Zaven's Destiny by Bedros Margosian

Zaven's Destiny by Bedros Margosian
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Zaven's Destiny by Bedros Margosian describes a part of history that was unknown to me. With a deft hand and realistic style, Margosian paints a picture of tenacity and endurance through dark hours in Armenian history. Truly a story about the Armenian genocide and the war against the Turks in the early 1900's, the story depicts Zaven as the consummate survivor. Not only is there a good deal of significant history, but the novel shows the personal growth of Zaven from boy into man. This novel is based on a true story as described by the author in the forward; the forward setting the stage for the book as well as the personal motivation of the author. A compelling and sometimes emotional story, with an attention to detail that is hard to find in writing today. A carefully rendered story that will pull on the readers' heartstrings with a vast array of interesting and often strong characters. The reader will want to follow the story of Zaven and his family to the satisfying conclusion. Highly recommend for an interesting and enlightening read about the Armenian genocide.

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Montpelier Tomorrow by Marylee MacDonald

Montpelier Tomorrow by Marylee MacDonald
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Montpelier Tomorrow by Marylee MacDonald is a gripping and emotional book. This is the story of Colleen Gallagher who is off to visit her daughter Sandy, pending the imminent birth of Colleen's second grandchild. What started off as a focused visit with helping the new mom cope, turns into much more, when Colleen's son-in-law is diagnosed with ALS, turning the world on it's head. An emotionally wrought story that shows the demands and harsh realities that come with fighting and then submitting to, an overwhelming disease. MacDonald has done an excellent job of exposing the complexities that evolve when someone is sick, not just for the ill person, but for the caregivers. The relationship between Colleen and her daughter Sandy is also tenuous and complicated, with not so subtle tension. This only adds to the fracturing of a fragile family. There are a few bright spots however, the learning of compassion, and the gifts of fortitude and forgiveness. Dealing with a terminal illness is never easy; MacDonald captures this challenge quite well in this mesmerizing novel that will stay with the reader long after it is finished.

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1066: What Fates Impose by G.K. Holloway

1066: What Fates Impose by G.K. Holloway
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

1066:What Fates Impose by G.K. Holloway is an intense historical novel that explores the events that took place leading up to the 1066 Battle of Hastings. This battle was won by William the Conqueror when he defeated England's King Harold. The story begins with William on his death bed, showing remorse and regret for his devastation he brought to England, the year being around 1087. There is a lot of going back in time in the novel, and then moving forward, which is somewhat of a challenge for the reader to keep track of what is happening. From the Vatican to the courts of Europe to Scandinavia, there is so much history in this book; it gives a great overview of historical events at the time, and lays the foundation for a great story. Mr. Holloway's strength lies not only in his attention to detail when describing royalty and their surroundings, but also in examining the personalities of the time, and to whom they were beholden. A fascinating glimpse into the history of England, which certainly showcases the author's knowledge.

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Golden Riders Part One by E.H. Everdene

Golden Riders: Part 1 by E.H. Everdene
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Golden Riders: Part 1 by E.H. Everdene is a rather sad little story. The main character has the rare disease Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB), which means that she suffers from sores all over her body, she cannot be touched and is in constant pain. She has lived her entire life thus far in a children's home, without ever being adopted. But, when her condition gets worse she is transferred to a hospital and seems to be on the brink of death. Several mysterious things start to happen. She starts to time travel a bit, sick children are disappearing and strange lights and sounds penetrate Leah's room. In room 369 in the hospital hangs a magical painting that depicts a Golden Moon. This appears to be the ticket to end all suffering to the children in the hospital. The young patients travel through the magic painting to the other side, where there is no more illness and no more pain. This is the true Golden land, a place where sick kids can overcome their illness and protect the Golden secret. A magical little book that takes on a grave subject, imbuing it with light and possibility.


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Hear No Evil by Michele Savaunah Zirkle Marcum

Rain No Evil by Michele Savaunah Zirkle Marcum
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Rain No Evil by Michele Savaunah Zirkle Marcum contains a great juxtaposition of evil and goodness. Here the author writes about the fight to find the good even in harrowing times. Alex and Savannah Templeton are going through a difficult spot in their marriage, mainly due to infidelity. Savannah asks God for guidance, but receives an answer she may not be ready for. Rain No Evil is based on a true story, and the author uses the present tense narration and dialogue to pull the reader in and make the story even more explosive. With elements of a horrible marriage and lots of verbal abuse, along with paranormal, demonic random happenings, this is a unique story. The writing feels cathartic for Marcum, enabling her to tell the story. The descriptions are well written, the scenes are well captured, oftentimes the book is quite revealing on a personal level. Overall, an emotional tour de force that pulls the reader into the story.

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Growth Hacking: Silicon Valley's Best Kept Secret by Raymond Fong and Chad Ridderson

Growth Hacking: Silicon Valley's Best Kept Secret by Raymond Fong
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Growth Hacking: Silicon Valley's Best Kept Secret by Raymond Fong and Chad Ridderson is filled with tons of useful information for any business owner looking to grow their business. The book is well structured around the six aspects of ASP, or the Automated Selling Process. With plenty of anecdotes to make a point, and clear and concise writing, this is an easy read that will help to bolster sales. One of the best examples of creative thinking to jump start sales, is the Dollar Shave Club and how they used a YouTube video to create demand. Perhaps it was a little luck, but it worked and worked well. While marketing may have different pipelines now, the basic principles haven't changed; you must spend money in order to make money. Marketing is key to growing a business and to being successful. This book is chock full of actionable steps to take in order to not only expand business and customers, but keep them coming back. A must read for any business owner. Highly recommend.

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Judas Son of Simon by Daniel Molyneux

Judas Son of Simon by Daniel Molyneux
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Judas Son of Simon by Daniel Molyneux is Molyneux's third book, his first being The Angel of Antioch, and his second, a companion book, Elias' Proverbs. With a master's degree from Austin Seminary; a doctorate from Fuller Seminary and studies at Condordia Seminary, Molyneux is certainly well versed in the history of the Bible. Judas, Son of Simon explores the life of Judas. Judas is born to Simon Bar-Levi and his wife, and from there grows to be a phenomenal son beyond measure. However the tide will soon change, and Judas becomes a more controversial figure, without whom, Jesus would not have been arrested and captured. This book is successfully written with clear details about the time period as well as the unceasing influence of Rome. Ultimately, this is a story told by the betrayer of Jesus, and with his voice the reader gains further understanding and clarity about Judas' struggle with God.

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Bits and Peaces by Mitchell Graye

Bits And Peaces by Mitchell Graye
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Bits and Peaces by Mitchell Graye is an intriguing collection of stories that focus on every day people, their challenges, and their visions of reality. Divided into three sections, Graye uses various techniques to pull the reader in; from fictionalized short stories to capturing the less than perfect human experience. An avid people watcher, Graye infuses his stories with a sense of realism, making the most of the all too real human condition. I especially enjoyed the story about Michael, who was fired from his job of twenty-odd years for no apparent reason. Ultimately, he becomes the victor, not only on a personal level, but in the impact he has on a homeless man, Curtis. The essence of the stories is that one never truly knows what is going on in another's life, people hide behind facades and faces. Graye explores this gray area that few people challenge, and in doing so, opens up the world with all of it's various inhabitants. Highly recommend for an exploratory and inquisitive read.

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Other Than by Mia Jo Celeste

Other Than by Mia Jo Celeste
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Love the title of this book, Other Than by Mia Jo Celeste, her first kindle book which sets the stage for more in the series. The opening is a little reminiscent of Poe, half dead corpses in coffins. This aspect kind of reminded me of Premature Burial by Poe; while in fact, Evie, our lead female heroine is half dead. She is likely suspended, half dead, half alive. A shape shifter, or skin-slider as described. She is the daughter of a doctor, knows much about herbs and potions, and is her father's apprentice. She wakes up in a coffin that is headed to an island, Lowell island, sinister and inhabited by Lord Victor Lowell and a multitude of wild cannibals. What may begin as a romance between Evie and the dark and mysterious Lowell confounds and confuses Evie; there are dark forces at work that Evie must overcome. Celeste has a way of capturing the world of vampires as accurately as a writer can describe something that is both fantastical and scary. A worthy trip awaits the reader in this captivating dystopian romance.

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Shadow Mountain Book One: Shadow Mountain Saga by Tess Collins

It's so nice to read an authentic book that truly depicts the South and the people in it. Tess Collins has that true southern voice in her book, Shadow Mountain( Book One: Shadow Mountain Saga). From the beginning pages, the folk are described accurately, right down to the dialects and speech inflection. A coal miner's daughter herself, Collins has a wonderful way of creating strong female characters that feel so real. Not to be outdone by the girls, Lafette, a young boy who is afraid of nothing, not the Wampus, not even witches, is an accurate and charming character. Collins' heritage shows in her reverence for the natural beauty of the area and the hardiness of the souls that inhabit the mountains. With a little mysticism, and a lot of common sense, Collins has written a captivating story that is at once grounded and riveting.

Can't find Love by Patrice M. Foster

The Can't Find Love Series Box Set #1-4 by Patrice M Foster
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

What a pleasant surprise this little novella, Can't Find Love by Patrice M. Foster is. The main character Ashley is in a dead end and dangerous relationship with Keylon. After a booze filled night ends with Ashley being attacked by Keylon, Ashley must re-examine her life and relationship. The one good thing that happens to Ashley is her meeting Vince Moretti, a promising basketball star. From their initial meeting to their first date at an upscale restaurant, the electricity and attraction is evident between the two. Vince seems like a great guy, everything that Ashley wants, even her best friend, Jada thinks so. But Ashley's life is filled with secrets, not the least of which is her bipolar mom who never leaves the house and her father who is never around. There is so much great characterization in this book, the author perfectly captures the tone and cadence of each person. A wonderfully written, troubled romance; looking forward to the next installment in this series.

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Perils of Information Age Pranav Prabhash

Perils of Information Age by Pranav Prabhash
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Perils of Information Age by Pranav Prabhash is an exhaustive look at the effects of so much information, so much news, all the time. Prabhash comments on various subcategories regarding learning in a technology driven world, the different ways of learning and which subjects are heavily promoted, as opposed to subjects that are less promoted within the classic school systems, not only in the United States but around the world. His contention is that math should be universally taught, regardless of academic prowess or ability. There is also discussion about the ability of manufacturers and marketing departments to disseminate the information they want you to have whether it is faulty or not. In other words, data of all kinds can be manipulated to say what you need it to say. After all, data is just numbers and statistics, and can be tweaked to favor any particular opinion one may have. A rather complex read, but full of information that takes an in depth look at learning, technology and the fast flow of information in today's society.

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Bombs Away: Harry Watt is Back.Lock and Load, Take a Breath, and Hang On. by Rob Guy

Bombs Away: Harry Watt Is Back. Lock And Load, Take A Breath, And Hang On. by Rob Guy
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love that Bombs Away: Harry Watt Is Back. Lock And Load, Take A Breath, And Hang On; the latest written endeavor by Rob Guy has an enticing prologue to open the book. Harry is pictured precariously standing on the edge of a cliff, gravel scattering down the precipice, considering his likely demise, albeit with a sense of humor. What a great and auspicious opening for a humorous, engaging and sometimes, poignant book. Rob Guy manages to capture all of these elements into a science fiction story, which is nothing short of genius. Now the sheriff of Mars Central, it is Harry's job to maintain law and order, a fairly simple task for him with his vast experience. But Harry must not only confront old enemies to save the day, but contend with family matters that often create problems of their own. A well conceived story that will entertain even the most hardened science fiction diehards.

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Sensabria by Darrel Merke

Sensabria by Darrel R. Merke
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Sensabria by Darrel Merke is a superbly creative work of science fiction. It is very evident that Merke has talent, not only with the words he uses, but in creating magical worlds. Astronaut and pilot Cole Daniels, in the year 2063, leaves for what he thinks is a distant planet, only to find himself and his peers back on earth. They discover a small city called Sensabria, and from there the confusion and wonderment begin. Merke does a great job of describing the technological advances that are integral in the heart of Sensabria. He has created a beautiful place to visit, but the reader and Cole, the main character, are left wondering if what they see is real. With a few little interjections of humor, and subtle romance with a Sensabrian woman and Cole, Sensabria is a solid entry in the science fiction/fantasy genre. Plot twists keep the reader guessing until the end, and set the stage for another installment.

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The War Chamber (The Moon Singer Book 2) by B. Roman

The War Chamber by B. Roman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

B. Roman covers all the emotional bases in her book, The War Chamber (The Moon Singer Book 2). There is a family dynamic, a small town hit by the recession, military manufacturing to bring back jobs, magical crystals, and most of all, the death of David's mom, with whom he is trying to reconnect in any way he can. With the help of the magic crystals, David is able to time travel to another, parallel world, whereby he might be able to communicate with his mom. With plenty of fantastical characters like Bianca, Sokar, and Maati, the author has created an interesting, colorful, alternate world called Coronadus. Ultimately, David who happens to be deaf, is trying to understand why he is deaf, and also needs to incorporate his mother's karmic mission into his life. There are plenty of life lessons in this story, which will appeal to readers of all ages.

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The Rise and Fall of the Horde by Nick La Torre

The Rise and Fall of the Horde by Nick La Torre opens with a eulogy telling the reader that the Horde is dead. With that depressing opening, it's amazing to go on and read about the exploits of the Horde and it's members. These members include, but may not be limited to: Twon, Cury, Fitz, Durlan, The Reckless One, Bauman, Will, Buster, and Sobes. The author La Torre appears to be a prolific writer, with other books to his credit, focusing on the Rauschmonstrum, a great play on words, and is perhaps a take on the painter Robert Rauschenberg name, but maybe not. A bit of debauchery, sex, and drugs runs through this parody like a well played song. What began in high school as a group of wild young lads, continues into community college and beyond, those carefree years of partying that never seem to end, until they do. A quick, loosely written read.

Hello World 5000: An Internet Fable by Jeff Hunt

Hello World 5000: An Internet Fable by Jeffrey Grant Hunt
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Hello World 5000: An Internet Fable by Jeff Hunt is a crazy mix of interspersed stories, all of which are told by Royal, a young lad named after the typewriter company. The plot is somewhat difficult to discern, it's a little all over the place, there are various tribes to explain, the children in this book are without parents, and the setting is unique. It's important to note that Royal was trained to be a communicator, and this is the essence of the book. The writing is certainly interesting, portraying a post apocalyptic world with just children inhabiting it; thousands of them, but when all seems morbid and mundane, the writing takes off again for a more optimistic view of the world. This is not a plot-driven book, but one that meanders around, avoiding a straight line. Recommend for those looking for a fascinating reading diversion.

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Junction by Cody Schlegel

Junction by Cody Schlegel
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Junction by Cody Schlegel is a gritty, dirty depiction of life in small town America, namely the town of Junction, Iowa. A well composed novel, with a little bit for every reader; drugs and drug dealers, unethical police, murder, and the usual ennui that smothers so many in a dead-end town. When Joey, the head drug dealer in town, is found dead, naked and frozen, most attribute it to a bad acid trip. But it could be something else altogether, with a slew of people as possible suspects. Schlegel does a great job of building characterization, the writing feels authentic to the setting, if maybe offensive to some. There is much hanging out at the local watering hole, and doing drugs, while balancing the seeming responsibilities the individual characters may have. Family is important in this story. On some level, it seems the bad guys are deep down good people, but it's hard to tell. Highly recommend for readers who like dark and gritty mysteries.

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Fire Thief Reborn - The Edge of the Known- book 4- Seth Mullins

Fire Thief Reborn by Seth Mullins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

For Seth Mullins the journey is everything. In his book Fire Thief Reborn (The Edge of the Known- Book 4) he chronicles the continuing life experience of Brandon Chane, founding member of The Edge of the Known band. Seven years have elapsed since The Edge of the Known burst onto the music scene, and with success, came self-analysis and introspection. Brandon Chane must now confront his inner demons that never quite seem to disappear; they present themselves and stir up his psyche. While Brandon may think his visionary music has died within his core, he may be able to re-awaken his muse and perform again. His mentor and spiritual guide Saul reveals stirring details from his own past, and that might be what is needed to ignite the stagnant flame of Brandon's music. We create our own dream, our own reality, according to Saul. With a passionate voice, Mullins manages to convey the discord and angst that often fills the heart of a creative spirit. Compelling, emotional writing makes this follow up book in the series a solid performer.

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Willakaville: Amazing Adventures of Astronomical Awesomeness (Willakaville #1) by Bald Guy

Amazing Adventures of Astronomical Awesomeness by Bald Guy
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

What a fun and entertaining book this is. Willakaville: Amazing Adventures of Astronomical Awesomeness by Bald Guy is a wacky collection of stories for the younger set. Not only do these stories entertain and confound, they offer simple moral lessons. Highly creative and written to amaze, dazzle and befuddle, most of the stories have a dilemma that must be solved. Why is there a huge tomato stalking and aggressively dismantling the town of Willakaville? Why does a young, unpopular girl dreams strange dreams of a talking turtle? Sometimes there aren't enough answers for these baffling questions, these preposterous things just happen. Overall, the big take away from this collection is to be nice to everyone, and life should improve for you as a young person. I was a bit troubled by some of the characters' going off into closets and/or rooms with janitors and teachers, as a parent these actions raise red flags, but beyond that, this is a completely enjoyable collection.

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