The Death Song of Wen'Etra by Wesley R Turner: Book Review

 3/5

This book was sent to me by the author to review and this has not impacted the outcome of the review. The opinions stated are mine and mine alone.

First off, I have to start by saying, it is categorized as historical fiction, which is not accurate. Historical fiction must be based on real and accurate research of a specific time period. Though the characters and plot may be fictional and made up, it must be based upon real life events, or a real life people group that has been researched and proven to have existed. The author has done an amazing job at making up history. Wesley Turner's idea is both creative and unique, however this would fall under fantasy or general fiction. This can be found on Google and I quote, "While the story is fictional, the foundation must be rooted in real history, not a completely imaginary world that just happens to be "ancient". In summary: The crucial aspect is that the author is writing from research and experience, or a researched understanding of a time period that is separate and different from the author's own present." End quote. In the end this seems like a minor detail, but when people pick up a book in a genre, it comes with certain expectations, so getting that right is crucial. 

I admire Wesley's creativity and how well thought out this created history and timeline are. It clearly took a lot of time and effort to come up with, and this shows in the writing. His prologue needed to be made clear that it was not actual history, hence my note on historical fiction, however, it was excellent and crucial to understanding the rest of the book. The use of poetic language is done well, though it does lack a flow, feeling almost choppy in parts. This led to it being too repetitive at times as well. That being said, the use of descriptions was well inputted and added to painting a vivid picture in the reader's mind. Sadly, at times this did not carry over to the characters, who all felt shallow and underdeveloped. Aedliss is the main character, but by the end, I still felt like I barely knew him. Back to the point on creativity, the battle between light and darkness/good and evil, is a very traditional theme, but it was presented in a fresh way. It draws clear parallels between many religions, and made for a good comparison.

Overall, if you are looking for a book that is poetic in nature and tells a story with religious themes, then it would be a good book to read.

Fire and Sword by Simon Scarrow Review

Fire and Sword by Simon Scarrow 4 Stars

This is the third installment in the Napoleon-Wellington quartet. Napoleon is set on another war with countries in Europe. He continues to win and take over more of Europe. The countries allying against him can't seem to coordinate attacks together, helping Napoleon to defeat them one at a time. Meanwhile Wellesley continues his push for fame, making a name for himself as a general with strategic skills.

I was certainly more intrigued by this book. A better, more action-packed book in this series. Napoleon's arrogance is growing and you can see just why he ends up being exiled. I love that we see so much of the characteristics of these two generals. We see their fates twisting around each other, until they are bound to meet in the final installment. Scarrow brings in hints as to other world events that shape their lives, without making it a long and boring addition. Plot and characters continue to be strong driving points in Scarrow's novels, as well as his historical research that he brings into his novels. Overall I would recommend this novel for those who love history.

The Generals By Simon Scarrow Book Review

The Generals: Wellington and Napoleon Quartet Book 2 3.25 Stars

In the second installment of this quartet, we see Napoleon rise in power and reputation in France, as well as Arthur Wellesley become a General himself and rise in his reputation in Britain. Napoleon works on bringing Egypt and Italy under French rule, before fighting to establish peace in France again. Wellesley does the same in India, rising to power, before he returns to Britain.

I still find it tough going back and forth between these 2 story lines. I know at some point they will meet, but just when you get into a story, it moves back to the other character. I am really loving the history and obvious research that went into creating this series. I also love how deep the characters are. They jump off every page and ping little bits of memory from things I already know. The plot is great, although he can't really deviate too far, as history has set out his plot for him already. Overall I will finish this series, but for me it is in the one time read category, not a keeper, but good enough to read once.

Young Bloods by Simon Scarrow: Book review

Young Bloods by Simon Scarrow Book 1 of Napoleon-Wellington Quartet 3.5 Stars

Napoleon and Arthur (Wellington) are the focus of the book. It starts out with their births and their childhoods growing up, including the great demands that they were put under by parents who are struggling to maintain status. They both wind up in the military through having little choice, but they end up thriving. When France goes through a revolution it throws both of these men into the fray and gives them the opportunity to rise to the top.
I always love all the historical details that Scarrow includes in all of his novels and this novel is no exception. You can tell all the research he puts in throughout every chapter. Another strength would be his character development. He always has a depth rarely found in novels. I did find it difficult to be going back and forth between these characters constantly, as just when you are getting into one character's story it switches to the other one, which feels like letting air out of your tires. Overall though this is great read, but I feel his Cato and Macro series is better. Still good for a one-time read. Just ordered the last book in this series.

Eagles of the Empire: Invictus by Simon Scarrow

Invictus BY: Simon Scarrow

3.5 Stars

I haven’t done a review in quite a long time, so please bear with me as I try to get back into the groove.

Cato returns home to Rome and does not get the reception he was counting on. His wife has died and now he must get to know a son he has never met. As his world crumbles around him, he gets the call to go back into the line of duty. Trying to prevent Hispania from leaving the Roman Empire. They are up against a cunning rebel leader who will stop at nothing to stir up rebellion in the colony.

This was off to a slower start than I am used to with Simon Scarrow novels. I did enjoy seeing the personal side of both Cato and Macro as it really assisted in their character developments. It did take quite a while to get into the book and I would not recommend starting with this particular novel in the Eagles of the Empire series. Once they do reach Hispania things pick up pretty quickly, but by this time you are a third of the way through the book. When the fight begins it is up to Scarrow’s usual standards, he has a great way of keeping you on the edge of your seat throughout the battle. Scarrow’s research on these lands and the time/event he is telling of is always impeccable and shines through. The conclusion of course leaves room for another instalment. Overall a good read, just wish he had found a way to make the first third more attention grabbing.  

Book Review- Robert J. Randisi- Curtains of Blood

Robert J. Randisi- Curtains of Blood 3 Stars

The rough streets of London are being stalked by a ruthless killer, Jack the Ripper. In the nicer end of London, Bram Stoker has been ordered to end the production of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, as the police suspect that it is influencing this killer. They also suspect the main actor of possibly being Jack the Ripper. Now Bram is seeking out Jack the Ripper in the hopes of proving his friend’s innocence and getting the production back onto his stage. He secretly wishes to speak with this ruthless killer to assist in his novel that he plans to write.

This novel did not immediately grab my attention, but there was something about the writing style that kept me reading. The characters I felt were decent, but could have used more development. I did enjoy that it was people we have all heard of, Bram Stoker, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Oscar Wilde, and Jack the Ripper. I also like how they tie in that this is the story of how Bram Stoker came up with Dracula. It gave the novel a different view of Jack the Ripper than what most books take on his reign of terror. The plot for the book was pretty good, but could have also used a little bit of tweaking as well. It did seem kind of silly how Stoker was risking everything in his life for the sake of an idea. It made me saddened for him that he was willing to sacrifice his relationship with his wife. Overall the book was an okay one time read, and a good one for Halloween.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com.

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- Simon Scarrow- The Eagle’s Prophecy

Simon Scarrow- The Eagle’s Prophecy 4.25 Stars

In AD 45 centurions Macro and Cato, are being told that they must go on a deadly mission or be executed. A large group of vicious pirates have come into possession of scrolls that could destroy Rome if they see the light of day. Now Macro and Cato must go with a group of troops to try to get the scrolls back and save Rome. If they are successful, they can have there lives back. It seems like a suicide mission, but what choice do they have?

This book had a good introduction, as it gets you right into the heart of what the book is going to be about. The main plot is great. It has some twists, but no real shocking moments. It did keep me reading and enjoying the time period as it is a captivating time. It had some very intense parts that kept me on the edge of my seat, not wanting to put the book down. I loved the characters in the book as well. I will definitely be looking for more books in this series. I did feel in parts like I was missing something in not having read the other books preceding this one. In the future I will read this series in order. I would recommend this book those who love historical fiction.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com.

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- Sara Gruen- Water for Elephants

Sara Gruen- Water for Elephants (Harper Perennial 2011) 4 Stars

Jacob has just lost his parents in the middle of the depression and leaving during his final veterinarian exams, he hops on a random train in the hopes of leaving his problems behind. Now he is part of the circus and he is using his vet skills to look after their animals. He has now found two things he loves, Rosie an elephant, and Marlena a married woman, whose husband’s mood swings make her a prime target of abuse. Trapped and not sure what to do, he may be forced into action as the circus crumbles around him.

The introduction was very good; it gets you into the book immediately, making you want to find out how this outtake is going to fit into the rest of the book. The plot was interesting, taking shape beautifully as it carried you through the life of this elderly man. It switched back and forth from past to present smoothly. Normally these shifts annoy me, but with this book it seemed natural. It was wonderfully told and captivated my attention. I did find myself wishing for less smut, as it really was not necessary. The characters jumped off of every page. They were very well done. The circus setting was unique, as you do not see many books about the circus, keeping this one fresh. The author also must have done a lot of research and showed this in the book. I also enjoyed the conclusion, it was a fitting way to end the novel. Overall, I think that this book is worth the hype and plan to watch the movie now that I have read the book.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com.

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- Kirk Mitchell- Fredericksburg

Kirk Mitchell- Fredericksburg (ibooks 2003) 3.5 Stars

This book covers the pre-battle, battle, and post-battle parts of the battle of Fredericksburg. It takes on the characters from lowly privates, to sergeants, to generals. I found it rather amusing that the first typo to be found was on the cover of the book, forgetting the ‘e’ in Fredericksburg. It got off to a long and extremely slow beginning. I know why they did it this way; I just wish it could have been more interesting. That being said it was great to see all the historical detailing brought into the book, as well as the amazing job that was done at character development. I liked the fact that it covered the battle from both sides, but it got to be rather confusing at times. When it did get to the actual battle section, it got to be very intense and I couldn’t put the book down. This redeemed it for the slow beginning. It was also good to see the author let you know what the people he researched for the book did after the war. Overall it was a good read, about an era in time that I find fascinating.

For more of my reviews check out my website, http://www.tonypeters.webs.com/

Tony Peters
Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping
http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- Richard Peck- Here Lies the Librarian

Richard Peck- Here Lies the Librarian (Scholastic Books 2006) 3 Stars

The back of the book describes it as: Peewee idolizes Jake, a big brother whose dreams of auto mechanic glory are fueled by the hard road coming to link their Indiana town and futures with the twentieth century. And motoring down the road comes Irene Ridpath, a young librarian with plans to astonish them all and turn Peewee’s life upside down.

It was an interesting beginning. Something about the writing style brought me in and made me want to read more of it. The plot was not overly deep; in fact I would call it the major weak point of this novel. I failed to what the point in the book was. That being said, the characters were quite well done and were easy to get attached to. They were a lot of fun. The overall book was enjoyable to read about as well, especially the racing scenes. Kids who enjoy racing or historical settings would likely find this book up their alley.

For more of my reviews check out my website, http://www.tonypeters.webs.com/

Tony Peters
Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping
http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- Raymond Khoury- The Last Templar

Raymond Khoury- The Last Templar (Signet Books 2006) 3.5 Stars

In 1291 the Templars are being hunted down and are struggling to hide a chest filled with secrets that could change the world. Now in Manhattan a museum is robbed of their Templar Knights display. Murders are now ripping through New York, all connected to the museum robbery. An archaeologist and FBI agent are teaming up to solve this case before it is too late.

***SPOILER ALERT***

The book was well written, with an introduction that grabs your attention right off the bat. The plot was also very good with some great twists and turns along the way. The setting was interesting, and he merged the time period shifting very well. I also had some things that I found to be fundamentally wrong with the book. The author had his characters bashing religion as a whole a lot, which I found to be frustrating, although he kind of made up for it in the end. I do not like to see any religion being insulted. The main character, Reilly, was very easily shaken from his faith, which was also kind of frustrating. Tess, the other main character, is also so willing to believe the scroll she finds is authentic and accurate, and yet she has less proof of its validity then anyone else has in their religions. I also found it hard to fathom how Reilly can so easily forgive Tess when she betrays his trust so often, which doesn’t seem very realistic.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- Thomas Greanias- The Promised War

Thomas Greanias- The Promised War (Pocket Star Books 2011) 3.25 Stars

Sam Deker works for Israel’s counterterrorism unit and he has just been captured in a trap. While being tortured for information he manages to escape. Somehow he is taken back in time and is found by the Israelites waiting to invade Jericho. He must now become a spy once again and save the Israelites of the past as well as the future.

The intro was decent, not great, but not bad either. Then the book just gets a little too weird for me, I guess I have never been into the whole time travel thing. I thought that if it was done right I might enjoy it, but in this case I did not. The overall plot was pretty good, but the religion aspect was kind of frustrating. I do not enjoy reading books with a lot of religion in them, especially when the author takes liberties with facts. The characters were good, but again not great. I am used to characters with more depth from this author, but I did not find that in this novel. Overall I just thought that this book was okay.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- Tatiana De Rosnay- Sarah’s Key

Tatiana De Rosnay- Sarah’s Key (St. Martin’s Press 2007) 3.5 Stars

Sarah is a ten-year-old Jewish girl, living in Paris, France during the roundup of July 1942. French police are gathering up the Jews and Sarah looks to protect her brother by hiding him in a secret cupboard, keeping the only key for herself. Intending to return after she is released, she has no idea that it might take longer than she thinks.

Julia Jarmond is an American journalist living in Paris sixty years later. She is looking into the roundup for an article she is writing and has come upon Sarah’s story, which may have ties to her own family.

This book was quite intriguing, although at times it got hard to follow as it switched between the two people’s stories. It was interesting to see the roundup from a child’s perspective, although still a sad thing to read about. It was a touching story, and interesting to see how Julia is able to dig up information. The plot was good, but certainly could have used a little tweaking in some parts. The characters were really well done; it certainly added depth to the story. I did find that at times this novel was kind of slow, and was dragged down with too much useless information about the setting. Overall it was a decent read if you are into historical fiction.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- J.M. Thompson and Fred Bean- Tombstone

J.M. Thompson and Fred Bean- Tombstone (Signet Books 2001) 3 Stars

We all know the story of Wyatt Earp and the OK Corral. This novel covers the fight, as well as the events following the historic battle. Leo LeMat wishes to paint a portrait of Wyatt Earp and he intends to keep Wyatt alive long enough to finish his work, even if it means he has to get his hands dirty in a fight that is not his.

I love this time in history, I especially love the story of Wyatt Earp; he is by far my favourite of the big western names. The introduction was good; it starts out minutes before the fight at the OK Corral and then covers the actual fight. It was interesting to see this from someone else’s perspective, as usually it is from Wyatt’s perspective, or it focuses mainly on him. The characters were really well done; at times a little too much focus was done on character work, as it slowed things down. I did find it hard to get into the book at times; it had just enough to keep me reading, and nothing more. The plot was good, but it contained few surprises as he had to stick to the historical points. Overall I thought it was a decent read, but not one I would pick up again.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- Tony Earley- Jim the Boy

Tony Earley- Jim the Boy (Little, Brown and Company 2001) 4.75 Stars

After Jim Glass passed away leaving behind an expecting wife, Cissy sees no other choice than to call her son Jim Glass in honour of the man she loved. Now Jim is ten years old and he lives with his mother during the Great Depression. His three uncles are left to teach him the responsibilities of being a man. He is trying to learn the breaks and now his school has been combined with all of the outlying schools, including the mountain country where his father was raised, bringing in students who know more about Jim’s family history than he does, including stories of a grumpy grandfather whom his mother has forbidden to ever see him. Being a ten-year-old boy is turning out to be harder than he could have ever imagined.

I read Blue Star the heart warming sequel to Jim the Boy last year and I knew that I just had to read this one. Earley has such a talent for story telling. It made me feel like I was right there along with Jim Glass going through his preteen lessons and heartaches. I enjoyed this book immensely and was up late last night as I could not get enough of it. The characters are so rich and full of life that they jump off of every page; you cannot help but feel like they are right there with you. I enjoyed seeing this one year period of Jim Glass’ life and was touched by how he had to learn just what life is like, with heartache, regrets, joys, and most importantly a loving family. This gives Blue Star some background and will make rereading it more enjoyable. I will be rereading both books with my wife and definitely recommend reading these two books to everyone.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

www.eloquentbooks.com/kidsonacase.html

Book Review- Jennifer Lee Carrell- The Shakespeare Secret

Jennifer Lee Carrell- The Shakespeare Secret (Published in the U.S. as Interred with Their Bones) (Plume 2008) 4 Stars

When the Globe theatre suddenly burns down due to arson and Kate Stanley’s mentor dies in the theatre after giving Kate a mysterious gift, she is forced to dig deep into secrets some wish to remain hidden. The gift is the first clue as to what her friend Roz had stumbled upon, and the thing that will throw Kate into a life on the run. She is an expert her field of study, Shakespeare, and she must use every ounce of her knowledge as she spans the globe in search for the truth behind Shakespeare. She is on a deadly quest for the truth that may just destroy everything she holds dear.

Right from page one I was intrigued by this book. Not being a fan of Shakespeare I still found it interesting to learn so much that I did not know about this literary genius. The plot takes the reader on a twisting and winding road that will keep you up late at night biting your nails in anticipation. Just when you think you have everything figured out, something will jump out of nowhere to make you rethink what you had thought right before you can think about what you think right now. Confusing sentence that makes you stop and think? Well I had to stop and think a few times while reading this, not many authors can make me do this so often. The characters were well thought out and I enjoyed reading about them. I will certainly be looking for the sequel to this book as I expect it to be a good one. There were a few cheesy moments, but most books contain at least a few so I will not nit-pick. I enjoyed the setting as it was interesting to see the different parts of the world, although at times it was exhausting to think about how they could trick airport security so easily.

I recommend The Shakespeare Secret (Published in the U.S. as Interred with Their Bones) to anyone who loves Shakespeare, adventure, or a good thriller.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- Tony Earley- The Blue Star

Tony Earley- The Blue Star (Little, Brown and Company 2009) 4 Stars

Jim Glass is learning what it is like to grow up. He has found a girl that he loves with just one problem, she has a fiancé overseas. Jim must now learn what it is like to not have what he wants most, to be just friends with the girl of his dreams. With World War II just starting he must consider doing his duty and signing up. Meanwhile his best friend seems to have problems of his own and Jim must try to keep him from getting himself killed.

I was surprised to find myself enjoying The Blue Star as it is not my usual reading. Tony Early writes a captivating tale of Jim Glass and his adventures while he is learning to grow up. The storyline is slow moving and yet it still managed to hold my attention all the way through. The characters were amazingly real; it was like they all jumped off of every page. It was a fairly serious book, but I still found myself laughing at some of the situations Jim and his best friend, Dennis Deane, found themselves in. It was also interesting to see the cultural differences between their time period and ours. As for plot there was not a lot going on plot-wise, but I do not believe that it really needed a lot. The book read more like a campfire tale that your grandparents would tell you.

I recommend The Blue Star to anyone looking for a beautiful tale of times past.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

www.eloquentbooks.com/kidsonacase.html