Review: The Feathered Tree by Allan Frewin Jones

 Genre: YA/Fantasy

Description:

Polly, a teenage girl – restless of spirit as, surely, are they all – is something of a loner, living with her feisty, luthier gran on the edge of Exmoor in Devon, father working ‘overseas’. She tells her troubles to “Tree” - a beech she can see from her bedroom window.

One night it is cut down. Polly is sure it has been done deliberately, out of spite, and that she knows who did it.

Thereafter malice and the nearby ancient sacred wildwoods aroused by the death of the beech, combine to put Polly in real and increasing danger. As she struggles to understand what is going on she begins to change from child to woman.

Yet more of Polly’s senses are awakened when she meets someone who might become special to her, in more ways than one.

Author:

Allan Frewin Jones has been writing fantasy since he was nine, and a professional author in the genre for around 40 years. He has a substantial back catalogue, if you find this one a good read.

Appraisal:

Interwoven with what it may or may not mean to harm a tree, and what may or may not be unleashed when you do, are several other strands. Frewin Jones explores what it is like to be on the outside looking in – something which happens to us all at least occasionally. He weaves in how creativity may be a balm for the soul and bring purpose, how carelessly humans are despoiling the only planet we have, how meat and game animals may feel about their slaughter. Such themes might make the book feel more worthy than entertaining. But Frewin Jones brings light and shade to each short chapter, and has a writing style which enables him to present even heavy material with a light, witty hand. He writes beautifully about that super-sensitive first love that can never be experienced again. It is, indeed, a lot of plot in a short book. The threads are cleverly twisted together and the ending is neat but far from trite.

This is a book for young adults, but does not pull its punches on that account. Adult themes are explored, violence is … violent. Tension and pace never flag.

If you like your fantasy grounded in the earth beneath your feet rather than spattered with odd made-up names and magic swords, then I recommend this to you.

The hundred year old tree cut down in Sycamore Gap, near Hadrian’s Wall, on the border between England and Scotland in 2023 inspired this story. The event is infamous in Britain. That sycamore tree was a famous and beloved landmark, and almost everyone who went to see it, or hiked past it, took a picture of it. It has a Wikipedia page here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sycamore_Gap_tree

Buy now from:            Amazon US        Amazon UK

Format/Typo Issues:

Review is based on an advance reviewer copy.

Rating: **** Four Stars

Reviewed by: Judi Moore

Approximate word count: 55-60,000 words

Review: Lost Souls by Steve Stiles

 

Genre: Fantasy

Description:

“Soul Collecting is an easy way to make a living, except for the being dead part. Unfortunately for Madelyn, she's not interested in either being dead or, heaven forbid, having to work at it. Trust me when I say her adjustment issues are only beginning.

Just as Madelyn catches on and finds her soul collecting groove, she screws up on the job. It’s a mistake that could end her existence, as well as the futures of innocent people who are very much NOT dead…yet.

While a motley assortment of collector friends pitch in to help, other collectors are deadset (see what I did there?) to make sure she fails. The clock is ticking for Madelyn as she battles to right her wrong before her soul collector status wears off.

Rules are rules, whether you listen to them or not.”

Author:

A mystery man who doesn’t appear to have any other books out at the moment.

Appraisal:

This was a unique book that drew me in quickly and kept me engrossed to the very end. The concept is that there are a group of … we’ll call them souls I guess, who get assigned to be what are called collectors. These collectors are spirits who can potentially transport themselves anywhere on Earth under the right conditions. They have a duty to help “collect” the souls of humans who die and to transport these souls to drop off points where they then move on to where ever they go. Those souls who are assigned to be collectors get a small amount of training and then go through a whole lot of trial and error as they get a handle on it.

I’m afraid to say much more for fear of spoiling the story. As the main character, Madelyn, figures things out the reader goes along for the ride and tries to figure them out too. Madelyn has something happen that is extremely rare and no one is sure how to deal with it, which makes things more intense for a while. Then throw in things that feel just like this life, lots of other souls, some who help you, some who are trying to get in your way, and some that you’re not sure where they fall, keeps things interesting. I found the author’s sense of humor as well as a protagonist that I was pulling for along with the unique story world made for a great story.

Buy now from:            Amazon US        Amazon UK

Format/Typo Issues:

Review is based on an ARC (advance reader copy), so I can’t gauge the final product in this area.

Rating: ***** Five Stars

Reviewed by: BigAl

Approximate word count: 80-85,000 words

Reprise Review: True Shifter (TOTEM Book 9) by Christine Rains

 

Genre: Fantasy/Romance/Mystery/Mythology

Description:

“Saskia Dorn can't bear to lose anyone else. But when the only man she's ever loved turns his back on her, she runs off to sacrifice herself to the totem quest.

With a disgusting kiss, a dying house spirit grants her the power to shift into any creature. Yet she has neither the time to train nor the imagination to utilize the gift to its fullest. How will she manage to defeat a villain who has mastered the ability and made her the person she is? Saskia only has a few freakin' hours to figure it out. After all, the fate of every shifter in the world depends on her victory.”

Author:

“Christine Rains is a writer, blogger, and geek mom. She has four degrees which help nothing with motherhood but make her a great Jeopardy player. When she's not reading or writing, she's going on adventures with her son or watching cheesy movies on Syfy Channel. She's a member of S.C.I.F.I. and Untethered Realms. She has one novel and several novellas and short stories published. Her newest urban fantasy series, Totem, is almost complete at nine books.”

To learn more visit Ms Rains’ Facebook page.

Appraisal:

True Shifter, as far as I know, is the finale of the TOTEM series. And it packs a wallop! The tension and suspense ran high all through this novella. Saskia is faced with many challenges and conflicts, she’s intelligent and approached things in a logical manner. However, she is hard-headed, and still carries some insecurities. Watching her navigate the mysteries they are faced with to gain the remaining tokens is well written and enthralling.

Family and relationship dynamics play heavily in the plot as the story twists and turns back on itself. It turns out to be an emotional journey for the whole group. I was extremely satisfied with the captivating images painted by Ms. Rains, and the heart-warming climax of this series.

I’m hoping we get to hear further stories about the Dorn sisters and their chosen mates in the future. After all Lucky and Ametta need a new house spirit (domovoi) for the manor, and the kikimora, domovoi’s wife, has been charged with finding one. Then there is Berton Ellsworth, the vampire, who is inviting a water dragon to his castle. Seems like a lot of fun times ahead to me. :)

Buy now from:            Amazon US        Amazon UK

FYI:

True Shifter is book nine in the TOTEM series. It is important to read this series in order as events build, and the characters grow through the previous books in the series.

Be warned, there are several F-bombs dropped.

Format/Typo Issues:

I came across no significant issues in proofing or formatting.

Rating: ***** Five Stars

Reviewed by: ?wazithinkin

Approximate word count: 30-35,000 words

Reprise Review: Descending Moon (Totem Book 8) by Christine Rains

 

Genre: Fantasy/Romance/Mystery/Mythology

Description:

“Some say the moon is for lovers, but wise folks know to fear it.

Kinley Dorn must be strong for her family in these dark times. Sometimes she feels she’s all that’s holding them together. But when the frightening Moon Man attacks and bestows a burdensome gift upon her, Kinley might have to do more than simply help her family. She will have to battle a god, but which one? If it’s the sly man hunting her in the astral plane, Kinley might not make it out alive.”

Author:

“Christine Rains is a writer, blogger, and geek mom. She has four degrees which help nothing with motherhood but make her a great Jeopardy player. When she's not reading or writing, she's going on adventures with her son or watching cheesy movies on Syfy Channel. She's a member of S.C.I.F.I. and Untethered Realms. She has one novel and several novellas and short stories published. Her newest urban fantasy series, Totem, is almost complete at nine books.”

To learn more visit Ms. Rains website or stalk her on Facebook.

Appraisal:

This addition to the series centers mainly on Kinley and the myth about the Moon Man. Ms. Rains has done a wonderful job building her myths in this series. The plot moves fast as Christmas is approaching and the bear totem looms closer than ever. So why has the Moon Man chosen Kinley to terrorize?

One thing I really enjoyed was a larger role for the local vampire, Bert Ellsworth. The Dorn sisters are building and designing Bert’s new home in the wilderness. Ransom, Kinley’s boyfriend, is also Bert’s personal assistant. His help becomes dire for Kinley and I hope to see more of him in the future.

Descending Moon is action packed and full of tension with a shocking ending on more than one level. That fact alone makes book eight exceptional. I’m not sure how they are going to manage getting all the tokens to put the totem pole back together to save all shifters in one more book. However, I am looking forward to finding out.

Buy now from:            Amazon US        Amazon UK

FYI:

Descending Moon is book eight in the TOTEM series. It is important to read this series in order as events build, and characters grow from other books in the series.

Be warned about sensitive adult topics and there are several F-bombs.

Format/Typo Issues:

No significant proofing issues.

Rating: ***** Five Stars

Reviewed by: ? wazithinkin

Approximate word count: 25-30,000 words

Reprise Review: Shadows Fall (Totem Book 7) by Christine Rains

 

Genre: Fantasy/Romance/Mystery/Mythology

Description:

“Ametta Dorn is hosting her first family Thanksgiving feast. Everything must be flawless from the appetizers to the desserts. But the totem quest weighs heavily on her and her family. If she can’t even fold a perfect crane napkin, then how can she help her family find the next token?

That totem is closer than any of them realize. The Shadowmen have opened a door to their world, and they’ve targeted Ametta as the weak link in her family. She will show everyone she's just as capable as they are. Except her daring might be the very thing that loses not only the raven totem but also her life.”

Author:

“Christine Rains is a writer, blogger, and geek mom. She has four degrees which help nothing with motherhood but make her a great Jeopardy player. When she's not reading or writing, she's going on adventures with her son or watching cheesy movies on Syfy Channel. She's a member of S.C.I.F.I. and Untethered Realms. She has one novel and several novellas and short stories published. Her newest urban fantasy series, Totem, is almost complete at nine books.”

To learn more visit Ms. Rains website or stalk her on Facebook.

Appraisal:

Ametta is a perfectionist in all areas of her life, and even though she has obtained a token of the totem, she still feels a need to prove herself. Which lead her into unforeseen trouble. Events leading up to Thanksgiving seem to be targeting Ametta specifically. The Shadowmen have selected her as the weakest link in her family.

The story moves fast with shocking revelations exposed. Truth and answers are unclear, even for Sedge. This Thanksgiving will forever be marked by devastation instead of the Dorn family’s perfectly flawless Thanksgiving celebration. Shadows Fall is an exciting and emotional read. You won’t want to miss this addition to the TOTEM series.

Buy now from:            Amazon US        Amazon UK

FYI:

Shadow Falls is book seven in Ms. Rains TOTEM series of nine novellas. It’s important to read this series in order as the story develops.

Format/Typo Issues:

No significant proofing errors.

Rating: ***** Five Stars

Reviewed by: ?wazithinkin

Approximate word count: 20-25,000 words

Review: Twisted Vessels by Jaysee Jewel

 

Genre: Fantasy

Description:

The only bit of land on this whole planet is a floating, hollowed out island, much like Laputa in Gulliver’s Travels. It is called Maivau. Life in the top tiers of this island, where the sun shines and the water supply is clean, is pretty sweet. The work gets harder, darker and dirtier the further down the in the old mine workings you live. At the top is The Arbiter who runs her teeming island with tight control and coercion.

It is easy to slip down the tiers, much less easy to rise. The story is about what can happen when you try to better yourself and rise in such a society: and what happens when you fail. There is a mysterious system of gods, who appear to people and sometimes give them super-powers (which they also sometimes take away again). There is an element of ‘Snakes and Ladders’ to the Maivau and this story.

As well as the island, the author has created a number of intriguing sentient beings. These have replaced the ancient humans who used to inhabit this world (one presumes there was more land back then). They have been drawn from folklore, myth, The Chronicles of Narnia and Tolkien’s work, along with a big dollop of the author’s imagination which, mixed together, give each species unique traits, which enrich the story. There are lovely artistic impressions of them by Victoria Chevalier in the book. And a kick-ass cover by “Chinhdwc”.

Author:

Jaysee Jewel is an author after my own heart, in that she doesn’t like to work exclusively in one genre, or at one length. She is a keen gamer. And ranges across fantasy, steampunk, sword and sorcery, SF, romance and horror with her writing. In 2023 she released three novels and a novella in various milieux. The back matter of this book promises that the sequel to Twisted Vessels will be out this year. But after such a burst of creativity last year we should, perhaps, anticipate a short delay.

Appraisal:

Jewel has built an interesting world, and seeded it with these six races, from among whom she has teased out her characters. The title is apt: these people have been twisted like pretzels by their environment.

Unfortunately – as Jewel explains in the back matter – this novel is mainly back story. Jewel has written this first part of a longer work so that readers can become familiar with the setting and the characters. In order for them to be fully introduced they are given Stuff To Do. And what happens is life changing for them, as it should be. But there is also much internal monologue-ing, often revisiting the same problems and dilemmas, which does not push matters forward. Quotidian actions are given in detail, and repeated when they reoccur. Descriptions are repeated.

I realised I was halfway through and rather little had happened, considering this is billed as an adventure. As what I’d read was, nevertheless, interesting I didn’t feel I’d wasted my time. But it did become apparent that I was going to have to be content with a solution to the interim problems the author had set her characters and wait for the sequel (now you see why the date of its release is important) to see what happens when The Real Story starts and we set off towards The Big Reveal (big hints about what is to come are dropped at the end of this book).

Some parts of this book may be a tough read if you are squeamish. The whole society on this over-populated, vertically-integrated island is based on people being horrid to one another – in vile and imaginative ways. Much of this is on the page. But there are kind-hearted and virtuous folk too. And they do sometimes prevail.

Buy now from:            Amazon US        Amazon UK

FYI:

Descriptions of brutal violence, off-stage rape, drug abuse.

Format/Typo Issues:

Review is based on an advance review copy, so we can’t gauge the final product in this area.

Rating: *** Three Stars

Reviewed by: Judi Moore

Approximate word count: 90-95,000 words

Reprise Review: Jezrei's Justice:Tales of Aldura by Susan Stuckey

Genre: Fantasy/Young Adult/Short Story

Description:

“Elderly and frail, Jezrei is tasked with the safety of more than twenty children when the City of Azraelis is attacked by an enemy bent on slaughter and subjugation. How can one old man hope to stand against an entire army?”

Author:

Susan Stuckey: “Currently (mostly) retired, but 'back in the day' Susan was a meek, mild-mannered, self-effacing accountant/auditor by day but after 5:00 her imagination broke free. She either played with historical stories, or in the magical World of Aldura she created.

Besides playing in fantasy worlds and/or historical times, Susan dabbles in various hobbies, loves to try new recipes, and is the servant of multiple fur-children (both feline and canine).”

To learn more please follow her on Facebook.

Appraisal:

This short story is a glowing testament for love and faith on many levels. Jezrei is an elderly Lieheiren Muhadun, a teaching priest with healing powers, of the Kalieri. He is tasked with the protection of a group of children in the Temple while the barbarian Halurdow storm the town killing and burning everything along their way. 

As the battle moves closer, Jezrei recites the history of the twin god, Azrael, who created the population and creatures of Aldura, the land on which the Kalieri live. Jezrei is able to see the hopelessness of their situation locked in the Temple. However, he is able to keep the children calm and with that peacefulness the children remind Jezrei the words spoken by Azrael as they come face to face with the Halurdow.

Ms. Stuckey has developed an intriguing and detailed history for her series. I find it a joy to be drawn into her stories. Even as heart-rending as Jezrei’s Justice could have been.

Buy now from:            Amazon US        Amazon UK

FYI:

Although part of a series, Jezrei’s Justice can be read as a standalone

Format/Typo Issues:

I noticed no issues.

Rating: ***** Five Stars

Reviewed by: ?wazithinkin

Approximate word count: 4-5,000 words

Reprise Review: Tales of Aldura: Tears of a Seeress by Susan Stuckey

 

Genre: Fantasy/Young Adult/Short Story

Description:

“If Father Tree dies so will all children and creatures of the Twin Goddess including the Njae. Arael's Rest, the home of the Kalwyn Njae, has been under siege by the Halurdow for more than a generation. Added to the enemy, a plague has struck the Njae--a plague that is always fatal. If any Kalwyn Njae are to survive, they must flee their home. Seeress Illyani and her son, Glimrion, fight to save Father Tree and stop the Halurdow. Will they succeed?”

Author:

Susan Stuckey: “Currently (mostly) retired, but 'back in the day' Susan was a meek, mild-mannered, self-effacing accountant/auditor by day but after 5:00 her imagination broke free. She either played with historical stories, or in the magical World of Aldura she created.

Besides playing in fantasy worlds and/or historical times, Susan dabbles in various hobbies, loves to try new recipes, and is the servant of multiple fur-children (both feline and canine).”

Learn more about Ms. Stuckey by checking out her Facebook page.

Appraisal:

Tears of a Seeress is a prequel to Phaedra. It’s a powerfully emotional tale about love and commitment for family, clan, and hope for a better future. Father Tree grows in the heart of Arael's Rest, the home of the Kalwyn Njae, who have been entreated to its protection. The Njae have erected a Barrier Wall surrounding Arael’s Rest, which will be imbued with magic following their exodus, to safer territories. The Halurdows, blood-thirsty warriors of the Dark God - Urdow, are sworn to annihilate everything the Twin Goddess has created, are fast approaching the gates of Arael’s Rest.   

Seeress Illyani and her entire family, are facing heart-wrenching decisions before the exodus through a secret tunnel under the Barrier Wall. The plot moves fast, as there are only fourteen pages. However, that doesn’t mean this is a light read. Ms. Stuckey has chosen her words wisely to weave heart-breaking tension and reflection to draw the reader in quickly while setting up the premise. The main characters and setting are well described. The magic is well thought-out and fascinating. I am glad I picked up this short story and highly recommend all of Ms. Stuckey’s stories in her Tales of Aldura series. She is a masterful storyteller and will not let you down.??

Buy now from:            Amazon US        Amazon UK

FYI:

Although Tears of the Seeress is set earlier in the time-line, than other Tales of Aldura series, I would recommend reading this after reading Phaedra.

Original review published June 21, 2017

Format/Typo Issues:

No errors in proofing or formatting.

Rating: ***** Five Stars

Reviewed by: ?wazithinkin

Approximate word count: 4-5,00 words

Reprise Review: Fairy Bite by Maria Schneider

 

Genre: Fantasy/Romance/Young Adult

Description:

“Shunned and ridiculed ever since a fairy mistakenly bit her, Ally leaves her village knowing it's the only way her family can resume their normal lives and be respected. She heads to Wendal, hoping the shifters there won’t care about the little problems associated with the effects of a fairy bite.

Before she is even halfway there, she discovers that the fairies may not be finished ruining her life. If she wants to leave Birk, she’ll first have to contend with the little people, a very ornery gargoyle, more than one prince and, of all things, an enraged dragon.”

Author:

“Maria saw her first dragon while gardening. She asked the gnome to take pictures, but dragons are shy and very fast. One of the fairies finally snapped a shot, but just as she handed it over, the dragon came by and flamed it to ashes! Neither of us wants to get our fingers burned a second time so, sadly, there will not be pictures any time soon!”

To learn more please visit Ms. Schneider’s website.

Appraisal:

Because of the fairy bite Ally got at age eight, she can sense and borrow magic from others. She also describes herself as ugly with distorted features due to the fairy bite. It took me a while to warm up to her, she seemed so pathetically withdrawn. Because of Ally’s situation or status for the last twelve years she grew up with no friends. Being a loner she is also a deep thinker, logical, and smart. The first friend she makes is Landry, a brownie, who is on a mission to find a gargoyle to collect on a “boon” (a term for favor or request) to free his family from slavery and abuse in Prince Kal’s prison near Anton. Prince Kal has declared every magical creature is his own.

The plot moves at a nice pace as the small band tries to overcome the nullifying magic of Prince Kal’s wizard. The rescue of all the shifters that have been captured is a far bigger job than expected. Prince Kal is nasty piece of work and his wizard is diabolical. The dialogue fits the story and all the characters remain true to themselves and grow accordingly. The twists are fast, furious, and unexpected. Fairy Bite is an engrossing, unique story, which is cleverly woven together, that goes above and beyond what I expected.

Buy now from:            Amazon US        Amazon UK

FYI:

Fairy Bite is book three in the Dragons of Wendal series. I think book three could be read as a standalone. However, I highly recommend the whole series.

Original review published June 9, 2017

Format/Typo Issues:

Nothing significant.

Rating: ***** Five Stars

Reviewed by: ?wazithinkin

Approximate word count: 60-65,000 words

Review: Far From Mortal Realms by Karen A. Wyle

Genre: Fantasy

Description:

“Negotiating with the Fair Folk is a tightrope walk over deadly perils. And even the most skilled can misstep.

The many wondrous realms the Fair Folk inhabit offer tempting opportunities for mortals hoping to benefit from faerie magic. But making bargains with the Fair Folk is a dangerous business, for the fae have a habit of leaving loopholes to snare the unwary. Father-and-daughter lawyers Abe and Adira have made a career out of helping their fellow humans reach such agreements safely.

Abe and Adira know the rules for dealing with Fair Folk: don't reveal your true name, don't say thank you, don't accept gifts, don't eat fae food, don't tell even the slightest of lies . . . . Oh, and always, no matter the provocation, be unfailingly polite.

A moment of carelessness, a brief lapse, and a professional defender of mortal interests may be in dire need of rescue.”

Author:

“Karen A. Wyle was born a Connecticut Yankee, but eventually settled in Bloomington, Indiana. She now considers herself a Hoosier. She is an appellate attorney, photographer, and mother of two.

Wyle's thoughtful and compassionate fiction includes SF, historical romance, and fantasy. She has also collaborated with several wonderful illustrators to produce picture books. Relying on her legal background, she has written one nonfiction resource, explaining American law to authors, law students, and anyone else interested in better understanding the legal landscape. Wyle's voice is the product of a lifetime spent reading both literary and genre fiction. Her personal history has led her to focus on often-intertwined themes of family, communication, the impossibility of controlling events, and the persistence of unfinished business.”

Appraisal:

I don’t read books in the fantasy genre very often and after I finished this I started wondering why. I’m not sure, but if every fantasy book was as good a read as this one, I might not read anything else. It has the three things that I look for in a book.

The first of these are characters, especially the main characters or protagonists. While not an absolute requirement, having likeable protagonists, people who you care about once you get to know them, helps keep you involved in the story. If you don’t care what happens to them, why finish reading the story? This delivers on that with Abe and his daughter Adira, the father/daughter team of attorneys who are this book’s protagonists, are likeable and had me pulling for them all the way.

The second critical item that this book delivers on is a goal. This is usually developed in the first part of the book and the characters move toward it until the end of the book with the possibility of the goal changing or evolving. In a romance book this would be the prospective couple getting together. In a police procedural it would be catching the guilty criminal. I’ll leave it to you to find out the goal of this story so as to not introduce any spoilers.

The third item a good book needs is a good story world. Often this is just our contemporary world in some random generic location that feels like it could be anywhere. For many stories, that’s enough. But the story world here is what sets this apart from most books in other genres. Part of the story takes place in the mortal world (that generic location above), but much of it takes place in other “realms” that are vastly different from our mortal world. These realms are unique, each populated by beings that are unique to their particular realm in what they look like, how they communicate, and other ways. Understanding and figuring out the different realms as our main characters have cause to visit them adds much to the story.

I’m glad I gave this one a try in spite of being a bit outside my normal reading choices and highly recommend it.

Buy now from:            Amazon US        Amazon UK

Format/Typo Issues:

No significant issues.

Rating: ***** Five Stars

Reviewed by: BigAl

Approximate word count: 80-85,000 words

Reprise Review: Deep Current (Totem Book 6) by Christine Rains

 Genre: Fantasy/Romance/Mystery/Adventure/Mythology

Description:

“Lost to the clutches of her grief of losing her mentor, Saskia Dorn welcomes the opportunity to take down a warehouse of drug dealers. When their leader makes a break for it, Saskia and her ex-boyfriend, Sedge, chase the criminal shifter into the sea off the coast of northwestern Alaska. Not only do they lose their quarry, but a vicious sea hag snatches Sedge.

Saskia can’t take another loss and attempts to bargain for Sedge’s life and the salmon totem the witch has trapped in her cave. The sea hag wants only one thing: her long lost love. Who is dead. And living under the freaking ocean with the Salmon People. Find the Salmon People and return with the witch’s love before Sedge’s life is forfeit. Simple, right? Yet she can’t leave the Salmon People’s land without finding herself first.”

Author:

“Christine Rains is a writer, blogger, and geek mom. She's married to her best friend and fellow geek living in south-central Indiana. They have one son who is too smart for his parents' own good and loves to pretend he's Batman. Christine has four degrees which help nothing with motherhood, but make her a great Jeopardy player. When she's not reading or writing, she's going on adventures with her son or watching cheesy movies on Syfy Channel.

She's a member of Untethered Realms and S.C.I.F.I. (South Central Indiana Fiction Interface). She has several short stories and novellas published. She's had two firsts in 2015. Early in the year, she put out her first urban fantasy novel, Of Blood and Sorrow. She also had a hilarious and steamy series, Dice & Debauchery, published by Ellora's Cave. It's erotic romance for geeks written by a geek.”

For more, check out her Facebook page.

Appraisal:

This novella starts with a raid on a drug lord’s warehouse on the northwestern coast of Alaska. Saskia is a fierce warrior and relishes the fight, taking out her anger on the humans working in the warehouse. When the shifter kingpin shows up Sedge and Saskia give chase across the ocean. Meanwhile, a vicious sea hag with men issues hears Saskia’s thoughts of aggravation with Sedge and snatches him away. Now Saskia is in a race against time to free Sedge from her clutches.

I enjoyed the way Ms. Rains wove the Inuit mythology of the Salmon People into this tale. True to the myths of other Native American stories the themes are circular and the seeker has to find the way according to their own situation. Deep Current is Saskia’s story of facing her own truths. She has to take a long hard look at herself and her own fears about what’s holding her back from Sedge. He’s made it clear he’s not going anywhere, and Saskia has to trust him enough to be honest with him and herself. But first she has to save Sedge from the sea hag who has stolen his bear aspect and he can’t survive without his bear magic in the harsh elements under the icy sea in his human form.

Deep Current is full of action, heart, and soul. It is nice to finally understand what Saskia has dealt with in her past that closed her off. It’s going to be interesting to see if she loses any of her fiery personality. Though I don’t expect this new perspective to affect Saskia’s hardcore fighting spirit to protect the shifter world. However, I do hope to see glimpses of her softer, more accepting side more often now.

If you haven’t started reading the Totem series of novellas, I highly recommend them. Each novella comes to a satisfactory ending, however, the mission to reunite the totem tokens is still incomplete. And as far as I know Totem #7, #8, and #9 release dates are yet to be determined.

Buy now from:            Amazon US        Amazon UK

FYI:

Contains adult language with several F-bombs. Deep Current is the sixth book in the Totem series. This series of novellas build on each other and should be read in order.

Original review published April 28, 2017

Format/Typo Issues:

No proofing or formatting issues.

Rating: ***** Five Stars

Reviewed by: ?wazithinkin

Approximate word count: 25-30,000 words

Reprise Review: Shattered Spirit (Totem Book 4) by Christine Rains

 Genre: Fantasy/Romance/Mystery/Adventure

Description:

“A haunted house isn’t going to stop Ametta Dorn from doing her job.

Frustrated that her family has left her out of the search for the missing totem tokens, Ametta Dorn loses herself in her work. She’s offered a dream job of a complete interior renovation of a famous Cremaschi house. Not even discovering the house belongs to Lucky Osberg can dampen her enthusiasm.

Lucky’s plan to spend more time with her as she works goes awry when the spirit who protects his home tries to murder her. Ametta won’t be scared off, despite being tempted to run and never come back. She was going to flee Alaska and pursue her designer dreams anyway, yet that means giving up on Lucky and the totem that is just within her grasp.”

Author:

“Christine Rains is a writer, blogger, and geek mom. She has four degrees which help nothing with motherhood but make her a great Jeopardy player. When she's not reading or writing, she's going on adventures with her son or watching cheesy movies on Syfy Channel. She's a member of S.C.I.F.I. and Untethered Realms. She has one novel and several novellas and short stories published.”

Check out her Amazon author page for all of her books or stalk her on Facebook.

Appraisal:

Ametta Dorn, the youngest of the Dorn sisters, frustrates the hell out of me. Is it a common trait for the youngest sibling to be so self-absorbed and single minded? At the age of twenty-five Ametta has secured herself as an up and coming interior designer to keep an eye on. Despite being a polar bear shifter, she is intent on opening her own business in the lower 48 or perhaps even Europe. When she decides her family doesn’t need or want her help in recovering the totem tokens that will save all shifters, she moves her timeclock up for her move out of Alaska. Her attraction to Lucky is distracting her from her goal.

Lucky Osberg, a handsome Kodiak shifter who has his eye on Ametta, has the patience of a saint and a plan. He hires her to do a renovation on his house, which happens to be a famous Cremaschi house. This is a dream come true for Ametta, and here she thought Lucky was only a volunteer firefighter. She hasn’t taken the time to get to know him through his pursuit because he has no desire to leave Alaska and that doesn’t fit her dream for her future. Her short-sightedness also bites her in the butt when she discovers that she isn’t even aware of the totems that make up the totem pole, which scattered its tokens all over Alaska to protect itself. See why she frustrated me? Ametta is my least favorite sister. However, I love Lucky.

The addition of Lucky’s house being haunted was an interesting twist. Through the years the spirit has always been a protective entity and its change of character puzzles and disheartens Lucky. The spirit’s aggression is centered on Ametta, which forces her to take a hard look at herself. Lucky tries to protect her, but much of his effort is thwarted by the contentious spirit.

An additional bonus was Ametta’s two phone conversations with Saskia and then later with both Saskia and Sedge. So we gained another peek into their relationship, which I enjoyed immensely.

Shattered Spirit is Ametta’s journey to self-realization and she has redeemed herself, somewhat, in my view. This addition to the series is enthralling and I was able to read it in one evening, because I didn’t want to put it down.

Buy now from:            Amazon US        Amazon UK

FYI:

Contains adult language with several F-bombs. Shattered Spirit is the fourth book in the Totem series. This series of novellas build on each other and should be read in order.

Format/Typo Issues:

I came across no proofing or editing issues.

Rating: ***** Five Stars

Reviewed by: ?wazithinkin

Approximate word count: 20-25,000 words

Reprise Review: Ghost Cat by Christine Rains

Genre: Fantasy/Romance/Mystery/Adventure/Myths

Description:

“Bigfoot is rampaging through a small fishing town, and he has friends.

The whispers say a boy is missing. Kinley Dorn can’t ignore them. The last time she did, a giant almost killed her. Her investigation in the boy’s disappearance leads her and her boyfriend, Ransom Averill, to a village on Lake Iliamna. Unfortunately, that boy isn’t the only child missing.

Some folks claim Bigfoot is taking the children, but the gentle creature usually stays away from humans. Kinley believes a totem is making Bigfoot act strangely, but can she and Ransom find it before more kids are abducted?”

Author:

“Christine Rains is a writer, blogger, and geek mom. She has four degrees which help nothing with motherhood but make her a great Jeopardy player. When she's not reading or writing, she's going on adventures with her son or watching cheesy movies on Syfy Channel. She's a member of S.C.I.F.I. and Untethered Realms. She has one novel and several novellas and short stories published.”

Check out her Amazon author page for all of her books or stalk her on Facebook.”

Appraisal:

Kinley Dorn is the middle sister, she has been the family caretaker since her mother died years earlier. She also inherited aspects of her mother’s gift. Kinley is competent and secure in her talent as an architect for their business. Their newest client wants her to do the interior design part of the job, primarily because he and Kinley share an interest in the same geeky, nerdy stuff. Ametta usually handles the interior design part of their jobs, but her style is more cutting edge modern. Kinley is excited to give it a try, but a seed of insecurity plants itself in her over her ability to handle the decor and it starts to grow into other aspects of her life. Namely her developing relationship with Ransom. Are they moving too fast? Why did Ransom let that woman kiss him on the lips? And why didn’t he introduce me as his girlfriend? Does he feel the same about me as I do about him?

When they see a flyer about a missing twelve year-old boy, and both Kinley and Ransom hear the whispered voice that says, “Find him,” they know they have to do all they can to track him down. Since Ransom grew up in the area where other children have also been disappearing without a trace, he is familiar with the area and the people who live in the remote fishing village by Lake Iliamna. Plus, there have been several Bigfoot sightings in the area lately. However, they are usually shy, docile creatures. Kinley and Ransom are both aware that if a totem token is in the area it will cause the creatures to act out of character and perhaps be aggressive.

Hearing the native myths and stories of the area was a bonus. There are a few surprising twists in this novella that I wasn’t expecting, which made the story more engaging and more personal for both Kinley and Ransom. I’m not sure why I was more emotionally involved in this story. Perhaps, I’ve decided that these two are my favorite and the most relatable couple? It was fun losing myself in their turmoil and hunt for the totem token. I must be more sadistic than I realized. I think everyone will enjoy Ghost Cat.

Buy now from:            Amazon US        Amazon UK

FYI:

Ghost Cat is Novella Five in Ms. Rains Totem series. Contains adult language with several F-bombs. The Totem series of novellas build on each other and would be best enjoyed if read in order.

Original review published March 24, 2017.

Format/Typo Issues:

No significant issues.

Rating: ***** Five Stars

Reviewed by: ?wazithinkin

Approximate word count: 25-30,000 words

Reprise Review: Cloak of Snow by Christine Rains

 Genre: Fantasy/Romance/Mystery/Adventure

Description:

“No one messes with Saskia Dorn’s family and gets away with it.

The same murderous shifters who had hunted her sister have attempted to steal a magical totem pole. Since the pieces are scattered across Alaska, Saskia, a polar bear shifter, takes her search to the tundra for any signs of the lost totems.

Instead she finds Sedge, the latest reincarnation of the old Inuit Bear god, who just happens to be the man who broke her heart.

They come across a small native village tormented by the Jinxioc, evil gnomes with an appetite for human flesh. Sedge declares he will rid the people of the menace, believing a totem token is nearby affecting the devils’ behavior. At his side, Saskia battles to save the tribesmen, but it could mean sacrificing herself.”

Author:

“Christine Rains is a writer, blogger, and geek mom. She has four degrees which help nothing with motherhood but make her a great Jeopardy player. When she's not reading or writing, she's going on adventures with her son or watching cheesy movies on Syfy Channel. She's a member of S.C.I.F.I. and Untethered Realms. She has one novel and several novellas and short stories published.”

Please check out her Amazon author page for all of her books or stalk her on Facebook.

Appraisal:

Cloak of Snow follows Saskia to the northern tundra of Alaska in search for the fox totem token. Time-wise this novella takes place at the same time as book two, Silent Whispers. Saskia is the oldest of the Dorn sisters and the most hard-headed. She almost makes the youngest sister, Ametta, seem meek by comparison.

This story moves at a good pace. The characters are well defined and we get some insight into Saskia and Sedge’s past relationship which started when she was accepted to train as a Black Shaman. It’s been seven years since she walked away from Sedge and fully becoming a Black Shaman. Sedge, being the latest reincarnation of the old Inuit Bear god, is a typical Alpha male but seems to be able to exercise an extreme amount of patience with Saskia. He is definitely biding his time with her. However, she remains steadfast and refuses to give any sway for him to work with, despite the passion she still carries for him.

When they both come across a small remote village and learn of the tribes recent troubles with the Jinxioc, evil flesh-eating gnomes, Sedge pledges to help his people. The problem is they have no idea how horrifically evil and strong these little devils have become. The twists are clever and surprising. Sedge and Saskia are both faced with challenges that affect them both in a personal way.

Totem is turning into an enthralling series, the odds of recovering the totem tokens are beginning to look insurmountable. The stakes are getting higher and more deadly for all concerned. I can’t wait to see what the Dorn sisters have to face next to secure the sacred totem pole for the sake of all shifters.

Buy now from:            Amazon US        Amazon UK

FYI:

Cloak of Snow is book three in the Totem series. I believe this is supposed to be a six book series. Book four, Shattered Spirit, has been released, books five and six are set as pre-orders at the time of writing this review.

Contains adult language with several F-bombs and some graphic violence.

Original review posted February 10, 2017.

Format/Typo Issues:

I came across no proofing or formatting issues.

Rating: ***** Five Stars

Reviewed by: ? wazithinkin

Approximate word count: 25-30,000 words