Tag: young adult

Finding Pluck by Peter Difatta

Review - Submitted

 

A mesmerizing tale of a young man’s struggles to step outside the life he has known and move into a new, more exciting one. Winning a college scholarship designated for members of the LGBTQ community, Taylor agrees to become an activist. The long since deceased founder of the scholarship returns to haunt Taylor whenever he fails to live up to the agreement.

Moving the story between two time periods, Peter Difatta tells of the struggles that many face from those of small towns, the religiously small-minded folks, and bullies who are against anyone different from themselves. Difatta intentionally creates the story and carefully builds his characters and situations to tell the story of injustices, being ethical and moral, and humane.

The dialog is definitely “Southern” and realistic. Not only is the dialog realistic but so is most of the story; other than the paranormal twist to it, I would dare say authentic and powerful. The meanness, the fears, the small-mindedness are all daily headlines and reminders of our failures as humans. It is through Difatta’s skillful writing and storytelling that the listener stays engaged and engrossed. This is not an audiobook that one can listen to a little at a time, it is one that you will want to listen to from beginning to end because you just have to know what’s next!

I have not had the pleasure of hearing Keith McCarthy, narrator, before. I enjoyed his narration and voices. His enthusiasm and emotions were accurate and carried the story forward. I would enjoy hearing McCarthy again. His voice is soothing and versatile.

There were no issues with the production or quality of this audiobook.

A must-hear audiobook!

Click here to purchase your copy.

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Ghosters 2: Revenge of the Library Ghost by Diana Corbitt

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This is a delightful story of two unique boys – Joey who has Asperger’s and Elbie who lives above a mortuary. They both share one thing in common – they can see ghosts! Together they are a force to be reckoned with as one is a practical joker and the other is learning to be. Together with a couple of professional ghost hunters (ok, not really but they are girls, about the same age as the boys and they won a ghost contest), they solve the mystery of the haunted library.

I loved this book! It was fun to read, light and had moments where I would laugh out loud. It was well written with the plot moving forward with each page. The character development for each was well done and each character had their own quirks which made them more realistic.

Although it was written for ages 9-14, adults can love this book as well! Diana Corbitt, the author, built the characters with tender loving care and a realness. The dialog was perfectly done and the “pranks” were corny but funny – typical kid stuff. I think the age group that it is written for will love it as well – I read passages to my 16-year-old grandson who loves all things ghostly and he asked for a copy.

Although I read book 2 in the series, it is a stand-alone. The only issue is … you will want to read the first one and then any others that come along! You will be hooked.

I highly recommend this book (series) to young adults of ALL ages.

Click here to purchase.

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Plumbelly: A Novel by Gary S. Maynard

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A father and mother uproot their family to sail around the world giving themselves and their children an experience we all yearn for but never quite accomplish.  The father is a bit abusive, the mother very submissive, the younger brother is a go with the flow type, and the older boy (Gabe) – well, he’s a teenager experiencing puberty, rebelling, and has his own yearning to travel.  Leaving home on a 29-foot sloop with his new-found love along with his best friend, they encounter nature and humans at their worse.

This is a book that sneaks up behind the reader and draws them in, holding their attention until the last page is turned.  The author, Gary Maynard, describes the islands and people easily, using vivid imagery that makes them real.  The dialog is realistic as well as the angst and turmoil the teenagers experience during their escape.  We all experience, at one time or another, the need to flee – to get away from the authority figures in our lives and these teenagers do it – but the life lessons they learn are harsh and unyielding.

Plumbelly is a haunting novel that brings back the long-forgotten desire some readers have had to flee and experience life on their own terms.  It also drives home the consequences we must face for our choices.  It is a thrilling novel with a startling ending that one expects but when it happens one is left reflecting and hurting for them.  The ending is sad, realistic and haunting to the core.

I enjoyed the vivid imagery and words that the author took great care to shape and present allowing me to “see and feel” the novel as it unfolded.  Drawn in completely, the story of what Gabe went through and the thought of his future has haunted me several days after finishing the book.  This is a beautifully written book that will capture the hearts of anyone with wanderlust in their heart and a need for adventure.

Click here to purchase.

 

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Two Stones and The Orb, Books 1 & 2 of the Fantasmagorical Forest Series by Sharon Dwyer

Review - Submitted

A three-time winner of the indieBRAG Medallion.

Two Stones, Book One of The Fantasmagorical Forest Series

Katelin and Simon are devastated. Not only has their father passed away but now they are being sent to stay with their grandmother in the middle of nowhere! Angry and bored, Katelin wants nothing more than to be home with her friends. Simon embraces the stories their grandmother tells and is eager for an adventure.

Katelin and Simon soon discover that there is more in the forest near their grandmother’s house and even more than they can see! Together they must rescue grandmother from the evil creature that holds her while also discovering the mysteries and other inhabitants of the magical forest.

 

 

The Orb, Book Two of The Fantasmagorical Forest Series

Katelin has found some peace and finds she looks forward to returning and spending the summer with her grandmother. Alone, without Simon, Katelin not only finds her own adventure but encounters a young man who sends flutters through her stomach. Through the journey, Katelin and her elfin friends discover how deeply her loyalty, fearlessness, and determination runs. Together they must overcome the tyrant of the Elfin world and keep the Orb out of his grasp. The only question is, is Katelin strong enough or will she bite off more than she can handle?

What a fantastic fantasy! I enjoyed the first book but was blown away by the second. Sharon Dwyer set the “worlds” up very well, the characters were very well developed; Katelin was perfect! Dwyer captured Katelin’s “attitude” and emotional well-being accurately. Dwyer skillfully wrote the stories so that her readers do/will connect with Katelin in one way or another. The connection between the worlds was realistically done – meaning the characters had believable crossover and purpose. The first book was excellent!

The second book, I LOVED! I enjoy reading books where the female character is strong without knowing it. Piney, while not a cute character in real life, became adorable and perfect for Katelin. Dwyer expertly built up the suspense between the two books building stronger characters. I am intrigued to find out how Nana and the other worlds play out in Katelin’s birthright … I suspect a twist somewhere!

Dwyer’s The Fastasmagorical Forest series is exciting, inviting and mesmerizing. Once you get into the books, there is no stepping away. Lots of fun, plot twists, and adventure.

Very well done! While a book for young adults, those of us who enjoy fantasy, magic and adventure will love this book as well! I cannot wait for the series to continue!!!

Don’t miss these books – they are … magical!

Click here to purchase Two Stones.

Click here to purchase The Orb.

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Ignition (William Hawk Book 1) by Willian Hawk

Review - Submitted

The fate of the world all too often rests on the fate of an illogical person who is eager to push “the button” or set off a chain of events that no one but the smartest, strongest, best armed and most adept can fix.  That is until now!  William Hawk just turned 16 and is hoping his life is going to get more interesting now that he can drive, date, and be his own man … well, that is until a unique chain of events sets off his otherworldly self and he meets Grace.  Grace is an otherworldly soul as well, a Change Agent III just like William.  Although Grace knows she’s a Change Agent III and her twin brother and all around evil demonic presence Ravios aka Roland is set to destroy not just the world but the universes.

William and Grace find themselves on the wrong side of the local police, his current girlfriend and his best friend are all involved; they find themselves befriended by a couple of Native American’s with the sight.  Together they set about to accomplish the first step of “ignition”.

This was an awesome read! The author, under the pen name William Hawks, does an excellent job of building his characters fully.  Laying out the storyline in a logical and realistic manner.  The vivid descriptions of the terrain, situations, and encounters are clear and rich.  One cannot help but feel satisfied or sadness or even the gasp that escapes when one realizes what everyone’s role truly is in the story.

The author genuinely has written an action-packed adventure that will have audiences on the edge of their chairs.  I could not put the book down until I finished it.  My grandson is now reading the book and is LOVING it!  I think he secretly hopes that next year when he turns 16 something mind-blowing will happen to him too!

I appreciated the fact that the author developed the characters in a realistic manner, she had William doubting himself; had each character responding in a realistic manner.  An excellent adventure!

WordsAPlenty highly recommends this book to readers of all ages.

Click here to purchase your copy.

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Interview with Barbara Underwood, Author of the Rhuna Series

Author Interview

Interview with Barbara Underwood

 

What were your goals and intentions in this series of books, and how well do you feel you achieved them?
My goal was to present information and theories about “Ancient Mysteries” such as Atlantis and the building of pyramids and other megaliths all over the world in an enjoyable fictional setting.  It was also my intention to include social issues that have shaped mankind’s past and continue to confront people in our day.

So far, at the completion of the fourth book in the series, I am pleasantly surprised to see how well the series is developing and that it encompasses many subjects that I wanted to share with my readers.

What are some of the references that you used while researching these books?

My interest in ancient mysteries began after reading Thor Heyerdahl’s books about his discoveries of megaliths on Pacific islands, and how they appear to be connected to megaliths in the Americas and other continents.  From then on, I read countless books on the subject, tending more and more into the New Age and esoteric/occult area, where fascinating theories began to spark my imagination.

What do you think most characterizes your writing?

The easy-to-read style and viewpoint from the main character, Rhuna, even though it is written in the third person.  Readers see the world through her eyes, and relate to her because she her thoughts and feelings are clearly expressed.

What was the hardest part of writing these books?

Keeping track of each character, especially as the series developed and more characters were added.  Intertwining each character’s goals or actions with the main plot and subplots is also challenging.

What did you enjoy most about writing these books?

Letting the characters develop themselves, once personality and their circumstances were established.

How did you become involved with the subject or theme of your books?
As mentioned above, reading Thor Heyerdahl’s books sparked my interest in the subject of ancient civilizations and how many things are still unexplained by conventional history and science.

Where did your love of books/storytelling/reading/writing/etc. come from?

Perhaps from my father, who could express himself better with the written word than speaking face to face.  He also read books to me as a child, but other than that, I can’t think of any particular thing or person that inspired me to write.  It was something I just enjoyed doing since early school days.
How long have you been writing?

Since early school days.  Writing something for a school project in 5th or 6th grade wasn’t enough, so I began to write about things in my spare time.  Later, I began writing letters to penpals all over the world, and as an adult I became involved in various things which allowed me to write newsletters or reviews, while still writing accounts of my travels or other experiences to share with penpals.

What inspires you?

The mysteries of ancient civilizations and the concepts found in New Age and esoteric works:  it makes me want to write about the fabulous wonders of the world in which we live.

What do you like to read in your free time?

Currently, I enjoy reading the two series by Charles Todd, namely Inspector Rutledge and Bess Crawford mysteries set in the WW! period; The Pendergast series by Preston and Charles, the gaslight mysteries by Victoria Thompson, all books by Sarah Rayne, and the Hamish Macbeth series by M.C. Beaton.

What projects are you working on at the present?
I’ve just finished the fourth book in the Rhuna series, and I’m preparing ideas for the fifth book, as well as one or two short stories, also featuring Rhuna.

When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

It crossed my mind several times during school days, but I took serious steps towards it in my mid-twenties when I began a correspondence course in professional writing.

What question do you wish that someone would ask about your books, but nobody has?

How much of myself and my own life experiences do I put into my stories.  The answer is quite a lot!

 

Rhuna website:

http://www.rhunafantasybooks.com

Amazon Author Page:

http://www.amazon.com/Barbara-Underwood/e/B008ZT6PBG/ref=dp_byline_cont_book_1

Twitter

https://twitter.com/KeeperWisdom

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/RhunaKeeperWisdom/?ref=aymt_homepage_panel

Pinterest

https://au.pinterest.com/KeeperWisdom/rhuna-fantasy-book-series/

Google+

https://plus.google.com/u/0/105171705656215274408

Goodreads Author Page

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/946941.Barbara_Underwood

YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdTv4GZBM2yG5mY1Jy30MpQ

Barbara’s Blog

http://barbaraunderwood.blogspot.com.au/

 

 

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The Dream Stealers by Devra Robitaille

Review - Submitted

The Dream Stealers is about the life of Devin, a young woman just in her teens.  Her mother is gone and her father might as well be since he spends every waking moment building a laser spaceship.  Devin goes about life much on her own until one fateful day her father boards the spaceship called the Traveler and leaves her behind promising to return in a few minutes; The Traveler returns hours later but without her father!  The adventure begins when brave Devin straps herself into the spaceship and goes off in search of her father.

She discovers many things about herself, her mother, her father and her future.  She finds herself in a race against dream stealers who are threatening the universe by stealing dreams and selling them on the black market.  Devin and her new friends at the flight academy on orders from the Dream Council must find a way to stop the thieving bandits.  Each dream that is stolen leaves the victim in a catatonic like state, a mere shadow of who they once were.  Can Devin and her crew outsmart the Stealers?

Devra Robitaille, author and illustrator, creates a world that children and young adults will love.  She builds her story around a young girl who is both strong and smart; who meets challenges head-on. This story stresses the importance of listening, thinking things through thoroughly and not rashly which is something most kids and young adults struggle with daily.

Her characters are strong, well developed with flowing dialog.  The story is action packed and fun.  While it is an easy read, you will be drawn into the story and find it difficult to put it down.  The illustrations are simple but colorful – a strong representation of what faces Devin.  Robitaille gives her readers glimpses of Devin’s mind as she works through the different situations before arriving at the right solution.  Her words are vivid and detailed with several plot twists that keep the reader on the edge of their seat.  The plot is well written and developed.

Robitaille weaves the story around lessons to be learned, questions that young adults ask themselves and gently guides them while keeping them entertained.

WordsAPlenty gives this book a five-star rating for its creativity.

The book will be released on February 19, 2017.  Click here to purchase on or after that date.

 

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Timothy Other: The Boy Who Climbed Marzipan Mountain by L. Sydney Abel

Review - Submitted

WordsAPlenty was given a copy of this book by L. Sydney Abel in exchange for an honest review.

 

Timothy Other was left on the doorstep of the Dreams and Hopes Orphanage like so many before him.  Timothy never remembered the touch of his mother’s gentle caresses or love in her eyes, nor that of his father.  Instead he had Mr. Penny, Mrs. Tidy and Mrs. McDuffie and all the kids at the Orphanage to love and love him back.  Until Dreams and Hopes is repossessed by the bank and becomes the property of Mr. Sterner.

The good times came to an abrupt end with the arrival of Ms. “Fish Face” Finn and Mr. Sterner.  Timothy had an idea and took off on his own.  Smuggling aboard a plane, Timothy set forth on what he believed and hope to be an exciting adventure.

Timothy looked at this Christmas Cake shape and his eyes grew wider with a realization of fate.  “Marzipan Mountain!” he cried outright and without hesitation.  “I’m going to Marzipan Mountain.”

Little did he know that this was just the beginning; and little did anyone else know how Timothy and his friends would change their lives!

Sydney Abel has written a captivating story for children ages 10 and up. He captures their fears and inquisitiveness accurately and reminds his readers of what it was like to be a child. The ease in which children can make friends, have hope and teach others to love unconditionally.

His story flowed smoothly while building his characters and suspense.  His dialog was realistic and fun.  He strongly developed the characters so that they too became realistic and connected with his readers.  Abel’s audience was able to grow their like/dislike for the appropriate characters without confusion.

I enjoyed this book as it was fun and explored the different feelings and emotions children experience and sometimes adults.  I read a few passages to my grandchildren and they loved Edwin and Leopold but Boregov was their favorite!  They hoped that Boregov or the “Hairy Eye-Ripper-Outer” finds his family and meets new friends.

WordsAPlenty gives this author a 5 star review for this book for creativeness and connecting with his audience.

Click here to purchase.

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The Uninvited Visitors (Starfoot and Brown Book 2) by Rhoda Canter

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A copy of this book, The Uninvited Visitors (Starfoot and Brown Book 2) was given to WordsAPlenty by the author, Rhoda Canter, in exchange for an honest review.  Also a B.R.A.G. Medallion Honoree!

At fifteen Isabel is looking forward to attending a prestigious school and playing her saxophone.  Until her father tells her she may need to disappear.  Jordy is a young boy that has unique talents and circumstances.  Due to complicated situations created by adults … both Isabel and Jordy find themselves alone on Bald Head Island, North Carolina.  Together they must survive.

The children don’t go unnoticed; there are detectives are on the case!  The detectives are, of course, a few dogs and two mockingbirds!  Together they protect the children and watch over them to keep them safe from others.

Both children find they must make life changing decisions.

“Her father was back in her life for less than twenty-four hours, and already he was dictating her future.  He did not seem the least bit concerned about her feelings.”

Rhoda Canter understands the mixture of feelings a child has from time to time; especially with parents.  Furthermore she vividly demonstrates that children are strong and when faced with life changing decisions, they can make the correct ones.  Canter uses rich imagery to reveal the depths of Isabel’s anger and struggles.  She carefully builds a strong rapport between the two children and amongst the animal detectives.  One cannot help but grow to love the characters and sympathize with both Isabel and Jordy.

This is a second book in a delightful series that will thrill children and young adults with its creative stories and characters.

“First you got to start your engine,” Officer Spencer said to the huge, hairy dog.  “See how I fixed this golf cart with a special push-button starter?  No key.  That would be too hard since yu don’t have fingers or thumbs.”

Down to earth and creative, Canter tells the story of two children, various adults and the guardian animals that watch over some of us.  Canter is skillful in her writing capturing the reader’s attention and drawing them in.  This is a wonderful series that can draw a young person in and help them discover the love of reading mysteries.  A highly entertaining children’s book!

WordsAPlenty awards this children’s book with a 5 star review for entertainment, creativity and promoting the love of reading in young children/adults.

Click here to purchase.

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Novus (The Cresecren Chronicles) (Book 1) by Crystal Marcos

Review - Submitted

WordsAPlenty received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. This book is also a  B.R.A.G Medallion Honoree, 2016 indieBRAG!

 

“SPOILER ALERT”

 

“Their fate was to be no one’s son or daughter, no one’s brother or sister, no one’s father or mother, no one’s kin.”

This is the life of a Cresecren.   Set in a dystopian future, life is different – humans now have Cresecren’s to do their bidding.   Created beings Cresecrens live by the rules of no harm to humans, no emotional or physical contact, and you do as you are told, no questions!  Cayden was born a Cresecren but due to a “sexual misconduct with a human” situation, he found himself thrust into Gavaron, where all retired, ill, or banished Cresecrens go to eke out an existence.

However, Cayden and a few of his friends discover that their world is no more; Gavaron and residents are dead and they are the hunted.  Taken in by strangers through a journey of escape and discovery Cayden and his friends discover there are conspiracies everywhere.   And to top it all off, Cayden finds love – with a human, Linnayah.   Deadly encounters, double crosses and more keep the tight group moving, searching for escape.

Just when they think they have found a safe place, Cayden discovers their most recent savior is collecting them.

“It is the first step in suppressing what Amaury considers negative emotions.”

Cayden must decide as do the others, do they stay and enjoy life as it is or do they continue to seek their freedom and possibly die?

Action packed, futuristic dystopian world is exciting and realistic.  Crystal Marcos, author, does an excellent job of creating this future world and raising moral questions within the story through Cayden, his friends and enemies.

The characters are fully developed; the plot is executed perfectly tying everything together.  Marcos is a splendid storyteller with a rich and vivid vocabulary to capture the attention of her audience.   She develops the underdog, Cayden, beautifully giving his voice a strong presence.  Marcos captures the emotional and mental state of teenagers expertly allowing her readers to grasp those emotions and thoughts clearly.

This is a story that not only will have you thinking about it long after you have turned the last page but the characters will continue to pop into your mind.  As a reader you want to rush to the end to see what happens but in the same sense you don’t want the book to end.

WordsAPlenty gives this book a 5 star rating for its clear writing style, action, character development and attention holding plot.  Kudos to Crystal Marcos!

 

 

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