Review: Heart-Shaped Box by Joe Hill

Publisher: William Morrow Paperbacks
Pub. Date: December 22nd, 2009
Pages: 384

Genre: Fiction / Thriller / Paranormal Suspense / Horror

Synopsis

Aging, self-absorbed rock star Judas Coyne has a thing for the macabre -- his collection includes sketches from infamous serial killer John Wayne Gacy, a trepanned skull from the 16th century, a used hangman's noose, Aleister Crowley's childhood chessboard, etc. -- so when his assistant tells him about a ghost for sale on an online auction site, he immediately puts in a bid and purchases it.

The black, heart-shaped box that Coyne receives in the mail not only contains the suit of a dead man but also his vengeance-obsessed spirit. The ghost, it turns out, is the stepfather of a young groupie who committed suicide after the 54-year-old Coyne callously used her up and threw her away. Now, determined to kill Coyne and anyone who aids him, the merciless ghost of Craddock McDermott begins his assault on the rocker's sanity.


“Wild, mesmerizing, perversely witty….A Valentine from hell.”—Janet Maslin, New York Times

What Did I Think About the Story?

After listening to the audiobook version of Joe Hill's graphic novel Locke and Key - which I still consider the best audiobook I've ever listened to (see my review) - I went out and bought all of his novels. At that point they all sat on either my Kindle or my physical shelves waiting to be read, like so many others. Every time I mentioned wanting to read a scary story my boss raved about Heart-Shaped Box. She brought it up every...single...time! Finally, I decided it was time to give it a shot. I was in the mood for something scary and this fit the bill after all. I am now kicking myself for waiting so long! Not only is this story terrifying, especially in the beginning, but it ended up being so much deeper than I expected.

From the very beginning there is a "bump in the night" kind of creepiness that sets in, making this reader feel incredibly unsettled (which is great when reading a scary story!). As the synopsis states, Judas Coyne receives a ghost attached to an old man's suit that he purchased online, a ghost that it turns out has a personal vendetta against Judas. And boy oh boy does he start terrorizing Judas and his girlfriend, Georgia (real name Marybeth), from the moment that box arrives. As Craddock, the ghost, starts popping up around Judas's house he doesn't just stand around spooking people, no. He starts taking over their minds (turns out Craddock was a sadistic hypnotist when he was alive), herky-jerky moving around the house, whispering in ears and trying to get Judas and the people around him to either kill themselves or kill Judas. This in particular I found terrifying because how do you stop a ghost, who has this particular ability, from taking over your mind? And when Judas starts hearing horrible things - including dead people! - on the phone and through the radio I nearly jumped out of my skin!

Once Judas determines he is going to go on a road trip to confront the woman who sold him the ghost the scope and depth of the story builds. The actual race to find a way to stop this ghost before death literally catches up to them allows the tension to get tighter and tighter. Beyond that, Judas's reevaluation of his life and what he has done in his past makes this become a redemption story, one about a  man facing all the bad things he's done in his past and forgiving himself for these past mistakes (figuratively putting his ghosts to rest) in order to try and move on and have a better life....if he can survive, that is. On top of this there's even a love story component - if an unusual one - and I was really happy to see a true building and acknowledgement of affection between Judas and Marybeth. I'm not going to give anything away about the ending, but I will say I would never have thought of the story ending that way.

Heart-Shaped Box has just about every component I can think of wrapped up in one thrilling package, something I didn't expect at all and which I absolutely loved! There's definitely scares and grit and gore, but there's so  much more than that. I am now a forever fan of Joe Hill and cannot wait to read his other novels! 

What Did I Think About the Cover?

It's not a favorite cover but, after reading the story, it does fit what is going on. Craddock talks throughout the story about taking Judas down a road that would clearly lead to hell and, in one insanely creepy part, someone - who happens to be dead, mind you - calls Judas to say he's stuck on the side of the road and could he come and help him. Judas also physically goes on a road trip to try and stop Craddock and, metaphorically, he also has to travel down the road of self awareness and forgiveness before the story ends. So lots of roads this could represent!


My Rating: 4.5/5.0

I purchased a copy of Heart-Shaped Box for my own library. All opinions are mine alone. You can find more information about the book, including other reviews and links to where you can purchase a copy, on Goodreads HERE.

 

 



Guest Post by Andrew Joyce, Author of Bedtime Stories for Grown-Ups

Hello, my name is Andrew Joyce. I have a new book out entitled Bedtime Stories for Grown-Ups. It came about because my editor hounded me for two years to put all my short stories into one collection. Actually, it was supposed to be a two-volume set because there was so much material. I fended her off for as long as possible. I didn’t want to do the work of editing all the stories. There were a lot of them. But she finally wore me down. Instead of two volumes, I put all the stories into a single book because I wanted to get the whole thing over with. I had other books to write.

Bedtime Stories is made up of fiction and nonfiction stories and some of ’em are about my criminal youth. I must tell you, I never thought any of these stories would see the light of day. I wrote them for myself and then forgot about them. By the way, there are all sorts of genres within its pages, from westerns to detective stories to love stories and just about anything else that you can imagine.

There are a whole lotta stories in the book—700 pages worth. Enough to keep you reading for the foreseeable future.

Anyway, here’s one of the shorter fiction stories from the book.

Everything’s Jake

 

It was early in the morning when the man rode into town from the east, the sun at his back, his long shadow before him. The street was deserted except for an old mongrel dog sniffing its way home after a long night’s prowl.

He proceeded on the main thoroughfare—the town’s only thoroughfare—until he came abreast of the Blue Moon Café with its “WE NEVER CLOSE” sign hanging from the ramada. Spurring his horse over to the hitching post outside the café, he dismounted and entered the establishment.

At that time in the morning, the chairs were on the tables, and the only occupants were a boy sweeping the floor and a disheveled, overweight man behind the bar wiping a glass with a dirty rag. The barkeep watched the stranger approach.

“How ’bout some whiskey?” said the stranger.

When the barman was slow in responding, the man grabbed his collar, pulled him down until he was bent over the bar and their eyes were staring into each other’s.

“I said whiskey,” growled the stranger.

“Yes sir, right away,” was the barkeep’s quick response.

When released, with a shaking hand he placed the glass he had been wiping on the bar, grabbed a bottle from beneath the counter, and poured a liberal amount of an amber liquid into it.

As he started to re-cork the bottle, he was told to leave it.

“Yes sir.”

Turning his back to the bar and placing his elbows thereon, he called to the youth doing the sweeping.

“Hey you, boy, come over here.”

Placing his broom against the nearest table, the boy did as he was bid.

“You got a name, son?”

“Yes sir. It’s Billy.”

“Well, Billy, do you know a man by the name of Jake Tapper?”

“Yes sir.”

“Do you know where he lives?”

“Yes sir.”

Reaching into his vest pocket, the man withdrew a silver dollar and flicked it in the boy’s direction. “You go tell Jake that Mac’s in town.”


• • • • •


Jake lay on his bed, staring at the ceiling. It was much too early to be awake, but since she left, he’d found it hard to sleep. It had been a heady eight months. He had never loved a woman as he had loved Jeanie. Sure, it was taking a chance messing with Mac Conway’s woman, but it had been worth it. Now that she had run off with that piano player from the Blue Moon, he thought he’d just stop running from Mac. Might as well get it over with, thought Jake.

Then there was a knock at his door. “Yes, who is it?”

“It’s me, Mister Tapper. Billy Doyle.”

“Whatcha want, Billy?”

“A man down to the Blue Moon told me to tell you that Mac is in town. I think he wants to talk to you.”

“Alright, Billy. You tell him I’ll be right there.”

Jake packed his few belongings and left the room. Instead of going to the Blue Moon, he went to the livery stable and saddled his horse. Then he mounted and headed out of town as fast as the beast could carry him.

It is one thing to think brave thoughts in the seclusion of your room, but it’s another thing to face Mac Conway in a saloon. Hell, it ain’t healthy to face off with Mac anywhere. Now that Jeanie’s gone, there’s no reason to git myself killed.

The next day Mac caught up with Jake, and then went looking for Jeanie.

 

 

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

 

 

Publisher: W. Birch & Associates

Pub. Date: September 21st, 2017

Pages: 689

 

Genre: Short Story Collection

 

Bedtime Stories for Grown-Ups is a jumble of genres—seven hundred pages of fiction and non-fiction … some stories included against the author’s better judgment. If he had known that one day they’d be published, he might not have been as honest when describing his past. Here is a tome of true stories about the author’s criminal and misspent youth, historical accounts of the United States when She was young, and tales of imagination encompassing every conceivable variety—all presented as though the author is sitting next to you at a bar and you’re buying the drinks as long as he keeps coming up with captivating stories to hold your interest.

Comprised of 218,000 words, you’ll have plenty to read for the foreseeable future. This is a book to have on your night table, to sample a story each night before extinguishing the lights and drifting off to a restful sleep.

Mr. Joyce sincerely hopes that you will enjoy his stories because, as he has stated, “It took a lot of living to come up with the material for some of them.”

 

 

Buy the Book

 

Amazon

 

 

About the Author

 

Andrew Joyce left high school at seventeen to hitchhike throughout the US, Canada, and Mexico. He wouldn't return from his journey until years later when he decided to become a writer. Joyce has written five books. His first novel, Redemption: The Further Adventures of Huck Finn and Tom Sawyer, was awarded the Editors' Choice Award for Best Western of 2013. A subsequent novel, Yellow Hair, received the Book of the Year award from Just Reviews and Best Historical Fiction of 2016 from Colleen's Book Reviews.

Joyce now lives aboard a boat in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, with his dog, Danny, where he is busy working on his next book, tentatively entitled, Mahoney: An American Story.

 

To learn more about Joyce visit his website.

 





The Tip of My Wish List: Scary Stories

If you're anything like me you've got a book wish list so long there is no way you will ever be able to read through it all. And, on top of that, it's never ending because you just can't stop adding more books to it! To try and organize myself I'm sharing 5 books from my wish list that I'm most excited to get to, usually with a common theme, on the last Friday of each month. I know a number of excellent bloggers who will be doing similar posts and I'll be sure to link to their posts as well so you can see all the goodies we're excited about and, hopefully, add a few new books to your own wish list. I'll also link the titles to Goodreads where you can read reviews and find the various ways to purchase a copy of the books if they sound like your style. I really hope you enjoy and let me know if you've read any of these or have others you would add to the list.

In keeping with the spooky feels I've been craving all month, I decided to showcase five scary stories that I've had on my wish list FOREVER and just haven't gotten around to reading yet. I've got a long list of adrenaline-inducing horror/mystery/suspense novels on my wish list, and I do hope to get to them all at some point, but these are at the top of the list.

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

 

The Exorcist

Originally published in 1971, The Exorcist is now a major television series on FOX. It remains one of the most controversial novels ever written and went on to become a literary phenomenon: It spent fifty-seven weeks on the New York Times bestseller list, seventeen consecutively at number one. Inspired by a true story of a child’s demonic possession in the 1940s, William Peter Blatty created an iconic novel that focuses on Regan, the eleven-year-old daughter of a movie actress residing in Washington, D.C. A small group of overwhelmed yet determined individuals must rescue Regan from her unspeakable fate, and the drama that ensues is gripping and unfailingly terrifying.

Two years after its publication, The Exorcist was, of course, turned into a wildly popular motion picture, garnering ten Academy Award nominations. On opening day of the film, lines of the novel’s fans stretched around city blocks. In Chicago, frustrated moviegoers used a battering ram to gain entry through the double side doors of a theater. In Kansas City, police used tear gas to disperse an impatient crowd who tried to force their way into a cinema. The three major television networks carried footage of these events; CBS’s Walter Cronkite devoted almost ten minutes to the story. The Exorcist was, and is, more than just a novel and a film: it is a true landmark.

Purposefully raw and profane, The Exorcist still has the extraordinary ability to disturb readers and cause them to forget that it is “just a story.” Published here in this beautiful fortieth anniversary edition, it remains an unforgettable reading experience and will continue to shock and frighten a new generation of readers.  

The Haunting of Hill House

The classic supernatural thriller by an author who helped define the genre


First published in 1959, Shirley Jackson's The Haunting of Hill House has been hailed as a perfect work of unnerving terror. It is the story of four seekers who arrive at a notoriously unfriendly pile called Hill House: Dr. Montague, an occult scholar looking for solid evidence of a "haunting"; Theodora, his lighthearted assistant; Eleanor, a friendless, fragile young woman well acquainted with poltergeists; and Luke, the future heir of Hill House. At first, their stay seems destined to be merely a spooky encounter with inexplicable phenomena. But Hill House is gathering its powers—and soon it will choose one of them to make its own.



The Amityville Horror


The shocking true story of an American dream that turned into a nightmare beyond imagining...


In December 1975, the Lutz family moved into their new home on suburban Long Island. George and Kathleen Lutz knew that one year earlier, Ronald DeFeo had murdered his parents, brothers, and sisters in the house, but the property - complete with boathouse and swimming pool - and the price had been too good to pass up. Twenty-eight days later, the entire Lutz family fled in terror...

This is the spellbinding, bestselling true story that gripped the nation - the story of a house possessed by spirits, haunted by psychic phenomena too terrible to describe.



Ghost Story


#1 New York Times bestselling author Peter Straub’s classic tale of horror, secrets, and the dangerous ghosts of the past...


What was the worst thing you’ve ever done?

In the sleepy town of Milburn, New York, four old men gather to tell each other stories—some true, some made-up, all of them frightening. A simple pastime to divert themselves from their quiet lives.

But one story is coming back to haunt them and their small town. A tale of something they did long ago. A wicked mistake. A horrifying accident. And they are about to learn that no one can bury the past forever...



We Have Always Lived in the Castle


Merricat Blackwood lives on the family estate with her sister Constance and her Uncle Julian. Not long ago there were seven Blackwoods—until a fatal dose of arsenic found its way into the sugar bowl one terrible night. Acquitted of the murders, Constance has returned home, where Merricat protects her from the curiosity and hostility of the villagers. Their days pass in happy isolation until cousin Charles appears. Only Merricat can see the danger, and she must act swiftly to keep Constance from his grasp.

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

Check out these lovely blogs for more books to add to your wish list(updated as they become available):


Holly at 2 Kids and Tired
Stephanie at Layered Pages
Heather at The Maiden's Court
Erin at Flashlight Commentary
Magdalena at A Bookish Swede



Cover Crush (October Edition): A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness (Writer) and Jim Kay (Illustrator)

Hello, my name is Colleen and I am a cover slut. I know, I know....you aren't supposed to judge a book by it's cover. I just can't help myself! A beautiful cover draws my eye every single time and I can't help but pick up the book it's dressing and see if the inside seems as intriguing as the outside. Sometimes it does, and sometimes a pretty cover is just a pretty cover. Either way, I love getting an eyeful!

One of my favorite bloggers, Erin at Flashlight Commentary, created a weekly blog post called Cover Crush and she and some other blogger friends are sharing their favorite covers each Thursday. I've decided to join in this year and will link to their posts down below.

Since it's October and the perfect time of year to indulge my love of all things dark and scary I've decided to showcase creepy covers all month long!  

So, without further ado, my Cover Crush this week is.....

 

 

 

 

This is such a disturbing image to me! Being presented in black and white only and having such a smudged appearance gives it a feeling of starkness and deterioration. The land is empty and there is nothing to stop that horrifying monster from arriving at that unsuspecting cottage. Creepy!!

 

Let's see what the story is about....

 An unflinching, darkly funny, and deeply moving story of a boy, his seriously ill mother, and an unexpected monstrous visitor.

At seven minutes past midnight, thirteen-year-old Conor wakes to find a monster outside his bedroom window. But it isn't the monster Conor's been expecting - he's been expecting the one from his nightmare, the nightmare he's had nearly every night since his mother started her treatments. The monster in his backyard is different. It's ancient. And wild. And it wants something from Conor. Something terrible and dangerous. It wants the truth. From the final idea of award-winning author Siobhan Dowd - whose premature death from cancer prevented her from writing it herself - Patrick Ness has spun a haunting and darkly funny novel of mischief, loss, and monsters both real and imagined.

 

Don't forget to check out what covers my blogger buddies are drooling over this week (updated as they become available):


Magdalena at A Bookaholic Swede
Meghan at Of Quills & Vellum
Erin at Flashlight Commentary
Heather at The Maiden's Court
Stephanie at Layered Pages
Holly at 2 Kids and Tired



Created by Magdalena of A Bookaholic Swede

 

 

 

The Murderer’s Maid​ ​by Erika Mailman + Tour-Wide Giveaway!

Pub. Date: October 30, 2017
Publisher: Bonhomie Press

Genre: Fiction / Historical / Mystery


Bram Stoker Award finalist Erika Mailman brings the true story of the brutal murder of Lizzie Borden’s father and stepmother into new focus by adding a riveting contemporary narrative.


The Murderer’s Maid interweaves the stories of two women: one, the servant of infamous Lizzie Borden, and the other a modern-day barista fleeing from an attempt on her life.


Trapped by servitude and afraid for her own safety, Irish maid Bridget finds herself an unwilling witness to the tensions in the volatile Borden household. As Lizzie seethes with resentment, Bridget tries to perform her duties and keep her mouth shut.

Unknowingly connected to the legendary crime of a century ago, Brooke, the illegitimate daughter of an immigrant maid, struggles to conceal her identity and stay a jump ahead of the men who want to kill her. When she unexpectedly falls in love with Anthony, a local attorney, she has to decide whether to stop running and begin her life anew.


With historical detail and taut, modern storytelling, Erika Mailman writes a captivating novel about identity, choices, freedom, and murder. She offers readers a fresh perspective on the notorious crime and explores the trials of immigrants seeking a better life while facing down fear and oppression, today and throughout history. Intelligent and detailed, The Murderer’s Maid is a gripping read from beginning to bloody conclusion.

Praise for The Murderer's Maid

“A complex and riveting parallax view of domestic crimes, decades apart.” — Kirkus Reviews

“Erika Mailman writes a page turner of a thriller that will fascinate as well as terrify.” — Margaret Lane, New York Journal of Books

“Fascinating, mesmerizing, and so darkly atmospheric that you keep looking over your shoulder as you read.” ―Diana Gabaldon, internationally-bestselling author of the Outlander series

“The Murderer’s Maid is a fascinating and deeply chilling tale. Erika Mailman weaves a story that is by turns poignant, compelling, and murderously suspenseful.” ―Kathleen Kent, author of The Heretic’s Daughter

Buy the Book

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Powell’s

 

 

About the Author

 

 

Erika Mailman is the author of The Witch’s Trinity, a San Francisco Chronicle Notable Book and Bram Stoker Award finalist, and Woman of Ill Fame, a Pushcart Press Editor’s Book Award nominee. She’s a Yaddo fellow and lives in Northern California with her family.

For more information, please visit Erika Mailman’s website. You can also find her on Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads.

It's Giveaway Time!!!



During the Blog Tour we will be giving away a hardcover copy of The Murderer’s Maid! To enter, please enter via the Gleam form HERE.

Giveaway Rules

– Giveaway ends at 11:59pm EST on November 8th. You must be 18 or older to enter.
– Giveaway is open INTERNATIONALLY.
– Only one entry per household.
– All giveaway entrants agree to be honest and not cheat the systems; any suspect of fraud is decided upon by blog/site owner and the sponsor, and entrants may be disqualified at our discretion.
– Winner has 48 hours to claim prize or new winner is chosen.

 

Good Luck!!

 

 

The Murderer's Maid HFVBT Schedule

 

 

Monday, October 16

Review at Unabridged Chick
Feature at Passages to the Past

Tuesday, October 17

Interview at Unabridged Chick

Wednesday, October 18

Review at 100 Pages a Day

Thursday, October 19

Review & Excerpt at Books of All Kinds
Review at So Many Books, So Little Time

Friday, October 20

Spotlight at Bookfever
Review at Once Upon A Book

Monday, October 23

Review at Poppy Coburn
Review at A Bookish Affair

Tuesday, October 24

Guest Post at A Bookish Affair
Feature at A Literary Vacation

Wednesday, October 25

Review at Back Porchervations
Feature at Must Read Faster

Thursday, October 26

Review at Linda’s Book Obsession

Friday, October 27

Review at What Cathy Read Next
Feature at The Reading Queen

Monday, October 30

Review at A Holland Reads

Tuesday, October 31

Review at The Maiden’s Court

Wednesday, November 1

Review at Pursuing Stacie
Review at Books of a Shy Girl

Thursday, November 2

Review at Book Nerd

Friday, November 3

Review at T’s Stuff
Review at Just One More Chapter

Monday, November 6

Review at A Book Geek
Review at CelticLady’s Reviews

Tuesday, November 7

Review at Locks, Hooks and Books

Wednesday, November 8

Review at The True Book Addict

 

 

 

 

 

 



Review: Pleasing Mr. Pepys by Deborah Swift + Tour-Wide Giveaway!!

Publisher: Accent Press
Pub. Date: September 28th, 2017
Pages: 407

Genre: Historical Fiction

Synopsis

London 1667.

Set in a London rising from the ruins of the Great Fire, Pleasing Mr Pepys is a vivid re-imagining of the events in Samuel Pepys’s Diary.



Desperate to escape her domineering aunt, Deb Willet thinks the post of companion to well-respected Elisabeth Pepys is the answer to her prayers. But Samuel Pepys’s house is not as safe as it seems. An intelligent girl in Deb’s position has access to his government papers, and soon she becomes a target of flamboyant actress Abigail Williams, a spy for England’s enemies, the Dutch.

Abigail is getting old and needs a younger accomplice. She blackmails Deb into stealing Pepys’s documents. Soon, the respectable life Deb longs for slides out of her grasp. Mr Pepys’s obsessive lust for his new maid increases precisely as Abigail and her sinister Dutch spymaster become more demanding. When Deb falls for handsome Jem Wells, a curate-in-training, she thinks things cannot possibly get worse.

Until – not content with a few stolen papers – the Dutch want Mr Pepys’s Diary.

What Did I Think About the Story?

Something I love most about historical fiction is the fact that there are just so many stories to be told, from such a variety of perspectives. As many stories as I've read centered around some point of English history, I can't think of another novel I've read that's set against the rebuilding of London after the great fire. How I've missed this I don't know, but Deborah Swift does an excellent job of setting our characters within this topsy turvy world of upheaval and growth and showing just how dangerous this world can be if you take a wrong step.

Right off the bat the novel pulls the reader in with a whip-quick murder, one that had me wondering just what other thrills the novel would have in store for me. The story soon moves to Deb Willet as we see her leaving her domineering and cruel aunt's home for a post with the Pepys's and I began to wonder...how will this sweet and intelligent girl end up embroiled in the violent action that the story opened with? I've read a number of novels that deal with historical spy rings and the dangers and benefits that can come from being pulled into this exciting yet vicious world, however I was particularly drawn to this aspect within Pleasing Mr. Pepys mainly due to the fact that Deb Willet seemed so unlike the typical person ensnared into this sort of environment. She comes from a well-to-do family, is well-educated, and seems so innocent at first, wanting simply to do well in her new circumstances and to make a better world for her and her sister. If she's able to find her mother, who abandoned her and her siblings and who, she believes, ran off to London, more's the better. Watching Abigail, so adept at intrigue and deception, pull Deb into this sinful hidden domain, against everything Deb wanted for her life, was gripping and entertaining.

Something else I very much enjoyed was seeing London from two distinct perspectives. We get to see the opulent theatres and homes of people like the Pepys, but we also get to see the dank, dirty, and dangerous back alleys of the city, where people turn to sin to feed their families and plot intrigue against a King that refuses to pay them for work done to protect his throne. It's this aspect that really excited me as the double dealing and intrigue was absolutely fascinating. Seeing people brought as low as nearly possible and then watching some of them try to right the wrongs they've committed made this a redemption story as well, and I always enjoy stories where characters scrabble back onto the right path.

Pleasing Mr. Pepys is scintillating and exciting historical fiction, all the more so since many of the character were actual people living and breathing this story. Like with all my favorite historical fiction, Swift includes historical notes at the end to flesh out fact from fiction. Having turned the last page on Deb, Abigail, the Pepys', and all the rest I now want to read more about their lives and the world they lived within. This is always a sign for me that the author did a great job of bringing their history back to life and I think historical fiction lovers will find much to enjoy in this story.

What Did I Think About the Cover?

I think it's GORGEOUS!! It's the perfect cover for historical fiction! I know a lot of people don't like when a woman's head is cut off on a cover, however having the eye's above the edge of this cover makes the woman seem mysterious, which fits in well with this story of spies. The buildings at the bottom capture the location, and the gilt edging makes it feel old yet important. I really love it!


My Rating: 4.0/5.0

 

Thank you to the lovely Amy at Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tours for sending me a free copy of Pleasing Mr. Pepys in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are mine alone. Continue on below for more information about the book, it's authors, and the rest of the blog tour!

 

 

Praise for Pleasing Mr. Pepys

“Swift brought Deborah Willet, the Pepyses, and the London of the 1660s to life in an exciting and sometimes touching way…I didn’t want to put it down, and found myself thinking about the story when I went about my day.” – Andrea Zuvich, Author of His Last Mistress

“Deb Willet, Elizabeth Pepys’s maid and the object of Samuel Pepys’s attentions, is finally given centre-stage after 350 years, and her tale was worth waiting for. This is exceptional story-telling.” – L. C. Tyler

“Laced with emotional intensity and drama, Pleasing Mr Pepys… (has) an intricate plot that features red herrings, unexpected twists, and surprises that will take readers on a very delightful ride.” – Arya Fomonyuy, Readers’ Favorite

 

 

Buy the Book

 

Amazon US | Amazon UK | Barnes & Noble | Chapters

 

  

About the Author

 

 

Deborah Swift is the author of three previous historical novels for adults, The Lady’s Slipper, The Gilded Lily, and A Divided Inheritance, all published by Macmillan/St Martin’s Press, as well as the Highway Trilogy for teens (and anyone young at heart!). Her first novel was shortlisted for the Impress prize for new novelists.

She lives on the edge of the beautiful and literary English Lake District – a place made famous by the poets Wordsworth and Coleridge.

For more information, please visit Deborah Swift’s website. You can also find her on Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads.

It's Giveaway Time!!!

 

During the Blog Tour we will be giving away a signed copy of Pleasing Mr. Pepys to one lucky winner! To enter, please enter via the Gleam form HERE.

Giveaway Rules

– Giveaway ends at 11:59pm EST on October 20th. You must be 18 or older to enter.
– Giveaway is open INTERNATIONALLY.
– Only one entry per household.
– All giveaway entrants agree to be honest and not cheat the systems; any suspect of fraud is decided upon by blog/site owner and the sponsor, and entrants may be disqualified at our discretion.
– Winner has 48 hours to claim prize or new winner is chosen.

 

Good Luck!!

 

 

Pleasing Mr. Pepys HFVBT Schedule

 

Thursday, September 28

Review at The Maiden’s Court
Guest Post at Books of All Kinds

Friday, September 29

 

Guest Post at Let Them Read Books
Spotlight at What Is That Book About

Monday, October 2

 

Review at History From a Woman’s Perspective

Tuesday, October 3
 

Review at The Lit Bitch
Feature at Myths, Legends, Books & Coffee Pots

 

Wednesday, October 4

 

Feature at A Holland Reads

Thursday, October 5

 

Review at CelticLady’s Reviews

Friday, October 6

 

Feature at Passages to the Past

Monday, October 9

 

Review at 100 Pages a Day

Tuesday, October 10

 

Review at Locks, Hooks and Books

Wednesday, October 11

 

Review at Book Nerd

Friday, October 13

 

Review at Poppy Coburn

Monday, October 16

 

Review at Just One More Chapter
Review at Encouraging Words from the Tea Queen

Tuesday, October 17

 

Review at Laura’s Interests
Interview at Suzy Approved Books

Wednesday, October 18

 

Review at Jo’s Book Blog

Thursday, October 19

 

Feature at T’s Stuff

Friday, October 20

 

Review at A Literary Vacation
Guest Post at The Writing Desk

 

 

 

 

 

 



Cover Crush (October Edition): Please Remain Calm by Courtney Summers

Hello, my name is Colleen and I am a cover slut. I know, I know....you aren't supposed to judge a book by it's cover. I just can't help myself! A beautiful cover draws my eye every single time and I can't help but pick up the book it's dressing and see if the inside seems as intriguing as the outside. Sometimes it does, and sometimes a pretty cover is just a pretty cover. Either way, I love getting an eyeful!

One of my favorite bloggers, Erin at Flashlight Commentary, created a weekly blog post called Cover Crush and she and some other blogger friends are sharing their favorite covers each Thursday. I've decided to join in this year and will link to their posts down below.

Since it's October and the perfect time of year to indulge my love of all things dark and scary I've decided to showcase creepy covers all month long!  

So, without further ado, my Cover Crush this week is.....

 

 

 

 

For me this cover is more unsettling then necessarily scary, however it sort of gives me a claustrophobic feeling so I would definitely categorize it as "creepy". Why is this person clawing the ground like that? Are they falling into some hole? Or are they trying to get out? And what's with the spattering of blood? I also love that the word "calm" is crossed out...who could remain calm next to this image?! The blurriness gives a nice sense of mystery as well. All around a really chill-inducing cover!

 

Here's what the synopsis tells us about the story within.....

 

 

In this gripping sequel to THIS IS NOT A TEST, Rhys and Sloane are headed for a safe haven when they get separated along the way. Rhys is determined to reunite with Sloane until he discovers people who might need him more--people who offer him the closest he'll get to everything he's lost, if they can just hold on long enough.

Rhys thinks he has what it takes to survive and find the girl he lost, but in a world overrun by the dead, there are no guarantees and the next leg of his journey will test him in unimaginable ways ...

 

Don't forget to check out what covers my blogger buddies are drooling over this week (updated as they become available):


Magdalena at A Bookaholic Swede
Meghan at Of Quills & Vellum
Erin at Flashlight Commentary
Heather at The Maiden's Court
Stephanie at Layered Pages
Holly at 2 Kids and Tired



Created by Magdalena of A Bookaholic Swede

 

The Quest for the Crown of Thorns by Cynthia Ripley Miller + Tour-Wide Giveaway!!

Pub. Date: June 12, 2017
Knox Robinson Publishing
Pages: 308

Series: The Long – Hair Saga, Book 2
Genre: Historical Fiction / Mystery


AD 454. Three years after the Roman victory over Attila the Hun at Catalaunum, Arria Felix and Garic the Frank are married and enjoying life on Garic’s farm in northern Gaul (France). Their happy life is interrupted, when a cryptic message arrives from Rome, calling Arria home to her father, the esteemed Senator Felix. At Arria’s insistence, but against Garic’s better judgment, they leave at once.


Upon their arrival at Villa Solis, they are confronted with a brutal murder and the dangerous mission that awaits them. The fate of a profound and sacred object–Christ’s Crown of Thorns–rests in their hands. They must carry the holy relic to the safety of Constantinople, away from a corrupt emperor and old enemies determined to steal it for their own gain.

But an even greater force arises to derail their quest–a secret cult willing to commit any atrocity to capture the Crown of Thorns. And all the while, the gruesome murder and the conspiracy behind it haunt Arria’s thoughts.

Arria and Garic’s marital bonds are tested but forged as they partner together to fulfill one of history’s most challenging missions, The Quest for the Crown of Thorns.

Praise for The Quest for the Crown of Thorns

“Ripley Miller astutely brings to life a Rome teetering precariously on the brink of collapse …the combination of political and romantic drama–spiritual as well–is rousing. The reader should be glad to have read this volume and eager for a third. Intelligent and artfully crafted historical fiction…” -Kirkus Reviews

“From cover to cover a gripping read – in all senses of the word! Grips your interest and imagination, your held breath and your pounding heart! A thumping good novel!” -Helen Hollick USA Today bestselling author of the Sea Witch Voyages

“Forbidden love, a turbulent time period, and world-changing events combine to produce a real page-turner.” -India Edghill, author of Queenmaker, Wisdom’s Daughter, and Delilah.

“A passionate and intriguing take on the often overlooked clash of three brutal and powerful empires: the Romans, Franks, and Huns. A Compelling read!” -Stephanie Thornton, author of The Secret History and The Tiger Queens

“Readers will be absorbed by a setting of barbarian Gaul and the constancy of Arria’s and Garic’s destined love amid the strife of a dying Roman Empire.” -Albert Noyer, author of The Getorius and Arcadia Mysteries

“The Quest for the Crown of Thorns, is an elegant masterpiece of historical fiction. This book totally ensnared me in its clasps, and it did not release me until I had read it all. The attention to detail was exquisite The characterisation was sublime, and the romance was breathtakingly beautiful. I adored the world that Miller has created, as well as the characters in it. This is a sit-down and finish book and is one I would Highly Recommend.” -Mary Anne Yarde author of the Du Lac Chronicles

Buy the Book

Amazon | Barnes & Noble

 

 

About the Author

 

 

Cynthia Ripley Miller is a first generation Italian-American writer with a love for history, languages and books. She has lived, worked, and travelled in Europe, Africa, North America and the Caribbean. As a girl, she often wondered what it would be like to journey through time (she still does), yet knew, it could only be through the imagination and words of writers and their stories. Today, she writes to bring the past to life.

She holds two degrees and has taught history and teaches English. Her short fiction has appeared in the anthology Summer Tapestry, at Orchard Press Mysteries.com and The Scriptor. A Chanticleer International Chatelaine Award finalist for her novel, On the Edge of Sunrise, she has reviewed for UNRV Roman History, and blogs at Historical Happenings and Oddities: A Distant Focus.

Cynthia has four children and lives with her husband, twin cats, Romulus and Remus, and Jessie, a German Shepherd, in a suburb of Chicago.

On the Edge of Sunrise is the first in the Long-Hair Saga; a series set in late ancient Rome and France and published by Knox Robinson Publishing. The second book in the series, The Quest for the Crown of Thorns, was released in June 2017.

For more information please visit Cynthia Ripley Miller’s website. You can also connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads.

 

It's Giveaway Time!!!

During the Blog Tour we are giving away 1 paperback copy & 2 eBooks of The Quest for the Crown of Thorns to one lucky winner! To enter, please see the Gleam form HERE. Paperback copy open to US residents & eBooks open Internationally.

Giveaway Rules

– Giveaway ends at 11:59pm EST on October 16th. You must be 18 or older to enter.
– Only one entry per household.
– All giveaway entrants agree to be honest and not cheat the systems; any suspect of fraud is decided upon by blog/site owner and the sponsor, and entrants may be disqualified at our discretion.
– Winner has 48 hours to claim prize or new winner is chosen.

 

Good Luck!!

 

 

The Quest for the Crown of Thorns HFVBT Schedule

Monday, October 9

Review at Svetlana’s Reads and Views
Feature at Passages to the Past

Tuesday, October 10

Excerpt at T’s Stuff

Wednesday, October 11

Review & Excerpt at Locks, Hooks and Books

Thursday, October 12

Review at What Cathy Read Next

Friday, October 13

Review at Laura’s Interests

Monday, October 16

Review at CelticLady’s Reviews
Feature at A Literary Vacation

 

 

 

 

 

 



Audiobook Review: A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman

Publisher: Dreamscape Media, LLC
Release Date: August 5th, 2014
Length: 9 hours, 9 minutes

Genre: Fiction / Humor

Synopsis

Meet Ove. He's a curmudgeon - the kind of man who points at people he dislikes as if they were burglars caught outside his bedroom window. He has staunch principles, strict routines, and a short fuse. People call him 'the bitter neighbor from hell.' But behind the cranky exterior there is a story and a sadness. So when one November morning a chatty young couple with two chatty young daughters move in next door and accidentally flatten Ove's mailbox, it is the lead-in to a comical and heartwarming tale of unkempt cats, unexpected friendship, and the ancient art of backing up a U-Haul. All of which will change one cranky old man and a local residents' association to their very foundations.

 

What Did I Think About the Story?

From the very first minute I started listening to the audiobook version of A Man Called Ove I knew that I was going to enjoy it. When the story begins we see Ove trying to purchase an iPad at an Apple store and getting incredibly frustrated in the process. This experience not only had me laughing but instantly made me think of my own grandfather and how much of a loveable curmudgeon he was when he was alive. From this moment on I had a soft spot for Ove, even when he was not always the nicest guy, and delighted at his increasingly frustrated interactions with his hodge podge of neighbors. What I didn't expect, and absolutely adored, was the heartfelt and even heartbreaking backstory that unfolded.

I don't want to say too much and give anything away, but Ove's life has not been a consistently happy one. He's had many hard knocks over the years and, even when his life is sprinkled with happiness, it always seems to be tinged with heartache. He's come to the point where he's made a decision in his life and he is determined to follow through with it. After all, it's his life and he doesn't answer to anyone, does he? Well, as it turns out he does seem to have people to answer to, and those people refuse to let him get away with any shenanigans. Those people, much to Ove's dismay, are a collection of loud, opinionated, and sometimes slovenly neighbors (and a cat!) and they will change his life in some unexpected ways.

The best part of this story is the vivid and often hilarious extended cast of characters. Seriously, his neighbors had me cracking up as he tried to push them away and they kept coming back for more. Whether that was his pregnant neighbor who sweetly demanded he help her when she needed it, or the jovial overweight neighbor who refused to let Ove's jabs break his smile, or even the cat who didn't take any crap from Ove and, therefore, earned his respect, they all began to break down Ove's icy walls and made him realize that he isn't alone in the world. That, while the world isn't perfect, it can be wonderful in it's imperfections.

The narrator, George Newbern, was great and somehow perfectly expressed Ove's continued frustration, whether it was real or, as became true towards the end, somewhat faked to keep his image as a no-nonsense fellow intact. He gave unique voices to all of the characters, which I always find amazing, and seemed able to express heart and humor in turn as was necessary. I've never listened to an audiobook narratored by Mr. Newbern before but I'm going to make a point of looking for more.

A Man Called Ove was so much more than I expected. To be honest I don't think I had a lot of expectation regarding the story to begin with, but once read I now want to read more by this author. He has a way of capturing a unique sort of humanity, both uplifting and heartbreaking. Highly recommended!

What Did I Think About the Cover?

It's okay. I found it somewhat odd at first - Ove being turned away from our view  - but I've since discovered that the covers of all books by this author have the characters turned away. I'm not sure why, other than to allow us to visualize them as we see fit, but regardless it doesn't really draw me to the cover. Other than that it's somewhat plain. I do like the cat though.


My Rating: 4.0/5.0

I borrowed a copy of A Man Called Ove from my library's Overdrive account. All opinions are my own. For more information about the book, including other reviews and links to where you can purchase a copy, go to Goodreads HERE.

 

 

 



Cover Crush (October Edition): The Ghost Writer by John Harwood

Hello, my name is Colleen and I am a cover slut. I know, I know....you aren't supposed to judge a book by it's cover. I just can't help myself! A beautiful cover draws my eye every single time and I can't help but pick up the book it's dressing and see if the inside seems as intriguing as the outside. Sometimes it does, and sometimes a pretty cover is just a pretty cover. Either way, I love getting an eyeful!

One of my favorite bloggers, Erin at Flashlight Commentary, created a weekly blog post called Cover Crush and she and some other blogger friends are sharing their favorite covers each Thursday. I've decided to join in this year and will link to their posts down below.

Since it's October and the perfect time of year to indulge my love of all things dark and scary I've decided to showcase creepy covers all month long!  

So, without further ado, my Cover Crush this week is.....

 

 

 

 

I'll admit that this cover gave me what I like to call the "heeby jeebies" as soon as I saw it. That's basically a way of saying that it creeped me out hardcore, and continues to do so as I stare at it. The sepia tones makes it feel old and the fact that the white-faced woman seems just a darker version of the background gives her the feeling of ghostliness. And her image within the spinning stairwell leaves me wondering...if she floating, or is she falling? Whatever is going on here it's quite unnerving!

 

Let's find out what the story is about...

 

Viola Hatherley was a writer of ghost stories in the 1890s whose work lies forgotten until her great-grandson, as a young boy in Mawson, Australia, learns how to open the secret drawer in his mother's room. There he finds a manuscript, and from the moment his mother catches him in the act, Gerard Freeman's life is irrevocably changed. What is the invisible, ever-present threat from which his mother strives so obsessively to protect him? And why should stories written a century ago entwine themselves ever more closely around events in his own life? Gerard's quest to unveil the mystery that shrouds his family, and his life, will lead him from Mawson to London, to a long-abandoned house and the terror of a ghost story come alive.  

 

Don't forget to check out what covers my blogger buddies are drooling over this week (updated as they become available):

Magdalena at A Bookaholic Swede

Meghan at Of Quills & Vellum

Erin at Flashlight Commentary

Heather at The Maiden's Court

Stephanie at Layered Pages

Holly at 2 Kids and Tired

Created by Magdalena of A Bookaholic Swede 

 

 

 

 

 

TLC Book Tours Review: The Other Alcott by Elise Hooper

Publisher: William Morrow Paperbacks
Pub. Date: September 5th, 2017
Pages: 432

Genre: Historical Fiction

Synopsis

Named one of POPSUGAR’s 25 Books to Read This Fall!

Elise Hooper’s debut novel conjures the fascinating, untold story of May Alcott—Louisa’s youngest sister and an artist in her own right.


We all know the story of the March sisters, heroines of Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women. But while everyone cheers on Jo March, based on Louisa herself, Amy March is often the least favorite sister. Now, it’s time to learn the truth about the real “Amy”, Louisa’s sister, May.

Stylish, outgoing, creative, May Alcott grows up longing to experience the wide world beyond Concord, Massachusetts. While her sister Louisa crafts stories, May herself is a talented and dedicated artist, taking lessons in Boston, turning down a marriage proposal from a well-off suitor, and facing scorn for entering what is very much a man’s profession.

Life for the Alcott family has never been easy, so when Louisa’s Little Women is published, its success eases the financial burdens they’d faced for so many years. Everyone agrees the novel is charming, but May is struck to the core by the portrayal of selfish, spoiled “Amy March.” Is this what her beloved sister really thinks of her?

So May embarks on a quest to discover her own true identity, as an artist and a woman. From Boston to Rome, London, and Paris, this brave, talented, and determined woman forges an amazing life of her own, making her so much more than merely “The Other Alcott.”

What Did I Think About the Story?

There are few books that I've read more than once. In fact, I could probably count them on one hand - there's just too many books that I want to read for the first time, let alone more than once! One of those books happens to be Little Women, my all time favorite book (which, as any bookworm will attest, is a high honor indeed). I've lost count of the number of times I've read this stunning classic, so of course I was excited to see how Elise Hooper would showcase the women behind the story, especially the one to inspire Amy (to be completely honest, my least favorite March sister). Amazingly enough, what Hooper does in The Other Alcott is bring May Alcott front and center, allowing her to shine as the unique and talented individual that she was, making her become my favorite Alcott sister!

The story begins shortly after Little Women was published - to great success - with the illustrations done by May being panned by critics. Thus begins the representation of the love/hate relationship between these two opinionated artistic women, a relationship much like I imagine often happens with sisters. There's jealousies and competitiveness and grievances both big and small and this want to prove that she was as talented as her sister seemed to really drive May's ambitions, at least early on. At the same time May yearned for her sister's approval and doubted her own abilities even as she strove to become the best artist she could, one that could actually make a living off of her work as her sister did.  However, unlike Louisa, she also wished to have a life away from her art, one hopefully filled with love and friendship and enjoyment. She's quite the complicated character and came off very real and genuine.

The other characters all felt very realistic and complicated as well, especially Louisa. I was a little shocked by her depiction at first as she is so far from the "Jo March" character I remember and I ended up feeling quite sorry for her. At first she seems so bitter and unhappy, making it seem like everyone just wants money from her but willingly handing it out to her family - with strings in May's case - however, as the story progresses, we realize that she is under great pressure to keep her family taken care of and doesn't really have a life outside of her writing. I think that would  make most people unhappy and I ended up admiring her quite a bit, even if I never really warmed to her as a person.

Characterizations aside, the time and effort given to developing the artistic scene in Boston as well as Europe was fascinating. The reader gets to step into the salons, studios, and ateliers to witness the hard work and dedication that goes in to the vivid and beautiful pieces that adorn the walls. We also get to witness (although secondhand) the birth of the Impressionists, rubbing elbows with such artists as Mary Cassat and more. You can almost feel the excitement and drive to be a part of it all as May strives to develop her talent and fine her unique voice amongst so many talented people.

The Other Alcott was a delight to read. It presents this amazing woman who wants nothing more than to come out from behind the heavy shadow of her famous sister and family, advancing her own talent and making a name for herself, while always struggling with her commitments and responsibilities to that very same family. I won't say too  much about the ending other than to say that it fairly broke my heart, but I will say that, as a whole, I don't think I can ever look at Little Women the same way again. May Alcott was a fascinating person in her own right and I won't soon forget her.

What Did I Think About the Cover?

It's very pretty. I'm not sure that it's exactly how I would picture May, but I do like that it gives the sense of travel and adventure.


My Rating: 5.0/5.0

 

Thank you to TLC Book Tours and HarperCollins Publishers for providing me with a free copy of The Other Alcott in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. Continue below for more information about the book, the author, and the rest of the blog tour!

 

 

Praise for The Other Alcott

 

“Elise Hooper’s thoroughly modern debut gives a fresh take on one of literature’s most beloved families. To read this book is to understand why the women behind Little Women continue to cast a long shadow on our imaginations and dreams. Hooper is a writer to watch!”—Elisabeth Egan, author of A Window Opens

 

 

Buy the Book

 

HarperCollins | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

 

 

About the Author

 

 

Photo by Chris Landry

Photography

Though a New Englander by birth (and at heart), Elise Hooper lives with her husband and two young daughters in Seattle, where she teaches history and literature.

Find out more about Elise at her website, and connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

TLC Book Tours Schedule

Thursday, September 7th: History From a Woman’s Perspective
Friday, September 8th: Tina Says…
Wednesday, September 13th: Jathan & Heather
Thursday, September 14th: History from a Woman’s Perspective
Monday, September 18th: Lit.Wit.Wine.Dine.
Thursday, September 21st: bookchickdi
Friday, September 22nd: A Bookish Affair
Monday, September 25th: Literary Lindsey
Tuesday, September 26th: BookNAround
Wednesday, September 27th: She’s All Booked
Thursday, September 28th: Openly Bookish
Friday, September 29th: Books and Bindings
Tuesday, October 3rd: View From the Birdhouse
Wednesday, October 4th: A Chick Who Reads
Wednesday, October 11th: A Literary Vacation
TBD: Unabridged Chick
TBD: Into the Hall of Books
TBD: Bibliotica