The Reviewer #ShortReadsSaturdays (REVIEW)

The Reviewer 

Author: MK Alexander
Category: Short Story, Revenge Thriller, Dark Comedy

Suitable for: 12+

My Rating: 5 Stars

Format Read for Review: Kindle

Pages: 14

Description: This is a short story about an indie-author driven mad by a negative review from a villainous reviewer.

In Short: If you enjoy short stories and revenge thriller type genres you should give this book a read. It is exciting yet suspenseful, and witty yet dark.

Pros: This short story is very well written and fast and fun to read. I would definitely read more by this author. Even though it is short there is a lot of character development for our "protagonist" who is a struggling author. We get to know him through watching his daily life and struggle to promote his books. He is a very sympathetic character and I felt for him when the reviewer appeared and things escalated. The story is thought provoking. The ending even left me wondering, so I translated the two Ukrainian words and was pretty shocked! This short story had a killer ending. The author was really driven mad!  

Cons: I have no notable issues with this book.

Parent's Guide: Mostly clean. This story contains themes of blackmail and violence. No gore or extended graphic scenes. No swearing or sex.

                         

Translations I found for the ending:

Shcho: What?

Nemaye: No

Thank you for joining me for this #ShortReadsSaturdays edition review!

Have you read any good short books lately?

Don't forget to enter the giveaway contest we have running this month! Entering is free and easy and you could win 13 e-books! 

Chartreuse (REVIEW) #ShortReadsSaturdays

Chartreuse

A Sci-Fi Short Story

Author: Lisa Shea
Category: Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Dystopian, Short Story

Suitable for: All Ages

My Rating: 5 Stars

Format Read for Review: Nook (free)

Pages: 17

Description: Set in a dystopian France in an overpopulated world a woman makes an unpopular choice to join a solely male monastery. Despite her loved-ones objections she follows her dreams to La Grand Chartreuse where the monks make the 'Elixir of Long Life.' She quickly finds herself at home and at peace away from the overcrowding and starvation. Years pass and she becomes a full fledged member. One day she makes a huge discovery about the Elixir and is faced with a choice that will affect the world.

In Short: An entertaining short story full of detail and plenty of plot. For me this was a very peaceful and relaxing read that also makes you think, what would you do with such a powerful secret?

Pros: Beautifully written and very descriptive. Great standalone, feel-good read. I thought the story was very interesting and well thought out. In this world illness is a thing of the past and people live to be 120 years of age. The world has become overpopulated and people are starving. The protagonist is a very well developed character that sought employment in a monastery to escape her dystopian world. A lot of detail was packed into those 17 pages.

Cons: I have no notable issues with this book.  

Parent's Guide: Clean.

This is a perfect #ShortReadsSaturdays read!

Little Tails in the Savannah (REVIEW)

Out July 11, 2017
Find it on Amazon here

Little Tails in the Savannah

Author: Frédéric Brrémaud

Illustrator: Federico Bertolucci
Category: Illustrated Children's Book, Educational

Suitable for: Ideal for ages 4 - 8

My Rating: 5 Stars

Format Read for Review: E-book ARC from the author/publisher in return for my honest review.

Pages: 32

Description: Chipper and Squizzo go on another adventure in their paper airplane. This time they are off to the Savannah where they explore and introduce the reader to all the wonderful animals they encounter.  

In Short: The Little Tails books are perfect for children that are very interested in animals because they have the most gorgeous art of animals along with fun, educational facts about various exotic creatures.

Pros: The art is fabulous. Pairs cartoons (Chipper and Squizzo) with more realistic paintings of animals that are just stunning. The book is very colorful and the images fill the pages. At the end there is more information and fun facts about many of the animals. This book is educational in a fun way. Kids who love animals will want to read it over and over.

Cons: I have no notable issues with this book.

Find my review of Little Tails in the Jungle here.

Nickerbacher (REVIEW)

Nickerbacher

Author: Terry John Barto
Category: Children's Early Chapter Book

Suitable for: All ages, ideal for 7-10

My Rating: 4.5 Stars

Format Read for Review: Kindle version supplied by the author in return for my honest review. 

Pages: 51

Description: Nickerbacher is a dragon that dreams of going to La La Land to become a comedian, but a dragon has never been a comedian before! He is expected to do dragonly things and stay with Princess Gwendolyn guarding her in her tower from any silly Princes that might come and try to save her. Even though princess Gwendolyn doesn't like La La Land or what it stands for, she puts aside those feelings to devise a plan to get her dear friend Nickerbacher there so he can live out his dream of auditioning for The Late Knight Show.

In Short: This is a great book for kids that is both entertaining and full of positive messages. It teaches the value of friendship, and using hard work to accomplish your dreams, no matter how impossible they may seem. It also battles discrimination and negative stereotypes. The heroes have to overcome many obstacles and others telling them that "dragons can't be comedians" before they can reach their goal and get Nickerbacher on stage at The Late Knight Show.

Pros: This book appeals to both adults and children with modern cultural references woven into a fairy tale featuring a Dragon and a Princess. Adults will catch a lot of the parodies and satires hidden in the story that may go over kids heads but there is plenty of humor for the kids too. The story is easy to follow and fun. There is even a surprising amount of character development. Prince Happenstance really comes around and changes his outlook by the middle of the book, becoming a great ally to his former enemy. I loved the part where Nickerbacher had his first audition with Johnny Kingston. During this audition he wasn't at all funny, but his friends managed to convince Johnny to give him another chance and instead of being upset about how it went Nickerbacher gets a coach to help him improve his act for next time. In the end he proved anyone can be anything they want.

Cons: I do like the art, but something about the size and rough edges of the black and white drawings could make it a little hard for children see clearly. I wish Nickerbacher's final show had been longer, maybe 1 or 2 more jokes. For me, it just warmed up and then was over.

This book is free with Kindle Unlimited. Join Amazon Kindle Unlimited 30-Day Free Trial

Dizzy in Durango (REVIEW)

Dizzy in Durango

Andy Veracruz Mystery #3 

Author: D.R. Ransdell
Category: Murder Mystery Suspense Thriller

Suitable for: 17+*

My Rating: 5 Stars

Format Read for Review: Paperback copy from the Author

Pages: 214

Description: Set in both Mexico and Arizona this story takes a while ride that begins with good ol' Andy watching a woman's bag for her. When she disappears and he is left holding her mysterious bag he is unwittingly thrown into another adventure looking for two missing women. The mystery takes deadly turns and Andy and his friends find themselves trying to not only find the missing women but also reunite stolen children with their family all while avoiding a very dangerous and powerful person.

In Short: This is a great series for mystery novel lovers. I found "Dizzy in Durango" to be more of a suspenseful thriller than the previous book. If you are looking for a very well written series with realistic characters look no further. Enjoy a good mystery while watching the slow natural development of Andy and Rachel's relationship and Andy's professional journey as a musician.

Another stunning tale by D.R. Ransdell.

Pros: Even though these books are part of a series they can be read alone! I read book 2, "IslandCasualty" before this one and absolutely loved it! It was also our Book of theMonth in July! That book gave me the background on Rachel and Andy and their relationship but pertinent details from past books are explained in this story, so you wont miss out. Although these books are all stand-alones if the series appeals to you, read it in order, you wont regret it! The story in this book was very different from "Island Casualty", showing that Andy's life is absolutely full of crazy twists and turns. The poor guy can't seem to go anywhere without murder following him. But it isn't all madness and peril for him! In this installment he auditions for a symphony and makes plans to start a life closer to his friend, lover and could-be-something-more, Rachel.

These books are incredibly detailed. Every setting is so well described that you feel like you are actually there. The cultures of the people in these places are also well highlighted. In this story you see a spotlight shone onto Machismo culture.    

Cons: I have no notable issues with this book. 

*Parent's Guide: Murder, gun violence, some language, alcohol, and brief sexual content.

Links:
D.R. Ransdell Official Site
Twitter
Dizzy in Durango on Amazon
Island Casualty on Amazon
D.R. Ransdell Guest Post


I was given a free copy of this book in return for my honest review. This post contains affiliate links to Amazon.

(REVIEW) The Day My Fart Followed Me To Hockey

The Day My Fart Followed Me ToHockey

By: Sam Lawrence & Ben Jackson

Illustrated by: Danko Herrera
Category: Illustrated Children's Book

Suitable for: All Ages, ideal for ages 3-7

My Rating: 4.5 Stars

Format Read for Review: Kindle copy from the author/publisher.

Pages: 42 (Loc: 26)

Description:  This is the story of Timmy and his best friend, Little Fart. Timmy is very nervous for his hockey try-outs and Little Fart wants to come with him because he loves going on adventures with Timmy. Timmy most definitely does not want the Little Fart to follow him and make all the other kids think that he is stinky. Little Fart tags along anyway and when Timmy is struggling the fart does everything in its power to help.

In Short: This is a fun, short tale of friendship. The story is on the goofy side and I think small children will enjoy it. It might be a bit wordy for the age group who will enjoy it most but the vocabulary is fairly simple and this book could make a good bedtime story for those who can't read it on their own just yet.

Pros: I love the art, the images are large and colorful. There are a lot of positive messages you can pull from this book. Some examples would be, being a good friend, being someone's friend even if they are a bit different, and forgiving others when they say harsh things to you while they are under pressure. Timmy also started to do better at his try-outs when he stopped worrying and started having fun which offers good guidance for kids who are feeling insecure about their abilities. He almost backed out of going to the try-outs but in the end he got picked for the team so it shows the importance of giving it a shot, doing your best, and having fun in the process.   

Cons: I think I may have missed out a little by not reading "The Day My Fart Followed Me Home" before this one. Reading this, I wasn't sure if Little Fart was a real fart, or a little creature of some kind, and I was surprised when it mentioned he was invisible half-way through. So I would suggest getting "The Day My Fart Followed Me Home" first or getting them both together.

Ronaldo: The Reindeer Flying Academy (REVIEW)

 

Ronaldo: The Reindeer Flying Academy

 

Author: Maxine Sylvester
Category: Children's Chapter Book, Christmas Stories, Flying Reindeer

Suitable for: All ages ideal for children 5 - 10

My Rating: 5 Stars

Format Read for Review: Kindle

Pages: 77

Description: Ronaldo is a young flying reindeer cadet who someday dreams of becoming one of Santa's reindeer, just like his hero, Vixen. With the love and support of his friends and family and the great advice of his grandpa he can face his greatest challenge yet, the Endurance Challenge. Ronaldo doesn't have a "traditional" reindeer name (like Dasher) so he faces some bullying from his peers. In the end this little underdog gets to be a big time hero. And despite all his slap-stick humor style clumsiness he gets to enjoy his success with pride. 

In Short: I think this book would make a perfect holiday tradition for every family with children. I look forward to reading this book to my kids every year at Christmas. The story is incredibly entertaining and laugh out loud funny, even for parents!

Pros: My favorite part of this book is the amazing and exciting story. It is highly entertaining and full of positive characters and messages. I found the tale to be a wild ride and it had a wonderful, satisfying conclusion. There is even a great deal of comedy in it! This book is well written and there are occasional images that help the reader feel immersed in the scenes. Some of the images are of the funniest scenes which will really make you laugh!

Cons: Some very minor editing issues.

There is also a book 2!

I received a free copy of this book in return for my honest review. This post contains affiliate links to Amazon.

No More Heroes (REVIEW)

No More Heroes

Author: Roo I MacLeod
Category: Urban, Dystopian, Crime Thriller, Suspense, Vigilante Justice, Mystery, Adult Fiction

Suitable for: Adults*

My Rating: 5 Stars

Format Read for Review: E-book from the author

Pages: 346

Description: Set in a Dystopian London a homeless man named Ben becomes an unlikely protagonist as he finds himself the target of just about everyone. He was unlucky enough to have a former friend/enemy turn up and drop a bag of trouble in his lap. And now everyone wants the bag from him. So, where is the bag? And what exactly is in it anyway?

In Short: This book is an action packed crime thriller that is set in a messed up version of London that feels almost like the past set in the near future. If you like dark action books with unique stories and eccentric characters you will enjoy this book.

Pros: No More Heroes is a beautifully written book with a great story. The plot was very unique and constantly entertaining. The nonstop action had me hooked and eager to see what would happen next. The 2 missing bags with contents unknown kept me curious to the end. The settings are wonderful and detailed, you can really visualize the story unfolding. The characters are great and well developed. This book features a really interesting cast of street people and criminals. Ben the protagonist is a wonderfully complex, believable, and likeable character. He's got a bit of drinking problem but hidden behind all his misfortune is a brilliant mind that he has to constantly use to solve problem after problem that is thrown at him. It seemed like everywhere he went the sh!t hit the fan so to speak, you couldn't help feeling sorry for him but also being excited by the wild story. Ben also has some serious fighting moves, like a proper hero, and there is a clear back-story as to where they came from, which was appreciated. The characters and the story were definitely very well thought out and the ending was great. It has a good solid conclusion but also leaves you wanting to read the next book.

Cons: I have no notable issues with this book.

*Parent's Guide: Violence, murder, gore, language, and alcohol. No sex. 

Links:

Roo I MacLeod Official Site - You can find a free book there ;)

Twitter
Facebook
Blog

I received a free copy of this book in return for my honest review. This post contains affiliate links to Amazon.

Bascomville (REVIEW)

Bascomville

Author:  Mark A. Calde
Category: Romantic Drama

Suitable for: Adults

My Rating: 4.5 Stars

Format Read for Review: Physical copy. 

Pages: 274

Description: This is a great love story about a teenage boy named Max.  It is told from his point of view from high school into college and then into adulthood. It takes you from his first childhood love, Janice, and all the emotions and drama that come with first love; all while having to deal with his emotional, dysfunctional family life.

In Short: This story is full of emotions that made me laugh and cry all way to the end.

Pros: This is the first time I have read a love story that was from the boy's/man's point of view and I would say that it was refreshing and interesting. Also, the characters in this book are likable and relatable.

Cons: This book has sexual content making it unfortunately unsuitable for younger readers.

Parent's Guide: Sexual content.

I received a free copy of this book in return for my honest review. This post contains affiliate links to Amazon. 

Little Bad Wolf and Red Riding Hood (REVIEW)

Free Story - Little Bad Wolf and Red Riding Hood

Newfangled Fairy Tales 

Author: Timothy Tocher

Editor: Bruce Lansky
Category: Children's Book (Non-Illustrated)

Suitable for: All ages

My Rating: 5 Stars

Format Read for Review: Kindle

Pages: 20

Description: Hilarious twist on a old tale. The Big Bad Wolf has conned his way into a food stealing scheme. In this tale Red doesn't need a huntsmen to save her, only her phone and a quick call to the authorities. Worry not, no grandmas are eaten.

In Short: This book is a quick fun read that I think children will really enjoy reading. It also makes a good bedtime story for younger kids. At only 20 pages it a very fast read and a good length to entertain. For anyone of any age who likes fairy tales and a good short story this is a great book to pick up, for free!

Pros: This book is very fun and enjoyable to read. I laughed out loud when reading the note Grandma left for Red. I think both parents and children will enjoy reading this book together. I loved all the characters, the heroes and the villains alike. I actually grew quite attached to the wolves and was a little disappointed that their elaborate scam wasn't paying off in the end! This book even though it is so short it manages some great morals for children. It teaches that crime doesn't pay, don't talk to strangers, don't steal and don't scam people!

Cons: I have no issues with this book.

Parent's Guide: This book contains no horror, no eating of old ladies and no violence. Safe for all ages.

Free on Amazon.

Staring Into Darkness (REVIEW)

Staring Into Darkness 

Author: C. L. Clark
Category: Horror Short Stories, Dark Short Stories, Anthology

Suitable for: Teens+

My Rating: 4.5 Stars

Format Read for Review: Kindle

Pages: 90

Description: This is a collection of short stories based on fears and the darker sides of humanity. See into the minds of psychopaths and the victims of the various evils that lurk in the dark.  

In Short: If you love horror, you will love this collection. Quick, fun, scary reads covering various fears and phobias. This book features a variety of scary genres, for example: horror, thriller, psychological, and suspense. Absolutely perfect for Halloween, and campfire stories. The stories are short enough that they would make a fun group activity and most are safe for younger audiences (assuming they don't mind being scared).

Pros: These stories are really entertaining and some are downright scary! Without giving away any spoilers I'll say the one with the guy in the full body cast was probably the scariest for me. I was freaking out yelling at him to make better life choices. But did he listen? You'll have to read it to find out. The yard sale one was amusing but I'll think twice about going to yard sales now. I really loved the gravity one, it reminded me of something you would see on the Twilight Zone, it was really trippy. That short was also a great story for all ages. The stories are well written and you don't always know how they are going to end. Even though they are short some are real nail biters full of suspense.

Cons: The segmented story 'She and He and What Must Be' I would have preferred to read continuously, I felt like one section was out of order.  

Parent's Guide: Some of the short stories include: Brief sexual references, some violent topics including serial killers. Most of the stories are PG13 in my opinion, with some being more 16+.

You can win signed books and e-books by C. L. Clark here at: 

A Bookish Halloween Giveaway Contest

These 4 books are up for grabs for 2 winners along with many other prizes so be sure to check it out and get your entries! 

Links:

Visit C. L. Clark's official site: A Darkness Revealed

C. L. Clark on Facebook

C. L. Clark on Amazon

C. L. Clark on Goodreads