Archive for the ‘Untreed Reads’ Category

Paddy Whacked starts out as a hilarious, imaginative whodunit that brings together iconic, fictional characters. The author showed a deft hand in manipulating the characters’ traditional names, making them over into modern monikers that had me chuckling.

For me, Paddy Whacked was a bit of a one-trick pony though. Once we got past the jokes with the names, the book fizzled a bit. The ending left me hanging. There was great potential for an exciting arrest scene once the culprit was sussed out. The book simply ended and I found myself checking to see if pages had been dropped from the file.

That said, I enjoyed the author’s style and original sense of humor.

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Eve Pelco

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Book Description: Inspector Helmes and his trusty sidekick, Watkins, know they have their work cut out for them in solving the murder of Paddy O’Toole, the Grand Leprechaun. However, nothing can prepare them for the strange lineup of suspects they encounter at the annual Holiday Icon Convention.

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Length: 8 Pages (PDF)

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Genre: Paranormal, Humor

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A short read in Untreed Reads’ Candlelight Literary Romance line, Rhiannon is terrific. It’s lean and well written. What I liked best was the hero’s the antithesis of romantic, yet this is a wonderful romance. I loved the vulnerability displayed by his love interest, who’s well rounded enough not to be wussy. It was a delicate balance and Mr. Plakcy handled it beautifully.

The story’s set in Miami, in August, and the author put in just enough little details to make me feel I was there with his characters.

I’m now a Neil Plakcy convert and would happily read anything else by him.

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Eve Pelco

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Book Description: Junior is a wild and crazy construction supervisor who drinks too much, curses too frequently and never lets a woman get under his skin. Then, he meets the curvaceous Rhiannon who loves football, shoots a mean game of pool and has a little secret she’s reluctant to share.

Junior keeps chasing her like a hound in heat, until he discovers there’s no crying in the game she’s playing. And that’s when the fun really begins

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Length: 9 Pages (PDF)

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Genre: Romance; M/M

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Also Available At 1 Place For Romance or Amazon

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Source: Publisher

I love psychological stories. Ones that make you think, stories which are more than just a telling of a tale, and “One Mistake” fit that category for me. Without dancing around issues, long backgrounds or dialogue, we are introduced directly to the Robert Hoard, the main character, and the plot, which I found believable though some might doubt the possibility of astral projection. Though we are told some backstory without having directly experienced it, this didn’t feel jarring or abrupt. It takes a special skill to do so, and a certain mind which can appreciate the magic authors perform when they successfully create a well-rounded, balanced world in a minimum of pages.

Descriptions are outstanding in placing the reader at the scene, as well as building a sense of horror at what astral projection really can mean, and how it can be manipulated. I didn’t find the ending unexpected, yet “One Mistake” was a satisfying read. My favorite part was the fact it left me with a question. With his new found ability, what was next for Robert Hoard?

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Red

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Book Description: When Robert discovers a business card in a phone booth advertising astral projection lessons, he thinks he’s stumbled upon a way to improve on his ordinary life. Unfortunately, the instructor has much more sinister plans for his student. A short story from the bestselling author of SEEKER and OFF FLESH.

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Length: 9 Pages (PDF)

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Source: Publisher

Bryl R. Tyne has delivered another poignant story. Broken is very moving and awe inspiring. I would recommend this book to anyone who has ever felt like their life lacked meaning. Broken shows us that no matter what happens in the world there is always goodness if only take time and embrace it.

Broken is part of the Zagzagel Diaries series by Bryl R. Tyne and I believe it would be best to read from the beginning.

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Cinderella

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Book Description: Following the traumatic events of Lost, the angel Zagzagel is more determined than ever to stand by his charges and do things his own way. Until now, Big Poppa has allowed Zag to follow his heart, but He’s about to lay down the law with his renegade angel. The wrath of Heaven is about to crash down on Zag’s head, setting the stage for the showdown to come. Only one Diary entry left before the international bestselling short story series concludes!

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Length: 9 pages (PDF)

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Buy The Series

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Source: Publisher

The ideas are simply presented and easy enough most any reader could visualize them: a person waking up disoriented after having died. I somehow found the tenses used a little strange, as sometimes it seems a memory then at others, as if scenes were presently happening to the main character, but the character was somewhat confused after their reawakening so descriptions evidenced this.

The idea is interesting, yet it seemed to me like grasping for what you believe is solid or that a solidity will eventually occur, but it still only flows through your hand like water.

I felt it was designed to make a reader think about how they would feel, what they might do if presented with a similar situation and in that, I felt it suceeded. The “New Normal” is an excellent which could be expanded into a longer story or novel, a sequel of sorts, because it is an extremely thought provoking topic.

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Red

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Book Description: What if doctors were able to transplant your mind into a new body after a terrible accident? What if, thanks to the process, you found you could no longer love the person you were with or live your old life? What would become your new ‘normal?’

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Length: 6 Pages (PDF)

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(25% at Untreed Reads February 2011 only)

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Source: Publisher

The idea for this story was enough to catch my interest. Being held hostage without knowing what’s going to happen at any given time, yet very aware of the dangerous, ruthless nature of the men holding you might make for a compelling plot. I felt the author put a lot of thought and planning into “Hostages at the Kitchen Table”, but I found the dialogue heavy outline read more like a screenplay than a book. I would have appreciated wider array information, other than the talk and terrifying looks being passed between the two hostages, as I was searching for a reason to care about the young man and his girlfriend who were at the mercy of felons.

I thought the author effectively included news broadcasts into the narrative which were not distracting or confusing, which did create a greater feeling of apprehension and the stark reality of the situation the people were in. There are hints of possible activities between the various characters but no really surprising revelations, and a twist at the end that I did see coming, yet the resolution was what I found unexpected as there are very definite psychological side effects which occur to people who’ve been in such a situation. I was looking for those qualities and behaviors as a kind of authenticity. “Hostages at the Kitchen Table” would likely be appealing to those who enjoy crime or suspense thrillers.

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Red

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Book Description: Kyle and Austin’s vacation plans go horribly wrong when they become the victims of a home invasion by a group of bank robbers. Rather than simply steal their belongings and run, the criminals choose to hold the couple hostage in their apartment until they can come up with a getaway plan. As the police begin to close in, both the crooks’ desperation levels and their tempers begin to rise. Can Kyle and Austin make it out of the situation alive, or will they meet a violent end at the hands of their captors?

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Length: 90 Pages (PDF)

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Source: Publisher

When I started, I really didn’t know what to expect; in fact—and this is almost heresy when it comes to Neil Plakcy’s writing—I wasn’t even sure that this was going to be a comfortable story.  Oh me of little faith!

Once again, Mr. Plakcy has proven that he is, beyond any doubt, a consummate storyteller and that his way with words is supreme. And that when he tells a story I will get involved, wholeheartedly; it’s impossible not to do so. The characters in his stories are not copies of real people; they’re people in their own right. They behave just as they will. For them there is no other way; they are who they are. They’re the men and women they are due to their life experiences, their families and their choices. And they’re so darned real with all the attendant flaws, shortcomings and personalities. They’re your next-door neighbour, your cousin or the friend of a friend.

Some of them I care for more than others, but then that’s to be expected. Most of all, they get me interested in what is happening, in what is going on in their lives, their hearts and minds.

Really with all the books—and the variety of genres—I’ve read by Neil Plakcy you would think that I’d do better to wait until I’m further into a book before I start to wonder.  My apologies… I can only suggest that I’m human and prone to rushed judgements.

And let me assure you that if you’re looking for a book wherein your imagination and heart will be captured, then look no further than The Outhouse Gang.

The story spans a number of years and different times in each man’s life and family. Discovering just what it is that gives life to the Outhouse Gang is both fun and thought-provoking. What continues their ongoing quest for another adventure is reassuring and riveting.

This isn’t a story of derring-do and evil deeds; it’s about men living their lives to the best—or mostly so—of their abilities. But mostly it’s a recitation—rich, vivid and compelling—about real people and their sometimes interesting, often difficult and occasionally almost boring lives. Watching as each man and his son, or sons, make the connections they do is a treat beyond any and all explanation.

Neil Plakcy has proven, over and over again, that he can write tellingly and wonderfully in any genre he so desires and if that’s not the mark of an author worth being a fan-girl over, then I don’t know what is.  But I’m definitely a fan and The Outhouse Gang is just another notch in this most talented storyteller’s … uh… belt?

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Kathy K.

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Book Description: Continuing the exploration of the father-son dynamic that he began in the short story AT THE DINER, author Neil Plakcy expands on the theme with a look at the lives of seven men in the town of Stewart’s Crossing.

Chuck longs to escape the rigidity of his life and working in his father’s store. Charley fears for the loss of the family farm. Sandy is the one who got out of the small town, then chose to come back. Paul is losing his connection with his son. Harry worries that his son will change in the Army. Nick seeks to keep his relationship with his son stable while his marriage falls apart. Tom is faced with the possibility of illness taking his child.

Through all of their trials and tribulations, the men make a pact to stick together. One night’s prank will result in the creation of The Outhouse Gang; a group dedicated to ensuring that, above all else, their dedication to their fathers and the fathers they themselves are destined to become will remain strong.

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Length: 162 pages (pdf)

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Source: Publisher

Just for Christmas by George Seaton is pure magic, holiday and otherwise. It is a wonderful, touching and joyous Christmas story but it is so, so much more. It’s about family, love and family love. It’s about being true to who you are and being honest with yourself and those you love. It’s also one of the most heartwarming, utterly *complete* stories even for all that it’s only 11 pages long. The romance element exists—and beautifully—but it’s not the main focus and yet I don’t feel that there’s anything lacking.

Just for Christmas follows Frank over a number of years, glimpses of him, his development and what family means, from childhood to adulthood. We get to know, however briefly, who he is and who the people are that have an impact on his life. And it’s a true, if different, experience.

Once again George Seaton has wrought poetry with images that come to bright life and fill the reader’s heart. And the ending… wow! It was far more than I had expected and I was left with both joy and sorrow intertwined.  How, you might ask does *that* work?

My answer is to take a few minutes and discover for yourself how Seaton’s artistry can bring to life two disparate and yet totally complementary emotions.  Magic I tell you, pure and utter magic.

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Kathy K.

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Book Description:  Christmas is a holiday with family at the heart of the season. In this short story from the author of CONTINUUM, THE COLORADO COW AND OTHER STORIES and ANOTHER FINE CHRISTMAS, Frank discovers that sometimes discovering who you are is the best present, and that often the family you choose can be stronger than the family into which you were born.

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Length: 11 Pages

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Also Available At 1 Place For Romance

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Source: Publisher

Easily engulfing as the fog which overwhelmed the main character as he drove along a stretch of highway, The Clarent Pin commands your attention with it’s neat, concise writing style and images that place you in Richard’s proverbial shoes.  It’s a short story, so there’s a quick twist in the character’s behavior I found surprising, as what seemed a simple formless cloud grows into something infinitely more sinister.

Strange descriptions detail the stranger actions and emotions which plague Richard as he sinks deeper into a nightmare “non-world”. Distinct, shocking and memorable, after a suspenseful rise rise to climax, The Clarent Pin is a neat tale with a surprise ending that left me curiously satisfied.

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Red

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Book Description: Russell likes everything in his life perfect and planned. A road trip with his wife results in an encounter with a strange fog. When Janice disappears, leaving him alone in the strange environment, Russell’s orderly way of life begins to crumble. What he doesn’t know is that there is an order to what’s happening, but somebody else is in control. A short story from our Spectres horror line.
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Length: 8 Pages

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Source: Publisher

Joshua Calkins-Treworgy has wowed me for the third time with another visit to the deliciously horrible town of Amelia. This short study of a damaged, lost man confronted by an ultimate evil is well written, tight and super creepy. I loved it.

Mr. Calkins-Treworgy has a talent for slipping his characters into wicked situations then letting events unfold honestly, without contrivance or a maudlin need to wrap things up in a neat, sweet package.

The hero in Faith In Amelia is such a character. The evil that permeates the town has come for him and as in the previous books, assumes a façade best suited to destroy its victim. What I liked best about Faith In Amelia was the slow reveal of what horrifies the hero most, and when faced with his ultimate horror, how he reacts when stripped down to his core.

Buy yourself a copy of Faith In Amelia. I guarantee you won’t be disappointed. Although part of a series, the book reads well as a stand-alone.

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Eve

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Book Description: In this third outing of the acclaimed horror short story series, the evil of the city of Amelia attempts to corrupt Father Michael Sternin. Will Father Sternin’s faith be strong enough to withstand the evil taking over the town, or will he succumb to darker forces?

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11 Pages

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Source: Publisher

Once I realised that Another Fine Christmas is a follow-up story to George Seaton’s Continuum, I couldn’t read it fast enough. Well, actually that’s not true; I savoured each word and each picture that Mr. Seaton’s words evoked. I could just see the narrator—whose name I believe is George—as he shook his head over his partner David’s glee with the season. David is totally in love with the whole Christmas panorama; every little aspect is reason to celebrate. George, on the other hand, not so much.
George’s dream encounter is interesting to say the least. I laughed, shook my head and just out-and-out enjoyed the entire recitation.

George and David’s relationship plays a big part in the story although perhaps not as much as in Continuum. But I loved the opportunity to once more revisit these two, this time under different circumstances. It’s like being able to drop in on a really good friend and just catch up. And George Seaton continues to create magic…and some very interesting other characters.

Kathy K.

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Story Description:  What do you do when your partner is gung-ho for Christmas and you don’t want to take part in the festivities? For the narrator, an escape into his writing world would bring a welcome diversion from the music and mistletoe of the season. A very unusual encounter in his dreams, however, just might restore his love for the season and allow him to view it with an entirely new perspective.

A seasonal short story from the author of CONTINUUM and THE COW AND OTHER COLORADO TALES.

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Also Available At 1 Place For Romance

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Although these three short stories are different in some ways from other George Seaton books I’ve read—i.e. there’s not much in the way of romance—they are rife with the same descriptiveness of both characters and places to the point that I can feel as though I’m almost an on-site observer. Interesting? Oh you better believe it.

They’re also unique enough that they won’t appeal to the casual reader… at least not one who is inclined to see only what’s before them. These stories take the discerning reader to a place where they’ve likely never gone before. Well other than Colorado that is.

• In The Cow, Seaton adds almost what I’d call mysticism to this story. Through Jack, one of three brothers living on a ranch, we learn a bit about the cow; how she’d lived, how she died and all that occurred afterwards. I was enthralled with the link between the cow and Jack, how their connection to the land led to an end that was a little spooky perhaps, but quite satisfying… and right somehow.
• In Drogan’s Things, Pell Drogan is an oddity in a town where plenty of eccentrics make their home. The events that occur in Misty Creek seem fairly disjointed at least until you get to the end and find that, indeed, George Seaton knew where this was heading all along.  Two words that I’d used to describe this story are Intriguing and serendipitous. To figure out what I mean, you’ll have to read it for yourself.
• In Fixing Fences—and I think this is my favourite of the three, although it’s a close draw between it and The Cow—the connection is not only that to the land, but to family as well as a larger community. It’s also the most heartfelt of the three short—short—stories and I was left feeling rather at peace, if not a bit tearful.

Once again, George Seaton’s stories hooked me and I’m a very satisfied reader, even when there’s no romance to be found. Cool!

Kathy K.

Book Description:  George Seaton (Continuum) takes a departure from his regular prose of the relationships between men to a completely different type of love affair; that of people and their fondness for The West.

In The Cow, the unusual death of a heifer leads to a reexamination of one man’s life on his ranch.

The residents of Misty Creek, Colorado find that their small town is about to undergo some drastic changes in Drogan’s Things.

And, in Fixing Fences, one family discovers that sometimes fixing something that’s falling apart is exactly what’s needed to keep everyone together.

Literary, lyrical and packing an emotional wallop, the stories in this anthology will immerse the reader in the rich environment of Colorado farm country, the lives of its residents and the amazing imagination of author George Seaton.

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Joshua Calkins-Treworgy has penned a wonderful, macabre series in Roads Through Amelia. The Beast and the Forgotten Tribesman, first in the series, is a quick, intense read. It’s worth reading slowly though, so it can be savored. The action flows furiously and despite him being a social pariah, I revered the hero.

I thought the book was unique and a terrific horror story. The author gives no details about the beast’s origins or motivation. The book works despite that. It’s a snapshot of evil cleverly portrayed by a writer who’s quickly becoming a favorite of mine.

The Beast and the Forgotten Tribesman can be read as a stand-alone but you’re going to want to read the rest of the series.

Eve

Book Description: Welcome to Amelia, an area of land that’s filled with the creatures from your darkest nightmares. In this first visit, a homeless man finds himself up against a creature determined to kill him and his fellow street people. This release includes ROADMAP TO AMELIA, an introduction to the series by the author.

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Source: Publisher

The quirkiness of this brief set of experiences displayed as memory “vignettes” had a straightforward delivery that made me smile even though my heart contracted with bittersweet emotion when I sensed what would inevitably happen between the two main characters. As the author’s character fell in love, I fell in love. As they received a painful epiphany, so did I. The poignancy of the tale I found sublime.

I felt privileged to witness the rare gift of a writer who can so powerfully imbue their story with such vivid life and emotion using a minimum of words. Beautiful simplicity is how I would describe “4 Stories Down, 4 Stories Up”.

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Book Description: Told from the point of view of an elevator ride, Samantha explores the ups and downs of her relationship with another woman. Will Samantha get everything she’s ever wanted on the 4th floor, or lose it all in The Lobby? A unique twist on the girl-meets-girl tale.

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I was immediately drawn to this short story by the intriguing title and story idea, and there were plenty of catchy phrases to move the plot forward but after a while they became distracting. I wanted more depth and background information about the main character and critical details about the setting so I could picture it in my mind.

Though some scenes were clear and coherent, and I thought it was a great story idea, overall I wanted more from “Off Flesh”. If you’re looking for a breeze of a read with a twist at the end this is a short, compact story which I found predictable but satisfying. I would be greatly interested to read more from this writer and see what other ideas they have in mind.

Red

Book Description: While at a hotel for a convention and away from his husband, Mr. Jensen finds himself drawn to the youthful and energetic Mr. Wyndham. When Wyndham enters the hotel’s lift and fails to reappear elsewhere, Jensen discovers that sometimes craving the company of someone other than your spouse can have very serious consequences.

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Brilliant, was the first word that came to mind after reading Song on the Sand by Ruth Sims, because I liked it very much and was left completely satisfied. There was plenty of wry wit, believable conflict, both internal and external, and from the very first page I was drawn into caring for and sympathizing with the main character.

“Song on the Sand” is based in a contemporary time period with light touches hinting of the supernatural but I was pleased with the story’s overall sense of balance. I would have liked to know more background about some of the secondary characters, yet that didn’t take away from my complete enjoyment of Ruth Sims short story. I found it’s strong and moving plot well-written with just the right touches of descriptive detail and emotional pay-off.

Red

Book Description: Tony Dalby finds himself on the wrong end of his 80s, confined to a nursing home, with his days as a dancer a thing of the past. The appearance of Drew into his life brings a welcome distraction, as well as a bit of mystery as to why Drew constantly visits the wheelchair-bound, comatose Jesse. As secrets are revealed, Dalby finds he may have a renewed purpose for living after all.

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What a beautiful and touching story. This story was brought to life by a lovely heart. I cannot express the wonder of this writer’s talent. For such a little story to have this big of an impact on the emotions of the reader

Bryl R. Tyne is a master. Every one who enjoys reading all kinds of books should really pick this entire series up, you will not be disappointed.

Cinderella

Book Description: The angel Zagzagel finds himself under direct orders from Big Papa himself to do his job and not interfere with fate’s outcome for his charge Charley. Charley’s had her own share of issues and loss in her life, and Zag’s pretty sure she deserves a break this time. Unable to follow the orders from Above, Zagzagel begins to realize that he may not be able to fulfill his duties much longer. Can he help Charley find closure and peace in his own way, or is it time to give up his wings? This is Diary Entry #4 of 6.The End Is Near!

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What an enchanting story! The beginning wasn’t anything like I expected it would be but it fit completely with the continuity in George Seaton’s Continuum.

The story is told in bits and pieces—past and present, history and now—and yet I was never at a loss as to where I was or where I’d been taken. It was, at times vague and general and at others very specific. Its inherent charm still drifts through my memory. I’ll get little snippets, little snapshots, from the story popping into my mind and I get a warm feeling.

Ultimately I found Continuum a very engaging read with a look back at a time, a world, with which I cannot relate. The main character through whose point-of-view the story is recited had experiences in a world that I have read about but could never completely understand… and I think that’s true for the majority of those reading this story. But I was mesmerized at the same time that I would be cringing.  And tied in with the drama is a look at a lifetime lived with love; the romance is sweet and, having been married for over 25 years myself, I can testify to the truth of the main character’s thoughts and feelings.

The impact of George Seaton’s Continuum will be felt for some time to come and I feel that I have been gifted with, not only a glance back to a time that has had a major effect to this day, but being able to share in the story of two people who’ve loved and lived well .  Bravo Mr. Seaton and thank you!

Kathy K.

Book Description:  It’s been often said that to know where you’re going you have to know where you’ve been. Such is the premise of our latest release in our Diversity short story line, entitled “Continuum” by George Seaton.

In this story a gay man, looking back at the evolution of his relationship from the onset of AIDS in the 1980’s to the present, discovers that love and time both have their own continuity. With a longing for the carefree days gone by, the narrator grows to accept the time he now finds himself in. Part historical, part romance and mostly literary, we think everyone will find something to relate to here regardless of their sexual orientation.

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Source: Publisher

Okay this story was not anything like I expected, but that was very much part of the charm I think.  Usually I have a good idea of at least where the story is going to go, but in Princess of the Andes Victor Banis shows that he’s got a few surprises up his sleeve.

I don’t know if the intent was to amuse as much as this short story did me, but I not only laughed, but found myself giggling as well… almost constantly. Part of that is because I know, in fact I think most of us do, what it is to be trapped with someone that has not clue one about just how entertaining they aren’t.  And even though he is the penultimate bore, I couldn’t help but like the hapless Randolph Letterman. And the ending surprised me no end… I still shake my head when I think of it… and while I may want to know just what did happen Mr. Banis has once again entertained this reader. There is a reason that he is among my favourite authors and in Princess of the Andes it’s very well illustrated. Bravo!

Kathy K.

Book Description: On a long ocean voyage, there are few things worse than being trapped at sea with a person who bores you to tears. The captain of The Princess of the Andes thinks he may have a solution to his annoying and talkative passenger, but his plan is going to require some VERY unusual intervention by his crew if it’s to succeed.

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While very, very short, Tell Them Katy Did is a wonderful story. Even with only 9 pages in which to grab the reader’s attention and tell a thrilling tale, Victor Banis has proven that he doesn’t need a lot of words to satisfy his readers.  Right from the opening words I was transfixed by what was befalling our heroine.  The fear she was experiencing had shivers running down my spine and I was very grateful to be in my nice warm, safe, home.

There’s really not much that I can say about Katy without giving away the twist, but suffice it to say that even at the end I was extremely intrigued and utterly satisfied with this most engaging tale.  Victor Banis has done it again and done it beautifully.

Kathy K.

Book Description: A young lesbian walking home alone at night is rescued from a gang by a mysterious woman named Katy. Intrigued by the encounter, she seeks out Katy at a local bar, only to discover there’s a lot more to Katy – and her encounter – than what she initially thought.

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The brief description interested me; I love stories about people who learn that they have unexpected powers and the subsequent path to discovering how to work them… and better yet, what’s expected by the person who informed them.

In the case of the sisters—quadruplets named Alley, Bailey, Clancey and Delaney—they don’t learn anything until they’ve reached their last year of college.

Rie McGaha has come up with a very interesting medium to tell this story and I enjoyed it a lot… although I seriously wanted to have the next book(s) in the series at my fingers instead of having to wait. *grin* But she did a great job at getting us to the point where we’re definitely left hanging.  There is so much potential in this story-line, and if this first part is anything to go by, then we are in for a real treat!

The book begins by giving us the details of just how this line of women stretching back centuries began. It’s somewhat raw but all the more potent for it. It’s also extremely important that we learn this because this is the four sisters’ story. We’re given a fairly sparse but sufficient background… and even though the entire background is only 10 pages long I found myself very caught up in it.  Ms. McGaha did a great job setting up an emotional connection to our heroines.

I’m not sure if it’s only my impression or if it’s the way the next chapter is written, but their time of discovery speeds by.  I think I would have liked a more detailed explanation, but that could also be something that we learn more of as the series unfolds.  All I can say is I continued to be intrigued.  There is still a fair bit about the sisters that we don’t know, and we are only starting to really know who Alley, Bailey, Clancey and Delaney are, but I’m sure that by the end we’ll have a much better and clearer picture of each of them. And we are introduced to Montatre and let me just say that the man reeks of evil, even through the pages.  This is not going to be a walkover for the sisters that much is for sure!

I’m not going to say much more because it’s better, in my opinion, to leave you less informed than to spill any secrets… but I will say that I am eagerly awaiting the next book in the series and it can’t come soon enough for me.

Kathy K.

Book Description:  Four sisters discover that they are born into a line of women with powers to control the Elements. Plucked from their normal college lives and thrust into a battle to save the Earth, can they defeat the evil Montatre?

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Publisher’s Note: 100% of the royalties for A Winter’s Night are going to Rie through the end of 2010 to help her replace everything she lost in a horrible fire.

Source: Publisher

Linda is more than bored, she’s stifled and trapped and is only now beginning to think that there must be more out there…surely there HAS to be.

Victor Banis is another of my favourite authors and in Neighbors he more than ably takes us, in a very short 6 pages, into Linda’s heart and mind and I, for one, ended up feeling almost as hopeless as Linda.

Neighbors is a heart achingly touching story and Victor Banis is a consummate storyteller.  It’s a very short story but it has a lot to say and should definitely not be ignored!

Kathy K.

Book Description:  Linda, who is becoming bored in her marriage, finds herself fixated on the new neighbor who has moved into the trailer next door. Might she be the change Linda’s looking for?

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Bite This! is a cute, tongue-in-cheek read. For me, it was a fast paced and a nice diversion. I enjoyed Mr. McMahan’s sense of humor and once I got into the flow of his writing, the story made perfect sense despite its roots in the land of make-believe. This is the first of his Richard Dick mysteries and reads well as a stand-alone.

Eve

Book Description: Detective Richard Dick is hired to look into mysterious disappearances in the town of Wareville. His client is enormous, the suspects are bizarre and the situation is turning critical. This isn’t Dick’s typical case but, then again, this laugh-out-loud story isn’t your typical mystery either!

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Ruth Sims has penned a remarkably funny tale. In many ways, The Lawyer, The Ghost and the Cursed Chair parallels Dickens’ A Christmas Carol and the similarities had me laughing out loud. Ms. Sims’ version cleverly substitutes humor for horror and I was enchanted from beginning to end.

My only complaint is the book is far too short. It tells a complete story I didn’t want to end.

For me, this was a delightful romp through the re-telling of a classic favorite, with modern twists that kept me thoroughly entertained.

Eve

Book Description: Lawyer H.L. Snodgrass has it all: a successful practice, a devoted wife and a passionate boyfriend. When he decides to sell off a family heirloom, his cozy life takes a drastic turn for the worst. Now, he and the ghost of his great-great-great grandfather have to get it back before a Gypsy curse destroys everything. Add in a furry junk dealer, a leaky waterbed and a nun in jail, and Snodgrass is in more trouble than Dickens ever dreamed up for Scrooge!

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Even though this is touted as a children’s fantasy story I have to admit to falling in love with Michael Matson’s The Diamond Tree.  His storytelling was magical but with an element of real life to it.  Dall didn’t complete his quest in a matter of days or weeks, but rather it took years; I really enjoyed that facet of the story.  Even as a child you know that really big things don’t happen overnight so it’s refreshing to read a story where important work takes time; wonderful!

While this is also labeled fantasy, to my mind it would be just as appropriate to call it a fairy tale, but a more modern version. But whatever you would call this story, I call it fabulous!  And it’s a story that I will enjoy sharing again and again with the children in my life.  All I can say is thank heavens that kids love going over favorite stories again and again; it gives me a chance to return over and over to Dall’s adventures with nary a wince… after all I’m reading it to the kids. *grin*

Kathy K.

Note from Ebook Addict: I debated for a few minutes about having a review for children’s book on a mainly erotic review site but than decided that as parents we are the ones who buy the books for our children and what better way to find new and interesting books they might enjoy than when we are reading reviews for the books we read.

Book Teaser: Daring princes, princesses in need of saving, dragons and magical lands…who could ask for more?

Book Description: Dall is eager to prove himself a worthy prince, but what do you do when your older brothers have already slain every dragon and rescued all the princesses? You heed the advice of an old woman and set off on a quest! When Dall starts finding diamonds along the way, he discovers his quest may have a more unique ending than he had planned.

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