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

My Tenth Spell Caster is here! :)

My tenth Spell Caster! Woohoo!

Today it is my pleasure to welcome a new writer to my "Spells of Artistry" segment, Lyla Bardan. She writes YA and paranormal romance. Check it out HERE!

Kara :)

Cover Reveal on my Website!

Hi!

And Happy Belated Thanksgiving!

My what a busy holiday season it's turning out to be.

I am so excited to show you the cover of my new book, Stealing Sky, which is coming out next week. Yay!

Click on the picture or HERE to go to my website and see it. Let me know what you think! Thanks!

-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 :)

Ninth Installment of "Spells of Artistry"

My Ninth Spell Caster has been interviewed. On my website! Devin’s work is amazing, and her potential points toward legendary, I believe. I am so glad to have a moment to share her story and interview with you! Click on the picture or HERE to go to the interview! Yay!

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 :)