Cthulhu Passant Edited By Travis Heermann

Genre: Horror
Sub Genre: Science Fiction
Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: The intricacies of chess meet the matchless Mythos of H.P. Lovecraft. Stories of doors, of passages, of patterns. Squares and threats, moves and counter-moves. Forbidden knowledge and cosmic horrors. ... Two young lovers and the hand that plays them ... A man trapped with an unwholesome companion uncovers the secret of a cosmic struggle ... A professor and his protégé find themselves pawns on an ancient chessboard ... A young Soviet boy’s chess match holds the fate of his nation in the balance ... A battered woman seeks safety in a shelter, only to find there might be no safety anywhere Let these five guides to the grotesque lead you into the dank depths of their imagination ... where the monsters lurk.

This is an anthology of of a mix of chess and H. P. Lovecraft. They are dark and brilliant. I will not go into detail about the stories as they are short. The book is also great as it benefits women’s shelters and programs for victims of domestic violence. I loved reading this book I’m not sure which story I liked best because I like each for different reasons. Absolutely brilliant!

Publisher: Bear Paw Publishing
ISBN: 9781622254101
Pages: 75
Series:
Volume: 

Barton's Island by Harl Vincent Foreword by Guy Anthony De Marco

Genre: Science Fiction; Hypnotism
Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: In the year 2229, Jerome Carter and his Gang of Ten run the government of United North America from the shadows. With the iron fist of business acumen, they fear only one thing: a leader who can motivate the working class, called the Gray, to revolt. Philip Barton, born one of the elite, is that man. Barton is exiled, along with his wife and associates. What his enemies don't realize is that Barton and his airship yacht are not all they appear to be. On the run from government agents, Barton escapes to a secret location known as Barton's Island. Can he elude the thugs from the government long enough to lead the workers of the world to a new era? Barton's Island combines action, adventure, and science fiction to create a tension-filled battle between the government forces and the everyday man.

This story was originally published in 1929 but is set in the far future. A man Jerome Carter runs things from behind the scenes with a ruthless hand. Philip Barton is in his way so he has the government send him, his wife and friends into exile. But Philip has a plan. For a story that was written so long ago it feels like something that could have been written today. Once I started reading this book I couldn’t put it down. I loved reading this book and only wished that it was longer.

Publisher: Villainous Press
ISBN: 978-1622254538
Pages: 114
Series:
Volume: 

Out Through The Attic by Quincy J. Allen

Genre: Science Fiction; Steampunk; Fantasy; Horror; Cross-Genre; Short Story
Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Thirteen fantastic tales from the cavorting, twisted mind of Quincy J. Allen, Out Through the Attic covers everything from steampunk and fantasy to sci-fi and horror. It’s a cross-genre smorgasbord that’s sure to hit the right spot, with a dose or two of straight-up genre fiction for the meat-and-taters appetite.

This is a collection of short stories that are all different types of genres and is brilliantly written. These thirteen tales are so full of life and have a depth to them that isn't always shown in short story collections like this one. Each tale creates a world that sucks you in, the writing is imaginative and compelling. Since this is a book of short stories I don’t want to go into what each tale is about for fear of giving away to much. I will say that my favorite stories where 17 and Baby WEI. The book kept me on the edge of my seat and once I started reading, I couldn't put it down. I really enjoyed reading this book and look forward to reading more of Quincy J. Allen’s work.

Publisher: 7DS Books
ISBN: 978-0692204566
Pages: 252
Series:
Volume: 

Destiny by Elizabeth Haydon

Genre: Fantasy, Magic, Dragons
Sub Genre: Science Fiction, Time Travel
Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: To stand against the F'dor--an ancient, vile being intent on destroying the world--a fellowship has been forged: Rhapsody, a Singer of great talent and beauty; Achmed, an assassin with unearthly talents; and Grunthor, a giant of jolly disposition and lethal skill with weapons. Driven by prophetic visions, the three know that time is running short, know that they must find their elusive enemy before his darkness consumes them all. But after their final, brutal confrontation with the F'dor, their world crosses the threshold of disaster and faces utter oblivion. The action reaches a fevered pitch, achieving a crescendo of tragedy, love, and triumph of human spirit over world-shattering cataclysm. With death at hand and the world crumbling at their feet, these three will finally discover their true Destiny.

This is the third book in Symphony of Ages series. Rhapsody, Achmed and Grunthor have gone through so much and yet there is so much more to come for them. The epic fantasy of this series I more than I can convey. Many things that you have been wondering about are answered here. I can’t wait to see where this world will go from here as it seems like it wrapped up beautifully. The next book in this series is, Requiem for the Sun.

Publisher: Tor
ISBN: 978-0812570830
Pages: 864
Series: Symphony of Ages
Volume: 3

The One by Kiera Cass

Genre: Young Adult
Sub Genre: Science Fiction; Romance; Future, Class System
Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: The Selection changed the lives of thirty-five girls forever. And now, the time has come for one winner to be chosen. America never dreamed she would find herself anywhere close to the crown—or to Prince Maxon's heart. But as the competition approaches its end and the threats outside the palace walls grow more vicious, America realizes just how much she stands to lose—and how hard she'll have to fight for the future she wants. From the very first page of The Selection, this #1 New York Times bestselling series has captured readers' hearts and swept them away on a captivating journey... Now, in The One, Kiera Cass delivers a satisfying and unforgettable conclusion that will keep readers sighing over this electrifying fairy-tale long after the final page is turned.

This is the final book in the Selection series. America is determined to stand by Prince Maxon’s side. Only there is still a lot in the way from the King to the other girls still in the castle. So much happens throughout this story, with love, adventure, excitement and tearful moments. The conclusion of this story was brilliantly written. America is one of my favorite characters to read. Aspen and Maxon are both more complicated characters in this book which makes it even more well rounded. I loved reading this book and couldn’t put it down once I started reading it. Kiera Cass’ imagination and storytelling are great I look forward to reading any other books that she may write in the future.

Publisher: HarperTeen
ISBN: 978-0062059994
Pages: 336
Series: The Selection
Volume: 3

Midnight Magic by Rebecca York, Susan Kearney, Jeanie London

Genre: Paranormal Romance; Magic, Time Travel

Sub Genre: Romance, Historical, Contemporary, Science Fiction

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: A magical painting, a mystical gateway… Legend has it that a heartbroken artist used magical paint to create the beautiful “Midnight Magic”--and then stepped into the painting and was never seen again. Or so Sara Drimmon is told when she visits the Second Chance Gallery in Rebecca York's "Second Chance." Sara experiences the magic for herself when the painting sends her into her own past and gives her a second chance with her first love. Then it's Sara's turn to introduce someone to the painting--and she chooses Merline, a beautiful singer who's lost her voice. In Susan Kearney's "Ulterior Motives," the painting sends Merline thousands of years into the future, where she is no longer a superstar. Is Merline ready to trade stardom for love? In Jeanie London's "Temptation," an artist urges Nina de Lacy to look deeply into the painting. But Nina has her own magical way of seeing into the souls of men--and now she must choose between the destiny “Midnight Magic” offers her and the two men who wait for her to tell them their future…

This is a great anthology that circles on its own. Each story is connected to the painting Midnight Magic. The first sends Sara back in time. While the second one sends Merline 300 years into the future. And the last starts in the 1700’s but ending in 2006. The way that the stories are written they flow seamlessly into one another. I really enjoy how each one was so different and yet you could see where the story was to go. It was very imaginative and entertaining. This is one that is a good tale for whatever ails you, as there is Romance, Historical, Contemporary, Science Fiction and Paranormal all wrapped under one book.

Publisher: Tor Romance

ISBN: 0765354853

Pages: 352

Series:

Volume: 

Touching Darkness by Jaime Rush

Genre: Paranormal Romance; People with Abilities, The Offspring

Sub Genre: Science Fiction

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: They live ordinary lives, but they are extraordinary. They are the Offspring, children of a mysterious experiment gone awry - and they are in terrible danger. Nicholas Braden has an uncanny psychic talent for finding things - which is why he's been recruited for a covert government program designed to hunt down terrorists. While his work for a shady controller named Darkwell is leading him down some very questionable alleyways, it's also bringing him closer to Olivia, Darkwell's stunning young assistant. A "good girl" with a wild, secret side, Olivia tempts Nicholas in ways he never believed possible - and in his business, a loss of control could prove fatal. But there is something not right about the operation. And as Nicholas and Olivia's passion reaches a white-hot intensity, chilling reversals of good and evil, of right and wrong, suddenly threaten their very survival.

This is the third book in the Offspring series. Nicholas is working for Darkwell but  is beginning to have some questions about what is really going on. It doesn’t help that he is starting to have feelings for Olivia as well. Olivia doesn’t know who to believe. She is told one thing and yet is seeing something else all around her. The story is just building from the others. What was great about this book is that you get to see all the side stories and we get to meet some new characters as well. Nicholas is one of sweetest male characters I’ve ever read. I also liked to see Olivia change as she realized what was really going on. I really like this book and can’t wait to read Burning Darkness.

Publisher: Avon Books

ISBN: 0061690376

Pages: 400

Series: Offspring

Volume: 3

The Chosen Sin by Anya Bast

Genre: Paranormal Romance; Vampires

Sub Genre: Urban Fantasy

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: In this sensuous and lust-filled otherworld, the Chosen are vampires fighting for their very existence. It is Daria’s destiny to become one of them… Daria Morris is a special forces agent with one obsession: to wreak vengeance on the brutal vampire who nearly destroyed her. Now she’s finally about to get her chance, on one condition. She must become something she detests: a vampire. Her fate rests upon one man’s lethal bite. His name is Alejandro Martinez, and he can help her infiltrate a highly guarded group of the Chosen. But Alejandro is also a distraction for Daria. Because thirteen years ago, they shared a scorching night of passion neither has forgotten. Now, while Daria struggles against her newfound bloodlust, the two must slip into the shadows to bring a monster to justice—even as their desire threatens to consume them. But under the cover of night, they’ll discover that it’s the darkness within that may stand in the way of their hunger for retribution…

This book is a standalone novel. Daria who has been hurt and has lost a very dear friend because of a former lover is out to get her man. But to do so she has to become a vampire. And to do that she must team up with a man that makes her very hot and bothered, Alejandro. He also has his own mission hoping to prove to Daria that he is the only one for her. The story is a great page turner.  The main character was well written with all of her flaws. But her growth along the way is what takes you on a great ride. I really enjoyed reading this book and liked to see a futuristic world that was created which is much different than her other works that I have read.

Publisher: Heat

ISBN: 0425223566

Pages: 320

Series:

Volume:

Out of the Darkness by Jaime Rush

Genre: Paranormal Romance; People with Abilities, The Offspring

Sub Genre: Science Fiction
Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: They live ordinary lives, but they are extraordinary. They are the Offspring, children of a mysterious experiment gone awry – and they are in terrible danger. Rand Brandenburg can see the future, yet thus far all he has done with his unique ability is become a skillful gambler. But according to the Offspring, his power has made him a target and could get him killed. So the loner used to living on the edge is now hiding out with others just like him, including Zoe Stoker, a mysterious redhead who has his heart soaring. But that’s not the only thing Zoe’s got flying. All her life, whenever she felt anything too intensely, objects would start moving. She’s never been able to control her power, so instead she’s shut down her emotions. Now, as a powerful enemy approaches, she’s losing control of her heart. But letting love lead her out of the darkness might save her life…

This is the second book in Jaime Rush’s Offspring series. The main love interests in this book are Rand and Zoe. Zoe is a tattoo artist that is a little bit of a control freak. Then you have the loner of Rand, who is amazing. The two of them are amazing together. I have to say that Rand is my favorite character. I love how artistic he is and what he uses to create his art. Also the dynamic the rest of the characters have with one another is great. We get to Amy and Lucas as well as the rest again. Eric is a hot head as always. I really enjoyed reading this and can’t wait to read the next one in the series, Touching Darkness.

Publisher: Avon Books

ISBN: 0061690368

Pages: 384

Series: The Offspring

Volume: 2

Born of Night by Sherrilyn Kenyon

Genre: Paranormal Romance; Space, The League

Sub Genre: Science Fiction

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: In the Ichidian Universe, The League and their ruthless assassins rule all. Expertly trained and highly valued, the League Assassins are the backbone of the government. But not even the League is immune to corruption . . . He was born and trained to kill. Command Assassin Nykyrian Quikiades once turned his back on the League — and has been hunted by them ever since. Though many have tried, none can kill him or stop him from completing his current mission: to protect Kiara Zamir, a woman whose father’s political alliance has made her a target.  She must accept his protection or die. As her world becomes even deadlier, Kiara must entrust her life to the same kind of beast who once killed her mother and left her for dead. Old enemies and new threaten them both and the only way they can survive is to overcome their suspicions and learn to trust in the very ones who threaten them the most: each other.

This is the first book in the League series. The story takes us out into space. Nykerian is one of the most notorious assassins who has done his job brilliantly but at one point realizes that he just can’t kill this one assignment. Because of that he signs his own death warrant. Kiara has assassins after her so her father hires Nykerian and his friends to protect her. She just doesn’t know what to make of any of them. This is a great divergence from Sherrilyn Kenyon’s Dark Hunter. In reading her author’s notes these characters where her childhood friends. They characters are so well developed. You can’t help but fall in love with these felons. I truly loved this book and can’t wait to read the next book in this series, Born of Fire.

Publisher: St. Martin’s

ISBN: 0312942303

Pages: 560

Series: League

Volume: 1

After Dark by Jayne Ann Krentz writing as Jayne Castle

Genre: Paranormal Romance; Psychics, Ghosts, Ghost Hunters

Sub Genre: Science Fiction

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Life is tough enough these days for Lydia Smith, licensed Para-archaeologist. Seriously stressed-out from a nasty incident in an alien tomb, she is obliged to work part-time in Shrimpton’s House of Ancient Horrors, a very lowbudget museum. She has a plan to get her career back on track, but it isn’t going well. Stuff keeps happening. Take the dead body that she discovered in one of the sarcophagus exhibits. Who needed that? Finding out that her new client, Emmett London, is one of the most dangerous men in the city isn’t helping matters either. And that’s just today’s list of setbacks. Here in the shadows of the Dead City of old Cadence, things don’t really heat up until After Dark.

This is the first book in the Ghost Hunters series. I was interested in reading more about this world after reading a short story that took place here. But it did take me a little bit of time to find a copy of this book. Lydia has fallen on hard times after an unfortunate incident. She is trying to start her own consulting firm. Emmett is her first client who is looking for a family heirloom. While the two work together they are soon being chased and put in danger. I really liked reading this story. It is more of a good quick story. The two characters seem to want to be together and then keep getting in one another’s way. I can’t wait to read the next story in the series, After Glow.

Publisher: Jove

ISBN: 051512902X

Pages: 352

Series: Harmony World

Volume: 2

Bridal Jitters by Jayne Castle

Genre: Paranormal Romance; Psychics, Ghosts, Aliens

Sub Genre: Science Fiction

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Just below the City of Cadence lie the remains of the Dead City of Old Cadence – resonating with the psychic and para energy of its dead souls. While exploring the darkest depths of the city, two business partners discover passions within each other that are very much alive… Virginia Burch,  a psychic archaeologist, can’t believe her luck when she meets Sam Gage, a ghost-hunter and owner of prime real estate in the Old Quarter of Cadence, above the Dead City. He offers her his space to live and start up her business. What follows is an even more intriguing proposal – to become his wife. Strictly for professional reasons, of course… Their marriage of convenience would lead to a very lucrative business partnership, Gage & Burch Consulting. Until something throws a wrench into the plan: the undeniably sensual energy that exists between them – and a love so strong it could wake the ghosts below…

This is a short story that I had to write about because I liked it so much. Virginia is starting to get cold feet regarding her marriage of convenience as she does like her soon to be husband. Things change as they go on their first job together. This is such a great story that I couldn’t help but to write about it. I was lucky enough to find it at one of those stories off the beaten path. I can't wait to read the next book in this series, After Dark.

Publisher: Berkley

ISBN: 0425208648

Pages: 96

Series: Harmony World

Volume: 1

Dualed by Elsie Chapman

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Science Fiction; Romance; Dystopia

Rating: 3 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Two of you exist. Only one will survive. The city of Kersh is a safe haven, but the price of safety is high. Everyone has a genetic Alternate—a twin raised by another family—and citizens must prove their worth by eliminating their Alts before their twentieth birthday. Survival means advanced schooling, a good job, marriage—life. Fifteen-year-old West Grayer has trained as a fighter, preparing for the day when her assignment arrives and she will have one month to hunt down and kill her Alt. But then a tragic misstep shakes West’s confidence. Stricken with grief and guilt, she’s no longer certain that she’s the best version of herself, the version worthy of a future. If she is to have any chance of winning, she must stop running not only from her Alt, but also from love . . . though both have the power to destroy her.

This story is the first in the Dualed series. West is the kind of girl that is a go getter. She has lost all of her family and is only concerned about how to survive her Alt. The story reminds me of Battle Royal and the Hunger Games meets the Island. I thought that West and Chord where well written. My only complaint was that I felt that it was a little rushed in spots and I would go back and re-read sections thinking I missed something. Now that the base is set I am curious where the story may go from here. I look forward to reading Divided.

Publisher: Random House Books for Young Readers

ISBN: 0307931544

Pages: 304

Series: Dualed

Volume: 1

Gameboard of the Gods by Richelle Mead

Genre: Science Fiction; Future time

Sub Genre: Fantasy; Mythology, Gods, Magic

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: In a futuristic world nearly destroyed by religious extremists, Justin March lives in exile after failing in his job as an investigator of religious groups and supernatural claims. But Justin is given a second chance when Mae Koskinen comes to bring him back to the Republic of United North America (RUNA). Raised in an aristocratic caste, Mae is now a member of the military’s most elite and terrifying tier, a soldier with enhanced reflexes and skills. When Justin and Mae are assigned to work together to solve a string of ritualistic murders, they soon realize that their discoveries have exposed them to terrible danger. As their investigation races forward, unknown enemies and powers greater than they can imagine are gathering in the shadows, ready to reclaim the world in which humans are merely game pieces on their board. Gameboard of the Gods, the first installment of Richelle Mead’s Age of X series, will have all the elements that have made her YA Vampire Academy and Bloodlines series such mega successes: sexy, irresistible characters; romantic and mythological intrigue; and relentless action and suspense.

This is one of those books that once I started it I couldn't put it down. The book is the first one in the Age of X as it takes place in the future. Things are so different you need a license to practice a religion and many other things that catch you. But at the same time you get it. You feel like you could see how this all works. The switching of characters helps you get a very well rounded view of everything. Mae is amazing and strong. Justin is a little too much into himself and his own desires. Tessa, coming from the outside brings a fresh view point of it all. I loved this book. The mix of myth, tech, science and future had me from the beginning. Then you add in these brilliantly written characters. I can't wait to see where this series will go next.

Publisher: Dutton Adult

ISBN: 9780525953685

Pages: 464

Series: Age of X

Volume: 1

The Elite by Kiera Cass

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Science Fiction; Romance; Future, Class System

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Thirty-five girls came to the palace to compete in the Selection. All but six have been sent home. And only one will get to marry Prince Maxon and be crowned princess of Illea. America still isn’t sure where her heart lies. When she’s with Maxon, she’s swept up in their new and breathless romance, and can’t dream of being with anyone else. But whenever she sees Aspen standing guard around the palace, and is overcome with memories of the life they planned to share. With the group narrowed down to the Elite, the other girls are even more determined to win Maxon over—and time is running out for America to decide. Just when America is sure she’s made her choice, a devastating loss makes her question everything again. And while she’s struggling to imagine her future, the violent rebels that are determined to overthrow the monarchy are growing stronger and their plans could destroy her chance at any kind of happy ending.

This is the second book in the Selection series. America is still working to stay in the selection for Maxon. But every time she feels that she understands what is going on the rug is pulled out from under her. The addition of Aspen at the palace adds another complication. When tragedy strikes it makes America really question if she still wants to be a part of this selection or even be with Maxon. The story keeps you guessing the whole time. I love that we see more of our favorite characters and more sass from America and Maxon. I can't wait to see where this story is going to.

Publisher: HarperTeen

ISBN: 978-0062059963

Pages: 336

Series: The Selection

Volume: 2

Girl in the Arena by Lise Haines

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Science Fiction; Gladiators

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: It’s a fight to the death – on live TV – when a modern-day gladiator’s daughter steps into the arena. Lyn is a neo-gladiator’s daughter through and through. Her mother has made a career out of marrying into high-profile world of televised blood sport, and the rules of the Gladiator Sports Association are second nature to their family: Always lend ineffable confidence to the gladiator. Remind him constantly of his victories. And most importantly: Never leave the stadium when your father is dying. The rules help the family survive, but rules – and the GSA – can also work against you. When a gifted young fighter kills Lyn’s seventh father, he also captures Lyn’s dowry bracelet, which means she must marry him. To win her freedom, Lyn will enter the arena to face her father’s murderer in mortal combat. And she’ll do it even though she may be falling for him. For fans of The Hunger Games and Fight Club, Lise Haines’s debut novel is a mesmerizing look at a world addicted to violence – a modern world that disturbingly easy to imagine.

This was a book that caught me off guard. Ok so I’m a closeted WWE fan and love to watch people doing things that are borderline crazy. So this book I found very intriguing. The main character is born into this world of violence, but finds that she is a pacifist. The only problem is that she has to make a decision to fight so that she can save her family. And yet everything seems to be happening so fast for her. I really hate the GSA, as they seem to take and never give back. I like that Lyn is such a strong female character. She is a great role model for young women. I truly enjoyed reading this book. It will be out in October.

Publisher: Bloomsbury

ISBN: 1599905213

Pages: 336

Series:

Volume:

Uglies by Scott Westerfeld

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Science Fiction; Futuristic, Technology, Uglies

Rating: 3 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Everybody gets to be supermodel gorgeous. What could be wrong with that?

Tally is about to turn sixteen, and she can't wait. Not for her license -- for turning pretty. In Tally's world, your sixteenth birthday brings an operation that turns you from a repellent ugly into a stunningly attractive pretty and catapults you into a high-tech paradise where your only job is to have a really great time. In just a few weeks Tally will be there. But Tally's new friend Shay isn't sure she wants to be pretty. She'd rather risk life on the outside. When Shay runs away, Tally learns about a whole new side of the pretty world -- and it isn't very pretty. The authorities offer Tally the worst choice she can imagine: find her friend and turn her in, or never turn pretty at all. The choice Tally makes changes her world forever.

Tally has only ever wanted to become a pretty. But after making friends with Shay her world gets turned upside down. Soon she may not even be given the option to be one unless you can find and bring Shay back. The story itself was well thought out and good but I personally wouldn’t read it again. It was a quick read that I felt that something was missing. Then again I’ve never been big on the way people look which was a very big component in this story. But I did like the writing style of this book. The next book in this series is Pretties.

Publisher: Simon Pulse

ISBN: 0689865384

Pages: 448

Series: Uglies

Volume: 1

The Giver by Lois Lowry

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Science Fiction; Utopia

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Jonas's world is perfect. Everything is under control. There is no war or fear of pain. There are no choices. Every person is assigned a role in the community. When Jonas turns 12 he is singled out to receive special training from The Giver. The Giver alone holds the memories of the true pain and pleasure of life. Now, it is time for Jonas to receive the truth. There is no turning back.

This is a very different book, set in a Utopia society. Well at least that is what the community believes. There is one elder that holds the memories of the past. Almost like a grandfather type. It’s all about growing up. I think this is a great story for many different reasons. It opens your mind to why it may not be good to live in such a society. I got this book when I was in high school and when it had first come out. And have read it more times than I can count. I think that it should be a book you have to read at least once. The next book in this series is Gathering Blue.

Publisher: Laurel Leaf

ISBN: 0385732554

Pages: 208

Series: The Giver

Volume: 1

Passage by Connie Willis

Genre: Science Fiction; Near-Death Experience

Rating: 2 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Dr. Joanna Lander is a psychologist specializing in near-death experiences. She is about to get help from a new doctor with the power to give her the chance to get as close to death as anyone can. A brilliant young neurologist, Dr. Richard Wright has come up with a way to manufacture the near-death experience using a psychoactive drug. Joanna’s first NDE is as fascinating as she imagined – so astounding that she knows she must go back, if only to find out why that place is so hauntingly familiar. But each time Joanna goes under, her sense of dread begins to grow, because part of her already knows why the experience is so familiar, and why she has every reason to be afraid. Yet just when Joanna thinks she understands, she’s in for the biggest surprise of all – a shattering scenario that will keep you feverishly reading until the final climactic page.

This was one of those of those books that sounded amazing. And it does grab you at the beginning pulling you in. But then it just kinda fizzles. The near-death experiences are very vivid and quite well done. As it went on Joanna’s relationship between herself and Dr. Richard was kind of sweet. I just thought that this left something out. It was just missing something for me. Not one that I will read again.

Publisher: Bantam Books

ISBN: 0553580515

Pages: 800

Series:

Volume:

Pastworld by Ian Beck

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Science Fiction; Amusement Park of the Past, London, Victorian Times

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: A dream of the past, a nightmare of the future in the greatest theme park ever devised. What if all of London were really an amusement park – a whole city returned to Victorian times to entertain visitor from the twenty-first century? That’s the wildly original premise of Ian Beck’s Pastworld, a high-stakes mystery set in a simulated past. Eve is a lifelong resident of Pastworld who doesn’t know she’s living in a theme park until a mysterious threat forces her to leave home. Caleb is a visiting tourist who finds the lawlessness of the past thrilling – until he suddenly becomes a fugitive from an anticquated justice system. And in the midst of it all, in the thick London fog a dark and deadly figure prowls, claiming victim after victim. He’s the Fantom, a creature both of the past and of the present, in whose dark purpose Caleb and Eve will find their destinies combined.

This is a story that mixes the old world with Science fiction. Think of it as being a world that people can go and visit the old Victorian London. The people there do not know that they live in an amusement park. Then they through in the element of murder, a killer that scares those who live there. This is such a page turning mystery. I felt like I was there running in the streets trying to work things out with the other characters. I really enjoyed this story. It was very imaginative and well written.

Publisher: Bloomsbury Children’s Books

ISBN: 1599905299

Pages: 368

Series:

Volume: