Category: reviews

Misadventure Memoirs Book Three: The Ties That Blind by Al E. Boy and F. Carod Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

As the hunt to find a missing friend wages on for the Hernandez family, the final few individuals who took part in the criminal syndicate’s sick crimes hunt for the device that still holds their darkest secrets in author Al E. Boy and F. Carod’s “Misadventure Memoirs Book Three: The Ties That Blind”.

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The Synopsis

The Tie That Blinds, the exciting, suspenseful third installment of Misadventures Memoirs, takes up where The Tiger’s Tears left off. Though not a trace of Dale Mathis has been found since the Learjet he was on crashed into the sea, Sofia Hernández and her family haven’t given up hope he is alive and will be found.

Many notable figures are on the run because of the information the tiger USB revealed. Former cohorts of the evil, sadistic Senator Rafael Medina are desperately fleeing not only the long arm of the law, but also the country’s criminal element who have suffered greatly because of their ill-advised vendetta against Chief Ricardo and the Hernández family. Yet, while most have wisely abandoned this vengeful undertaking, a handful of determined characters seem hell-bent on finishing the job.

Surprisingly, the tiger USB did not disclose all of its secrets. Still hidden within is vital information with the potential to easily destroy individuals far more important than the Senator ever was. For those most threatened by its secrets, time is running out to locate the troublesome device before their world of evil comes crashing down. 

The Review

A truly gripping and engaging final chapter in the author’s harrowing action and horror-thriller series. The story does a great job of building upon the suspense and mystery of the last book’s ending. From the fate of Mathis to the state of his relationship with Sofia and their role in the ongoing threads being pulled were all very personal and intimate storytelling at his best, while the action and thrilling moments of organized crime violence and the horrors that occur within them added the creepy and harrowing stakes that this narrative needed.

What stood out was both the way the authors were able to wrap up the narrative and how the new cast of characters really added to the overall story being told. As the final threads of this disturbing crime syndicate being to unravel, the new players are introduced to add new depths of violence and rage to the dangers presented to the protagonists, while the climactic final chapters leave readers hanging on the author’s every word as the dangers to become overwhelming and the losses begin to pile up one on top of the other.

The Verdict

Shocking, action-packed, and brilliantly written, authors Al E. Boy and F. Carod’s “Misadventure Memoirs Book Three: The Ties That Blinds” is a must-read novel and a great conclusion to a captivating action and horror-thriller series! The high stakes of the narrative as lives continue to be put at risk, new criminals emerge, and the story’s heroes must navigate treacherous waters both in the world around them and in their complex relationships made this story shine, and the epic conclusion will have readers thrilled to have stuck with this series from the get-go. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Through almost 40 years as a Santa Claus, Al E. Boy developed quite a repertoire of tales to explain and answer the many questions children ask about Santa, the North Pole, his reindeer, and his friends, the elves.

It was this collection of tales which prompted him to begin writing The Adventures of Fawn. Through the young daughter of legendary reindeer Comet and Vixen, he’s been able to weave an exciting, colorful, imaginative world which will delight readers of all ages!

Mr. Boy not only hopes you enjoy these tales, but make reading them part of your Christmas traditions, as well.

https://aleboysnowflake.wixsite.com/fawn

Misadventure Memoirs Book Two: The Tiger’s Tears by Al E. Boy and F. Carod Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

The scattered remnants of a disturbed man’s criminal ring turns their sights on the people responsible for his demise in authors Al E. Boy and F. Carod’s “Misadventure Memoirs Book Two: The Tiger’s Tears”. 

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The Synopsis

Misadventures Memoirs’ second installment, The Tiger’s Tears, finds Sofia Hernández and her friend Dale Mathis in Guadalajara, building new lives and new homes with the generous rewards they were given by Tiara Tillman. The dangers and uncertainties of Cancun seem far away. But trouble is brewing. The aggressive nationwide investigations into Martin Tillman’s network of deviants, rapists, and murders results in many old homicide cases being re-opened and re-examined. Not a few careers and lives are ruined in the process. Before the long arm of the law can reach them, very powerful people deem it necessary to seek retribution and revenge on those they hold responsible for Tillman’s death, and the unraveling of their web of evil. Sofia, Mathis, and her family suddenly find themselves the target of the remnants of Tillman’s blackhearted, vengeful gang of miscreants. 

The Review

The authors really elevate the action and tension in this novel. Building upon the horrors and chills of the first book, the author does a great job of balancing the terrifying criminals hunting down the main cast of characters with an abundance of action and suspense that evoked a sense of cinematic imagery in the author’s writing. The character growth was great in this book and did a wonderful job of naturally developing the bonds and relationships the protagonists had with the rest of the cast of characters, both allies and foes alike. 

Yet what really stands out about this book and the whole series from these authors is the tension and atmosphere that they build. The reality of this narrative and how twisted criminal networks like this can, have and will operate around the world is a truly chilling thought, and the author’s ability to dive into this mentality while also providing an entertaining read was nothing short of masterful storytelling.

The Verdict

Haunting, adrenaline-fueled, and engaging, authors Al E. Boy and F. Carod’s “Misadventure Memoirs: The Tiger’s Tears” is a must-read book and a great sequel to one terrifying first adult thriller. With a cliffhanger ending that leaves one character’s fate up in the air and a shocking series of twists and turns that test the protagonists’ resolve time and again, the creepy murders and terrors that arise out of reality make this a gripping criminal thriller to behold. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Through almost 40 years as a Santa Claus, Al E. Boy developed quite a repertoire of tales to explain and answer the many questions children ask about Santa, the North Pole, his reindeer, and his friends, the elves.

It was this collection of tales which prompted him to begin writing The Adventures of Fawn. Through the young daughter of legendary reindeer Comet and Vixen, he’s been able to weave an exciting, colorful, imaginative world which will delight readers of all ages!

Mr. Boy not only hopes you enjoy these tales, but make reading them part of your Christmas traditions, as well.

https://aleboysnowflake.wixsite.com/fawn

Misadventure Memoirs Book One: Little Girl Scream by Al E. Boy and F. Carod Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

The young woman running her family’s best hotel finds herself immersed in police investigations as a series of deaths and murders hits the hotel, and with the help of an English professor she must thwart the sinister forces behind these crimes before its too late in the authors F. Carod and Al E. Boy’s “Misadventure Memoirs Book One: Little Girl Scream”.

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The Synopsis

Absolutely nothing can compare to the Hotel Amatista, Cancun’s premier luxury resort. The jewel in her family’s chain of 5 star hotels, Sofia Hernández is in charge, and the young woman takes great pride when she hears guests remark the hotel makes them feel like they’ve died and gone to heaven. Unfortunately, that’s exactly what’s been happening lately, Young guests vanish, only to turn up the next day…abused, tortured…and dead. Sofia suddenly has her hands full dealing with police investigations, trying to ease her guests’ fears, and doing her best to save the Amatista’s reputation. And, with no way of knowing if the sadistic culprit is a hotel employee or a guest, stopping the killings will be no easy task. With the help of Dale Mathis, a visiting English professor, she is able to thwart further abductions and murders, but her interference draw the ire of the sinister mastermind who decides Sofia must pay for her boldness. To make matters even worse, her new friend becomes the number one suspect of the Cancun police.

The Review

The author really did an incredible job of creating a captivating and creepy murder mystery and thriller. For personal context, my first introduction to Al E. Boy was through a children’s Christmas series of books, and so when I got this request to review his new adult thriller series, I was shocked. The chilling cover of the book immediately put me in a creepy vibes type of mood when starting the read, and the chilling opening chapter set the tone for this thriller.

I loved the balance the author found between the more disturbing and shocking horror/serial killer moments of this thriller with the more personal and heartfelt character development, especially between Sofia and Dale, whose friendship develops into something truly inspiring by the book’s end. The mystery is well developed over time and the detailed descriptions brought about a haunting imagery to the writing that will instantly draw horror fans into this thriller.

The Verdict

Gripping, mind-blowing, and entertaining, author Al E. Boy and F. Carod’s “Misadventures Memoirs: Little Girl Scream” is a must-read action/horror thriller and the perfect start to a captivating series. The imagery and haunting tone of the narrative, along with a brilliant narrative that twisted and turned with shocking developments that readers wouldn’t see coming, made for a story that is not to be missed.  Be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Through almost 40 years as a Santa Claus, Al E. Boy developed quite a repertoire of tales to explain and answer the many questions children ask about Santa, the North Pole, his reindeer, and his friends, the elves.

It was this collection of tales which prompted him to begin writing The Adventures of Fawn. Through the young daughter of legendary reindeer Comet and Vixen, he’s been able to weave an exciting, colorful, imaginative world which will delight readers of all ages!

Mr. Boy not only hopes you enjoy these tales, but make reading them part of your Christmas traditions, as well.

https://aleboysnowflake.wixsite.com/fawn

Dagmar of the Northlands (Gortah van Murkar Book 2) by John C. Adams Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

A new heroine arises in the north as the stepdaughter of the Northland’s Jarl is slain, and his killer, her half-brother, takes his place, leading an attack on the kingdom of Gortah while he seeks to rekindle his relationship with his Queen Dextra of Aspatria after a year apart in the epic fantasy, “Dagmar of the Northlands”, the second book in the Gortah van Murkar series from author John C. Adams. 

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The Synopsis

From Albedo One Magazine Contributing Editor and double Aeon Award Longlister John C Adams comes a delightful fantasy romance featuring brand new heroine Dagmar Strongarm of the Northlands in the thrilling sequel to Aspatria.

Dagmar of the Northlands is edited by professional editor E S Wynn-Rubsam and features a powerfully evocative cover from Fiona Jayde Media.

When her stepfather Konung Thorlak of the Northlands dies, the jarls rally round Dagmar’s half brother Njal and make him their new ruler. Dagmar is disturbed by their ability to do so, when Thorlak fell at Njal’s own hand.

The new konung orders a raid on Gortah van Murkar’s island territory of Orkna to deflect attention from criticism of his rise to power and his treatment of his sister Yeen. Dagmar puts her yearning for romance with close friend Frakkok Warmhearth to one side long enough to join the raiding party, but her sister Ragnhild’s pregnancy from their mysterious house guest Jon, rumoured to be the human form of the Northlands’ Sea God Grunn, is also weighing heavily on her mind. Dagmar’s thoughts often drift back to her homestead, Barnahus, the aptly named House of the Women.

It isn’t long before Njal is proving himself unfit to lead, and the Men of the North are running amok. Dagmar and her cousin Magnus Broadchest step up, leading the raid on the crofters of Orkna to plunder whatever pitiful treasure the islanders have hidden away. They also do their best to rally the Men of the North’s allies to attack the island’s capital, the towering stronghold of Castle Longhope, before Gortah can get wind of their arrival and send reinforcements to hold this distant outpost of his massive empire.

Dagmar longs to return home and begin a relationship with Frakkok and to ensure that Ragnhild comes safely through the birth of her son. First, she must stiffen the resolve of the Men of the North to fight as a disciplined band within the coalition of forces the Gods have amassed to assist the Northlanders in taking Castle Longhope. With Magnus injured in the earlier raid, and his wound festering, returning home to Barnahus seems further away than ever for Dagmar.

Meanwhile, in his opulent capital Zwaarstad, Gortah awaits the return of his wife Queen Dextra of Aspatria and her much younger other husband Lord Ludwig Berg. The king and queen have been apart for a year following the death of Dextra’s baby son, Crown Prince Aelred of Aspatria, but Gortah has formally demanded her attendance at his fiftieth birthday celebrations, amid continuing speculation in Murkar and Aspatria about the stability of the royal marriage.

Just as Gortah hopes to celebrate Dextra’s return in peace, the Eirans gather an immense warhost and ride for the border with South Eira, Gortah’s possession across the Silent Sea. The commander at Fort Belshan sends urgent word that reinforcements are needed, and Gortah’s youngest son Prince Eugene leads those forces into battle. However, Eugene’s thoughts are clouded on and off the battlefield by tempting visions of the King of Eira’s youngest daughter, Princess Emer o’Eira.

Is the delightful and playful spirit who visits Eugene in the night hours at Belshan a true likeness of Emer in beauty and good nature? Eugene becomes more determined than ever to meet the princess in person and find out. But Emer’s father Domhnall o’Eira is determined that any match with the Murkan prince will be with his eldest daughter, Briana, even if it means breaking her betrothal to childhood sweetheart Chieftain Jarlath o’Cruach.

The return of Benedict Dartelend gives Gortah the thrill of seeing his old lover again after thirty years, but it is tinged with sadness and regret that Benedict has come home to Murkar after decades of ill health to say goodbye. 

The Review

Author John C. Adams has outdone themselves with this truly incredible novel. The author managed to capture the magic and intensity of the epic fantasy genre that fans of Game of Thrones have come to know. The narrative felt like equal parts Game of Thrones and equal parts The Last Kingdom, infusing some Viking-esque story elements and settings that made the world the author created in book one so much larger. The balance struck between the fantasy action found in the grand battles and invasions amongst the kingdoms with the conflicts in politics and how each kingdom differs in its practices and means of ruling made this story so engaging.

The character growth was phenomenal to read. The author was able to create equal parts of new characters and heroes to root for such as Dagmar herself with existing characters like Gortah and Dextra. The romance element of the narrative took these characters in so many different directions, from the LGBTQ romance looked at through Dagmar and Frakkak to the existing marriage of Dextra to both Gortah and the younger and more vile Ludwig was so interesting and heartfelt (and heart-wrenching). The twists and turns in these relationships were only elevated by the growing conflicts within their respective kingdoms.

The Verdict

Larger than life, haunting, and truly entertaining, author John C. Adams’s “Dagmar of the Northlands” is a must-read epic fantasy novel! The author’s ability to world-build and craft powerful and meaningful characters that fuel some truly grand storylines is truly staggering to behold, and this is one epic fantasy series that readers do not want to miss out on if they are missing their epic fantasy fix. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

I’m a non-binary proofreader, editor, reviewer and author.

You can find out more about my proofreading and editing services here:

https://www.johncadamsreviews.com/about

I review for the British Fantasy Society as well as placing reviews and articles across a wide range of blogs and magazines.

I have a Postgraduate Certificate in Creative Writing from Newcastle University.

You can subscribe to my blog here: https://www.johncadamsreviews.com/

My horror novel, ‘Souls for the Master’, my fantasy romance novel ‘Aspatria’ and my fantasy and horror anthology ‘The Red Dawn and Other Stories’ are all free on Smashwords retailers. ‘Dagmar of the Northlands’, the sequel to ‘Aspatria’, and ‘Blackacre Rising’, the sequel to ‘Souls for the Master’ are also available from Smashwords retailers.

Although I write mostly long fiction, since 2015 I have had stories published in anthologies from Horrified Press, Lycan Valley Press, Fantasia Divinity and Jersey Pines Ink. My short stories have also been published in the Horror Zine, Swords & Sorcery, Sirens Call, Blood Moon Rising, Lovecraftiana and various other magazines.

Every emerging writer needs plenty of encouragement right at the start, and entering lots of competitions early on made a real difference to my confidence to press on with writing longer fiction and think about submitting short fiction to magazines and anthologies in due course. In 2012, I was longlisted for the International Aeon Award Short Fiction Contest for ‘The Visitors’ and again in 2013 for ‘We Can Finish Your Baby’s Brain For You’. My writing was also recognised by the Enrico Charles Literary Award (runner up in 2012) and by the University of Winchester Writers’ Conference in both 2012 and 2013, including a Commendation in the First Three Pages of a Novel category, and other nominations in poetry and short fiction.

I read PPE at Somerville College, and I am a non-practising solicitor. I live in rural Northumberland, UK, and I combine my career as an reviewer and critic with raising my kids and caring for a severely disabled relative. I’m always busy!

https://www.johncadamsreviews.com/

https://twitter.com/johncadamssf

smashwords.com/books/view/944686

Wings of Prey (The Gift Legacy Book 6) by J.P. McLean Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviews1 Comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

A woman must put everything on the line when the mystery of her father’s disappearance finally takes center stage in author J.P. McLean’s “Wings of Prey”, the sixth book in The Gift Legacy series.

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The Synopsis

A dead man’s warning. A lost plane wreck. A buried truth.

A dire warning from beyond the grave leaves Emelynn Taylor questioning her loyalties. Did someone she loves commit an unforgivable act of treachery? In her quest for answers, Emelynn opens a painful cold case knowing its resolution could destroy two families.

What she finds tests Emelynn’s integrity as the leadership changes hands within the Tribunal Novem, the powerful body that rules her kind. When confronted with betrayal and lies, Emelynn must follow her moral compass, even if it means losing the man she loves and alienating her Flier friends.

And when the terrible truth is unearthed, Emelynn is set on a collision course with two titans and a battle she can’t possibly win.

The sixth book in The Gift Legacy series, Wings of Prey is a thriller that skirts the edges of reality in a world within our own. Hold on tight and escape the ordinary: take flight with Emelynn Taylor.

The Review

Having followed this series for a few months now, I have been so curious to see how the author would finally address the main character’s backstory with her father’s mysterious plane crash. After several books dealing with the politics of the secret society of Fliers, and the human organization that discovered their identity, it was so refreshing to see the author bring a more personal narrative to balance out the politics and conspiracy that the main character has been facing for so long. It felt like a very “full-circle” moment in the series, and the shocking twists and turns the narrative takes will put everyone Emelynn has come into contact within the hot seat. 

The intense personal journey that Emelynn goes on really stands out to me as a reader. The passion and emotions that she goes through s friendships, relationships, and love interests all come into play in this investigation, and learning the truth behind her father’s disappearance will blow open this entire series. The tension and atmosphere are so well executed as a result of this, and the action feels much more intense and important as each revelation is made.

The Verdict

Harrowing, gripping, and heart-pounding thriller meet fantasy, author J.P. McLean’s “Wings of Prey” is a must-read novel! While the author has crafted a truly brilliant world that fans would love to see visited time and time again, the narrative told here was so perfectly told that if need be this would serve as a great series ending. The twists and turns in this truly personal tale of seeking the truth and the delicate balance between revenge and justice made this one story no one will be able to put down. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

JP (Jo-Anne) McLean writes contemporary fantasy thrillers with a provocative edge. She is best known for The Gift Legacy series. The first book of the series received Honorable Mention at the WhistlerIndependent Book Awards. Reviewers call the series addictive, smart and fun.

Her books include endorsements from Ethel Wilson fiction prize winner, Jennifer Manuel, and Globe and Mail bestselling author,Elinor Florence, among others. The series has been described as fantasy light and is a good introduction to the genre for the uninitiated.

Jo-Anne neglects the gardens and housework to write full time from her home on Denman Island, off of Canada’s west coast. She writes best when she’s within sight and sound of water, even if it’s just a fountain, and hopes never to stop reading, writing or imagining the impossible.

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The Science of Serial Killers: The Truth Behind Ted Bundy, Lizzie Borden, Jack the Ripper, and Other Notorious Murderers of Cinematic Legend by Meg Hafdahl and Kelly Florence Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviews2 Comments

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

Authors and podcast co-hosts Meg Hafdahl and Kelly Florence take readers on a twisted and horrifying journey into the inspirations and sciences behind the true monsters of some of Hollywood’s most iconic horror films in their book, “The Science of Serial Killers: The Truth Behind Ted Bundy, Lizzie Borden, Jack the Ripper, and Other Notorious Murderers of Cinematic Legend”.

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The Synopsis

Discover the real-life inspirations behind history’s most infamous serial killers: John Wayne Gacy, Jeffrey Dahmer, Charles Manson, and so many more.

Gothic media moguls Kelly Florence and Meg Hafdahl, authors of The Science of Monsters, The Science of Women in Horror, and The Science of Stephen King, and co-hosts of the Horror Rewind podcast called “the best horror film podcast out there” by Film Daddy, present a guide to the serial killers who inspired the movies and media we all know and love. Delve into the brutal truth behind horror’s secret: many monsters portrayed on the silver screen are based on true murderers. Uncover the truth behind the real monsters of horror, answering such questions as: 

What is the science behind serial killers’ motivations like Ted Bundy and John Wayne Gacy? 

How did detectives discover the identities of criminals like the Boston Strangler and the BTK Strangler?

Has science made it possible to unmask Jack the Ripper and the Zodiac Killer? 

What is the science behind female versus male serial killers? 

Through interviews, film analysis, and bone-chilling discoveries, join Kelly and Meg as they learn about the horrors of true crime through the decades. 

The Review

I absolutely loved this read. As someone who has been fascinated with true crime and in particular the psychology behind the few individual criminals who can be classified as “serial killers”, and as a big-time fan of horror films and books, I was instantly drawn to the authors and their work. The amount of detailed research and history each put into these killers and crimes, and yet were able to craft it into a concise and very readable book, was astounding to read. 

What really stood out though was the author’s work to identify the fascination and inspiration these true-life killers had on some of the most iconic horror films of our era. From Jack the Ripper’s inspiration for the film From Hell to the murders of the DeFeo family that inspired the Amityville Horror film series, both authors did such an amazing job of breaking down each film and project that these killers were responsible for and showcased how the intricate details of their crimes lead to some of cinema’s darkest and most memorable horror moments. 

The Verdict

Haunting, visceral, and engaging, authors Meg Hafdahl and Kelly Florence’s “The Science of Serial Killers: The Truth Behind Ted Bundy, Lizzie Borden, Jack the Ripper, and Other Notorious Murderers of Cinematic Legend” is must-read nonfiction read! The in-depth analysis of both film and true crime will have horror fans enthralled by the information the authors share. With the wide array of different criminals, from the prolific to the under-the-radar crimes that will absolutely shock you, this is one collection readers won’t want to miss. Be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Authors

About Meg Hafdahl: 

Bram Stoker Award nominated Meg Hafdahl is the creator of numerous stories and books. Her fiction has appeared in anthologies such as Eve’s Requiem: Tales of Women, Mystery and Horror and Eclectically Criminal. Her work has been produced for audio by The Wicked Library and The Lift, and she is the author of three popular short story collections including Twisted Reveries: Thirteen Tales of the Macabre. Meg is also the author of the three novels; The Darkest Hunger, Daughters of Darkness, and Her Dark Inheritance called “an intricate tale of betrayal, murder, and small town intrigue” by Horror Addicts and “every bit as page turning as any King novel” by RW Magazine. Meg, also the co-host of the podcast Horror Rewind and co-author of The Science of Monsters, The Science of Women in Horror, The Science of Stephen King, The Science of Serial Killers, and the upcoming The Science of Witchcraft lives in the snowy bluffs of Minnesota. 

https://www.meghafdahl.com/

https://twitter.com/MegHafdahl

About Kelly Florence: 

Kelly Florence teaches communication at Lake Superior College in Duluth, MN and is the creator of the Be a Better Communicator podcast. She received her BA in theatre from the University of Minnesota-Duluth and her MA in communicating arts from the University of Wisconsin-Superior. She has directed, produced, choreographed and stage managed for dozens of productions in Minnesota including Carrie The Musical through Rubber Chicken Theatre and Treasure Island for Wise Fool Theater. She is passionate about female representation in all media and particularly the horror genre.

https://kellyflorence.com/

https://www.horrorrewind.com/

Book Spotlight & Author Q&A: Flowers Grow on Broken Walls by Farena Bajwa

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

Hello everyone! Welcome to a special post today, where I am lucky enough to share with you the upcoming book from author Farena Bajwa, Flowers Grow on Broken Walls, a beautiful collection of poetry about healing and finding out who we are in the world. I hope you’ll enjoy this special spotlight, including a fantastic Q&A with the author. 

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Synopsis:

Flowers Grow on Broken Walls is a unique collection of poems and prose that talks about healing and finding yourself in a world that constantly tells you that’s who you shouldn’t be.

The poems, which tell a story, go over our everyday human emotions; from being heartbroken and questioning our self-worth in a world of judgment and scrutinizing social media, to finding ourselves and appreciating those really important in our lives – especially our inner, true selves. 

The collection displays a raw and honest portrayal of an artist who cannot help but create something beautiful in the midst of the ugliness she has been put through, and who continues to hope against all odds, as she lets go of what she has been told is important and finds herself in one truly is.

The story that starts with heartache ends with healing, it starts with rejection from someone but ends with self-acceptance, which is the only way for true healing.

Author Bio:

Farena Bajwa is a talented poet, storyteller, actor, filmmaker, and voice-over artist. Even though she studied Marketing Management, her creativity comes from her heart. Whether it’s filmmaking, voice-over, or acting, she owes it to her life philosophy: ‘’learning by doing’’. ‘’Flowers Grow on Broken Walls’’ is Farena’s first written collection of poetry that speaks about the journey to self-healing after experiencing the loss of someone, but mostly, the loss of yourself. She wants to inspire her readers using her power of words to make them feel less alone and to let them know that no matter what they go through, healing is just around the corner, already cheering for you.

Website: https://farenabajwa.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliant_mess/

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Author Q&A

On writing:

Where do you get inspiration for your stories?

I am primarily inspired by my own experiences, but I love to hear and to learn about other people’s experiences too. I am also inspired by situations going on in the world.

How long have you been writing?

I’ve been journaling my whole life. But I only started writing poems when I started writing Flowers Grow on Broken Walls. The interesting thing is, I’ve always had thoughts running through my head formed in a poetic way. When I didn’t understand, when something happened, I would think those thoughts in small poems. I thought art would be able to lift off the weight from unpleasant situations I was dealing with right away. And oftentimes, it turned out to be true. 

Do you ever get writer’s block? What helps you overcome it?

Yes, constantly. But I don’t get intimidated by it. Whenever I have a writer’s block I just feel like: “Oh, I am probably not meant to be writing right now. So let’s see what I can do to take are of myself/have fun/get some other work done etc. And eventually the block ends and I am inspired again. The key? Letting go.

What is your next project?

All I know is that I am currently writing poems. One poem after another. I don’t have a specific theme, I guess I’ll find out when the time comes.

What genre do you write and why?

I write poetry because poems are able to give my feelings a voice. They help me understand what I am feeling and also how I can deal with these emotions.

What is the last great book you’ve read?

The invisible life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab. A magnificent piece of work dancing between different timelines, magic, and blood cold reality that we often think boring. But truthfully, it is our reality that is more enchanting than magic if you stop taking friendly gestures of strangers, or new shortcuts you discovered etc. for granted.  

What is a favorite compliment you have received on your writing?

A reviewer wrote:

I loved reading Shakespeare and feel that this author could certainly be a modern day version of him. The disappointments, loss, love, and other happenstances of life are well within these poems.”

Just reading the name Shakespeare connected to my book gave me all the right chills- and I am so grateful for it😊

What were the biggest rewards and challenges with writing your book?

The biggest challenge was having to go back to these intense negative feelings that I was experiencing. I had to recall every emotion and I was scared I would be pulled back into the dark. The biggest reward was knowing that I had overcome these feelings. While I was writing the pages for the first few chapters that cover those lower feelings, I realized how much I had changed and how it didn’t affect me as I thought it would.

On rituals:

Where do you write?

Primarily in Cafés. The smell of coffee, the cozy ambience and the gentle, faint talking of people inspires and energizes me. 

Do you write every day?

No, only when I am inspired. I can’t write if I don’t feel the words I am writing. If a word only feels like a word to me and not like an emotion, I can’t write because it doesn’t seem truthful to me. Afterall, poetry is all about a feeling wanting to take shape, so it can be released.

What is your writing schedule?

I don’t set specific timeframes to write, nor do I schedule specific days. I write when I feel like I have something to say, when something is bothering me, when I need to put my feelings into written words. I can write for a whole week and create 3 poems a day or I won’t write for weeks. I can write and pretend but I can’t lie about how I feel. Also, readers are not stupid, they know instantly if someone is being authentic in their words or not.

In today’s tech savvy world, most writers use a computer or laptop. Have you ever written parts of your book on paper?

I almost only write my poems on paper. Flowers Grow on Broken Walls was entirely handwritten. I bought a notebook with colorful flowers on the cover when I started writing my book. I saw that notebook and it just called out to me. I didn’t know then, “Flowers” would become the main message in my book😊 

Fun stuff:

Favorite dessert?

Cake. In any shape or form. I love cake. I would die for cake.

What TV series are you currently binge watching?

Killing Eve and Peaky Blinders. My two favorite series I’ve already watched a thousand times. Both series are brilliant. Amazing writing, amazing acting, fast paced, dramatic with moments of fun and ease in between and – I just love these kinds of series!

What song is currently playing on a loop in your head?

There are actually two songs:

Love wave by The 1-800

Ebb tide by The Platters

What is your go-to breakfast item?

Coffee. Always and forever coffee. 

Who was your childhood celebrity crush?

Ash Ketchum of Pokémon…I mean come on. How can you not find that drive and that determination that boy had attractive? He wanted to become the Pokémon master and he was GOING for it. Damn.

One thing no one would expect from you.

I have a deep love for dinosaurs. I am fascinated by the thought that there’ve been huge reptiles walking on our earth once. I used to collect dinosaur figures, read books and watch documentaries (and of course Jurassic Park). I wanted to become a paleontologist when I was a child because I always hoped to find a living dinosaur one day. It is my dream to see a real-life sized skeleton of a dinosaur someday. I never had the opportunity to see one.

Really? What is your favorite dinosaur?

A Brachiosaurus. You’ve got to love this teeny tiny head on this big fat body. The fact that it weighed more than 28 tons but only eat plants, it belonged to one of the tallest dinosaurs and could easily crush another dinosaur with a slight step – but still was one of the friendliest and more peaceful reptiles is just ridiculous- and so cute. 

Twisted Reveries Volume II: Tales From Willoughby by Meg Hafdahl Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviews2 Comments

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

Author Meg Hafdahl takes readers on a twisted and macabre journey into the secretive town of Willoughby in “Twisted Reveries Volume II: Tales From Willoughby”, the sequel to Twisted Reveries. 

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The Synopsis

Suspense author, Meg Hafdahl, delivers another collection of spine-tingling stories in this second volume of the Twisted Reveries series. Inspired by the first book’s Willoughby and Moira Kettlesburg stories, Meg takes us on a journey into the mid-western town of Willoughby where forgetting is a way of life. Delve into its macabre history and origins. Explore the strange and unsettling events that plague Willoughby’s unsuspecting citizens in this new collection of thirteen horrifically outstanding tales. 

The Review

This was a truly incredible, emotional yet terrifying collection of short stories. The horror genre is alive and well in this collection, with threats and dangers that sway from monstrous beings hiding in the shadows to more sinister and everyday human evils that the town of Willoughby draws towards it. Although this is my first foray into the author’s work and the Twisted Reveries series of short stories, the author does an amazing job of crafting narratives that feel both isolated and well contained on their own while also connecting to a more broad and small-town vibe and mythos.

What stood out to me as a reader was the well-balanced and captivating protagonists found within the story. Each story had characters that readers could either get behind and cheer on to stop the threat they were facing, or grimace as the tables turned and the protagonist quickly became the antagonist. The complexities of each story’s protagonist and their backstory felt worthy of a short film or television anthology, and the twists and turns these stories take will have readers talking long after the final page drops.

The Verdict

Gripping, exhilarating, and thoughtful in its approach, author Meg Hafdahl’s “Twisted Reveries II: Tales From Willoughby” is a must-read collection of horror short stories that readers are not going to want to miss out on. The overall theme permeating this collection follows how every small town, every city, and even every person, no matter how beautiful and picturesque they may appear on the outside in the light of day, has the potential to hide great darkness and hardship within their foundation, which waits for night to descend to roam free to draw others into its web. A truly haunting collection of stories, this is one short story read you won’t want to miss. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Bram Stoker Award nominated Meg Hafdahl is the creator of numerous stories and books. Her fiction has appeared in anthologies such as Eve’s Requiem: Tales of Women, Mystery and Horror and Eclectically Criminal. Her work has been produced for audio by The Wicked Library and The Lift, and she is the author of three popular short story collections including Twisted Reveries: Thirteen Tales of the Macabre. Meg is also the author of the three novels; The Darkest Hunger, Daughters of Darkness, and Her Dark Inheritance called “an intricate tale of betrayal, murder, and small town intrigue” by Horror Addicts and “every bit as page turning as any King novel” by RW Magazine. Meg, also the co-host of the podcast Horror Rewind and co-author of The Science of Monsters, The Science of Women in Horror, The Science of Stephen King, The Science of Serial Killers, and the upcoming The Science of Witchcraft lives in the snowy bluffs of Minnesota. 

https://www.meghafdahl.com/

https://twitter.com/MegHafdahl

The Little Girl in the Moon: Moxie & Tycho Town by Diann Floyd Boehm and Katherine Louise Floyd Boehm Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviews1 Comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

A young girl’s pet dog takes readers on a tour of the city center of the moon’s largest crater in author Diann Floyd Boehm and Katherine Louise Floyd Boehm’s “The Little Girl in the Moon: Moxie & Tycho Town”. 

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The Synopsis

The Little Girl in the Moon author, Diann Floyd Boehm, has teamed up with her daughter, Katherine Louise, in the third book in the series, The Little Girl in the Moon – Moxie & Tycho Town. Together, they have created the imaginary town nestled in Tycho Crater, which is located on the Earth’s moon. Katherine and Diann’s collaborative artistic talents have brought the town to life. The colorful illustrations are sure to spark young readers’ imaginations. Moxie, the little girl in the moon’s pet dog, takes us on a tour of Tycho Town’s City Center, which the Moonlings have built to resemble towns on Earth. Moonlings love the Earth as much as Earthlings love the moon! This story, the first of many adventures in Tycho Town, introduces children to the Moonling vocabulary. Diann and Katherine hope the readers’ curiosity will grow and they’ll want to learn more about the Earth’s moon and Tycho Crater. Watch for the next adventure of The Little Girl in the Moon, when the rest of Tycho Town will be unveiled! 

The Review

This was a brilliant and fun children’s read. The authors found a great balance between thought-provoking teaching moments in the narrative and fun and exciting illustrations to keep children invested in the story. 

What stuck out to me about this story was both the educational moments the author took in developing otherworldly storylines to help teach children about different aspects of our own world’s society and the playful and fun way the authors introduce sci-fi story elements and themes into the narrative for younger readers to get engaged with. As a sci-fi fan, it was fun to see a new approach to the children’s book narrative that included some other genres like this. 

The Verdict

Happy, creative, and entertaining, authors Diann Floyd Boehm and Katherine Louise Floyd Boehm’’s “The Little Girl in the Moon: Moxie & Tycho Town” is a must-read children’s book. The heart and warmth for which the authors wrote this story, as well as the great world-building the authors employed here in this narrative made for a great introduction to the sci-fi genre for young readers, as well as the perfect read for parents to enjoy with their kids. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Diann Floyd Boehm is an award-winning international author of children books and has published a young adult historical fiction. addition, Diann writes books to inspire readers to be kind, like themselves, and to “Embrace Imagination”. You can find all her books on Amazon.

Diann’s Story Garden YouTube Channel gives children the opportunity to hear different children authors read their stories.

Diann a co-host for several shows with Dr. Jacalyn’s USA Global TV.

Diann continues to be involved in various humanitarian projects with multiple organizations.

Diann was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, but grew up in Texas with five brothers. She has traveled extensively to many parts of the world and has lived in the Philippines and Dubai.

Keep in touch with Diann by joining her newsletter: www.Diannfloydboehm.com

Learn more about Diann and her books at:

Diann Floyd Boehm

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