Book Review - Binge by Anne Pfeffer

 

Sabrina's had a troubled life. Her mum walked out on the family when she was nine, and her younger sister Lena was 5. Their father was always very distant, and Sabrina took over the role of parent for her younger sibling. Since that moment, Sabrina comforted eats when she is under pressure or troubled. Now she is 27 and working for a boss she dislikes. Her eating is spiralling out of control, and she is now a binge eater. Sabrina is also an aspiring romance novelist, and although she has had many rejections, she continues sending her manuscript to editors as she cannot give up hope. 

Out of the blue, Sabrina hears from Kaitlynn Mann, editorial director of Fast Track Books. Kaitlynn wants to publish Sabrina's romance novel in 4 months. Sabrina is over the moon until she realizes that Kaitlynn is arranging a gala dinner and wants Sabrina to wear a figure-hugging red dress like her heroine. Sabrina is appalled when she realizes that Kaitlynn had checked out the profile photo on her website when she was a svelte size ten wearing a sexy red dress. How is Sabrina going to lose forty pounds in 4 months? Did she succeed in getting her novel published? What is the twelve-step program? Read Binge by Anne Pfeffer to find out the answers.

I enjoyed reading about Sabrina's emotional struggles while battling her Binge eating problem and low self-esteem. Many people facing similar challenges will be able to relate to Sabrina's character. Despite Sabrina's determination to better herself and lose weight, she learns that her problems are deeply rooted in the neglect she suffered in her childhood. Only when Sabrina has a group of supportive friends with similar addictions does she get the comfort and guidance she needs. Pfeffer's penmanship is enjoyable and humorous. Sabrina is described so well that I felt I was saying goodbye to a friend by the end of the book. The supporting characters are also well-developed, and they add to the story with their scenes giving different viewpoints on Sabrina's struggles. 

Anne Pfeffer has written a moving and inspiring story that tackles important issues related to self-esteem, addiction, and personal growth. For its relatable characters, engaging writing style, and inspirational message, it deserves a rating of 5 out of 5 stars. There were several grammar errors, and I think this book could do with another proofread. However, the errors did not spoil my enjoyment of this wonderful book which I recommend to anyone looking for an uplifting, relatable read filled with humour.

I want to thank Anne Pfeffer for a copy of Binge in exchange for my honest and impartial review. You can see more of my reviews here http://onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-tara-d-morgan.html

book review of Voices From a Forgotten Letter: Poems on the Syrian Civil War by Seif-Eldeine

 

This collection of poems shows how war impacts Syria and how life continues. They describe the Syrian people's everyday life, and some depict the lives of people who will die despite the war. There is an elderly mother who has diabetes and is being kept alive with insulin. There are tales of men breaking the rules playing a dice game and smoking heavily under a "No Smoking" sign. They also tell of the slave labor of refugees forced to work in sweatshops. Furthermore, a woman is forced to marry a man she does not love and endure his nightly assaults on her body.

We have all seen the Syrian Civil War reported on news stories. We are appalled at what is happening. Gasping with disbelief at the war-torn scenery and saddened by refugees escaping from their homes. However, this collection of poems gives the other side of these stories. People's lives continue. They have to work, marry, care for their families, and try and keep themselves safe and sane. 

I found the imagery conjured up by Seif-Eldeine of life going on despite the war very intense. The pictures created of children playing on rubble where their neighbor's houses once stood made me think. The bitter-sweet poem of a refugee bride far from home and mourning her father's arrest by the security forces broke my heart. She wants her father with her on her special day. He has always been her rock, and then she looks at her husband-to-be and realizes she will be safe with him.

One of the poems that resonated with me the most was about the last thoughts of a dying soldier. He looks up into pine trees and thinks about Christmas and his young son. There is the red of decorations like the red of his blood. Gradually the reds and greens merge until there is a ball of light above him, and then .... death!

I appreciated the addition of a glossary at the back of the book. Some terms and words used are in Arabic, so this resource was invaluable. I have learned a lot more about the Syrian conflict, and I am grateful to Seif-Eldeine for giving me a chance to learn through the power of poetry.

These poems are perfect as they are. I would change nothing about Voices From a Forgotten Letter: Poems on the Syrian Civil War and give a well-deserved 5 out of 5 stars. Seif-Eldeine captures the very troubled lives of the Syrian people. His imagery is intense; you are a part of the scene being played out. I learned about the soldiers on the front line, and the lives of the everyday people trying to keep life as normal as possible for the future they all dream of!

Children's Book review - Elizabeth Munk's Forest Edge Adventure by Faye McFarland

Elizabeth Munk is the youngest of four chipmunk siblings. She is excited when her mother says she can go on her first trip to Forest Edge with her brothers to gather food for the pantry. The brothers do not want to take Elizabeth with them as they say she is too young and will not listen to them, but their Mum insists they need all the help they can get to prepare for the winter. Elizabeth does not understand that she should be looking for food. She collects decorative items she likes the look of. She is delighted with her efforts and all the pretty items she has found. What happens when Elizabeth arrives home without any food? Why does the family laugh at her finds? How does Elizabeth's stash turn out to be a valuable contribution? Read Elizabeth Munk's Forest Edge Adventure by Faye McFarland, illustrated by  Wesley Lowe, to learn the answers to these questions.

This sweet tale of the forest life of a family of chipmunks preparing for winter has beautiful descriptions. I particularly enjoyed seeing the forest through the eyes of Elizabeth as she sees it for the first time, which helps to picture Elizabeth's character. The delightful artwork works well with the writing to build a magical world of forest creatures.

Faye McFarland has done a fantastic job by using the story to explain to young children that everyone is different, as shown in the way Elizabeth's brothers get stuck into looking for supplies in the forest. In contrast, Elizabeth is taken by the beauty around her and wants to return some of that beauty to brighten the family home. McFarland shows with her words and Wesley Lowe's illustrations that Elizabeth is just as valuable to the family despite her different outlook. She provides beautiful items to decorate the home and make it a much prettier place to live in over the winter. 

It was a great idea of Faye McFarland to include a page giving details of the type of chipmunks Elizabeth Munk and her family were based on. I had never heard of Least Chipmunks and appreciated this addition, which I learned much from. There is also a glossary at the end of the book explaining some of the words used in the story; this is also well presented with illustrations.

Elizabeth Munk's Forest Edge Adventure is a beautifully written and well-presented book that I recommend to young children up to eight. Parents, and children up to six, will enjoy reading this book together and learning about forest life for the chipmunk family. Children aged six to eight will love to read this book by themselves. The illustrations and simple language work well together, and I loved that this is also an informative book. Children will learn while they enjoy the story; the illustrations are just as much a part of the story as the words.

I want to give Elizabeth Munk's Forest Edge Adventure by Faye McFarland 5 out of 5 stars. There was nothing I disliked about it. The editing and proofreading were perfect, and the story was entrancing. This is a well-written and beautifully illustrated book.  

Kindle Book Review - The Blandford Fly by D. N. Moore

The Blandford Fly is a ninety-five-page book containing four bewitching novellas that take the reader on a voyage of discovery. Every tale has a different theme, so the reader is always on the edge of their seat and keeps turning the pages to discover what the next story has in store for them; each tale is distinctive and captivating. The anecdotes arise from the science fiction, futuristic, ghost, and horror genres. Why is Danny Carson so obsessed with bugs? How does a doll save Davie McDaniel? Who puts sardines and ice cream together? Furthermore, who is the ghostly presence in "Radio Sweethearts"? Read The Blandford Fly by D. N. Moore to find the answers to these questions.

The cover of this book is beautiful and makes you want to find out what the stories inside are like. D. N. Moore writes exceptional narratives with full-bodied characters and exciting locations, which immediately become real, which I thoroughly relished. Each tale is unique, with unforeseen twists,  which kept me enjoying the story to the end and beyond. Readers will recall them for a long while after they have been read. Although these tales are short, each is fulfilling, well thought out, and well characterized. I believe the story "Sardines and Ice Cream" would work well as a stand-alone book, as Moore could follow so many more avenues.

The story I liked least was "The Living Boy: A Very Strange Christmas Story" it is a futuristic/science fiction story that leaves a lot to the imagination. This novella revolves around a human mother and son who are the slaves of doll people. It was too short; compared to the other stories in this compendium, it needed more substance.

I rate The Blandford Fly, 5 out of 5 stars as it is a compelling selection of stories. Unlike most compendiums, all the stories are very different. There were a few grammar errors, but they did not spoil my enjoyment.

D. N. Moore suggests that The Blandford Fly would best suit young adults. I recommend it to anyone who likes short stories, particularly fans of sci-fi, horror, supernatural, and futuristic genres. I would not recommend it to anyone younger than older teenagers, as there are some swear words but no sexual references. The Blandford Fly is the first book I have read by D. N. Moore. I thoroughly enjoyed it and will be looking out for more books by this author.

I want to thank D. N. Moore for a copy The Blandford Fly in exchange for my honest and impartial review. You can see more of my reviews here http://onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-tara-d-morgan.html

Children's book review - Doctoroo! and the case of the Hacking Hippo by Dr. Rachel B. Wellner

 

Hilda Hippo, the famous opera singer, has invited Dr. Marsha Roo and her friends to a concert at the Sydney Opera House. They are enjoying the performance when Hilda Hippo starts to cough. Luckily with Doctoroo in the audience, she has quick medical advice. Hilda has been feeling poorly for some time. She has days when she feels well and days when she is really sick. Why does Hilda's mud bath make Terence Toad feel hungry? Which of the animals falls asleep before the performance starts? Moreover, what is making Hilda Hippo ill, and will Dr. Marsha Roo be able to cure her? Read Doctoroo & the Case of the Hacking Hippo by Dr. Rachel Wellner to discover the answers to these questions and many more.

Doctoroo! & the Case of the Hacking Hippo is filled with exciting things for young children to learn about. From how long it took to build the Sydney Opera House to how mold can make you ill. Some of the book is written in rhyme which is a lovely way to introduce young children to poetry. I particularly loved the illustrations, which are bright and fun and will help children follow the story. The animals are all wearing clothes but still look like wild animals would look; this introduces another area of learning, and children will enjoy talking about the characters. Some of the pictures will make small children laugh, especially one of the nasty germs having a party.

I liked everything about Doctoroo! & the Case of the Hacking Hippo. The story is easy to follow but very educational and will be a fun way for young children to learn. The book was well-edited, with no errors in spelling or grammar. 

I recommend Doctoroo! & the Case of the Hacking Hippo by Dr. Rachel Wellner to parents and teachers of young children. This is a book that grown-ups will enjoy reading to younger children, and school-age children up to eight years will enjoy reading by themselves. There are lots of opportunities within the book to enhance learning. 

I rate Doctoroo! & the Case of the Hacking Hippo by Dr. Rachel Wellner a well-deserved 5 out of 5 stars. It is a delightful and engaging book that children will learn from while having fun. The illustrations are fantastic and enhance the reading experience!

I want to thank Rachel Wellner for a copy Doctoroo and the case of the Hacking Hippo in exchange for my honest and impartial review. You can see more of my reviews here http://onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-tara-d-morgan.html

Children's Book Review - Doctor Roo and the Case of the Red Hot Hawaiians by Rachel B. Wellner

Marsha Roo is a kangaroo with magical powers in her pouch, which turn her into a Doctoroo. One day Marsha is in Australia playing on the beach with her friends Kirby Koala, Terence Toad, and Louie Llama when she gets a text message asking her for help at the Big Dance Festival in Hawaii. Luckily Doctoroo is a good pilot, and after a long journey, they arrive safely at the festival grounds. Everywhere Doctoroo looks, she sees groups of animal dancers practicing for the event. Why do Doctoroo and her friends climb a volcano? What is a RED-HOT Hawaiian? Moreover, why has Gertie Goose texted Dr. Marsha Roo to come to Hawaii? Read Doctoroo & the Case of the Red Hot Hawaiians by Dr. Rachel B. Wellner to discover the answers to these questions and many more.

I like the way this is a very modern children's story. Doctoroo has a mobile phone and receives text messages on it, and during the story, the animal friends take selfies of themselves. Doctoroo and the Case of the Red Hot Hawaiians is a beautiful book filled with exciting pictures, and young children will learn a lot about volcanoes, rainforests, allergies, plants, and more while reading this fun and educational book. A sweet rhyme also teaches children about applying sunblock in the sun. This is a great way to introduce youngsters to the joy of poetry.

I recommend that Doctoroo and the Case of the Red Hot Hawaiians by Dr. Rachel B. Wellner is read to young children who will love the colorful pictures and enjoy the story. Older children up to eight years old will enjoy reading this story to themselves. There is lots of educational material that will help children learn in a fun way. I loved when the animal friends questioned a banana spider. Example from page sixteen 'He replies, "I don't bite young pigs. I don't bite old pigs. I don't bite any pigs. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have some web design to take care of."' This made me laugh, and parents and teachers will also have fun reading the story.

I disliked nothing about Doctoroo and the Case of the Red Hot Hawaiians . It is a delightful book that teaches young children in a fun and friendly way. The book had no grammar or spelling errors and was well-edited. 

I rate Doctoroo and the Case of the Red Hot Hawaiians by Dr. Rachel B. Wellner 5 out of 5 stars. The book will delight young children, teachers, and parents. It is engaging, and children will learn from it while having fun. The pictures are wonderful and enrich the reading experience!

I want to thank Rachel B. Wellner for a copy of Doctor Roo and the Case of the Red hot Hawaiians in exchange for my honest and impartial review. You can see more of my reviews here http://onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-tara-d-morgan.html

Book Review - The trafficking Murders by Brian O'Hare

Lin Hui is studying at Queen's University but has amassed many expensive items; after a threatening phone call, she packs a bag and walks out of her life. How does a scholarship student from China have so many expensive clothes, shoes, handbags, and pieces of jewelry? 

Alina Balauru is a teenager living in Romania with her parents. Their farm is barren, and they are lucky to get a few vegetables daily from the dry earth. The family lives on cheap bones and makes soup with whatever they can harvest. They are malnourished, but other work is scarce. When a smartly dressed stranger stops his car to ask for directions and suggests he may be able to find Alina work in the UK, the family sees this as their salvation. 

In Ireland, three days later, Detective Chief Inspector Jim Sheehan is called out to a house where the body of a young woman has been found. A syringe is lying near the body. However, it is unclear whether she has overdosed or been murdered. Where do Lin and Alina fit into this scenario? Is the body one of these girls? Is it a suicide or murder? Did Lin or Alina assist in the death? Read The Trafficking Murders by Brian O'Hare to find the answers to these questions.

At the beginning of the book, there is a list of the characters in this story with details of any quirks they might have. There is also a list of acronyms used by the Police in Northern Ireland. I found these lists a convenient reference while reading The Trafficking Murders by Brian O'Hare. I enjoyed this absorbing novel. O'Hare has extensively researched people trafficking in Northern Ireland, evident in The Trafficking Murders O'Hare's fifth book in The Inspector Sheehan Mysteries series. 

Every day, worldwide, girls and young women go missing. Vile, sadistic, and evil people force these girls into prostitution and domestic slavery. O'Hare intertwines his research on trafficking with his unique style of storytelling. I felt a range of emotions but especially anger towards the men who use these women as commodities and deep sadness for the women whose lives are ruined. 

I would recommend The Trafficking Murders by Brian O'Hare to adults who enjoy murder mysteries and crime thrillers. I enjoyed that there are lots of twists and turns which keep you guessing, but by the end of the book, everything has been explained, and there are no loose ends. 

I want to give The Trafficking Murders 5 out of 5 stars. There are some grammatical errors, but they did not spoil my enjoyment. I disliked nothing about this book; I immersed myself in Brian O'Hare's exceptional edge-of-the-seat crime thriller. I look forward to reading more books by this author.

I want to thank Brian O'Hare for a copy of The Trafficking Murders in exchange for my honest and impartial review. You can see more of my reviews here http://onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-tara-d-morgan.html

Book Review - Always Losing Something by Max Green

 

It is the year twenty-thirty, and New Zealand-born sixty-one-year-old Max is on a private plane travelling from London City Airport to JFK Airport. Max has an appointment to see his neurosurgeon at Columbia University Medical Centre. He has had regular appointments here since his Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) diagnosis thirteen years earlier. In twenty thirty Robot Operated Suits (ROS) have been invented. Max has a personal assistant who straps him into his ROS every morning, and Max's thought waves control it via brain implants. In this way, Max is still able to walk and even jog. Always Losing Something is not just about Max's illness. We learn about his football career, wild nights out, and family and friends. What else does the ROS do to help Max? What is the gene therapy trial, and is it something Max can take part in? What nightmare situation did Max find himself in during the Covid-19 pandemic? Furthermore, how does Max lose a leg? Read Always Losing Something by Max Green to discover the answers to these and other questions.

ALS is a terrible illness that gradually stops every body part from working while the brain is untouched. Having looked after my Dad, who had ALS, I know how dreadful this disease is, and I admire all the humor Max Green has put into Always Losing Something. What could have been a depressing read was very upbeat and funny while teaching the reader about ALS and how it affects Max. For example, on page twenty, Max reads a billboard with the words fast, fast, fast on it. As soon as Max thinks these words, the ROS takes him off on a fast jog through windows, tables, and anything else in his way until his assistant can rugby tackle him and press the reset button on the suit.

 

I enjoyed this book which is well written and very engaging, but I did dislike chapter two, which tells the story of Max's footballing career. Max was a footballer scouted by Bournemouth Football Club in his youth. Although I agree it was necessary to explain how vital football had been in Max's life, I did not enjoy the blow-by-blow accounts of the football matches he had played in. This became very boring.

I want to give Always Losing Something by Max Green 5 out of 5 stars. It is an informative read told with humor. ALS is a rare disease that mainly affects the nerve cells which are responsible for controlling voluntary muscle movements like chewing, walking, and talking. As well as having the disease, Max Green clearly understands the science of how the body is affected, and he puts this across very clearly in terms I understood. There are several grammatical errors, but they did not spoil the book's flow, and no stars should be taken off.

I recommend Always Losing Something to adults who enjoy factually correct novels. It would particularly interest people who have been diagnosed with the disease or know someone who has it. There is swearing in the book but nothing sexual. However, a quote from page forty-six tells us that at this time, 'No one has ever recovered from or been cured of ALS,' so this is not a read I would recommend to the faint-hearted! Max Green was given a death sentence when diagnosed with ALS, but he writes Always Losing Something with humility, bravery, and lots of humor. There is no sign of self-pity, and he deals with every knock-back with great courage.

I want to thank Max Green for a copy of Always Losing Something: A novel of hope, heartbreak, and soaring optimism in exchange for my honest and impartial review. You can see more of my reviews here http://onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-tara-d-morgan.html

Children's Book Review - The White Harlequin by Daphne Tzamali-Yakinthou

 

At midnight every night, a small door in the grandfather's clock opens, and magical creatures reveal themselves. They put on a show for one another. Tonight the noise awakens Sugarcandy, the white harlequin. Sugarcandy's house is filled with amazing things; he has a rainbow pudding cooking, his seats are made of Turkish delight, and the dining table is a giant red mushroom. Usually, the clock would strike midnight, and the magic would begin and continue until dawn.

Tonight Sugarcandy's best friend, Spot the donkeytaur, calls to tell Sugarcandy that the storm maidens and wind midwives have arrived. They are here to weave deep magic, which has never happened in the land of charms and reflections. The friends are excited to witness a spectacle they have never seen before. Suddenly everyone is horrified to see that a cyclone is draining all the light from the stars, and the world becomes the darkest it has ever been. What are the peculiar snowmen guarding? Who or what is the night sybil, and why do the two friends go to see it? What is the lullaby of strange things? Read The White Harlequin by Daphne Tzamali-Yakin to get the answers to these questions.

I found it confusing how Sugarcandy, the white harlequin, was referred to by several different names, either Sugarcandy, harlequin, or white harlequin. I feel Daphne Tzamali-Yakin should have used a name consistently throughout the book, but this was my only criticism of The White Harlequin.

I loved page four which had a barrage of introductions to all the fantastic magical creatures entering the room and descriptions of their unique attributes. Just as all the madness and mayhem began to confuse my brain Daphne Tzamali-Yakin writes, 'But let's not get ahead of ourselves! Everything will be revealed in its own good time.' This phrase was perfectly crafted and calmed everything down, ready for the next chapter. I also really enjoyed the unique colorful pictures in The White Harlequin, which reminded me of stained glass windows.

I want to rate The White Harlequin by Daphne Tzamali-Yakin 5 out of 5 stars. It conjures up a kaleidoscope of magic, color, and excitement. Adults and children would equally enjoy this beautiful fantasy story. Older children would enjoy reading it to themselves, and parents would enjoy reading it to younger children. All would love the wonderfully colorful illustrations. The story is beautifully written and kept me turning the pages to find out what happened next. There were a few spelling and grammar errors, but they did not spoil the flow of the story enough to reduce the score.

I want to thank Daphne Tzamali-Yakinthou for a free copy of The White Harlequin in exchange for my honest and impartial review. You can also see my reviews here http://onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-tara-d-morgan.html

Childrens book review - Snatched Up to Heaven for Kids by Jemima and Arvind Paul

This book is about a family of Christians Mommy, Daddy, Emma, Bella, and their baby sister. It is an anthology of Christian stories based on Emma's dreams. When she is asleep, Emma has vivid dreams about heaven and hell. All the dreams have Bella by her side. When Emma tells her Mommy and Daddy about the dreams and Jesus, God, and Satan, the family sits down to share Emma's stories and discuss what Emma has dreamed and what the dreams might mean. What do God and Jesus look like? How do the people in heaven keep busy? Do the people in heaven eat and sleep? How is hell different? To find out the answers to these questions, read Snatched Up to Heaven for Kids by Jemima Paul and Arvind Paul.

Jemima Paul and Arvind Paul, who do their best to bring their three daughters up with Christian values, wrote Snatched Up to Heaven for Kid when Emma, their eldest daughter, began having vivid dreams about heaven and hell. They wanted to share this in a book for young children to help them understand heaven and hell. The authors have put much effort into making the stories entertaining and, at the same time, educational. Children from Christian families will love learning about God, Jesus, angels, Satan, and what everyone gets up to in heaven and hell. 

I enjoyed the painted pictures in the book. They are friendly and bright and would undoubtedly appeal to younger children. I liked the writing style, which was warm and friendly and would greatly appeal to young children who will relate to the characters and Emma, Bella, and their family. The addition of where to find the Bible quotes used will be helpful for Christian parents. 

I disliked nothing about Snatched Up to Heaven for Kids. I recommend this book to younger children who enjoy books with Christian stories featuring children their age who can read by themselves. It would also be an excellent book for Christian parents to read to their younger children, who will also enjoy the colorful pictures throughout the book.

I want to rate Snatched Up to heaven for Kids by Jemima Paul and Arvind Paul 5 out of 5 stars. It was perfectly edited and proofread. I found no errors in grammar. This is a delightful book that entertains while also educating young children about the Christian religion.

I want to thank Jemima and Arvind Paul for a copy of Snatched Up to heaven for Kids in exchange for my honest and impartial review. You can see more of my reviews here http://onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-tara-d-morgan.html

Terms of Service by Craig W. Stanfill

 

Terms of Service by Craig W. Stanfill begins by introducing us to Kim, the book's main character. Kim lives in a world where only the gender-neutral colors beige, pale blue, and pale green are allowed. Kim's is a world where robots called house bots are the norm and help people's lives run smoothly. Kim has been working for the Artificial Intelligence Company training automatons. When she joined the company five years before, she wanted to prove herself and get promoted. 

Outside of work, Kim lives in a nondescript house in this world where there is no freedom or private life. She is expected to abide by many rules, covering all aspects of life, from food choices to childbirth, conversational topics to entertainment choices. Everything is monitored and evaluated; not sticking to these rules results in quick and savage punishments. Kim has begun to find that her work has turned repetitive and boring, and she has realized that her so-called perfect world is deeply flawed. How can Kim break away from the controlling world she lives in? Who or what is Kimberley, and why does she increase Kim's frustration with the life she has? Furthermore, how does an incident with a friend change Kim's life forever?

I thoroughly enjoyed Terms of Service by Craig W. Stanfill. He handles the subject of a world where nothing is questioned and every day is the same as the day before brilliantly. The story has been well thought out and planned. There could have been some confusion between the robots and the humans, but Stanfill describes the personalities of every character and robot so well that I could easily picture each one. Stanfill's writing expertise makes understanding all areas of this dystopian world easy. In some ways, the living conditions are similar to the world now; there is still a divide between the rich and the poor, but machines rule Stanfill's world. My thoughts about my own world's future were challenged, which I also enjoyed.

There is absolutely nothing I disliked about Terms of Service, the debut novel by Craig W. Stanfill. I recommend it to adults who enjoy science fiction and fantasy. There is no swearing in this book, but there are a lot of erotic and descriptive passages about intimacy and sex. Moreover, much of the sex is fuelled by excessive alcohol and drug taking, which makes this book inappropriate for a younger audience.

I want to give Terms of Service by Craig W. Stanfill 5 out of 5 stars. I did not find any spelling or grammar errors; the book has been edited and proofread perfectly. 

I would like to thank Craig W. Stanfill for giving me a copy of Terms of Service in exchange for my impartial and honest opinion.

You can find more of my reviews here : http://onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-tara-d-morgan.html

Book Review - Visiting With An Angel by Jerry A. Greenberg

 

Visiting With An Angel by Jerry A. Greenberg begins with Jerry mulling over his life. He has two children he sees little of as they live so far away; his wife is dead, and so are many of his friends. He knows that he is getting older and won't be alive forever. Jerry thinks about what he will leave behind, which makes him wonder about his ancestors and how their lives may have influenced him. He wonders if he is the black sheep of the family. Jerry has been a writer, while the ancestors he knows about have been professional people. 

Jerry decides to research his genealogy. From his parents, who were born in the United States, back through his grandparents, who were Eastern European Jews. His first stop is the cemetery which is one hundred miles away! What work did Jerry's great-grandpa do? What has happened to the pine forest, which was next to Jerry's family home growing up? Which of Jerry's ancestors ran away to join the circus? Read Visiting With An Angel by Jerry A. Greenburg for the answers to these and other questions. Along the way, you will also meet Ray, Jerry's cat, his best friend, and confidante.

The history that Jerry found out about Poland and America is fascinating. He traced his fourth great-grandfather back to Poland in the late seventeen hundreds and discovered that Polish people did not have surnames then! I felt the deep emotions in Jerry's life. His love for his family and his overwhelming loneliness now most of them have died. It was clever how Jerry A. Greenberg transitioned from the present day to the nineteen fifties by visiting a café he had visited often as a child. Exiting the café, he could only see the people and places of his youth. Visiting With An Angel by Jerry A. Greenberg is well-thought-out, and the characterization is brilliant. Greenberg writes about the past, but he writes so vividly that I felt the story was taking place now. 

I disliked nothing about Visiting With An Angel. The cover art is beautiful and fits the story well. Jerry's humor and love for his family and friends shine through the book, making it a delightful read. There are also no swearing or sexual references.  

I recommend Visiting With An Angel by Jerry A. Greenberg to adults who enjoy history and autobiographies. But this book is so much more. It is also about ghosts, the supernatural, and the mysteries of life. Greenberg uses all these elements to tell the story of his life and the family and friends who influenced the man he is today. 

I want to give Visiting With An Angel by Jerry A. Greenberg 5 out of 5 stars. It is well-written, and the editing is perfect. I thoroughly enjoyed learning about Jerry's life and all the wonderful family and friends he has made along the way.

I would like to thank Jerry A. greenburg for a free copy of Visiting With An Angel in exchange for my unbiased review.  

You can see more of my reviews here :  http://onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-tara-d-morgan.html

Book Review - Angel Falling by A.D. Landor

 

A group of angels led by Archangel Prince Anael is known as the Seventh Flight. It has been their job to clean every planet of false idols and to leave them peaceful and calm. However, they had not counted on the Succae, a race of immortal vampires who live on the planet Cerule. Years before, the Seventh Flight had fought many bitter battles with the Succae, which lasted over one hundred years. The Seventh Flight was systematically reduced in number, but the Succae were able to replenish their ranks with freshly possessed bodies. Eventually, this led to an uneasy truce between the angels and the vampires. Azshael is a fallen angel. The rest of his race shuns him because he fell in love with Ischae, a Succae diplomat. Angel Falling by A. D. Landor tells the story of Azshael, who is asked to investigate the murder of a Succae elite on Angel's soil. He soon realizes that the murder is like that of his dead lover. To get answers, he teams up with the Succae's Serrate Lytta, and together, they discover a conspiracy that could destroy the uneasy truce and once again ignite a war, fighting good versus evil. Azshael has enemies on both sides. Will he survive to find out who the murderer is?

I loved so much about Angel Falling. The art used for the cover of an angel in battle armor, ready to fight, is precisely how I pictured Azshael. I particularly liked Landor's writing style; some of the sentences are beautiful and poetic; for example, on page eighteen, "He was the Succae Warlord incarnate, and all around him light diminished as inevitably as the dusk devours the day." A.D. Landor uses unusual names for the characters, which are relatively easy to pronounce. I liked this as it allowed the story to flow well. Landor describes a fantastic fantasy world of angels and vampires that is the perfect environment for Azshael and Serrate Lytta's murder investigation. The diverse mix of characters is well-defined and gives the story great depth. Many plot twists kept me turning the pages to find out whether this unlikely angel and vampire duo found out the truth behind the murders!

There was absolutely nothing that I did not like about Angel Falling by A. D. Landor, and I would wholeheartedly recommend it to adults who enjoy fantasy and science fiction stories with the added element of a murder mystery.

I want to give Angel Falling 5 out of 5 stars. Apart from one grammar error, the book was well-edited, well-written, and absorbing. I look forward to reading more books by A. D. Landor.

I would like to thank A. D Landor for a free copy of Angel Falling in exchange for my unbiased review.  You can see more of my reviews here :  http://onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-tara-d-morgan.html

Book review - LIFE IS UNFAIR THE TRUTHS AND LIES ABOUT JOHN F KENNEDY by EDDY J NEYTS

 

At the age of fifteen, on November 22nd, 1963, Eddy J Neyts heard the news that American President John F Kennedy had been assassinated. Ever since Neyts has been passionately building the most extensive private collection of written material he could find about the man he thought amazing. He found that many authors who have written about Kennedy have yet to write accurately due to poor research and sensationalism. Who was Kennedy's father, the ruthless, womanizing businessman, Joseph P. Kennedy? Why was John Kennedy described in the family as the sickly brother? How did Kennedy injure his back? For the answers to these and other questions, read LIFE IS UNFAIR THE TRUTHS AND LIES ABOUT JOHN F KENNEDY by Eddy J Neyts. The historically accurate documentation of Neyts lifetime collection of all things John F Kennedy. 

Everything about LIFE IS UNFAIR THE TRUTHS AND LIES ABOUT JOHN F KENNEDY is fantastic. The genealogical research and family trees at the beginning of the book are beneficial. I enjoyed the chapter dedicated to Kennedy's father, which gives interesting information on the early shaping of Kennedy's character. John F Kennedy has always been a romanticized figure throughout my life. I was not born when he died, but my mum loved him, and I have been told she cried for weeks when he was assassinated. 

For many, Kennedy is remembered as the handsome, young, debonair thirty-fifth President of America. Neyts writes that all of this is true, but I was interested to read the chapter on Kennedy's family. John F Kennedy's older brother Joe was the golden boy; he was robust and consistently predicted to do well. In contrast, John was the frail and sickly younger brother. It is a testament to how his father bought him up that Kennedy was elected President. Another chapter in the book which I read with great interest was about The Cuban Missile Crisis, a part of American history I have never understood.

There was nothing to dislike about LIFE IS UNFAIR THE TRUTHS AND LIES ABOUT JOHN F KENNEDY by Eddy J Neots. The book is extensively researched and provides a complete history of the life and times of John F Kennedy.

There are quite a few grammatical errors in the acknowledgments. However, as this part of the book is the personal thanks of Eddy J Neots, a Belgian author, I was pleased to overlook them, especially as the rest of the book is well-edited. I enjoyed learning about John F Kennedy and am delighted to award it a resounding 5 out of 5 stars. 

LIFE IS UNFAIR THE TRUTHS AND LIES ABOUT JOHN F KENNEDY by Eddy J Neots is a weighty tomb; there are lots of facts and dates to take in. I recommend this book to historians who want factually correct history. Furthermore, this book would be appreciated by anyone interested in American history and John F Kennedy, his life, election, marriage, health, the Cuban Missile Crisis, and all the things that make JFK's legacy live on! 

Review of Ubiquita by Gary Winstone

 

Ubiquita by Gary Winstone begins with Daniel fighting his way through a forest. He is exhausted, has various injuries, and is wet through. We do not know why he is there or where he is going, but it will soon be sunset, and he is not safe! Daniel builds a fire to ward off animals and keep him warm; he removes an unusual golden necklace with a triangular medallion from around his neck, which he inherited from his grandad. Daniel is taken back to when he was eight and his grandad was dying. His grandad gives him a journal in which he has written down all his adventures, and he makes Daniel promise to continually explore and try new things. Daniel became a palaeontologist fascinated by nature and travelled the world. He is so wrapped up in his own life that he loses touch with his father until a telegram arrives saying his father has had a severe decline in health and he needs to come back to England. Daniel's dad is dying, and while he sleeps by his bed, Daniel is woken by a strange light as the medallion glows and moves and gives life to three golden, winged creatures. What is this magic? Why did Daniel's father hide the medallion and journal from Daniel and pretend it was missing? What will Daniel find when he explores what happened in Peru a hundred years before? Furthermore, who or what is Ubiquita?
 

Ubiquita is Gary Winstone's first foray into writing science fiction. I was fascinated by the adventures in this well-written and well-thought-out novella. I loved how Gary Winstone describes death and how eight-year-old Daniel understands it. This is beautifully descriptive and pulls at the heartstrings. Winstone is very poetic when he waxes lyrical about the medallion, for example, location ninety-six "Before long a rippling sphere filled the centre of the medallion, gently rotating, swirling, casting warm light across the room." I particularly like this sentence which I think should be a mantra for everybody, location six hundred and ninety-three "The more you know, the more you know you don't know." Gary Winstone shows an excellent knowledge of physics and astronomy. This book has a slow build-up to an exciting ending which I did not expect.

The cover is the one thing I dislike about Ubiquita by Gary Winstone. It looks like someone has drowned, and it does not give the reader an insight into this brilliant science fiction story which takes the reader on a mysterious adventure.

I recommend this to adults who enjoy science fiction, adventure and mysteries. There is some swearing in the book, which is inappropriate for a younger audience.

I absolutely love Ubiquita by Gary Winstone. There are several grammar and spelling errors, but these do not detract from the story, and I rate it a resounding 5 out of 5 stars! The book is brilliantly written and beautifully captivating right from the start, and Ubiquita is a novella I will remember long after reading it. I look forward to reading more books by Gary Winstone!

Children's book review - Cat Detectives in the Korean Peninsula by R. F. Kristi

 

Cat Detectives in the Korean Peninsula by R.F. Kristi begins one Sunday morning. Inca, the Siberian cat, and head of the detective agency, has gathered with her friends to admire a magnificent Siberian tiger painting. It has been purchased by Solo, the owner of the mansion, and the tiny cottage where Inca, her animal family, and their human mom, Missy, live. Later that day, Inca's ears prick up when she hears Missy telling Solo that she has been chosen to judge a prestigious patisserie competition in South Korea. Missy is an award-winning cheese maker. Moreover, the organizers will arrange a special event to introduce Missy's new cheese creation. All the animals have passports and are very excited to hear they will be going too. Solo and his dog Terrance are also joining them on the trip. When the family and friends arrive at Incheon airport, they are met by Mr Ye-Jun, their tour guide. Missy is pleased to hear that he will also be their translator. Mr Ye-Jun is a sad man, and when Inca and her detectives hear it is because he cannot see his sister in North Korea, they devise a plan to reunite the siblings. Who is Enzo, and why do Missy and her pets hate him? What does Missy find is missing when they arrive at the airport? Furthermore, do the cat detectives succeed in their mission?
 

Cat Detectives in the Korean Peninsula is the eighth book in the Cat Detectives series. However it is unnecessary to have read the rest of the books. R.F Kristi has spent some time researching the different types of animals and has put much work into making the story entertaining and, at the same time, educational. Children will love learning about the types of animals, Korean culture, and the divisions between North and South Korea. I was pleased to see a family tree at the beginning of the book, which details which cats belong to Missy. There is also a page with pictures of all Inca and Company detective agency members with some background information.

My one dislike was the use of baby words. For example, on page thirty-one, "Terrance had transformed from a mild-mannered gentlemanly doggy to a fierce snarling Terrance."

I recommend this book to younger children who enjoy mystery stories featuring animals and can read by themselves. It would also be an excellent book for parents to read to their younger children.

There were a couple of grammar errors but not enough to stop me from rating Cat Detectives in the Korean Peninsula by R.F. Kristi 5 out of 5 stars. This is a delightful book that entertains while also educating young children. I look forward to reading this series to my granddaughter when she is old enough to enjoy it!

 

Thank you to R. F. Kristi for a free copy of this book in exchange for an impartial review.