Archive for November, 2017

Something Down There ~ Review, Fun Facts and Two Giveaways

Posted: November 30, 2017 in giveaways, reviews, thriller
Tags: , , , ,
4
Check out this special feature from Something Down There by Nancy Widrew!
Something Down There Tour Graphic
SOMETHING DOWN THERE
Nancy Widrew
Genre: Psychological Thriller
Publisher: Azure Spider Publications
Publication Date: November 15, 2017)
Something Down There
My Review
There was supposed to be four of them, but when one couple cancels, Jeremy and his wife, Karen, go spelunking anyway. They decide to go to any easier cave so there is less risk of injury. Then, Jeremy doesn’t show up for work. There’s no evidence they ever returned home. Months go by, and they’re assumed dead.
I’m not crazy about confined spaces so I don’t get the desire to crawl into caves. The thought of tons of earth above me makes me shiver. And having a wacky cult kidnap me, dragging me deep into the cave system, is the stuff of nightmares.
This thriller wasn’t packed with action. It was subtle, just like the cult was with luring the happy couple into their trap. The tribe thought cutting themselves off from humanity was a good thing. But they couldn’t hide from it. It came with them. The jealousy, insecurity, anger. All of it followed them down the hole.
And  the bad times grew for Kate and Jeremy as time blurred their past lives and they started to succumb to life in the cave. It was almost like brain washing. Sooner or later they would give in and accept their fate. The author did this part really well. It felt so real as both of them caught themselves falling for the fantasy, shook it off, and fell for it again. It was becoming easier for them to forget their past than to hope for escape.
Somewhere Down There reads at a steady pace. It’s a solid psychological thriller that grows on you, keeping you eager to find out who would survive and how it would end.
4 Stars
Not all caves are uninhabited
Horror erupts when newlyweds, Karen and Jeremy, cross paths with members of a diabolical cult inside a West Virginia cave. Living below the earth’s surface has triggered mutations, rendering the cult members nearly infertile. Their leader, a wild-eyed, cunning brute, refuses to let the couple leave, believing they and their potential offspring hold the key to surviving underground. Are Karen and Jeremy doomed to spend their lives inside this sunless, subterranean wasteland, or do they escape before their minds shatter and their bodies betray them?
[Praise]
– [Name], Goodreads Reviewer

Purchase Links

Available now $3.99 only. Grab your copy today.

Blog Tour Schedule

Ongoing till December 2, 2017.
Get behind the scenes on Something Down There.
Visit each stop daily and iscover more features, excerpts, reviews, interviews, fun facts and other extras.
To check the latest schedule, visit the Something Down There Book Page at Book Unleashed.
.

Check Out These Fun Facts:

  1. My description of the protagonists, Karen and Jeremy, descending into the cave is based on my own spelunking experience in W. Va. After crawling snakelike on my belly, I was linked by a rope to a boulder, then slid down a ledge with a silent scream and swung like a pendulum for touchdown.
  2. A “boohoo” fun fact: Because it didn’t advance the plot, I deleted a scene where two especially unsavory characters begin falling in love. I still regret having to obliterate their blossoming romance.
  3. The protagonist’s name was Michael in the first draft. I switched to Rahm (short for Abraham) since he was the patriarch of the underground group.
  4. I originally wrote this book a long time ago but decided it wasn’t good enough. Years later, on one of those nothing-better-to-do days, I began rewriting it. By the time I reached page thirty, I knew I wouldn’t stop until it was done.
  5. Although she’s not the “star” of the book, Helene is my favorite character. I love her screwball, passive-aggressive nature.
Something Down There Tour Graphic

Giveaway

WIN A PRINT COPY OF
SOMETHING DOWN THERE *
Something Down There Giveaway Graphic
* Available for US Residents Only
Contest runs from November 1 – December 2, 2017.
Additional Giveaway
Join the Goodreads Giveaway and win a print copy of Something Down There (US Residents only).
Contest runs from September 19 – November 15. Click here to enter.

About Nancy Widrew

Nancy Widrew

Nancy Widrew was born and raised in NYC before settling in New England with her husband. She has two grown children and two four-legged furry ones, always a source of amusement. She has had short stories published in webzines and a print anthology. This is her first novel.
Follow Nancy Widrew on Twitter at https://twitter.com/nancywidrew
In partnership with
Book Unleashed Logo

~~~~~

Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE

She’s out there…..The Death Doll by Brian P. White ~ Review

Posted: November 30, 2017 in apocalypse, horror, reviews, Zombies
Tags: , , , , ,
6

I can’t ever resist a zombie horror book. Got a good one to share with you today.

The Death Doll

by Brian P. White

32442883

c8df8-add2bto2bgoodreads2bblack

Genre: Horror / Apocalypse / Zombies

 My Review

The Death Doll takes place two years after the zombie apocalypse went down. Now, bands of survivors struggle to survive the desolation.

One band is lead by Didi. In her previous life she was a porn star and looks the part. Statuesque and voluptuous, don’t let her looks deceive you. She’s a force to be reckoned with. Her mission. Provide for the community and keep everyone alive, at all costs. And the costs are high. The zombies aren’t the only thing they have to worry about. Other survivors want what they have. And the Death Doll stalks the unwitting.

I love Didi. She never shies away from danger. In fact, she steps right up to it. And her steadfast efforts to keep her band of survivors safe is incredible. Especially when there’s grumbling in the ranks and many aren’t so sure about their leader. And maybe they have reason to worry.

Right from the beginning you know Didi has secrets. The author peels them away slowly, surprising you in ways you never suspected. As the group learns her secrets, things go sideways and this is the part I loved the most. Group dynamics are fascinating. Put a bunch of people together, scare them, and you discover who steps up and who throws the monkey wrench in the works.

There’s plenty of action and intrigue to keep the story rolling in The Death Doll. And a lot of surprises await you. A fast read for me and one I’m glad I read.

4 Stars

~~~~~

Synopsis

Didi was once the darling of the porn industry, baring it all for the world on the silver screen. Then came the zombie apocalypse. Two years later, she’s killing every flesh-eating corpse in her path to protect a group of unlikely survivors in northwest Iowa. Unfortunately, she hides a terrifying secret that threatens every life she defends. For nothing left on Earth that creeps or crawls is as lethal as The Death Doll.

Amazon

~~~~~

Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE

The Kid’s Korner #23 ~ Win a signed set of the complete Captain No Beard Series!

Posted: November 29, 2017 in Action/Adventure, Children's books, giveaways, reviews
Tags: , , , ,
25

Welcome to The Kid’s Korner.

I decided to do this feature as I have so many great children’s books to share. From picture books, to books for beginning readers, to middle graders, I have plenty of fun ones.

Today I’m sharing my reviews for the last two books in the Captain No Beard series by Carole P. Roman.

Be sure to check out the interview.

And there’s a giveaway for a chance to win signed print copies of the complete 10 book set of the Captain No Beard Series! So don’t forget to enter.

~~~~~

Enjoy my interview with Author Carole P. Roman

Of all the themes you could have chosen for your series, why pirates?

I love pirates. I used watch swashbucklers with my mom and was surprised how easily the story came to me. I have always been attracted to sailing ships and seaports. I’m a big Mystic Seaport fan. Just seemed there was a lot of things I could do on the high seas!

I adore the zany crew of the Flying Dragon and especially enjoy meeting each new character. Where did the idea for each of them come from?

Each of the human characters are based on my grandkids. I was surprised at how well Bonnie Lemaire captured their personalities. Alexander was just over two when we started, Hallie a few months old. Then when Cayla and Zach came along, I added them to the story. The stuffed animals in the story have some traits of various members of my family. I’m not telling who- but they’ll recognize themselves, I’m sure.

Could you share with us about the delightful illustrations in your books?

Createspace had four or five illustrator and I chose Bonnie because she had the whimsy I was looking for. We’ve never met, or spoken on the phone and all our notes were done through emails in the beginning. I think she is a genius. She took my descriptions and really captures the fun of the book.

Each of the adventures in your series teaches a valuable lesson. Did the ideas for the stories come first or the lessons?

The first book was simply a reflection of playtime with the kids. It’s sort of how we used to make up a story as we played. The rest of the books evolved from a conversation with someone in my family, Snake Island started with the most beautiful sunrise. I may have written the first line, but the characters took over from there. They really do speak to me.

Is there anything else you’d like to share about writing your series?

I had a great time doing it. I love reading the books to kids and watching them enjoy the “drama” of the story. I think there is not enough adventure in kids books today.

Five fun short questions.

Favorite holiday? Thanksgiving.

Sweet or salty snacks? Both!!

Hot or cold beverages? Hot- coffee.

If you could be any animal, what would you be? Probably a dog. A really cute one.

Early riser or repeatedly hit the snooze? Oh, crack of dawn for me. I hit the floor running and don’t stop until midnight.

Thanks for the thoughtful and fun questions!!!

And thank you, Carole, for this wonderful interview.

~~~~~

A Flag For The Flying Dragon

A Captain No Beard Story #9

by Carole P. Roman

c8df8-add2bto2bgoodreads2bblack

Genre: Adventure / Children’s Book

 My Review

Oh boy. There’s a new crew member aboard the Flying Dragon and Mongo the monkey isn’t happy about it one bit. Zachary is too young to do most jobs and a whole lot of trouble to look after. When Captain No Beard decides the ship needs a flag, maybe Zachary has an idea for that? And Maybe he’s found his place on the ship.

I love this problem solving gang of pirates. And how Carole introduces the lesson to be learned and the solution to the problem is always a fun, delightful adventure.

It’s never too late to join the crew. Welcome aboard, Matey.

5  Stars

~~~~~

Synopsis

It’s business as usual on the Flying Dragon. Their mission is to find a flag for the ship. Captain No Beard sighs, “Being a captain is hard work,” as he watches the busy crew preparing the vessel for their next adventure. Polly is giving out pretzels; Linus is polishing a lamp. Matie is cracking coconuts, Cayla is stuffing holes, and Hallie is swabbing the deck. High overhead, trouble is brewing, and it is not the weather. Mongo does not want any help from the newest crew member, and it is creating a hurricane of a mess on board. The team must come together and find a task that will fit Zachary without interfering with their own fun. On the way, they acquire a flag that will unite them as both friends and crew. Join the problem-solving crew of the Flying Dragon as they find a flag for their ship and a job for Zach.

Amazon

~~~~~

Being A Captain Is Hard Work

A Captain No Beard Story #10

by Carole P. Roman

c8df8-add2bto2bgoodreads2bblack

Genre: Adventure / Children’s Book

 My Review

The last book in the series and it’s another fun adventure.

As the title says, being a captain is hard work. Capatin No Beard says this in all of his books. What he doesn’t realize and learns from his crew is that he makes it harder on himself.  Sometimes, listening to others and not always insisting his way is the only right way means smooth sailing.

Once again I’m taken away by the vivid, exciting illustrations. Carole has some fun, lovable characters in her band of pirates and it’s always fun to see how they work together to solve problems and help each other. How Captain No Beard learns to listen to others and comes to understand that being stubborn has consequences for his crew too is cleverly blended into another exciting adventure on the high seas.

I’ve loved all of the books in this series and can’t recommend them enough. They will make reading time such fun for parents, teachers, and kids and the life lessons are invaluable.

5  Stars

~~~~~

Synopsis

Captain No Beard is determined to travel to Dew Rite Volcano. He won’t listen when Mongo predicts a storm or Linus indicates they are headed in the wrong direction. He insists Polly cook in the galley even though the seas are getting rough. What’s a crew to do with a stubborn, know-it-all captain? Will they convince the captain he is barreling headlong into danger, or will Captain No Beard jeopardize both his safety and the crew’s with his single-minded determination to go where he wants?

Amazon

~~~~~

Author Carole P. Roman

Carole P. Roman

Named to Kirkus Reviews’ Best of 2012 for her first book, award winning author Carole P. Roman started writing as a dare from one of her sons. Using an imaginary game she played with her grandson as a base, Captain No Beard was born.”Captain No Beard- An Imaginary Tale of a Pirate’s Life” has not only been named to Kirkus Best of 2012, it received the Star of Exceptional Merit, and won the Pinnacle Award for 2012. “Pepper Parrot’s Problem with Patience” Book 2 in the series, received 5 Stars from The ForeWord Review The Clarion Review. Strangers on the High Seas has won second place in the Rebecca’s Reads Choice Awards 2013. It has followed with six more books to the series. This year, Captain No Beard and the Aurora Borealis was named to Kirkus Best 2015. The entire cultural non-fiction series If You Were Me and Lived in… was named Best Series by Shelf Unbound. She has begun work on two new series that will be released in early 2016.
Motivated by her love of yoga, Roman has written a book that not only teaches four poses, but shows how easy and accessible yoga can be.
Her nonfiction series, “If You Were Me and Lived in…” combines her teaching past with her love of exploration and interest in the world around us. The debut book in the series, “If You Were Me and Lived in…Mexico” has won the Pinnacle Award for Best in Children’s Non Fiction 2012. France, South Korea, and Norway. Rebecca’s Reads has given If You Were Me and Lived in…Norway an honorable mention in the 2013 Choice Awards. If You Were Me and Lived in …France won second place. ForeWord Review has nominated If You Were Me and Lived in…France for best in children’s non fiction literature 2013. They will be followed with Kenya, Turkey, India, and Australia. She plans to do Portugal, Greece, and Argentina next year. There are now 22 books in the series and include a trip to Mars in 2054.
Carole was recently featured in a two part article on Forbes.com where her book, Navigating Indieworld was discussed along with her self-publishing success.
Writing for children has opened up a whole second act for her. While she is still working in her family business, this has enabled her to share her sense of humor as well as love for history and culture with the audience she adores. Roman lives on Long Island with her husband and near her children.

Goodreads / Website / Blog / Twitter / Facebook / Amazon

~~~~~

giveaway photo: Giveaway Banner for 42nd giveaway.png

Carole has a wonderful giveaway! One person will win signed print copies of the complete Captain No Beard series!

US Only.

I like to keep the giveaways easy so all you need to do is leave your email address so I can contact you and leave your answer to this question in the comment section:

What’s the first book you remember reading?

Giveaway ends December 6th.

~~~~~

And here are my reviews for the other books in the series. Just click on the covers to read my reviews.

   

   

 

~~~~~

Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE

The Golden Series by Kathryn Celeste ~ Book Tour and Giveaway

Posted: November 29, 2017 in giveaways, Paranormal or fantasy, Romance
Tags: , , ,
2
 .
Unicorn Gold
The Golden Series Book 1
by Kathryn Celeste
Genre: Paranormal Romance
 
Rourke is a unicorn shape shifter and a virgin. Sent back from Alter Earth
to rescue the paranormal beings who were left behind when magic left
this world he is forced to confront the fact that unicorns seem to
have vanished from the world.
Kaitlyn is a veterinarian with healing abilities. Unaware of the origin of
her gifts she tries to live life under the radar.

Then she meets Rourke. For the first time in her life sparks fly. But
Rourke has his own secrets of his own. Secrets that threaten to turn
Kaitlyns world upside down.
Hunted by those who fear their gifts will Rourke and Kaitlyn be able to
overcome everything trying to tear them apart? Or in the end will the
hunters steal the choice from them?
 
 
 
 
Dragon Gold
The Golden Series Book 2
 
A year ago David met his mate. It should have been the happiest day of
his life. Instead, it was the worst. Emma ran from him. Only his
ability to touch her mind keeps him sane but how long will that be
enough?
Hunted and alone Emma hasn’t stopped running since she left Haven. David’s
presence in her mind brings her comfort in the hardest times. When
she returns to Haven will Emma be able to face David in person or
will fear keep them apart?
With hunters after David and Emma’s ex stalking her is there any way
this mating stands a chance?
 
 
 
Kathryn Celeste has been a programmer, a security specialist, a bookseller, a
reviewer and a secretary. Through it all she has written. Pushed hard
by a relentless muse to give life to a world unseen by others.
She lives in Queensland Australia with her husband, three sons, dog, cat,
ducks and chickens where she continues to write about the paranormal
folks that poke around in her head.
Follow the tour HERE
for exclusive excerpts, guest posts and a giveaway!
 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 
 

~~~~~

Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE

The After Series by Traci L. Slatton ~ Book Tour and Giveaway

Posted: November 28, 2017 in Dystopian, giveaways, Romance
Tags: , , , ,
11
 ,
Fallen
The After Series Book 1
by Traci L. Slatton
Genre: Dystopian Romance
 
As chaos descends on a crippled Earth, survivors are tormented by
strange psychic gifts. In this time of apocalyptic despair, love is
put to the test. One woman with mysterious healing power guides seven
children to safety. Charismatic Arthur offers her a haven. Slowly
Emma falls for him. But at the moment of their sweetest love, his
devastating secret is revealed, and they are lost to each other.
 
 
Cold Light
The After Series Book 2
 
The end of the world brings chaos, madness, and psychic powers. For Emma
and Arthur, separated by an ocean, it brings a love that demands
everything. Emma’s beloved daughter is kidnapped by vengeful raiders,
and Emma embarks on a soul-crushing journey to rescue her. When
Arthur finds Emma, can she trust him? Against impossible odds, Emma
draws near the rogue camp, where she also confronts the deepest
choice of her heart….
 
 
Far Shore
The After Series Book 3
 
An old enemy wreaks new havoc at the end of the world…
After the mists’ lethal apocalypse, mankind’s only hope for survival
lies broken and battered, the prisoner of a ruthless sociopath who
will stop at nothing to hurt him. Emma sets out to rescue him. She
faces an ultimatum and must relinquish everything she holds dear. As
Arthur teeters on the brink of life and death, Emma’s healing
ability fails. Her own despair tests her, and she must grow stronger
than she ever dreamt possible as she confronts the truth of her own
heart.
In a time of apocalyptic despair, love is put to the test…

A mystical odyssey, a haunting love…
 
 
Blood Sky
The After Series Book 4
 
In a time of apocalyptic despair, love is put to the test… Deep in the
badlands of Outpost City, in the Dark Horse saloon, a poker game is
being played. The stakes are life and death—for the world. What can
Emma afford to lose? Will she gamble on herself, or on Arthur? Will
love find a way when the apocalypse closes in? A mystical odyssey, a
haunting love….
 

 

 
Traci L. Slatton is the international bestselling author of historical,
paranormal, and romantic novels, including IMMORTAL (BantamDell) and
BROKEN; the award-winning dystopian After Series which includes
FALLEN, COLD LIGHT, FAR SHORE and BLOOD SKY; the bittersweet romantic
comedy THE LOVE OF MY (OTHER) LIFE; and the vampire art history romp
THE BOTTICELLI AFFAIR. She has also published the lyrical poetry
collection DANCING IN THE TABERNACLE and THE ART OF LIFE, a
photo-essay about figurative sculpture through the ages. Her book
PIERCING TIME & SPACE explores the meeting ground of science and
spirituality. Her latest novel THE YEAR OF LOVING follows an art
gallerist through a steamy love triangle and a challenging year of
love and travail. This story seeks to answer the question, What
sustains you when all else falls apart?
 
 
Follow the tour HERE
for exclusive content and a giveaway!
 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 
 

~~~~~

Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE

Teaser Tuesday #226 ~ Ring In The Year With Murder

Posted: November 28, 2017 in Cozy Mystery, Teaser Tuesdays
Tags: , , ,
18

Welcome to Teaser Tuesday hosted by Ambrosia  @ The Purple Booker.

Anyone can play along! Just do the following:
• Grab your current read.
• Open to a random page.
•Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

 

My Teaser for this week is from

Ring In The Year With Murder

by Auralee Wallace

33574272

c8df8-add2bto2bgoodreads2bblack

Genre: Cozy Mystery

 My teaser from page 50 in the paperback.

 “What do you mean where’s Stanley?”

I looked down at the empty floor.

Uh-oh.

“Erica, where is my dog?”

Oh boy. Losing someone’s dog is a major no-no!

~~~~~

Read on if you want to know more.

Synopsis

It’s been a tough year for Erica Bloom. And with hours left on the clock and a killer crashing the party, it’s not over yet…

This New Year’s Eve, Erica’s resolution is to have a great night―even if it kills her. She is, after all, at the party to end all parties: a Great Gatsby–themed gala sure to be the talk of Otter Lake, New Hampshire. With her perfectly finger-waved hair, borrowed pearls, and scarlet flapper dress, Erica is determined to be unflappable, despite the presence of her ex, Sheriff Grady Forrester, and his hot date, a bubbly blonde who has a hard time holding her drink. Literally. . .

In a plot twist as bizarre as a game of Clue, Grady’s girlfriend almost drops dead after her drink is poisoned. Who put the killer ingredient in her appletini? Suddenly the tables have turned and the sheriff has become the prime suspect. Now Erica has until midnight to clear the man she still loves―and in so doing just maybe win him back. That’s if the killer doesn’t pop the cork again… and turn a New Year’s smooch into a kiss of death…

Amazon

~~~~~

How about you? Got a tease? Tell me!

Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE

My Monday Minis #33 ~ It’s not easy being a pirate

Posted: November 27, 2017 in Action/Adventure, Children's books, reviews
Tags: , , ,
6

Welcome to my Monday Minis where I share shorter reviews of books I’ve read.

I’m once again sharing some fun adventures with Carole P. Roman’s Captain No Beard series.

~~~~~

The Crew Goes Coconuts!

A Captain No Beard Story #6

by Carole P. Roman

Genre: Adventure / Children’s Book

c8df8-add2bto2bgoodreads2bblack

My Review

It’s not always smooth sailing on the Flying Dragon and a storm is brewing aboard ship. All of the juice is gone and no matter where they search, none is to be found. When Matie the goat is blamed for their plight, the crew learns an important message about bullying and casting blame.

This was such a fun new adventure. And I loved the lesson to be learned. We all find it easy to cast blame, especially when it’s many against one. It’s our job to protect the underdog, not bully them. Matie was an easy target, being new to the crew, but soon proves her worth.

As with the previous books, I delighted in seeing the crew again. the illustrations were pure fun, and I was left smiling and feeling lighter at the end.  Perfect for the young pirates in the classroom or at home.

5 Stars

~~~~~

Description

There is a storm brewing on the Flying Dragon, and it’s not about the weather. When the crew finds themselves parched and not enough juice to go around, blame falls on Matie the goat, Hallie’s friend. Divided, they square off, ready for a fight and Captain No Beard must teach his crew that not only is bullying wrong, they must learn to value and respect each and every member of the crew. Watch the crew of the Flying Dragon learn an important lesson about being a true friend.

Amazon

~~~~~

Captain No Beard And The Aurora Borealis

A Captain No Beard Story #7

by Carole P. Roman

Genre: Adventure / Children’s Book

c8df8-add2bto2bgoodreads2bblack

My Review

Has Captain No Beard gone to the dark side? The crew learns he’s using the North Star to track a coarse to the Arctic, where he plans to steal the Aurora Borealis. But the gang need not fear as the captain listens to reason, admitting it’s wrong to steal no matter what. Besides, you can’t steal the northern lights, silly pirate.

I enjoyed learning about navigation by stars. And I’ve only caught a glimpse of the northern lights before and imagine it’s quite a spectacle to behold. The illustrations in the book are spectacular. Bold and bright. Your kids will be astounded by them and have so many questions. All easily answered by reading the story.

Another charming learning experience with the Flying Dragon gang.

5 Stars

~~~~~

Description

Captain No Beard and his crew of loyal pirates heave anchor for another adventure, this time in the icy waters of the Arctic. Captain No Beard’s steering a course due north, sailing by the light of the North Star. Everyone on the crew wonders what the captain’s up to, especially as he gets embarrassed when they ask. When the captain finally admits his plan, the crew discovers he plans to steal the aurora borealis, the beautiful northern lights that brighten the arctic sky. They’re all shocked. They may be pirates, but even they know stealing is bad. Besides, how can anyone steal the lights from the sky? A charming, engaging tale about doing what’s right, Captain No Beard and the Aurora Borealis is the latest installment in Carole P. Roman’s award-winning pirate series. The first book, Captain No Beard-an Imaginary Tale of a Pirate’s Life, received the Kirkus Reviews Best of 2012 award and the Star of Remarkable Achievement. The series presents real-life problems in an imaginary setting and encourages discussion with both parents and educators.

Amazon

~~~~~

Fribbet The Frog And The Tadpoles

A Captain No Beard Story #8

by Carole P. Roman

Genre: Adventure / Children’s Book

c8df8-add2bto2bgoodreads2bblack

My Review

It’s a rocky boat for the crew of the Flying Dragon and hard work for Captain No Beard. Cayla is getting bigger and that means getting into more trouble, And Fribbet the frog is crying puddle of green.

The captain has his hands full with Cayla and the crew are wringing theirs over Fribbet. But No Beard and Fribbet come to realize that families will grow and that’s a good thing as they’ll never be alone.

You’re children will be delighted to learn about Fribbet and how tadpoles become glorious green frogs. I loved the subtle narrative about new siblings in a household and how frightening that might be for kids.

Carole once again shows that learning and fun can be one and the same.

5 Stars

~~~~~

Description

Fribbet the Frog and the Tadpoles is another great voyage into problem solving and friendship, as well as an adventurous trip into the imagination.

Join the Captain No Beard and his friends as they learn the value of sharing our troubles with others and that help is always there when we need it.

Amazon

~~~~~

Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE

What’s New On My Bookshelf #234 and The Sunday Post

Posted: November 26, 2017 in Freebies!, giveaways, reviews, What's New on My Bookshelf
Tags: , ,
55

bookshelves photo: Bookshelf bookshelves.jpg

This is my own version of a weekly book haul and all things new on fuonlyknew.

I’m also linking up with The Sunday Post hosted by Kimberly @Caffeinated Book Reviewer.

Sunday Post

Some chit chat.

Thanksgiving has come and gone. The turkey and all the trimmings are just a memory. Now I’m decorating for Christmas. Got the tree done and I’m now crafting some decorations that I got inspired to try from looking on Pinterest. Some are coming out good and some were complete failures. LOL

I’ve been watching the telly, binging some shows and just finished watching L I F E. It’s a space movie about bringing back a life form from Mars. Of course, it goes horribly wrong. I really enjoyed it. Have you seen it yet?

And I’ve loaded my QUE with a bunch of holiday movies. And recording some to On Demand. I love the Hallmark Channel! I also like to catch the holiday episodes on my favorite shows and cartoons. And there’s those traditional movies I watch every year, like White Christmas, Rudolph, Charlie Brown and some horror thrown in for sh#ts and giggles.

And I’m reading a whole bunch of books. Adult, YA, middle grade and early readers. Since I’ve really gotten into children’s books, I may start a new blog just for reviewing them. For now I have my Kid’s Korner feature on Wednesday’s.

Okay, I’ll stop now and share my bookish stuff. LOL

I hope you all had a fabulous week and thanks for stopping by!

*****

My new books this week.

Trouble Under The Mistletoe is a new release short story and it’s free! Click the cover to get a copy.

36521721  34306240

23384457  33574272

And I received the If You Were Me And Lived In….series by Carole P. Roman.

And five books from The Adventures Of Mitee Mite Series by David John

20171125_183503

I’m wrapping up my reviews for her Captain No Beard series this coming Wednesday and there will be a giveaway for print copies of the complete 10 book set. Be sure to mark you calendar!

*****

And here are some FREEBIES for ya. Click on the covers to get your copies. Remember to make sure they’re still free before you hit that buy button.

Call Me Michigan by [Destiny, Sam]  The Fireproof Girl (Sophie Shields Book 1) by [Lost, Loretta]  Slumber (Beauty Never Dies Chronicles Book 1) by [Weil, J.L.]

The Creator (Scarrett & Kramer Book 1) by [Carstairs, Neil]  Blood and Mistletoe (Ivy Granger, Psychic Detective) by [Stevens, E.J.]  Anywhere But Here (The Starborn Ascension Book 1) by [Morrow, Jason D.]

The Seven Steps to Closure by [Usher, Donna Joy]  Cinderella-ish (Razzle My Dazzle Book 1) by [Westbrook, Joslyn]  Who Killed My Boss? (Sam Darling Mystery Book 1) by [Dufresne, Jerilyn]

*****

Books I reviewed this week. Click on the covers to read my reviews.

   

 

  36186960

26874548  27782684

*****

Other posts on my blog this week.

The Dragon by Anthony Renfro ~ New Release With Bonus Stories

My Monday Minis #32 ~ Fun Adventures With Captain No Beard

Dragons Of Galicia Series ~ Showcase and Giveaway

Prosecco Christmas by Sylvia Ashby ~ A Romantic Comedy Blast and Giveaway

The Kid’s Korner #22 ~ Shark Bait and Snake Island Can’t Stop The Flying Dragon

Can they…….Steal The Stars ~ Review and Giveaway

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

The Friday 56 #171 ~ Meddling Kids

Freakin Fridays #60 ~ They came with the snow…..and painted it red

Saturday Screams #43 ~ Passing Strange: The Well

*****

Leave your link and I’ll come visit you.

Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

Saturday Screams #43 ~ Passing Strange: The Well

Posted: November 25, 2017 in Mystery, reviews, thriller, YA
Tags: , , , , , ,
9

Welcome to my Saturday Screams where I share books that, well, make you scream!

I’ve got a creepy little story to share today. Caught me by surprise.

~~~~~

Passing Strange: The Well

by P.W. Creighton

36186960

Genre: YA Mystery / Thriller

c8df8-add2bto2bgoodreads2bblack

My Review

Aidan is spending his summer break volunteering at the archaeological dig located on the Parish Cove Historical Society property. Some interesting things are being discovered, especially in the well that was uncovered, and it beats sitting home. One night while walking past the property he catches sight of a light prowling around the site and that’s when he first meets Maddie. She’s a bit odd, but he can’t resist her attempts to draw him into the mystery of the towns dark history. And soon the entire town is in danger. Something has awoken in the well and it’s very, very angry.

I love stories about archaeology and couldn’t resist reading this book. Learning about the towns history and the evil that dwells in the well was exciting and got the creepy vibes going.

Aidan and Maddie are like oil and water. Their personalities don’t really mix. But they soon become friends and get themselves into the pickle of all pickles.

The author never once missed a step with his character’s. The young teens acted their age and as they dealt with the creeping horror from the well, I thought their actions were quite genuine. Their curious nature and acts of heroism rang true. No one can know how they’ll react to situations like this and I’d like to think I would act half as brave as these kids did.

I felt a sense of mystery right from the beginning of the story and once Aidan and Maddie started digging into past events the story flew by. I read it in one sitting, feeling the sense of adventure, the glee of discovery, and the terror of a threat that seems unstoppable.

The ending was an exciting showdown and leaves things somewhat open to interpretation. I went with my first impression.

While I think this might be aimed at a younger reading audience, it still managed to give me the willies. And if the ending is any clue, I’m sure we’ll be seeing more Passing Strange mysteries in the future.

5 Stars

~~~~~

Synopsis

For Fourteen-year-old Aidan Reynolds, the archaeological dig at the Parrish Cove historical society is the only thing making the summer interesting.

That is until he meets Maddie, an unusual girl who has just moved to town and is convinced that there is more to the local legends surrounding the historical society than even he knows. While Aidan may not believe her, the strange artifacts that are recovered from the dig force them into exploring the dark, twisted history of Parrish Cove and its strange doctor…a man who vanished over a century ago.

Together, they uncover a town secret that has been forgotten for centuries, and discover that there are some things that should stay buried.

Amazon

~~~~~

Freakin Fridays #60 ~ They came with the snow…..and painted it red

Posted: November 24, 2017 in horror, reviews, suspense
Tags: , , , , ,
4

Welcome to Freakin Fridays, where I share my reviews of books that scare you, thrill you, and get those endorphins pumping.

Today I’m sharing a couple of scary good werewolf stories. These continue the Outage Series. Got them on sale. And the boxed set for the first three books is FREE! Grab it on Amazon HERE.

~~~~~

The Reckoning

 Outage #4

by T.W. Piperbrook

26874548

Genre: Horror / Suspense

c8df8-add2bto2bgoodreads2bblack

My Review

The storm is still blowing, people are still dying, and the wolves are still raging.

Tom is the lone survivor of the showdown at the end of book three. He’s lost his wife and seen some hideous things. When he wakes up in the hospital, he thinks it’s all over. He’s made it. But he soon learns the storm isn’t finished and neither are the wolves.

Something this author excels at is group dynamics. He puts a bunch of people together in close confines, threatens them with horrible death, and their reactions ring true. Being a fan of character driven stories, especially in the horror genre, I eat this stuff up. And I often wonder how I’d react. Would I be the brave one, step forward and handle things calmly and wisely?. Would I be the hysterical one, fall to pieces and scream my head off? Or would I be the coward, the one no one can rely on who does something stupid?

I’m glad I’m not one of the characters in this book as the body count’s high and there’s no guarantees for anyone. The wolves are too many to count and almost impossible to kill. Claws slash, teeth gnash and it’s bloody mayhem. Perfect for creature and horror fans. And a great continuation in the series.

4 Stars

~~~~~

Synopsis

I’m at the hospital…it’s over.

When Tom awakens, he is greeted by law enforcement, medical treatment, and a sense of normalcy—all the things that have been missing for the last day.

What Tom doesn’t know is that some nightmares are meant to be relived, and The Great Storm is far from finished…

Amazon

~~~~~

The Change

 Outage #5

by T.W. Piperbrook

27782684

Genre: Horror / Suspense

c8df8-add2bto2bgoodreads2bblack

My Review

 The massacre at the hospital is over. Tom’s survived another night. But with only one more night to feed, the wolves are more dangerous than ever. And Tom isn’t feeling like himself anymore.

With each book I read in this series, I was left wondering what could be worse than this. And with each new book, the author showed me. So I came into this last book with open eyes, knowing it was going to be crazy. And Piperbrook gave me so much crazy. So much suspense. So many bloody werewolf scenes. And a protagonist I’d grown too fond of. That’s not wise as the character’s usually don’t survive. And that ramped up the suspense for me.

The ending is violent. It’s almost over and the wolves won’t go gently into the night. And the epilogue is a hoot. Or should I say a howl.

If you like the sound of this one, be sure to start at the beginning of the series. Each books picks up right where the last leaves off.

4 Stars

~~~~~

Synopsis

Survival is just the beginning…

Having escaped the hospital, Tom must face a new enemy: himself. New questions arise as he travels through the white wasteland. Will he survive the remainder of The Great Storm?

More importantly, does he want to?

Amazon

~~~~~

I reviewed this a while ago but thought I would share it again.

Outage Boxed Set

Books 1- 3 of the Outage Horror Suspense Series

by T.W. Piperbrook

25917235

c8df8-add2bto2bgoodreads2bblack

My Review

I read the first book in this series and loved it, so when I saw this boxed set for the first three books on Amazon, I had to grab it.

It’s kind of hard to review these separately as it would have to contain some spoilers, so I’m going to tell you about it like it’s one book.

It literally does start on a dark and stormy night. The blizzard has arrived, the power is staring to fail, and the residents of the town, those that haven’t left yet, are free game for the creatures. Doors don’t keep them out. Guns don’t seem to do more than slow them down for a bit. And the dark and snow work to their advantage.

I love a scary good creature story and the ones offered up by the author are so bad, so cunning and vicious, so hungry. And they are everywhere. They’ve been waiting for this.

Another thing I like is when the elements work for the monsters and against the humans. What could be worse than the snow storm of the century. These werewolves knew it was coming and planned accordingly. Some were already living there, and some came with the storm.

Imagine how horrible it would be. First, you witness something so horrific and unbelievable. Then you get past the fear and shock, and accept that the creatures exist. Now what?

Well, you round up anything you can use for weapons and enter the dark, cold night.You try to drive out of town, struggling through snow drifts and hoping you don’t slide off the road.  You see some people being attacked by the creatures. Do you stop to help? Probably not the best idea. Too many of them and you’ll probably just end up torn to pieces. You’re cut off from the outside world and your fear and doubt escalate. Is this happening everywhere?

So on you go. Seeking shelter and safety, and the things out there are following you. This is their time.

There was a lot of suspense and carnage to keep this horror fan happy. The suspense was edgy, and there were some good surprises. Even when I knew what was coming, it was fun reading how it happened.

This is a series I would only recommend you read in order. The books all start pretty much where the last one left off.

Books four and five are out now, so I’ll be grabbing them too.

4 Stars

~~~~~

Synopsis

This specially-priced bundle contains the first three books in the OUTAGE series:
*Outage
*Outage 2: The Awakening
*Outage 3: Vengeance

ABOUT OUTAGE:When an early snow ravages the small town of Plainfield, the residents are stripped of heat, power, and mobility. They’ll soon wish they had protection. Somewhere outside, something else is lurking. Waiting for the chance to strike…

FREE On Amazon

~~~~~

Older Entries