Audio Book Review: Trouble Wore Red by Chris Lewis

Trouble Wore Red by Chris Lewis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

PI's know not to get attached or emotionally involved with a case. But... What if you take a case for an old flame. Things could get a little confusing and distorted in what you interpret.

This book has an old style mystery feel with a new age twist to it with a science fiction setting.

Rocky is on his home station closing up a case. And chatting with friends he's kept contact with. Then Penny walks in. There's lots of history with Penny. With them all, really. But the feelings are there and Rocky wants to help Penny, even knowing it's against his best interest.

I like how we follow along with Rocky as he investigates. We get the tips with him and can start to connect the dots as we collect more information. We also see the personal affect the case is having on Rocky and his trusted colleagues, and friends, along with his friends from the past.

I had a feel of friendships and returning home to get to spend time with and know old friends again. It's hard returning to where you grew up after decades. There was a log that happened here and we get to learn of the past as we go through the story too. Rocky has lots to work through from the past to see if Penny and others are who he thinks they are. Or have they changed that much over the years?

One more thing I enjoyed with this book... The main character is older. Rocky's 47 and dealing with aging and a body that he's abused over the years. (Yeah, I feel your pain Rocky. lol)

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Book Review: Ambush by Krista D. Ball

Ambush by Krista D. Ball
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a full ending to the series bringing the characters through the battles they must fight, mentally and physically.

I loved this book. We see how Bethany has grown over time with the help of her friends and loves. She's still Bethany and if there's a fight, you'll find her at the center of it even if by accident. I love Bethany for being herself. I love the friends who surround her because they love her for who she is, through and through.

There's battles to still be fought. Bethany and Arrago and the crew are there to see those through. They also need to learn about their abilities that are surfacing. Can they keep it all quiet from people? What are the people going to think if they find out.... fear, aw, worship... They don't want any of it.

Things escalate to an all time high with the battle coming in the North along with Jud coming with the Elf knights. All putting pressure on Bethany, Arrago, Kiner, Javon, and even Erem. The pressure also ignites their abilities in ways they don't want. And someone's life, or many lives, will end due to it all.

This book was a great conclusion to the adventures of Bethany. I really enjoyed how it ended. Sad to see it end, but worth reading. If you love Bethany for her snark and fighting, you'll love this too.

Thank you for taking me on this journey.

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Book Review: Liberate by Krista D. Ball

Liberate by Krista D. Ball
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Let's go save the rest of our favorite team!

Erem has been missing for a year now. Suspected that Jud has him locked away and doing who knows what to him in this time.

Jovan's found Erem. Bethany has received note that he knows where he is and she's determined to leave NOW to get bring him home. Arrago tries to talk Bethany into a plan, even with all the threats and attacks on Bethany, she needs to go in with a plan.

They come up with a few. First, to help with attacks against Bethany. And she agrees. (I love this one as I've been waiting for it for several books!) Second, how to get into Elven area, which have orders to take her if she ever returns, and find Erem and Jovan and get them home.

Bethany does great. She really does try to keep hidden and not start a fight. That's a HUGE feat for Bethany. But, we get what we want. Bethany loses it when she sees the state of Erem and Jovan. They are her people. And what Jud has done to them, especially Erem in the last year... It's too much. And Jud will have to pay.

All while Bethany and Arrago are working to retrieve their friends, those at the castle in Taftlin have their hands full with a battle to save their lives, and that of young Prince Henry. There are nobles in Taftlin that are not happy with Arrago, or his elven wife.

In the end, it's a question of if they will all get out now and what's to come to Taftlin.

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Book Review: The Demons We See

The Demons We See

By:  Krista D. Ball

Publish Date:  June 12, 2016

Format:  eARC

Genre:  Urban Fantasy

Series:  1st in The Dark Abyss Of Our Sins series

First Impression:  Characters I've fallen in love with as they tax their beliefs in the unavoidable disputes & pending war between enslaved mages and normal humans.

Synopsis:
Society was rocked when the Church asked Allegra, Contessa of Marsina, to negotiate the delicate peace talks between the rebelling mage slaves and the various city states. Not only was she a highborn mage, she was a nonbeliever and a vocal objector against the supposed demonic origins of witchcraft. Demons weren’t real, she’d argued, and therefore the subjection of mages was unlawful.
But that was all before the first assassination attempt. That was before Allegra began to hear the strange whispers in the corridors. That was before everything changed. Now, Allegra, and her personal guards race to stabilize the peace before the entire known world explodes into war with not just itself, but with the abyss from beyond.
So much for demons not being real.

First Sentence:
He listened helplessly as the royal guards stormed into the great foyer of the estate.

Purchase At:
Amazon  /  Barnes & Nobles  

My Thoughts and Summary:
*I requested a copy of this book for an honest review.

Allegra's letter to the Holy father asking to find an Arbiter that can help stop wars instead of more tension results in her being brought further into a world she strives to stay away from. To stop the rebellion of the mages against the people who have enslaved them, hoping to prevent an all out war between the states that the country couldn't survive, Allegra takes the position she knows will destroy her in the end. But she can't stand seeing the injustice any longer and accepts the position as Arbiter. Allegra will fight many hatreds and prejudices against mages and elementals, to be threatened again and again, to bring freedom and peace to all. Allegra also learns that the stories of the demons locked out of this word is true. Allegra will have to trust those she never thought she would, hoping they won't turn on her, to help keep her greatest secret and fight against threats of man and demon.

Krista starts us off quick with the brutal reality of the elementals - witches and mages. They stay in hiding and never show their ability for they will be sent to the mines or worse, killed. We see Walter fleeing from an underground network of tunnels in what was thought a safe house, until the General and his troops arrive to take in the Lady of the home as a needed elemental. This sets the stage of how mages and elementals are treated and the feel of why a rebellion is stewing.

Krista has done well creating a cast of characters I enjoy reading. They all interact well together and have sense of humor. I do enjoy this in Krista's writing and I read though the book faster. We start off with a small moment that made me smile about looking for the Captains' button in the stable. This sets the personalities of the crew I come to enjoy. And Pope Francois's husband, Pero, feels to have a light felt humor I enjoyed but he's also very emotional feeling about how things should be.

Krista has a masterful touch to her writing. She easily blends fun with serious topics. This story is much more than meets the eye when you start it. It centers around slavery and treatment of slaves. The slaves are those who are accused of being elementals and mages, this does not always mean they are as people get mad at someone and this is their way to have them eliminated. The world fears them and sees them as different so they are cruel and worse to all people who are, or are thought to fall, in the mage category. Allegra helps to free those like her, mages and elementals. She wants to educate the poor born mages so they can control their powers and do more than what they are forced to do.

Allegra is in a position and ranking that she might be able to help those she's been trying to with her money for years. She's a contessa and a mage, with a bigger secret. But she fears for her own control of her ability and what will be done to her if they find out her secret. She tries to help from the sidelines, but quickly learns that's not the same as doing what can be done in the open. I do enjoy her spark and drive though. She's a brilliant woman and it shows in her discussions...minor disputes...with others.

I am absolutely and totally invested in these characters! This book held my attention, and kept me coming back. I enjoyed the interactions of the characters. We have Allegra and Captain Stanton who both have pasts and secrets they don't want anyone to know about. Then there's Lex and Dodd, two lieutenants in charge under Stanton. They are a hoot when they appear on the page. I have enjoyed them both throughout the book. Lex is a different character for me to read, special in his own way. Lex seems to be many people in one and references himself as they. I really like that Lex is different, and accepted. All these relationships grow and strengthen with Allegra as the story goes, and my love for them all grows as well.

There is a growing love that we witness through the book. And it feels natural and innocent. I loved this creation through all they live through. This is a couple that should be together!

The ending had me neeeeeding the next book. I get the feel the world has destroyed the one thing that can help them in the dire times that are to come, and those that treated these people terribly are going to regret it. I sooooo am looking forward to The Nightmares We Know.

Cover Reveals & Releases:

So with all that's been going on and not being around for a few weeks, I'm trying to get caught up with covers and releases. You may have seen them, but I had to have it on my blog too. :)


Cover Reveals:

Bound by Prophecy

Bound series #3

By:  Stormy Smith

Due Out:  November 12, 2015

Description:

Amelia Bradbury is finally free from Queen Julia and Cresthaven, but she isn’t safe yet. The Keeper power runs rampant inside her and it will take an ultimate act of selflessness to contain the darkness that threatens Amelia’s sanity and the future of the Immortal race.

Aidan Montgomery refuses to give up on Amelia. Once she’s rescued from the Keeper’s hold, he intends to prove his love is more than a side effect of the prophecy, even if doing so leads him away from his pack and on a journey that will irrevocably change them both.

When the past and the present collide and the shocking origin of the Immortals is revealed, Amelia and Aidan are forced back to Cresthaven to end a war that never should have started.

~~~~~~~~~~

Of Flame and Promise

Weird Girls series

By:  Cecy Robson

Due Out:  January 12, 2016

Description:

Cursed by a spell meant to destroy them, Taran Wird and her sisters instead developed unique magical talents. With the power of fire and lightning literally at her fingertips, Taran doesn’t fear much. Demons, vamps, whatever—bring ’em on! Only one thing terrifies her: commitment.

Taran is crazy about her boyfriend, Gemini, a sexy were with the incredible ability to split into two separate wolves. But after watching her sister go through heartbreak with the pack’s Alpha, Taran knows not to count on happily ever after—despite Gemini’s desire to claim her as his mate. Reluctantly, she agrees to meet his very traditional and conservative parents. Taran’s a badass with a mouth to match, and Gemini loves her for it. She’s just not positive these attributes will please Mom and Dad.

Unsurprisingly, every attempt by Taran to bond with Gemini’s folks proves disastrous. But in the end, Taran finds that winning them over means unleashing her powers . . . and proving that this foul-mouthed fire-starter is a force to be reckoned with.

I'm so excited to see more of the Wird girls through another sister's eyes.

~~~~~~~~~~

The Demons We See

#1 Dark Abyss of Our Sins

By:  Krista D. Ball

Due Out:  ?, 2016

Description:

Society was rocked when the Church asked Allegra, Contessa of Marsina, to negotiate the delicate peace talks between the rebelling mage slaves and the various city states. Not only was she a highborn mage, she was a nonbeliever and a vocal objector against the supposed demonic origins of witchcraft. Demons weren't real, she'd argued, and therefore the subjugation of mages was unlawful.

But that was all before the first assassination attempt. That was before Allegra began to hear the strange whispers in the corridors. Before everything changed.

Allegra and her personal guards race to stabilize the peace before the entire known world explodes into war - not just with itself, but with the abyss from beyond.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Newly Released:

Ngaire and Whakamua

By:  Philippa Ballantine

Due Out: NOW!

PICK UP AT AMAZON

Description:

New Zealand like the rest of the world, has been broken and remade by the zombie apocalypse. Humanity is scattered, sheltering as best it can in isolated settlements. However, there is hope, and it rests with one old woman and her machine.

Whakamua, the track laying train's mission is to connect Ngaire's home to the rest of civilization. As they set off for Wellington, where they hope to find more survivors,Ngaire knows it is going to be a long road, but she can't anticipate the dangers that are waiting for them just outside the gate.

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Heart of the Rose

A Tale of the Black Rose Guard

By:  K.L. Bone

Due Out:  NOW!

PICK UP AT AMAZON

Description:

In this sequel to Black Rose, reunite with the captains of the Immortal Guard and witness Mara and Edward at the beginning of their epic love story, which spans more than a millennium of heartache, pain, and undying devotion.

When Edward is sent on a mysterious quest by the ruthless queen, nineteen-year-old Mara—the youngest sub-captain to ever serve the Royal Guard—vowed to await his return, never anticipating decades would pass without word of his fate. The noble captain is taken prisoner by a rival court where he is forced to endure years of brutal torment at the hands of his captors. His life clings to but a single thought—Mara.

Refusing to accept that her love will never return, Mara clutches to a hope which defies the bounds of reason. However as years pass, memories fade from comfort to unbearable grief. As Mara prepares to accept the unimaginable loss, a sinister creature of roses and shadow haunts her dreams. Dreams of blood. Dreams of torment. Dreams of Edward.

The dark presence lingers, and Mara finds herself trapped in a certainty she fears no other will believe—even those closest to her heart. She must choose between honoring her vows to the immortal courts to which she has sworn her life, or leaving to search for the man who possesses her soul.

Dive into the beginning of the tale that shapes the most feared, most loved, and most revered captain in the history of the immortal courts.

~~~~~~~~~~

The Demon's Librarian

By:  Lilith Saintcrow

Due Out:  NOW!

PICK UP AT AMAZON

Description:

When demons are preying on schoolchildren in her city, Francesca Barnes does what any red-blooded librarian would do-she does some research and goes hunting. But the books she finds in a secret cache don't tell her the whole story. Chess has no idea what she's just stepped into-or just how special she really is . . .

Orion (Ryan) is Drakul, part demon, and a loyal servant of the Order. He doesn't expect a motorcycle-riding librarian to be messing around with demonic forces, and he doesn't expect her to smell so damn good. But Ryan's got bigger problems. His partner has disappeared, and the forces of Darkness are rising. Now Chess is Ryan's only hope of finding his partner, and Ryan is Chess's only hope of survival, because the demons now know Chess exists-and that she is the heir to a long-lost power that could push back their dark tide.

If Ryan can keep her alive long enough, she just might be the key to destroying the demons completely. But Ryan doesn't know he's been betrayed by the very Order he serves. And if Chess does, by some miracle, survive, he won't ever be able to touch her again . . .

....

Book Review: Schemes

Schemes

By:  Krista D. Ball

Publish Date:  August 2, 2015

Format:  eBook

Genre:  Fantasy

Series:  4th in Tranquility series; Book 1 ~ Blaze, Book 2 ~ Grief, Novella 2.5 ~ Interlude, Book 3 ~ Fury

Impression:  Bethany is back! They want to move on, but what they did could bring the Elves after them.

Synopsis:
Bethany returns to Taftlin to uncover a plot to assassinate King Arrago and Prince Henry. She enlists some interesting allies along the way, including an elderly duchess with a sharp tongue and an eager apprentice knight, and together they race against the clock.

First Sentence:
Arrago,

I've arrived in Wyllow and have settled in as best as possible.

Purchase At:
Amazon  /  Barnes & Nobles

My Thoughts and Summary:
*I received this book from the author for my enjoyment, as I requested and love this series.

After over a year of dishonorable respect at Wyllow, Bethany and Lendra are on their way to return to Taftlin. She could feel the Elves were shifting in power and someone would make a move soon. On their travels an attempt on Bethany's life is made, and she uncovers a plot to assassinate King Arrago and Prince Henry. Bethany turns to the few people that are still loyal to her along with her new allies in the North to keep everyone safe.

We start with a year of letters that makes us worry of what's happening in Wyllow, where Bethany has been to talk to the Council of the war and what happened to their beloved Goddess, Apexia. These letters get us worrying and set the stage for what's to come. Things have not gone well in this year for Bethany, along with her dearest friends. The Elfin Council has made their own decisions on rumors and events while Bethany and others had fought wars. Something is stirring as they try to discredit Bethany, and the enemy she made in Lord Jud seems to be involved.

Bethany is back!!

This is the Bethany I love. She's fun, mouthy, and ready to kick arse. The old Bethany. Her rough jokes, erm desires? to break legs. lol. She does not back down. She's come up with nicknames for people and she is quick lipped when she is pushed. She is quick to action when she spots things unfolding around her. Poor Arrago, but he loves her and goes with the flow knowing exactly how Bethany is, and loving her for it. Arrago...wow, he's had to stay at his throne and try to keep going with the letters about what was happening in Wyllow. Strong man. But, he'd have to be strong and relaxed at the same time to be with Bethany. Which he is. Arrago has made changes in Taftlin in his short time as king, and some people are not happy.

We get what we want with Bethany and Arrago, but they have to work for it. There is always trouble brewing somewhere, and this time it's aimed at them.

We see more Myra with Bethany. She has become a wonderful character. She's got her own zest and personalty that brings a smile to me. She's taken some lessons from Bethany. lol.

We don't get to see Jovan or Erem in this story. We hear about them... Jovan is safe and laying low. Erem is... well, we don't know. No one knows. That's where this book ends and readies us for the next series involving these new powers.

No one knows of the grace that Bethany, Erem, Jovan, Kiner, and Arrago have received. Even Lendra too. But at the end of this story, we see it start to manifest and what can be done. Cool! This story also works as a transition to the next series and adventures in this world. A whole new story is to come our way!

For this, I CAN'T WAIT FOR THE NEXT SERIES WITH THEM!!

Krista has brought fun to the characters in a plot to assassinate the king and the strong knight. I enjoy this blend so much.

Book Review: Fury

Fury

By:  Krista D. Ball

Publish Date:  May 10, 2015

Format:  eARC

Genre:  Fantasy

Series:  3rd in Tranquility trilogy; Book 1 ~ Tranquility's Blaze, Book 2 ~ Tranquility's Grief, Novella (short stories) ~ Interlude: Stories from Tranquility

First Glance Feel:  Warriors have done things they regret, and will continue to have to do the things so others don't have too. The conclusion to Bethany's worries about magic, hers and in the world.

Synopsis:
As Lady Champion, Bethany has always made the big sacrifices, the ones that plague her with nightmares so that others can sleep. Trapped behind enemy lines and powerless to take down the barrier surrounding the Magi army, Bethany struggles to keep herself and her small team of soldiers alive – no matter the cost.

However, when Apexia’s daughters discover the true source of Magic, Bethany is forced to make the biggest sacrifice imaginable in the name of peace: the death of the Gentle Goddess herself.

First Sentence:
"She isn't dead," Arrago growled as he thrust a finger in Allric's direction.

Purchase At:
Amazon  /  Barnes & Noble

My Thoughts and Summary:
War is waiting for the magic barrier Sarissa has up, protecting her on her island, to drop. Arrago is king with the elves camped at his door, waiting to attack. They all have come to places in their lives that things are complicated and are trying to work through and past it as best they can when letters from Mother Aneese arrive. The letters from the late Aneese bring up strong feelings among our Tranquility crew, and are needed to work through pasts that haunt them all.

Krista has come full circle in this book with having me tear up at the beginning to crying in the end as well. I've felt a full range of emotions while reading this book; sadness, happiness, laughing at quick jokes, and worrying about the war and characters I love. War is war, and it hurts to see the results of it. But I am glad Krista didn't fill it with fake dreams in the end.

This book is a little different in it's telling. The first chapter will draw you in and make you curious to many different things with different characters. Then we will take a small step back in time to see what brought us to this point. I liked this. It gave me a feel of what is going on then how we got to it.

The world feels complicated for all in the beginning - war, royal bills, marriage, friends, love, spying, waiting, food, and so much more. It's a rough patch as winter comes to an end and war waits for her moment to strike.

Bethany is plagued by the nightmares. Nightmares of what she's done for others, the lives she's taken and all the blood she's spilled and seen spilled. But she's not alone in reliving her nightmares. The others who are with her in their duties remember too. And the one who took her power is having troubles with what Bethany's power knows and remembers. Bethany is also working hard to accept Arrago and his situation in Taftlin. Arrago is working hard at getting a kingdom turned around in their thinking of woman and slaves while being patient with Bethany coming to terms with his placement.

Lenhra, Bethany's little sister, is such an innocent, but she grows up in the face of war and is so important in the part she plays. We have all our favorites here when we read and they all steal their moments of bringing a smile to the readers face. But in the face of death I guess if you don't have something to laugh at you will lose yourself.

The letters from the late Mother Aneese... ah. These are precious and full of meaning for the characters and us. They help our favorite characters cope through things and conclude other things. These are very sentimental for me as well, after knowing these characters so well in the books of this series.

It is a bitter sweet read as it's the end of the trilogy. BUT! I have it on good authority there will be at least one more story (novella) that is to come. I do look forward to it!

Book Review: Interlude

Interlude

By:  Krista D. Ball

Publish Date:  February 28, 2015

Format:  eARC

Genre:  Fantasy

Series:  In the world of Tranquility. Book 1 ~ Tranquility's Blaze, Book 2 ~ Tranquility's Grief 

Recommendation:  For the fun of all that is Bethany, yes, pick this up to remember what fun the crew is. (And meet a new character to be in Fury.)

Synopsis:
Love Notes is about Bethany and Arrago’s first month working together. I’ve never been happy with how I developed their relationship in BLAZE, so this was a great opportunity to explore those early days between two very different people.

Knight’s Day Off is a story my Facebook people will have seen before. This one also takes place during those early days between Arrago and Bethany. Only this time, poor Bethany tries to take a day off work. Things don’t go according to plan. At all.

First Day on the Job is set after the events of GRIEF and is set about a week before the events of FURY. Myra, a Knight apprentice, is assigned a simple task: get Arrago, Edmund, Bethany, and the rest of the senior staff to attend a party hosted by Queen Celeste. However, it’s soon obvious that there’s more than just a party in the works and none of the main players are following the rules. (Myra will appear in FURY, so this is her introduction, plus an outsider’s view of where we find Bethany, Arrago, Jovan, and the rest of the gang.)

Purchase At:
Amazon 

My Thoughts and Summary:
It's been a while since I've had the pleasure to read Bethany. This is a fun to see Bethany, Arrago, Jovan, and Kiner back at their ways. The banter between them all is a hoot. The first two stories happen during Tranquility's Blaze. The last story brings us back to where everyone is before Fury is released. And now I can't wait for it to come!

Love Notes
Bethany is an extremely busy knight. So most of their inter-office communication (and banter) is through notes.

Bethany and Arrago are so different that they complement each other and make me smile while bantering. Arrago really is good with Bethany and her rough exterior.

Oh this is fun to read and see how their work relationship and friendship grows through these letters. I just love seeing these two together and as their banter turns to flirting, and they realize it. So much fun!

Knight's Day Off
Bethany, Jovan, and Kiner have three days off! At the same time.

The Tranquility Trio. Allric was to represent the Knights at the arrival of Relas as the three are off. The Relas arrives early and Allric isn't anywhere to be found. And a Knight is needed. Mother Aneese knows of the new order - a ledger to tell of who's off.

Bethany only wants to take a bath and rest before leaving for two days. Three men invade her room while she's trying to do just that. LOL! Oh the results. And what Jovan and Kiner kidnap Arrago... Oh my! LOL!

Then theirs the history that Relas has with the trio. Hahaha. This crew are a rowdy bunch, and such friends. It appears Arrago is part of the crew now too.

First Day on the Job
Myra has just walked off the boat at the castle. She wants to be a part of Lord Kiner's team and help with the war. Kiner assigns her to Queen Celeste's personal administration, to relay messages from queen to senior members.

Myra's first job will interact with all the main players in Tranquility. Oh boy, the interaction! This story brings them all into focus and where they are now. Bethany and Arrago get to banter by way of messenger.

Myra sees obstacles of her age (she's so young) and parentage, but she's determined to life beyond those and be the best she can. Myra is half Rygent and can read peoples feelings along with their body language, and things are mixed up along with her own fears and feelings mixed in.

This is a great read while waiting for book three! The jokes are fun yet truths and secrets are discovered.

Book Review: Mystery Night

Mystery Night

By:  Krista D. Ball

Publish Date:  December 10, 2014

Format:  ebook

Genre:  Paranormal

Series:  4th in Spirit Caller series; 1st Book ~ Spirit Caller, 2nd Book ~ Dark Whispers, 3rd Book Knight Shift

Recommendation:  Oh yes! Life changing choices are made here, and a deep history learned.

Synopsis:
Rachel finds herself investigating a ghost's murder and his accusations cause her to dig into the pasts of the dead and the living to uncover the truth. Only, all roads lead back to the same horrible place: her elderly neighbour's doorstep.

First Sentence:
I was on a treadmill and there wasn't a gun in my face.

Purchase At:
Amazon  /  Barnes & Nobles

My Thoughts and Summary:
Amanda LeBlanc is engaged and wants to have a murder mystery party. Mrs. Saunders is leaving on a trip and agrees to let them do the party in her home. Before she leaves, Rachel is going through old pictures with Mrs. Saunders. Mrs. Saunders is fuming mad at a man in a picture with her sister-in-law. A man that Rachel has seen walking the beach, as a ghost. No one want's to speak to Rachel about that man, or what happened to him.

Rachel seems content in her domesticated life with her friends around. Everything seems to have found a place and routine for her, even though she feels she still needs to fix everyone and thing after the last showdown.

Oh Mrs. Saunders. We get a glimpse into her past. She was more feisty then. Haha! I know, hard to believe. I love that old woman. Oooooh! Then there's Dema! The ancient spirit of a founder who watches over Mrs. Sanders will not speak of the man as well. She has a hatred for him as well. What we learn of Dema! Wow. Her story is shared here. Great character here. She's strong and has a purpose in life, or in death.

Through walking the path of others, Rachel realizes an importance in what she can do. She makes a decision on her abilities - to embrace them or try to live a normal life. We watch as Jeremy slowly heals, and makes a life decision of his own.

Rachel had like two mysteries going and I liked the twining of the two stories. Brings her to next step. Really work together. And I wanted to know answers to both. It was a cozy read...with a dash of murder! lol. So fun! And LARP-ing too!

Rachel's curiosity is peeked and she needs to know the secret Mrs. Sanders and Dema share about this wondering spirit of a man both despise. After one meeting and quick talk with Raymond, Rachel must know as she didn't like the feel from him. Then we have the mystery of the fun game to figure out too.

Cover Reveal; Dead Living, Interlude, & Road to Hell

When I become a fan of an author, that author and their works (new and old) keep showing up here. I have three, yes THREE, covers to share with you today. Krista D. Ball has shared two new works to come with us. Two different series but both are on my reading lists to enjoy.

~~~~~~~~

The first cover I want to share with you is from her Paranormal series. Recently book 4 has become available for purchase and now we have the cover for book 5!

Dead Living

Spirit Caller series #5

By:  Krista D. Ball

Due Out:  Autumn 2015 (not cemented yet)

Beautiful! I love all the covers in this series. I like the divided images as there is so much they tell, yet they blend together so perfectly. Yes, can't wait!

~~~~~~~~

The next cover is her Fantasy world, with Bethany. We get a bit of Bethany and characters we love here, to hold us over a bit until the next book releases. If you are signed up for Krista's emails, you know the details of this one. I'm going to share the details she gave in her email as well.

Interlude: Stories from Tranquility

Tranquility series

By:  Krista D. Ball

Due Out:  February 28, 2015

Details:

Love Note is a fun story about the early days of Arrago and Bethany's office-sharing experiences.

Knight's Day Off is Bethany's sad attempt at taking a vacation.

First Day on the Job is set about one week before the events of Fury and introduces Myra, a young apprentice from Ellentop who thinks she's been assigned a simple task - get Bethany and the gang to attend a dinner - but soon discovers there is a lot more going on than just a party.

The collection will be 20,000 words long, or about 75 pages or so.

I enjoy this world and the characters so I can't wait for more Bethany! lol

~~~~~~~~

The third book is a re-release of hers. However! There will be new material added to the book. According to Krista's post on Facebook, about 100-ish pages of new material!

Road to Hell

By:  Krista D. Ball

Due Out:  (no release date at this time)

I've not read this book yet. But, oh, from what I've heard of it and know of Krista, I think I'm going to need it. lol. Loving this cover! I love the colors and that it shares a bit of everything and makes me curious.

Cover Reveal: Mystery Night

Ghosts for Halloween?!? Yes please. Thank you!

Woot woot! I'm THRILLED! to share this new cover with you all. Krista D. Ball has been on my list for a few series and books that I neeeeed to have. And this makes me happy to share a cover and blurp for the next Spirit Caller story coming our way.

Are you ready? I know I am!

Mystery Night

Spirit Caller #4

By:  Krista D. Ball

Due Out:  December 15, 2014

Description:

In the fourth installment of the Spirit Caller series, Rachel finds herself investigating a ghost's murder and his accusations cause her to dig into the pasts of the dead and the living to uncover the truth. Only, all roads lead back to the same horrible place: her elderly neighbour's doorstep.

Yep. I'm excited! I NEEEEED TO KNOW!!!

I loved the first three stories. The first three were novella lengths, but this one is a short novel! Woot woot!

Curious about the first three? I'll share the covers and descriptions with you. (you'll have a bit of time to get through them for the fourth books release.)

Spirits Rising
Description:
Rachel Mills has one wish in life: for the spirit world to shut up and leave her alone. She thought her move to a remote fishing village in Northern Newfoundland would help.

Population: Twenty. What could go wrong?

Instead of peace, however, she relocates to a land of superstitution, the air alive with the presence of others.

When a local teenager accidentally summons the spirits of the area, including those from a thousand-year-old Viking settlement, all supernatural breaks loose. As the spirits stalk her and each other, Rachel finds herself in over her head. With the help of Mrs. Saunders, her 93-year-old neighbour, Rachel has to put aside her own prejudices long enough to send the spirits back to rest, or risk being caught in the midst of a spirit war.

Dark Whispers
Description:
A rash of teen suicides shakes the remote Newfoundland village that Rachel Mills calls home. As Rachel helps the school investigate, painful memories from her past – events she’d worked very hard to forget – continue to resurface.

As if she didn't have enough problems. Her beloved 93-year-old neighbor develops heart problems. The man Rachel's in love with, moves into her house--along with his girlfriend, the most perfect woman in creation. And a strung-out wreck of a woman claiming to be Rachel's biological mother shows up on her doorstep. But it isn’t until a local boy with a talent for spellwork, is attacked by a mysterious stranger that Rachel asks the question she’s avoided her whole life: how powerful can a Spirit Caller like herself become?

Knight Shift
Description:
After a lifetime of running away from spirits, Rachel Mills finds herself chasing them. Someone or something is harassing Manny O'Toole, a local teenage spellcaster.

To complicate things, a mysterious man arrives in town. So naturally Rachel has to find out who and what he really is. Provided she can sneak away from Mrs. Saunders, her 93 year old neighbour, a local senior and troublemaker.

On top of it all, Rachel’s made a decision about Jeremy, the secret love of her life. It’s time to have a chat.


Do you need to catch up on the series? Easy enough! Here are links to the books and the collection book with all three in:

The first book, Spirits Rising, is FREE!


And there's a collection of all three together:

Hustlers, Harlots, and Heroes...

I've read, and absolutely loved, What Kings Ate and Wizards Drank. Now I'm looking forward to reading Hustlers, Harlots, and Heroes, by Krista D. Ball.

I hope you enjoy this post on how Krista came to writing this new book.

I was re-reading Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice at the time for an adaptation I was writing—First (Wrong) Impressions. I was diving into some of the internet forums, websites, and mountains of books concerning the history of Austen’s time. A lot of conversations came up and the comments were rather surprising:
     Non-white people can’t be in Regency novels.
     Slavery didn’t exist in Britain.
     Slavery did exist, but it was over by the time Jane Austen was born.
     Women weren’t allowed to work “back then.”
     What I would give to live in Regency times; it was such a better time.

The more comments I read, the more surprised I became.

Romanticizing the past is very easy to do. The life of Lizzy Bennet (Pride and Prejudice) sounds relaxing when I have mounting deadlines. She can walk at her leisure, have time for crafts, have dinner with friends, and not even have to cook a meal for herself. But for the few Lizzy Bennets that did exist, there were plenty more servants who did Miss Lizzy’s hair.

You won’t find many rich women of note, nor find many Earls and Dukes inside these pages. Hustlers, Harlots, and Heroes is a quick and dirty field guide to help you write the people Austen left out, and Dickens talked about. The image of the genteel balls and the glorious gowns will be pushed aside. I’ll explore the women of many backgrounds who scrubbed those ballroom floors, and the men who served and serviced those beautiful women.

Image from in H,H,&H
12 Mary Secole & Florence Nightingale

As always, a writer’s guide lies at the heart of this book. Whether you are writing about airships soaring across The Channel or a woman dressed as a man on the high seas, Harlots will have something for you. I want to give you, the inventor and creator of your own mystical world, the tools to add conflict, drama, and realism into your story.

For those of you who plot mayhem for your Steampunk heroines, there will be plenty of ideas that go beyond the typical cogs, wheels, and steam. I hope to present you with challenges and questions to push your stories. I often provide the tough questions for you to ask your heroes.

Don’t worry because the dashing Regency bucks won’t be left out! I’ll guide them past the working ladies of Covent Garden, giving them plenty of pointers along the way. Lovers of naval battles and land battles will find plenty of information on how to bring diversity to their armies for a realistic flair.

Of course, Harlots isn’t just for writers, even though it’s a writer’s guide. If you’re in love with Major Richard Sharpe (hubba hubba), laughed at Mrs. Bennet, or dress up at fan conventions as a steampunkress, you’re my kind of people. The entire reason we writers create worlds is because of readers. We write these stories for you to enjoy. I wouldn’t dream of leaving any of you out of this adventure. You are the reason we get up the morning, stay up late at night, and drink too much cheap gin.

This is an excerpt from Hustlers, Harlots, and Heroes, c 2014 by Krista D. Ball and published by Tyche Books.

About Krista D. Ball:
Krista D. Ball was born and raised in Deer Lake, Newfoundland, where she learned how to use a chainsaw, chop wood,and make raspberry jam. After obtaining a B.A. in British History from Mount Allison University, Krista moved to Edmonton, AB where she currently lives.

Somehow, she’s picked up an engineer, two kids, six cats, and two very understanding corgis off ebay. Her credit card has been since taken away.

Like any good writer, Krista has had an eclectic array of jobs throughout her life, including strawberry picker, pub bathroom cleaner, oil spill cleaner upper and soupkitchen coordinator. These days, when Krista isn’t software testing, she writes in her messy office.

Find Krista:
Site:  http://kristadball.com/
Twitter:  @kristadb1
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/pages/Krista-D-Ball/201377490386

Purchase the books: (click the image)
Pick up Hustlers, Harlots, and Heroes:



You can also pick up What Kings Ate and Wizards Drank: (on sale this week for 99c)

It's Out!!

Woot woot! *happy dance* I'm thrilled to share that the next Fantasy Lovers Guide is out today!

Do you remember my review last week of What Kings Ate And Wizards Drank? No? Okay, I'll wait. Go ahead and check it out. It's worth it.

*whistle, whistle*

You're back. Good. Now on to what we have available today.

I so enjoyed the food aspect of history (and I'm not a history buff) that Krista delivered with What Kings Ate And Wizards Drank. Food affects and relates to EVERYTHING in the world. From sickness, the cultures, the society, monitary, emotions, and so much more. This is a book for everyone, whether you are into writing or not.

I'm excited that the next book is out.

Hustlers, Harlots, and Heroes is out today!!!

Description:
Get ready to step into the back alleys of Jane Austen and Charles Dickens's London, and explore the alternative worlds of steampunk in this new guide book by fantasy author Krista D. Ball. Ball takes readers on a fascinating journey into the world of the Have-Nots, and explores the bustling, crime-ridden London during the Georgian and Victorian eras. 

Discover the world of knocker-uppers (it's not what you think), mudlarks, and costermongers. Learn how to scrub floors and polish knives, pick for bones, and catch rats. Learn about race and social status, and the difference between a lady's maid and a scullery maid.

With her usual wit, insight, and snark, Ball gives historical, romance, and steampunk authors the tools to create vibrant, realistic worlds. Whether you're an author, a Janeite, or just a fan of history, Hustlers, Harlots, and Heroes gives you a fresh look into the dark past.

Go and check it out.
Amazon
Barnes & Nobles
Book Depository

Book Review: What Kings Ate And Wizards Drank

What Kings Ate And Wizards Drank

By:  Krista D. Ball

Publish Date:  January 15, 2013

Publisher:  Tyche Books Ltd

Format:  eBook, 252pg

Genre:  Non-Fiction

Series:  1st book in Fantasy Lovers Guide series

Recommendation:  WOW! The things I learned. The thoughts it all sparked...

Synopsis:
A Fantasy Lover's Food Guide Equal parts writer's guide, comedy, and historical cookbook, fantasy author Krista D. Ball takes readers on a journey into the depths of epic fantasy's obsession with rabbit stew and teaches them how to catch the blasted creatures, how to move armies across enemy territories without anyone starving to death, and what a medieval pantry should look like when your heroine is seducing the hero.

Learn how long to cook a salted cow tongue, how best to serve salt fish, what a "brewis" is (hint: it isn't beer), how an airship captain would make breakfast, how to preserve just about anything, and why those dairy maids all have ample hips.

What Kings Ate will give writers of historical and fantastical genres the tools to create new conflicts in their stories, as well as add authenticity to their worlds, all the while giving food history lovers a taste of the past with original recipes and historical notes.

First Sentence:
It was early 2011 and I was neck-deep in writing the second ook of my epic fantasy series when Tina Moreau called me up.

Purchase At:
Amazon  /  Barnes & Nobles  /  Book Depository

**I read this book for my own enjoyment.

My Thoughts and Summary:
An insider look to foods and drinks in fantasy worlds to help make the story feel more authentic to the time. The types of food available can also help draw a darker or enlightened picture of a world. How long does it take to make rabbit stew? And catching the rabbit? How about dressing a deer? Spices and breads and so much more to look into!

We love food. So why not make learning about it fun too? Krista does that here.

For those writing, Krista gets you thinking more in depth of what you are creating. For those loving history, this shares in fun foods at different centuries along with recipes.

This book opened my eyes to how food can reflect and create a world. Food is touched on in different aspects of living. From the poor to the rich. On the move or city living. Even sailors/pirates out at sea. So many aspects and all live very differently. This book of information helped me thinking on the foods in stories, even worlds I've created. Krista tells you how things work and suggestions for the heroes on the run in the woods. How to survive with or without food. Some references are given to help match the food in your land, culture, stature in society, and along with taxes.

Even specific diets. Some of us can think out the diets from what we know of history, but this pins it down for us. There are reasons why there may not be many children born in a time frame. The woman may have been missing certain items from their diet that could result in miscarriages.

Krista presented this book in a fashion that reading about food and history felt like sitting down and talking with an old friend. This book was NOT like reading a history book. Krista made the topic fun. She shares recipes and her experiences. Yes, she's tried making some of the foods and drinks and shares how it was to make it or even taste it. Some good, some not so good. lol. There are myths that surround foods and the times, Krista talks about that and if they are true, false, or a touch of both and why.

But the neat thing with food, it touches different aspects of world and people. Krista talked about health in the middle ages and further back. There are herbs for all things from health to sick to in foods and drinks. Then on to who healers are, even a few thoughts to get you thinking as to a history to your healer choice.

This book was fun to read and learn. I will be using it as a reference guide to help me along. It can be used for anyone wanting to write fantasy, historical, steampunk or Victorian era.

Book Review: Knight Shift

Knight Shift

By:  Krista D. Ball

Publish Date:  December 10, 2013

Format:  eNovella, 92pgs

Genre:  Paranormal

Series:  3rd in The Spirit Caller series; 1st Book ~ Spirits Rising, 2nd Book ~ Dark Whispers

Recommendation:  Oh Heavens YES! You've read the first two, you NEEED this one. You do. The spirits are active as ever, and so is Rachel. lol, in her own way.

Synopsis:
After a lifetime of running away from spirits, Rachel Mills finds herself chasing them. Someone or something is harassing Manny O'Toole, a local teenage spellcaster.

To complicate things, a mysterious man arrives in town. So naturally Rachel has to find out who and what he really is. Provided she can sneak away from Mrs. Saunders, her 93 year old neighbour, a local senior and troublemaker.

On top of it all, Rachel’s made a decision about Jeremy, the secret love of her life. It’s time to have a chat.

First Sentence:
There are plenty of things I'm good at.

Purchase At:
Amazon  /  Barnes & Nobles

**NOTE: 1st book: Spirits Rising is FREE until January 15, 2014 - Amazon
2nd book: Dark Whispers is ONLY $0.99 until January 15, 2014 - Amazon

**I read this book for my own enjoyment.

My Thoughts and Summary:
Rachel is still suffering from the damage the Whisperer caused with his attacks on her in the last book - Dark Whispers. She's seeing more spirits than normally due to the damage and all are reflecting her current mood. She's also fretting over Jeremy, the sexy Mountie she's loved since the first day she meet him. He's been single all summer and spending time with her. She need to confess her feelings to him or move on.

Rachel is not the only one suffering from the Whisperer's attacks. Rachel can feel the darkness surrounding the young Manny, whom she helped save. Manny's troubles are escalating and the dark violent shades are enjoying it. Manny needs more help than Rachel alone can offer.

A new man comes to town. A mysterious one that the spirits don't much like. Javier finds his way to Rachel in this small village of twenty.


*phew* So, where do I start? Goodness. We got there. All the emotions felt in one place, as Krista is known for. I laughed and giggled, was ready to lead Rachel by the hand a time or two, and was so happy with her, along with the bummer sadness too.

Rachel seems to have found herself and a balance in her life with work and leisure here in this little village in Newfoundland. She's even accepting the dead she hears. This is great. Rachel needs a place she can call home with her heart, and this seems to be it. But she has one thing she needs to make a decision on, Jeremy. Tell him and move on? Oh Rachel, how things become complicated. Oh man.

With Rachel in the mind set she is, it seems all the spirits and Mrs. Saunders have the same thing in mind... Well, they make me giggle with the comments they make, and poor Rachel is still single. lol.

Speaking of Mrs. Saunders. For a ninety-plus old woman, she's got some spunk. I love her! She is a hoot as a woman of this age can saw whatever, whenever and get away with it. lol. Then we have our hot Mountie, Jeremy. Oh this boy...so many signals, I don't know what to do with him. We have a surprise here as well. A new character that Rachel's biological mom sends to help, Javier. Mmm, he's a nice new addition to the mix here. He brings a new view to the paranormal world here. Very interesting indeed.

I will say...Salt Shaker. Now, you will have to read the story to understand the meaning behind the joke with Javier and Rachel. lol

This is a novella, but complete with everything you could ask for in a story. The world is building. The characters are becoming more aware.

When you read this series, start with the first novella as each builds on each other. At this point, you need to read Dark Whispers to know what's happened to the characters. But, you'll enjoy them all as you see the characters connect and the story deepen.

Yes, I love this world and the ride with Rachel and all her friends here. I Can't wait for more!

Teaser Tuesday (164)

Teaser Tuesday

is a weekly event

Sponsored by MizB of Should be Reading

Here's how it works:

Grab the book you are currently reading (anything at all)

Open the book to any random page.

Share 2 teaser sentences from anywhere on the page

Please Make Sure They Are Not Spoilers!

(Don't Give Too Much Away)

Just enough to pique our interests

This Week:

Crushing pain pressed against my senses.  I shivered, as the spirits around me turned their attention to me.  Beings of spirit recognize spirit callers and many feel drawn to those whispers like moths to a flame.

Spirits Rising
By:  Krista D. Ball
46pg

At this moment (of me creating the post) the book is free for download on Amazon!