Free Library Book Reviews

Which side are you on? : the story of a song by Lyon, George Ella, 1949-

Adam F — 2012-05-19T14:28:52-05:00

This strikingly illustrated children's book makes for an excellent story-time even if you (the reader) aren't much of a singer. From the perspective of the children of a strong songwriting mother, this gripping tale recounts the circumstances surrounding the creation of Which Side Are You On? a folksong about democratic struggle of the people against the powerful. With some lyrical changes, this song also became an anthem of the Civil Rights Movement . After experiencing this book, you (and the children in your life) will find yourselves humming the mighty lyrics of the song. If you need a hand getting the melody right, check out this playlist of versions of the song from the Free Library's streaming music database, American Song:

http://amso.alexanderstreet.com/Playlists/382472

Library Card and PIN might be necessary to listen

written by Adam F

The spirit rebellion by Aaron, Rachel.

Tamoul Q — 2012-05-17T09:43:43-05:00

A rollickingly funny read. Book II of the Legend of Eli Monpress.

When we last saw Miranda, she was on her way back to the Spirit Court with her reputation in tatters. You may recall from book one, The Spirit Thief, that her assignment to bring in the legendary thief, Eli Monpress, went any-way-but-well. In fact, Miranda let him and his band of misfits escape the King's justice.

Miranda arrives home empty handed. Arrested on sight, Miranda persuades the council to give her another chance to complete her mission and find Monpress.

Meanwhile, our lovable Eli has other problems. Like Nico. She needs a new coat, and not just any coat will do. It has to be a special, magic coat. She can't pass for human without it, turns into a demon, and starts trying to eat her friends. Something Eli would risk anything to avoid.

So we're off again, dear readers, paging through more daring-do with our favorite, unrepentant, impertinent con-man, Eli and his motley assortment of friends. Excuse me a moment.... Eli, Give that back! written by Tamoul Q

Blood ties by Whitelaw, Sonny, 1956-

Tamoul Q — 2012-05-16T11:37:44-05:00

This is an unscheduled, off-world activation!

Come join the members of Stargate Atlantis on another mission to uncharted territory in the Pegasus Galaxy.

Narcissistic, socially inept, but totally brilliant in matters of technology, Rodney Mackay is a grand piece of work. The Atlantis staff has learned to see beyond his short comings and to depend on him at crunch time when only a miracle will save them. Rodney is an asset the Wraith will do anything to acquire, including luring the team off world and into an ambush.

John Sheppard, Tayla and Ronon have to place their trust in Zelenk, (the number two Science Geek), if they hope to get him back. Rodney knows more than just the location of Atlantis; he knows how to bring down all the defense systems of the Ancients. There are lots of planets to search, and very little time. written by Tamoul Q

Code name Verity by Wein, Elizabeth.

Teresa G — 2012-05-15T14:21:30-05:00

Code Name Verity tells the dramatic story of two friends who find themselves in dire circumstances when an espionage mission to occupied France goes astray. Maddie, a tough, self-reliant pilot finds herself stranded in occupied France. She becomes a part of the local resistance unit and works to bring down the local Gestapo agency. Julie, a well-healed member of a prominent Scottish family, finds herself a prisoner of the local Gestapo agency and must reveal all she knows of British code and airfields. Both Maddie and Julie must rely on their wits and must take great risks in order to stay alive throughout their ordeal. Beautifully written, Code Name Verity paints an intimate portrait of WW II seen through the eyes of the brave women who actively worked as pilots and spys during the war. Elizabeth Wein gives the reader a perspective on the war that is not often portrayed. Lives are changed forever by the brutality of war and friendship sometimes means sacrificing everything for another. written by Teresa G

Liar by Larbalestier, Justine.

Teresa G — 2012-05-15T13:57:45-05:00

Read for May 2012 book discussion group. Liar is the intriguing story of a girl with a mysterious illness that sets her apart from others at her school. When her secret boyfriend, Zach, dies a brutal and violent death details about Micah's life begin to surface. But she is known to be a liar so is what she's saying really true? The consequences of her "illness" are graphically and realistically portrayed. The ending was too neatly tied up and seemed a bit rushed, but the first two-thirds of the book was engaging and kept me turning the pages. Did Micah kill Zach? You will have to decide for yourself after you finish reading Liar. written by Teresa G

Under the moons of Mars : new adventures on Barsoom by Adams, John Joseph, 1976- Burroughs, Edgar Rice, 1875-1950.

Tamoul Q — 2012-05-15T11:19:10-05:00

Book tie-in of the visually stunning movie, this updated version of John Carter's sojourn to planet Barsoon (Mars) asks readers to paint with their imagination in bold new colors.

Set near the close of the Civil War, John is on the run. Chasing him is the Union Army. While fleeing a band of soldiers, John takes refuge in a cave where he encounters a strange device. That device transports him to an alien planet where John has his first encounter with the Tharks. These four-armed barbarians quickly introduce him to life on Mars in general and their culture in particular. The King mistakenly dubs him "Virginia" after John states:

Im John Carter of Virginia.

When John later saves the life of the Kings unacknowledged daughter Sola, he is accepted as an honorary Thark.

The Warhoon, a race of conquers from a neighboring star, invade the Capital city of Helium on Mars and kill the king, but fail to secure his heir, princess Dejah. She flees to the desert. From this moment forward the book picks up speed. John rescues Dejah, but both are later captured. To save the lives of her people (and John)she agrees to wed Sab Than, the enemy ruler. Meanwhile, John returns to the Thark and persuades them to take back their lands, helping to save Dejah in the process.

This new edition of a Science Fiction classic also contains three volumes of the Mars series. written by Tamoul Q

Blood of Requiem by Arenson, Daniel, 1980-

Tamoul Q — 2012-05-14T09:53:44-05:00

Requiem was a place of music and art. Requiem was green forests and pillared halls. Requiem was a place where dragons filled the sky. A place of sun light and magic. Then it burned. Only King Benedictus, the black dragon, survived the battle to seek a life in exile.

As years passed, Dies Irae, his older brother and mortal enemy, ruled in his place. Dies Irae is a man obsessed. He has banned magic, since he was denied his birthright for the lack of it. Anyone caught using magic is put to the sword, but not all the Vir Requis purished in the war.

Besides Benedictus, a small Vir Requis boy is discovered hiding in the care of Lady Mirium of Fort Santus. When Dies Irae and his daughter Gloriae storm the fort, and kill the Lady, they fail to capture young Kyrie. Vowing revenge, Kyrie sets out to find Benedictus, the Black Scourge. They are the last blood of Requiem.

Somehow, he must convince the mighty king to take up his sword. He must convince the only other Vir Requis to face their enemy one last time. If they can kill Dies Irae then the slaughter of innocent people like Lady Mirium will stop. written by Tamoul Q

Dr. Bernstein's diabetes solution : the complete guide to achieving normal blood sugars by Bernstein, Richard K.

Tamoul Q — 2012-05-11T11:20:58-05:00

So you don't have diabetes. Do you know the warning signs? Have you had a Hemoglobin A1c test recently? Just been told you have type 1 or 2 diabetes, and youre about to panic thinking food is now your new enemy? This book will help calm your nerves and get you smiling over a meal again.

Even if you dont know a thing about diabetes this book is for you. Why? You dont need to have diabetes to benefit from a healthy low carbohydrate diet with lots of variety and fun.

As we age our organs age, and the pancreas is no exception. We can control the condition, and possibly prevent it, by taking early action to limit the ware and tare. While what we eat is important, finding ways to enjoy our experience with food is important too.

This book explains all the scary terms like glucose meter, hyperglycemia, and A1c testing. In addition, the author breaks down eating triggers, and analyses what happens when we miss our targeted goals. In my opinion, every newly diagnosed patient should walk out of their doctors office with a copy in hand or on order. This book explains how to take care of oneself when entering that frightening new world called "life with diabetes"

Read the book and eat healthy! written by Tamoul Q

Eat what you love, love what you eat, with diabetes : a mindful eating program for thriving with prediabetes or diabetes by May, Michelle.

Tamoul Q — 2012-05-11T11:04:50-05:00

If you have diabetes, the one question (possibly the first question)you'll need to answer is: What's safe to eat?

This book looks at the how, why, where and what a diabetic needs to know about food choices and offers ways to nevigate to safe selections.

Food can still be an amazing adventure. One can have variety and food that tastes good. This book can get you there in easy to understand language. written by Tamoul Q

Oath of fealty by Moon, Elizabeth.

Tamoul Q — 2012-05-09T09:42:33-05:00

Oath of Fealty begins the third trilogy in the Deed of Paksenarrion series. A sheepherder's daughter, young Paksenarrian fled her abusive father and his threat of an arranged marriage. Luck led her steps to a mercenary camp where she soon made a place for herself and gained skill with her fathers sword. Now, years later she stands advisor to a new king.

The heir to Lyonya, a nation of half-elves, is discovered by Paksenarrian and returned in time to lay claim to his birthright. Once a capable mercenary captain, Kieri, the new King has lessons to learn about ruling that will demand that he engage in his least favorite pastime politics. He also has new friends to make and old enemies on the march.

Meanwhile, there is trouble brewing in the neighboring kingdom. Mikeli prepares to mount the throne of Tsaia. In land where magic is rampant and assassins stalk the palace halls, staying alive may be a greater challenge than governing.

Will these two young Kings unite to face their shared opposition or will they try to stand alone? written by Tamoul Q

Torchwood : first born by Goss, James, 1974-

Tamoul Q — 2012-05-08T15:54:06-05:00

A Torchwood Novel. Read this before reading Miracle Day.

Gwen and Rhys had the crazy idea that if they kept on the move, all the craziness would stop. After all, Torchwood was burned and the team shattered. Getting out of Cardiff was major achievement with a baby on the way. They finally settle in a rundown mobile home in an isolated trailer park.

When the baby runs out of diapers, it's Dad off to the local store to resupply. Rhys finds the inhabitance a bit odd, but that's nothing compared to what he and Gwen will discover In the little town of Rawbone, North Wales. written by Tamoul Q

The power of six : book two of the Lorien Legacies by Lore, Pittacus.

Tamoul Q — 2012-05-07T10:36:35-05:00

Sequel to I am number Four. John Smith has learned quite a bit about his heritage in the last several months. Not only has he discovered that his home planet is Lorien, and that the men hunting him are called Mogadorians, he has learned something miraculous: he has pararnormal powers. Best of all, he isn't alone. Number Six, (a street wise survivor with her own super skill set), and Miranda (number seven) now stand with him in their struggle to evade capture and death.

Aided by their loyal but completely human friends, the Loriens continue to move from place to place. Their powers are evolving but danger is never more than a slip away. Instead for waiting for the inevitable, the teens decided to change tactics and take the fight to their enemies. written by Tamoul Q

I am number four by Lore, Pittacus.

Tamoul Q — 2012-05-07T10:12:14-05:00

Yes, this is the book that became the hit movie of the same name. If you have seen the movie, you might wonder why read the book? Details!

Directors do leave out interesting parts of the plot to make a movie fit within a time slot. If you didn't see the movie first, thats even better because you get to create the scenes and do the casting in your head as you hear. We all know about how common the names "Smith" and Jones are in American culture. Well, here we see young John Smith hiding in plain sight, attempting to pass himself off as just another boy-next-door type. Only problem is John isnt just any other boy. In fact, he isnt like any other teen in town. He has secrets and like all good secrets they tend to get out at the worst possible times.

The one good thing going for John is that hes number four. Thats also part of his problem. Numbers one through three have already been found and eliminated. Now whatever took them down is coming for him. written by Tamoul Q

The omen machine by Goodkind, Terry.

Tamoul Q — 2012-05-04T10:49:01-05:00

A novel in the series: The Sword of Truth, (aka on TV asLegend of the Seeker).

Omen Machine picks up somewhere near events following Confessor. After long years of war and toil, peace has finally come to both the Midlands and D'Hara. Under the kind and open handed management of the last Mother Confessor (Kahlan Amnell) and the new Lord Rahl (Richard Cypher) prosperity is a word much on the lips of merchants and villagers alike.

Ex-Mord-Sith Cara has found love. Her wedding is celebrated at the Peoples palace with great joy, but the next day brings shadows and ill omens.

Strange spirits walk the land and dire prophesy spills from the mouths of children. Richard and Kahlan set out on different paths to investigate this new threat. written by Tamoul Q

The dread by Martin, Gail, 1962-

Tamoul Q — 2012-04-30T10:25:13-05:00

Sequel to The Sworn, Will this be the end of a fascinating series? Only time will tell. Meanwhile, enjoy those characters you hold dear.

King Donelan of Isencroft is praying that war will by-pass his portion of the Winter Kingdoms. It's been a hard winter and a deadly road to some semblance of peace. At least his daughter Kiara and her son are out of harms reach.

The kings murder throws Isencroft into chaos. Desperate measures (a voodoo like ceremony) and a harrowing spirit-journey set princess Kiara on a deadly path to secure her fathers throne. The moment Tris and Kiara most feared is at hand, a moment that will bind or shatter the bond between Margolan and Isencroft for their son. Once again, Tris is pulled in one direction, while Kiara must go another. This time having a Summoner at her side would have lowered the risks to her soul, but Tris has problems of his own.

The Dread is on the move. Even the Vyrkin and Vayash Moru fear them. Only the Sworn have stood against them in the past, and that hadnt gone well. Their motives and intentions are mysterious, but they are coming.... written by Tamoul Q

The mysterious Benedict Society by Stewart, Trenton Lee

Heather T — 2012-04-28T15:08:20-05:00

It all starts with a simple advertisement in the local paper: "Are you a gifted child looking for special opportunities?" Before long, Reynie and his 3 new friends find themselves struggling to stay one step ahead of Mr. Curtain and his nefarious plot to control the world! Will the gang succeed? Or will they succumb to the temptation of The Whisperer? The only way to find out is to start reading! This is great, fast-paced book, full of mystery, riddles, intrigue, and edge-of-your-seat action. written by Heather T

The Hunger Games by Collins, Suzanne.

Bashir H — 2012-04-27T15:41:15-05:00

Though a little slow in the beginning, the book offers a very poignant view of class systems and our indulgence in "Reality Television" with a twist towards the macabre. The characters are well written, but keep in mind it's teen fiction, so the chapters are short and written with a juvenile perspective. A great, quick read. The second book builds off the first, picking up where it left off and is even better than the first. written by Bashir H

John Carter. by David, Peter (Peter Allen)

Tamoul Q — 2012-04-27T11:52:34-05:00

Graphic Novel movie tie-in to the Disney hit John Carter of Mars. In snappy text and color- packed graphics this story follows the ex-confederate soldier as he is whisked from the earth to the world of Barsoom. Pitted against the might of a tyrant, Carter helps to free the oppressed natives of Mars. In the process, he finds Barsoom to be the one place where his life has meaning. Amid the battles and hardships, John finds the one element he never dreamed to possess love. written by Tamoul Q

Dark lady's chosen by Martin, Gail, 1962-

Tamoul Q — 2012-04-27T11:31:53-05:00

Book #4 in the Chronicles of the Necromancer saga

Jonmarc of Dark Haven has faced many dangers, but nothing will compare to what awaits him. Malesh of the Vayash Moru has taken up were Uri left off. Even with the support of Gabriel and Yeskin of the Vyrkin, Jonmarc may fail to hold Dark Haven. Now that he has a wife and children to protect, in addition to all those who look to him for succor through the coming winter, securing his borders and finding enough food are just paramount.

Malesh has the numbers on his side and all the time in the world. Margolan has troubles aplenty to keep King Tris focused elsewhere, and that leaves Dark Haven isolated. Now is the time to strike and strike hard. What he doesn't count on is Jonmarcs making the Ladys Bargain- his soul in exchange for the death his foe in battle. No sane mortal would commit suicide in exchange for victory, or would he? written by Tamoul Q

Dark haven by Martin, Gail Z.

Tamoul Q — 2012-04-27T11:06:26-05:00

Book #3 in the Chronicles of the Necromancer saga

The Blood Council of the Vayash Moru has always stood divided on the issue of its new Lord of Dark Haven. Gabriel and his brood still stand solidly in support of Tris, now King of Margolan, but they struggle to do the same for Jonmarc, his replacement at Dark Haven.

Uri, also a member of the Blood Council, has opposed the selection of a mortal to the position of Lord and he will stop at nothing to claim Dark Haven as his seat. Getting rid of young Jonmarc, King Martris' cousin, and anyone else who stands in his way is just the beginning. He will cut a bloody path through Vyrkin and his own maker to get what he desires. Finding supporters isnt going to be a problem either. Angry ghosts and remnants of Jereds army flock to his banners. First, he will defeat Jonmarc, the Kings Champion, and then he take on the King. For Uri, second place is no place in the world. To him, the Vayash Moru, have waited far too long to claim what should have been their birthright: Masters of the Winter Kingdoms ... and perhaps the entire world. He will make that happen or die trying! written by Tamoul Q

The Blood King by Martin, Gail Z.

Tamoul Q — 2012-04-27T10:02:20-05:00

Book #2 in the Chronicles of the Necromancer saga

The Obsidian King was defeated by Sorceress Bava K'aa and locked in an orb. The orb itself was imprisoned within the flow, a stream of magic so strong it flows through the land like a river. Jared, the self made King of Margolan sends his minion, Foor Arentala, to find and release this ancient power.

Meanwhile, Tris, his exiled younger brother, has found sanctuary under the protection of King Staden in Principality. As a reward for aiding in the escape of King Stadans daughter, Tris is granted Dark Havens mansion and lands. As the new Lord of the Manor, he befriends both the Vayash Moru(an ancient Vampire race) and the VyrKin (shape shifters), who are also under attack from Jared for their secrets and abilitites. He has also gained some support in the Blood Council, the ruling body of the Vayash Moru. Still, challenges and enemies close in from all sides.

The warring brothers finally face off and the winner will take the prize. Fate may favor the bold, but there will be no rest for the war torn Winter Kingdoms. Something dark is rising from the barrows... written by Tamoul Q

The Summoner by Martin, Gail, 1962-

Tamoul Q — 2012-04-26T09:40:45-05:00

Book #1 of the Chronicles of the Necromancer:

On a special night of the year, called the Haunt, the spirits can be seen by all who care to pay attention. Martris Drayke, second grandson of the most powerful Sorceress in the Winter Kingdoms, has seen these invisible inhabitants of the palace from as far back as he has memories. This year however, something feels wrong and the ghosts, including Bava K'aa herself, give him a warning.

Meanwhile Jared, Martris older brother and heir to the throne, has taken steps to sit in his fathers place sooner rather than later. After a successful coup, Jared must see to the loose end personified by his younger brother, Martris. What he hadnt counted upon was opposition. Both the ghosts of the castle and the captain of his fathers guard help to spirit the younger prince beyond his grasp.

Martris, called Tris by his friends and allies, must fight more than the assassins sent to kill him. There is an even more important struggle raging within him. Tris has inherited the awesome power of his famous grandmother, Bava Kaa. He is about to discover there are more than mortal allies willing to rally to his cause, but first he must discover what it means to wield the power of a Summoner.

Sure to please readers of the Song of Fire and Ice by G. R. R. Martin. No relation! written by Tamoul Q

El impacto de los medios de comunicación en la infancia : guía para padres y educadores by Moyer-Gusé, Emily.

Mary M — 2012-04-25T11:14:56-05:00

What are the effects of the mass media publicity on children? What are the parameters that publicists must follow in order to provide selling content to this special group of customers? What are the methods that researchers follow to measure the consumption of mass media publicity in children? El Impacto de los Medios de Comunicacin en la Infancia: Gua para Padres y Educadores written by Emily Moyer-Gus and Karyn Riddle suggest that advertisement messages toward this segment group are focused on three basic elements: age, language and levels of attention. According with the authors, the television, as an instrument of mass media consumption, is introduced to the children -at the early stage- with messages that are targeted to a specific individual sub-group. Furthermore, external group factors such as parents' domestic rules and cultural parameters can influence, positively or negatively, the amount of time that a child is exposed to the communication media learning not only consumer behaviors that are subtle imposed by the advertisement, but also attaining how to measure success with the value-added of materials things. This research study is divided in ten chapters and is written in the Spanish language. written by Mary M

The sworn by Martin, Gail, 1962-

Tamoul Q — 2012-04-24T16:15:40-05:00

Continues the saga began in the Chronicles of the Necromancer by Gail Z Martin.

Jair, cousin to Tris, the King of Margolan, rides with the Sworn, a nation of mages and shamans. In fact, he is wed to their ruling chieftan, Talwyn, who rushes to his aid when angry spirits attack.

Meanwhile, forces are building in an effort to keep Margolan and Isencroft from bonding under the rule of King Tris and Queen Kiara. Following the harrowing birth their son, Cwynn, the question of his birthright hangs by a thread. Their infant son will either be the glue that bonds their separate nations , or he will be the final stroke of the sword that divides them.

Someone is targeting the undead and were-wolves in a quest to discover the key to their long life and powers. Add a woman who lends her body to the spirits of dead for a night with their lovers in exchange for coin, and dark times will be had by all. Diversionist rebels work feverishly to ferment discord and are gathering the means to build an army. Like the Song of Fire and Ice, you have to read this to find out where all the pieces of this tangled puzzle will fall. written by Tamoul Q

What I Was by Rosoff, Meg

Teresa G — 2012-04-16T19:31:47-05:00

What I Was is a meditation on a life, a life that was forever changed by one person. Hilary has spent many rebellious years getting thrown out of boarding school. When he comes to St. Oswald's he expects his life there to be more of the same, and, in many ways, it is. But, while out running with a class he sees a young man with whom he becomes obsessed. Finn lives a life of freedom that Hilary can only dream about. Finn is self-sufficient and has managed to become invisible and, thus, does not have to attend school or participate in a life like Hilary's which is profoundly ordinary and suffocating. Finn works in the village, catches fish and crabs to sell in town, and has no one to answer to. In Finn, Hilary sees what he wants to be, an idealized life he cannot have. The stulifying atmosphere of the boarding school and his cold, dispassionate family crushes Hilary's spirit. Soon Hilary is devising ways to spend more and more time sneaking away from St. Oswald's in order to be with Finn. Tragedy ensues as a consequence of Hilary's selfish behavior, but there is no going back. What I Was is more than a novel about life-shaping events. While others believe they understand what happened between Hilary and Finn, the only people who actually KNOW what has happened are Hilary and Finn. Truth, we suppose is irrefutable and absolute. Looking back on his life, Hilary learns that truth is anything but absolute and irrefutable. At the heart of this book is a meditation on memory and on what happens when people invest themselves in what they believe to be true. written by Teresa G

The wind through the keyhole : a dark tower novel by King, Stephen, 1947-

Tamoul Q — 2012-04-09T16:18:35-05:00

We thought it was over at last when Roland Deschain finally found his Dark tower. We were wrong. Stephen King has opened yet another door into Midworld. This time, we move into the past, somewhere just after Wizards and Glass, into the teeth of a storm.

While sheltering from the blow, Susanna puts Roland to some soul searching questions. How did Roland's mother die? Was Jake the only young life Roland sacrificed in the name of his quest? Has Jake come to terms with the way Roland sacrificed him? To answer, Roland settles down to some old fashion story telling. Come back to Midworld and listen his story for yourself. Coming soon! written by Tamoul Q

The song of Achilles by Miller, Madeline.

Tamoul Q — 2012-04-09T15:41:28-05:00

Told in first person through the eyes of Patroclus, a nine year old prince in exile for the death of bully, the reader first encounters Achilles at the spring games. He is all a Greek prince should be, all the things Patroclus thinks he is not: bright, comely, and skillful. He is also the one thing Patroclus is assured that he is not: the Son of King Peleus and the water goddess Thetis.

Achilles is portrayed as neither self centered nor a glory hound. He is open and friendly, likeable even. He is the golden boy for whom all things come with ease and grace. Except for a mother who finds his mortal state an offense, and who finds his choice of Patroclus as a lover more than just an annoyance, his life could not be more perfect.

Agamemnon, King of Sparta, is given the role of a grasping, greedy and unbending ruler who sees Achilles as merely another tool to employ in his plans to annex the wealth of Troy to Mycenae. When Helen is abducted by Paris it is Agamemnon who calls for vengeance, pressing the claim of his brother Menelaus for her return, and setting into the motion the Greek war machine that will sweep him, Hector, Patroclus and Achilles to their death. written by Tamoul Q

Scar night by Campbell, Alan, 1971-

Tamoul Q — 2012-03-29T10:43:50-05:00

Scar Night gripped me at the opening line and didn't let go all the way through. The tension and dialog are snappy with a dark and raging feel. Deepgate is a city over an endless darkness, and from that darkness all manner of evil can escape.

Scrimlock, a Presbyter witnesses the escape of a deadly Angel. Only a prayer to Ulcis causes the Angel to spare him when she has slaughtered all those around him.

2000 years later, young Dill must unravel the mystery of the abyss, the escape of the Angel known as Carnival, the prophecy of Ulcis return and somehow secure the future safety of his chain bound city. Book one of the Deepgate Codex written by Tamoul Q

The blade itself by Abercrombie, Joe.

Tamoul Q — 2012-03-29T10:09:11-05:00

Logan Ninefingers is many things most of them not so good- but he thought to add traitor to his list of accomplishments. It's not like he woke up one morning and said, "Self, today I feel like providing valuable information about my king to his enemies." In fact it wasnt much of a choice at all.

The author lets the reader into the head of the main character, a misfit, rogue and adventurer who just happens to have been working for the man who later became a king. Like most plot driven scenarios, the major issue stands between an invading army called the Northman and the Union. While matters seem to bog down in the middle, Abercromby gets back on point toward the end by setting up for the sequel which promises to keep the swordplay in high gear. written by Tamoul Q

Never see them again by Phelps, M. William

Teresa G — 2012-03-26T20:21:51-05:00

The crime at the center of this book is compelling, but the writing is very poor. I had to struggle to get through to the end. The author seems to have no coherent organization for the information presented and he repeats himself endlessly. A shorter, tighter book would have been both easier to read and more enjoyable. Four young adults are gunned down for no apparent reason. Years of investigation and thousands of leads only leave the police and family frustrated. But reading the same thing over and over leaves the reader frustrated. Also annoying was the author's coloring of facts through the use of language that colored the facts to suit his opinion. While this may be a stylistic pet peeve of mine--I like my facts presented in an organized and neutral way--it decreased the effectiveness and impact of the content of the book. written by Teresa G