Banished: The Gods Among Us (Book #1) by William L. Deen

Release Date: December 7, 2011
Publisher: White Eagle Publishing
Series: The Gods Among Us series, Book 1

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars.

Synopsis:
Based upon the tales of Ancient Sumeria, gods and goddesses live their day-to-day lives in the realm of Nibiru. When Inlil viciously assaults Sud, he is banished to Earth to live in the form of a wolf and admonished to stay away from humans. The ruling leader of Nibiru, Anu, warns Inlil that he would be imprisoned within Irkalla should he break that one rule.

But Inlil is unable to stop once the temptation comes before him. Not only does he thrive on the power, he now has a taste for blood and believes himself unstoppable. Anu must fulfill his decree or risk losing his hold on the realm he rules and those within it. Can Anu stop the fragmenting of his realm before Inlil brings ruin to Earth?

Review:
I came across this book while searching through Amazon's free Kindle Top 100 one day. The idea that gods had their trials and tribulations always interested me, so I opted to get this book. To be fair and honest this was a very quick read as the book was under 100 pages in length. I almost felt as though this was half a book with so much more to be explored than the foundation of a series. I found the entire story to be engaging and well written despite the short length.

The main action took place within the realm of the Sumerian gods, known as Nibiru. For a portion of the story, there was a cast of characters as the main focus including Anu, the ruling leader, his family and the lesser gods which comprised his court. The focus was then split between the two realms of Nibiru and Earth when Anu banished his youngest son, Inlil, as punishment for the brutal assault on the goddess, Sud. It was interesting to see the gods having as much trouble navigating their lives and world as we, humans, do here on Earth. I thought the author did a good job of keeping each god/dess within the tradition of the one in which he or she was based. So many distinct personalities and immortal grudges made for fiery interactions between quite a few of them.

As far as the pacing, events took place rapidly once the first chapter opened with the assault on Sud. From there, the pacing was consistent until the end of the novella. It seemed like the story got interesting as the end came near because of the story's short length. Dialogue and Inlil's exploration of Earth moved the story to the point where a showdown was imminent between Inlil and whichever god would be sent to punish him further for breaking the one rule he was given to obey - not to interfere with the humans.

I did enjoy the story from beginning to end. Overall, it was a complete story with enough of a foundation to base the series that followed. A number of questions asked within the first book were left unanswered. Plots thickened and actions taken by many were left unopposed and without repercussions. I think the author is onto something with this series. Hopefully the length will be longer in the other books! If you're looking for a nicely developed retelling of the lives of the ancient gods, give this series a try.

Banished: The Gods Among Us (Book #1) by William L. Deen is currently available at many online retailers in digital formats such as Kindle. Clicking the link provided below will bring up the book's Amazon page.
Banished: The Gods Among Us (Book #1) by William L. Deen

The Competition (Rachel Knight #4) by Marcia Clark

Release Date:  July 8, 2014
Publisher: Mulholland Books
Series: Rachel Knight series, Book #4

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars.

Synopsis:
After a devastating school shooting in the style of Columbine, Rachel Knight is put on the case alongside Detective Bailey Keller to find the answers to some of the hardest questions they've had to face to date. Digging deeper into the reasons behind the shooting reveal that the concrete evidence they'd collected wasn't so concrete after all. Now, both Knight and Keller are on the hunt to find the person or persons responsible before it's too late.

As they weave their way around the trails that the evidence takes them, they find more questions than answers until the second shooting takes place. Everything they knew about the perpetrators was turned upside down. Now, Rachel must continue to find a way to stop the next shooting any way she can. Will she able to shift out the puzzle pieces that don't fit in time to save the next group of people?

Review:
After reading the first three books in the Rachel Knight series offered by NetGalley, I looked forward to reading this one as well and offering an honest review. Truth be told, each of the books covered a difficult case, but I felt this offering by the author was by far the most "ripped from the headlines" in the series. As with the other three books, this one incorporated information from the previous cases where needed without disrupting the current plot. Having a few familiar faces resurface in a few key areas not only helped to move the story along in a believable fashion, but made me smile a time or two at the hijinks they planned or enacted.

The novel is written from Rachel's point-of-view as it was with the previous three offerings by the author. Many of the key players from the previous cases return, bringing their expertise with them. Graden, Bailey and Dorian made themselves known from the start because of the severity of the case. Being a part of the Special Trials Unit and dating one of the brass in law enforcement did have a few perks for Rachel to enjoy, but it also meant that she endured some of the most devastating of cases - a school shooting. Not all of Rachel's core group had a major part in this book, but they were able to contribute their ideas here and there whenever there was a meeting of the minds, so to speak. Toni, another lawyer within Rachel's unit and best friend, didn't have as much of an impact within this story other than to offer an outsider's opinion. Because of the nature of the shooting, a pair of psychologists were thrown into the mix of experts and offered their insights into the dark mind of the shooter.

The book started off slow and focused on a few of the kids that would be attending Fairmont High School. Once they were in place at the school, the mood quickly darkened. Once the police were on scene, the pace ramped up and stayed at a high level as the characters raced against time to stop the next shooting from happening. Unfortunately, the persons responsible were quite a few steps ahead of Rachel and the investigative teams. When they thought they had a handle on the situation or a good clue that might bring an end to the terror, something or someone would reveal how far off-base they were. For a good portion of the book, I thought I had things figured out. I could see how they came to their conclusions and were just as confused when other revelations came to light.

Overall, I had mixed feelings about this book. While I enjoyed the story for its thrilling and mysterious atmosphere, the subject matter made it difficult to ignore the voice inside saying it hit a little close to home. It was interesting to see the focus placed more on the 'how to detect' angle instead of glorifying the shooter or the shootings itself. Many theories were thrown around, each credible in their own way, but there wasn't a simple explanation to sweep the devastation under a rug. When it came to the end, I hoped for a moment of clarity for the responsible party. I'm not sure if it ever truly came to pass. The thrill of the hunt combined with the overwhelming emotions the case brought on made for a wild ride all over L.A. and into Colorado. If you're looking for a story that will grab at your heartstrings and tug at them until the last possible moment, then this book is one you need to read.

The Competition (Rachel Knight #4) by Marcia Clark is currently available for purchase at many retailers, both online and local bookstores. It can be found in hardcover, paperback or digital editions including Kindle. The link provided below will take you to the book's Amazon page.
The Competition (Rachel Knight #4) by Marcia Clark

Currently Reading

It seems to me that this year is going by so fast. I know I've said it many times in these posts, but it seriously feels that way to me. When I thought I had enough time to finish many a project, it all slipped away from me. Of course, nearing the end of the month does bring Halloween closer. I think I can give the quick time passage a little slack since that is my favorite holiday.

The end of the month also brings the start of NaNoWriMo closer. I've noticed that I write more during the fall and winter months than the other half of the year. So a push to finish editing and find the endings to the ones I've already begun has started. All the other obligations are soon to be over at the end of the month as well. So, I'll be able to focus on reading, reviewing and writing.


Working on these this week;
The Saeshell Book of Time, Part 1: The Death of Innocents (Children of Sophista #1) by Rusty Biesele
Jackfish Reborn by Rejean Giguere
Pride & Prejudice by Jane Austen
Say You Will (Summerhill Book 1) by Kate Perry


Finished off the following;
Tomes of Terror: Haunted Bookstores and Libraries by Mark Leslie
The Competition (Rachel Knight #4) by Marcia Clark
Banished: The Gods Among Us (Book #1) by William L. Deen


Has the pumpkin-spiced world overtaken you yet? I don't know why they think pumpkin should be reserved for this time of year. It's a yummy taste so I'd like to have it year-round. What's your take on this?

Until next time,
Kay B

Tomes of Terror: Haunted Bookstores and Libraries by Mark Leslie

Release Date: September 27, 2014
Publisher: Dundurn Group

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars.

Synopsis:
Libraries and bookstores are much-loved places among those who treasure the written word. As with any place that makes a huge impact on one's life, some chose not to leave once their time on earth is done. This book is filled with tales of those who stay for one reason or another, whether it be the company or a specific and beloved tome.

Mark Leslie combines his love of books with his love of the supernatural to give this listing of places that would delight ghost hunters and bookworms alike. Filled with history and tales of things that go bump in the night, this books gives its readers a taste of local legends from across Canada and the United States. Who knows? You might just find your beloved bookstore or childhood library among them!

Review:
While searching through the titles available for review at NetGalley, I found this gem of a book and had to request it. Not only did the book cover the supernatural, but it also visited a wide variety of both bookstores and libraries. Those places have always held a special place in my heart and probably will continue to do so for as long as I'm alive. After reading through this book, there's hope for my love of books to continue even after my physical years are through.

Whether your love extended to either books, the paranormal, or both, this book explored many places within Canada and the United States which have plenty to offer patrons. Each library or bookstore received its own section or chapter, filled with details such as the building's history as well as some of the ghostly occurrences that were reported by owners and patrons alike. One difference between this particular book and others like it was the author's inclusion of more recent information. I could tell that the author did a lot of research into the histories of the libraries or the bookstores and included the changes in management or location and whether the store is still operating. Many of the chapters ended with the library or bookstore's present contact information.

I liked how the author gave enough information about the paranormal experiences to spark my curiosity, but not enough that it overwhelmed the history or legacy of the area. The reader can visit these places for themselves with some foreknowledge, but their experiences can still be their own. There seemed to be a more personal, conversational feel to the mini-biographies. While I knew that many of the places mentioned in the book, there were a lot that were surprises. It brought to mind that saying I've heard a number of times about walking in the footsteps of another wherever we go on this earth. Bob's Beach Books in Oregon was one of my favorite stories because it's not necessarily a ghost story, but it's still on the creepy side. Of course, the Willard Library in Indiana was one of the stories that I've known about for years. Each time I see the story, it brings back wonderful memories for me. Odd for a ghost story, of course, but I've had some good times looking into the supernatural.

Overall, I liked this book because it did combine two of my favorite things. I also liked it because I could tell the author put his heart into the work. That made a big difference in the style of writing for me, making it much more than just a collection of dry facts and already known legends or myths. The author's enthusiasm came through in the chapters, especially those in which he personally had visited a place that was mentioned. Pictures of the libraries or bookstores helped to frame the information in reality for me, making it seem as though anything could be possible. I have added quite a few of these places on my list to visit one of these days. If you're a lover of either the supernatural or literary treats, this book is the perfect combination.  

Tomes of Terror: Haunted Bookstores and Libraries by Mark Leslie is currently available at many online retailers and local bookstores. It can be purchased in either paperback or digital formats including Kindle. The link provided below will bring up the book's page Amazon.
Tomes of Terror: Haunted Bookstores and Libraries by Mark Leslie

The Herald: The Sundering, Book VI by Ed Greenwood

Release Date: January 1, 2014
Publisher: Wizards of the Coast
Series: The Sundering, Book VI

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars.

Synopsis:
Every scrimmage, every battle had lead to this thrilling conclusion. The fate of both Toril and Abeir came down to the success of Elminster, the Chosen of Mystra, and his few trusted companions. Without Mystra's direct help, they must rely on the Weave, the fabric of magic that she wields that they have been strengthening for years.

Agents of Shadovar pushed forward with their sieges, covering the world in order to usher in Shar's rule. Elminster must find a way to prevent Shar from blanketing the worlds in her shadow weave without losing their world entirely as the Sundering continues. Will he fulfill his duty to his Goddess? Will he lose everything he cares for in the process?

Review:
The thrilling conclusion to the Sundering was made available for request through NetGalley. Of course, I had to request it. I needed to know how the series came to its end after reading the earlier books. While each of the books were written to chronicle the separation of Toril and Faerun froom one another, they were also able to stand on their own. Each book told the journey of a different Chosen or set of Chosen companions as they fulfilled their part of the overall prophecy. 

Book VI centered around the Chosen of Mystra, the Goddess who became the magical fabric known as the Weave. The Weave allowed all the magic users to work their spells and enchantments. Elminster and his consort, Storm, spent the years working to strengthen the Weave and place various wards which would allow the Weave to continue if certain key targets were to fall. They were also instructing the next Chosen of Mystra along the way. It's the close kinship and relationship that created the feeling that this war would be one of sacrifice so that another may live. Each of the character introduced in the book, whether good or evil, faced a point at which they must make a decision. There was a definite distinction between those that were to use the Weave for the good of all in the world of Toril and the Shadovar which would have ruled without mercy.

While some of the other books in this series started off with a bang, this one began slowly, almost methodically in setting up the main characters and the circumstances in which they would soon find themselves. Once the foundation of the story was out of the way, the action kicked in and left little doubt in my mind that this was the deciding battle. Myths, legends, and lore worked with sword, dagger and shield to make their side the winning one. Though there were plenty of lulls in the action or battles, there were many moments where the characters savored life's moments. It was a brilliant balance of peace and war. While the fighting dominated most of the book, the aftermath tied the loose ends of the series together. There's the slightest hint of more to come as some questions were left unanswered and doors open.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book as well as the entire series. Each of the authors taking part in this story arc brought their own favor and flair to their parts of the journey while this book brought everything to a center point. Knowing some of the characters from previous works enhanced my enjoyment. They were friends I hadn't seen in a long time and I enjoyed their visit very much. I cannot wait to see what comes next for Elminster or the other Chosen in the Forgotten Realms worlds. If you're looking for a magic-packed, action adventure with some comedic moments laced throughout, this is the series for you. I'd recommend picking up a copy of this book. Oh, heck. Buy the entire series.

The Herald: The Sundering, Book VI by Ed Greenwood is currently available hardcover, paperback and digital versions including Kindle. The link below will bring up the book's page at Amazon.
The Herald: The Sundering, Book VI

Currently Reading

My excitement is growing! We're two weeks into October, but it seems like the month is going by fairly fast. I barely had time to savor the first few cool days of the month before we had a warm front. Now the cool days are returning. It doesn't feel the same as the leaves haven't begun to change color on our street yet. Once the leaves change, that's when it truly feels like fall around these parts.

I know, I'm a bad writer. I haven't been working too much on the writing part of the job description. During the first half of the year, I ran into a bad case of writer's block and then everything shut down when I had a fall which put me out of commission in a lot of areas. Yet NaNoWriMo is coming up very soon, and I find myself getting excited to write again. I hope I can push this dull feeling away long enough to "win" this year.  


Hello from the top of the TBR list!
The Saeshell Book of Time, Part 1: The Death of Innocents (Children of Sophista #1) by Rusty Biesele
Jackfish Reborn by Rejean Giguere
Pride & Prejudice by Jane Austen
Say You Will (Summerhill Book 1) by Kate Perry
Tomes of Terror: Haunted Bookstores and Libraries by Mark Leslie



Goodbye and good luck to these books;
The Herald: The Sundering, Book VI by Ed Greenwood
The Younger Gods (Younger Gods #1) by Michael R. Underwood


I feel like I'm forgetting something.  Oh, yeah! Contest winners! Thanks so much to everyone who stopped by my blog here. Whether you entered or simply read the various reviews, I'm grateful. Without further ado, here are the winners which were chosen at random.

Peter Hansen
H.C. Newton

Please send me an email by Friday, Oct. 17th, with your own email information so that I may send it to the publisher for delivery.

Until next time,
Kay B

The Younger Gods (Younger Gods #1) by Michael R. Underwood

Release Date: October 13, 2014
Publisher: Pocket Star
Series: The Younger Gods series, Book 1

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars.

Synopsis:
Jacob Greene was born and raised within the confines of a loving, religious family in Minnesota. Homeschooled in both formal and religious education, he did as his family needed him to do. His main job was to collect supplies for the family from a nearby store. All was well in his world until the night he brought home a friend to meet his family. The awful truth that had been his entire life lay before him.

Disgusted by his family and fleeing far from its reach, he settled into life as a college student in New York. He worked to forget and free himself from the terrors of his cultist family only to discover that not all his ties had been severed with his departure. Someone followed him to the Big Apple with intentions of fulfilling a long-held prophecy to bring about the end of the world. Only Jacob knew how strong this person was and sought out allies to help. Will they be able to stop the prophecy from unfolding? Can Jacob come to terms with his past in order to save the future?

Review:
I first found this title while browsing through the offerings at NetGalley. After having requested it for review, I received an invitation from the publisher to read and review this title. It's a wondrous thing when great minds think alike. The whole premise of the story grabbed my attention. Many books were written on the basis of the world ending due to some group wanting to have dominion. However, I can't think of very many which feature the outcast of a cult trying to prevent the end of the world for the good of humanity.

The story was told from Jacob's perspective, using his peculiar way of thinking and talking that was beaten into him as a child. Younger than nearly everyone at his college, he had trouble finding common ground with anyone who crossed his path. This included his roommate who was Jacob's polar opposite in nearly every respect. Since the story was set in New York, a variety of races, religions and dialects came into play during the journey that took the characters through each of the city's five boroughs. It can be difficult to keep the different personalities of the characters from blending as the story progresses, but I felt the author did a great job keeping each one of them distinct from the other. I also enjoyed the various reactions to Jacob as he revealed his lack of knowledge in the area of popular culture. In this day and age, not knowing about television or celebrities is nearly a sin unto itself.

For me the beginning of the book was a little slow. It took some time for me to be accustomed to Jacob's way of speaking and thinking. Once I was used to him and the events of the story began to push the action to the forefront, the pace quickened and remained steady until the next discovery or battle took place. A lot of legend, myth and lore that the cult and other practitioners of magic within the city believe were woven through the story. Included were bits of information about the gems, tools and books used in the preparations and battles between the forces of good and evil. I liked the way the author wove that information into the story so as to not overwhelm the reader with everything at once. Some of it was a little unbelievable with today's way of thinking, but worked exceptionally well within the confines of the book.

Having a really good start to the series, I can see much more happening in the books to come that will not only expand the roles of the key characters, but those of the civilians as well. There's definitely more to this prophecy than we readers know. I enjoyed this book, even coming to enjoy the awkwardness that Jacob's personality creates in social environments. His sister, well, she can get what's coming her way as far as I'm concerned. I'm curious to know more about these hidden guardians that protect us from the unseen. If you enjoy the supernatural realm with a hint of possibility or are a regular lover of books just to the left of center, then this book (and series) will be perfect for you.

The Younger Gods (Younger Gods #1) by Michael R. Underwood is currently available at many online and soon to be at your local retailers. It can be purchased in digital formats including Kindle. The click provided below will bring up the book's Amazon page.
The Younger Gods (Younger Gods #1) by Michael R. Underwood