Tag: young adult

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

Review - Submitted

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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Red-Line: The Shift by J.T. Bishop

Review - Submitted

A B.R.A.G. Medallion Honoree, J.T. Bishop provided WordsAPlenty.com with a copy of Red-Line: The Shift in exchange for an honest review.

 

Sarah Randolph is single and quiet.  She’s not a partier nor does she have any boyfriends but after John Sherlock Ramsey shows up in her bookstore and seems to have taken an interest in her – well, she begins to think differently.  Ramsey is a big powerful man and Eudoran (1/2 human, 1/2 alien); what he has to tell Sarah is going to upset her in a major way.

“So that’s why I am here.  You are about to experience your own Shift, Sarah.  That’s why you are sick.  You are at the beginning of a very big transition in your life, and I’m here to help you through it.”

Ramsey is Sarah’s protector.  Sarah has reached that period in her life where she must make a Shift; an extreme transition that is made even more dangerous given her rare kind.  She is unique and only two like her live on Earth.  Ramsey has to protect her and help ease her through the Shift – her survival could very well mean all the other Eudoran’s will survive.  However, it is clear that if she dies, everyone else dies.  Ramsey’s operating in the dark far more than he knows.

There was so much at stake here.  Had she made the right choice in not revealing to Ramsey all that she knew?  At the time, she had believed that it was, but now, she couldn’t help but reconsider. 

As Sarah makes the Shift, Ramsey and her find she is being hunted.  Someone wants her for her powers and abilities.  This unseen villain sends others to kidnap her and kill Ramsey and his back up.  Ramsey and his back up have never encountered anything like this.  Caught between helping Sarah survive and protecting his friends, Ramsey must make some decisions.  Who will survive?  Who will win the fight?

J.T. Bishop is very strategic in her building of action and executing the storyline.    Her dialog is realistic and fits each character well.  It is through their dialog that I am able to picture each character distinctly.  The tension between Sarah and Ramsey was spot on!  The interactions between X, Z, DeClan and Ramsey were flawless.

Bishop is talented in building dialog between her characters.  It is well done and flows smoothly.  This is part one of a three part series.  I cannot wait to see what happens with Ramsey, his step brother DeClan and Sarah.    This is one action packed adventure story with a dash of romance.

I couldn’t put Red-Line: The Shift down after I started reading it.  It captured my attention and held it from beginning to end.  Bishop is a strong and talented story crafter.  Bishop writes with vivid rich details and dialog.

WordsAPlenty gives Red-Line: The Shift a 5-star rating.  Excellent book!

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The Boy Who Walked A Way by Nancy Janes

Review - Submitted

WordsAPlenty received from the author a copy of The Boy Who Walked A Way by Nancy Janes in exchange for an honest review.  

 

The Boy Who Walked A Way is set in a futuristic world where peace has been agreed upon and valued.  The peace does not last and war erupts.  Jal Valhyn, a young man whose parents are required to join the war efforts, leaves him in the care of his uncle.  Suddenly Jal finds he is alone in a violent and chaotic world.  His uncle disappears leaving him helpless, afraid and to fend for himself.  Trying to find his parents or uncle, Jal begins his walk of faith after he encounters an invisible and mystical being.  The being provides him with two traveling companions, Sammie and Bea, with orders that they are to lead him to safety and to teach him.  Through short stories and meetings of new friends, Jal learns that there is more in his world than material things.

A smart and intuitive young man, Jal understands that faith is sustaining him and his friends as well as making life more peaceful.

“Is anything wrong, Jal?” She searched his face.  “Let’s hurry down.  Eli tells us stories; I’m hungry, and you must be too.  Are you rattled in Eli’s presence?  He’s a good and gentle being.  Wait till you hear his story; then you’ll understand.”

“He’s awesome, so big and golden.”

He learns to thank those that provide for him, whether he meets them or not.  He learns to be patient and watchful.  He learns that love is important.

“The cord of love is strong; it threads its way from my heart to your heart.”

Jal learns much during his trip to his new home, one he readily accepts and looks forward to sharing with his parents and new friends.

A quiet and simply written book that moves along at a steady pace; there are no violent scenes or angry epitaphs being flung around.  Each new friend Jal meets has their own unique story about their transition into this new peace filled world.  Much like parables, these stories are short but full of meaning.  They are written to connect with people of all faiths, ages and gender.

Rich and detailed, Nancy Janes has provided a wonderfully written book that demonstrates the need for people to have faith both in themselves and others as well as the importance of vanquishing adversity within their own journey of self-discovery.  This is a rare find; unique in its style and touching moments. Janes gives to each reader opportunities to see their own need for self-discovery, beliefs and growth within the epic journey of Jal.

I remember my own world growing up and how I struggled to learn how to deal with devastating issues that would arise at home or at school, all well beyond my control.  This book brings peace to the reader who takes time to read, mull over and absorb what Janes offers.  Janes takes complex issues and breaks them down, making them applicable to all – how many of us worry about being left alone; searching for a loved one; not having their basic needs met? For children, their fears are emotionally worse given their age and imagination.

Once I started reading A Boy Who Walked A Way, I could not put it down.  It reminded me of my own childhood fears and desires of having someone to share my thoughts and fears.  I read pieces of this book to two of my grandchildren – they loved the sections I picked to read them.  I know this is a book I will be reading to them as they grow older.

A fantastic book, one I highly recommend to everyone who needs grounding and a few peaceful moments to find that inner child.

WordsAPlenty gives this book a much deserved 5 star rating.

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The Travelers and the Four Doors of Artew (Volume 1) by Dennis Garber

Review - Submitted

WordsAPlenty received a copy of The Travelers and the Four Doors of Artew (Volume 1) by Dennis Garber in exchange for an honest review.  

 

Will Cole just turned thirteen and was given the gift of a life-time – The Book of Worlds.   Cole learns that not everything is as it appears; for example, he is more than a 13 year old Sioux who lives in Alaska with his father and grandmother.  He is a traveler who is also part alien!  His role in life just changed as well.  He is now the fixer of things gone wrong in the Universe.

They had to wait until Will was born and reach his age of awakening.  Each Traveler has certain skills, and only The Book of Worlds knows who and which Traveler to send where they are needed.  No Traveler could come sooner because each had their specific abilities.

Cole discovers friends that are a menagerie of characters who walk beside him and help right the wrongs of the Shedu – evil aliens who stole water and wreaked havoc upon Kroy.  Unable to return home to his father and grandmother, Cole must unite a world together to fight the evil Shedu righting the wrong and allow him passage back home.

Dennis Garber, author, creates a wonderful world for Cole to travel to first.  The creatures/characters are described in solid details.  The interaction between the characters is realistic and satisfying.  One cannot help but root for Cole and his friends to succeed.

Garber also demonstrates that prejudices are strong and take faith and education to overcome.  It was exciting to watch the different groups come together for a common purpose. Garber does an excellent job of capturing what young adults worry about and focus on in life; he shows them different ways to resolve them – meditating, patience, be watchful, trust, faith, etc.

I enjoyed reading this book and couldn’t wait to see how Cole would resolve his situation. his is a must read for young adults who love adventure and fantasy.  I cannot wait for Cole and Bot’s next adventure!

 

Words-A-Plenty gives this book a 4.5 star rating.

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The Reclaiming (The Kalatheptoris Cycle Book 1) by S. Matthew McNally

Review - Submitted

WordsAPlenty received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.  A B.R.A.G. Medallion Honoree.

Everyone is protective of their home and for those of the Turish port City of Tamendad, it is no exception.  A roaming young man who lives by his wits and by tree bark when necessary, stumbles across Tamendad and after a short while claims it as his home; a group of highlanders explore the land and soon find themselves in Tamendad enjoying the fruits and friendship of the townspeople building strong bonds; a Coquina with secrets; a blacksmith who is not all that he seems; and, a young nobleman born to lead.   United together by their bonds of friendship, they move to fight a common enemy.

“People of Tamendad,” he proclaimed, “we are at war. An enemy has arisen out of our past to confront us once again.  As it was before, this is not a war that we declared, but it is one that we will fight with steadfast resolve, and we will win.”

This is not just a war story with Goruks of the underworld seeking to reclaim their home before the “paleskins” took it from them.   It is a romance, a bonding between men, acceptance, being true to one’s self, trust, love, kinship, power taken carefully and nurtured for the good of all and not one, and so much more.

Kor, the leader of the Goruks demands respect and seeks to make changes leaving faith in the Ancient Ones (gods) to die. Too sure of himself, Kor moves to overthrow the ancient ways and take his spot in the leading of his people.

What had the ancient Ones done to reclaim all that had been stolen?  What had they done at all besides demand the blood of good warriors, blood that might have been shed recovering what had been lost?

It’s not all about war; of course, there are several instances of humor and passion.   As one shakes their head, one can only laugh as well.

“Ye called m’ brother a bastard, and I know for a fact his mother was a married woman.  Think twice before ye speak ill o’ her again.”

The characters are so well developed that when something happens to one, you cannot help but feel saddened.  Whether they have been in the book from the beginning or even just briefly, McNally has a talent for building strong connections between the reader and each character.

The plot was very well developed and exciting.  McNally has a gift for words.  Vividly painting the story out with descriptive words, turns of phrases and characters hooks the reader from the beginning. The story flows smoothly.    A mind that can create a world such as this with strong characters and a strong plot is amazing.  I cannot wait to see what he writes next!

WordsAPlenty gives this book a well deserved 5 star review!

Click here to purchase your copy.

 

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We Can Do It!: A Problem Solving Graphic Novel Guide for General Physics by Scott Calvin (Author), Kirin Emlet Furst (Author), Blaine Alleluia (Editor), Kelsey Monson (Editor), Kimmie Nguyen (Contributor)

Review - Submitted

What a wonderful tool!  We Can Do It is a book that helps those with a desire or a required course to learn the basics of Physics.  Problem solving and learning concepts is made easier and more enjoyable when combined in a graphic novel featuring dinosaurs and aliens.  A weird mix you say?  Not really, they (the characters) make the learning fun and there is a plot as well!  This book is one that high school students and those in college who need to learn about Physics can do so easily as well as anyone who wishes to learn or brush up on their Physics outside of class.

This is a must read for high school students, parents and college students.  There is nothing else out there as entertaining or informative.

Back in the day, when I was in school we had the text books that presented the work in a boring, unclear way.  Grasping at the concepts or even problem solving were made difficult because of the manner in which it was placed in the textbook – it was intimidating!   Studies have shown that learning is made easier based on the approach – nothing guarantees NOT learning faster than a textbook full of concepts and problems like a standard textbook.

These folks  Scott Calvin  (Author), Kirin Emlet Furst (Author), Blaine Alleluia (Editor), Kelsey Monson (Editor), Kimmie Nguyen (Contributor) have excelled in putting together a tool that creatively and  innovatively  put together much needed instruction into such a wonderful,  fun and non-threatening manner.  The way in which they explain Circular Motion, how to conserve energy by using a roller coaster, and the concepts of momentum were my favorite chapters.

WordsAPlenty recommends this book with a five star rating. Its creative and innovative educational content is unique and superior.

Click here to purchase.

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