impressive threats. Check it out!