Book Review: Red Daisy by Gemma Owen Kendall

 

Good afternoon, Bookaholics. I am delighted to be part of the Blog Tour for Red Daisy by Gemma Owen-Kendall. This is a new author to me but I can assure you I will be reading more. Find out why in my review. 

Blurb

What if the girl who wore the red coat fell in love with the wolf?

Grace Kennedy was once a quiet teenage girl, growing up in a rural area with her parents. When Grace turns sixteen, she moves to a new town to live with her grandparents to study a diploma in Dance at the local college.

It's there that Grace’s life changes when she meets the polite and charming Daniel and also encounters the dark and mysterious Ben.

But are both boys truly who they say they are ...

Dealing with the sudden strange events happening to her and a complicated love triangle, Grace world implodes when she learns that werewolves and spellcasters do truly exist.

Review

I have to say, the cover drew me in in the first instance and I loved the premise of the book. What a twist to a classic fairytale and the fantasy elements develop it further. It is written for a Young Adult audience but I think adults will also enjoy it. I certainly did. The story is beautifully written and the characters are realistic - if you can call a werewolf realistic. They are certainly realistic for the genre. There was tension and romance in equal measure and I loved the way the which boy will she choose played out. I did feel that, due to some of the subject matter it would be more suited to the older readers of the YA genre but the subject matter was written well. I believe Owen-Kendall is an author to watch. I will mention one thing, it does end in a way that sets up the next book in the trilogy. All three of the books will need to be read in order. 

If you would like to know what other reviewers think of the book you can follow the tour as per the image below.

About the Author 

Gemma is a writer from North East Lincolnshire, UK. Graduated at the University of Lincoln in 2009, she studied a degree in Drama. However years later Gemma has discovered writing is her hobby and passion. She hopes to one day to be able to go back to University to study creative writing. As well as her own writing, Gemma is a huge supporter for writers within her local area.

That's it for another week my bookaholic friends. See you again soon. Until then, keep reading and keep writing. 

About Wendy H. Jones

Wendy H Jones is the multi award-winning, Amazon #1 international best-selling author of the DI Shona McKenzie Mysteries. Her Young Adult Mystery, The Dagger’s Curse was a finalist in the Woman Alive Readers' Choice Award. Non-Fiction Matters the fourth book in her Writing Matters Series won the prestigious Dorothy Dunbar Cup from the Scottish Association of Writers. She is also the retired President of the Scottish Association of Writers, an international public speaker, and runs conferences and workshops on writing, motivation and marketing.  She is the Editor in Chief of Writers' Narrative a new magazine for writers.  She is also a partner in Auscot Publishing and Retreats an international publishing and writing retreat organisation. Wendy is represented by Amy Collins of Talcott Notch Literary Services. 

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Book Review: Island of Ruin by Marti M. McNair

 

Good Morning Bookaholics. Today I bring you a slightly different review as I am approaching this book with my editorial hat on. Yes, I edited the book and what a pleasure it was to do so. If I tell you, I am not really a dystopian fiction fan, and yet this book held me enthralled from the get go. I will tell you why in a moment but, first, I am sure you want to know what it is about. 

Blurb

In the wake of an apocalyptic End of Days, a totalitarian regime emerges. New-born belong to the state and are transported to the island of Ruin. Deprived of love and nurturing, children eke out an existence with a grim reality. Amidst the bleakness, Jasmine and Coral stumble upon a mysterious old woman washed ashore. Defying the regime’s grip, they secretly shelter her within the depths of the Black Cave. The girls soon unravel the regime’s web of deception. Jasmine is betrayed, the old woman is found, and a momentous trial begins. Will Jasmine be able to reclaim her stolen life? Be sentenced to death, or spend the remainder of days toiling in the mines?

Review

This was a difficult book to edit, not because it was awful, quite the opposite in fact. It was so enthralling I found myself approaching it as a reader rather than an editor. In the end, I allowed myself to read the whole thing and then approach it once again with an editor's eye. In any book one needs the three pillars of character, plot and setting. The author has got each of these spot on, however I believe character may take the edge. She has the ability to go inside the mind of young adults and has portrayed each of them in ways which are different, this despite the fact no one is supposed to be different. Jasmine, the main character is strong and determined to save the world and find a different way of life. I love her. Other characters are equally strongly drawn. They are written so skilfully that at times it is difficult to tell who are the goodies and who are the baddies - in a good way. The plot had me all over the place and my heart racing. Just when I thought I had a handle on it a twist would arrive that had me gasping. 

McNair uses words to good effect to draw the reader in to a different world but one in which they become immersed. This book is the first in a trilogy and I am genuinely looking forward to reading - and editing - the second book in the series. 

This would make a fantastic Christmas present for any lovers of Dystopian Fiction. I can highly recommend it. 

You can buy the book here

You can follow the author on the following platforms

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I would urge you to buy this book my Bookaholic friends, you will not regret it. I will see you soon with another blog, until then, keep reading and keep writing. 

Book Review: The Dangerous Dance of Emma JJ by Annie Try

Hello, bookaholics, I am back with another fabulous book for you. What a treat lies ahead. 

I love Annie Try books, so when the publisher asked me to be part of this blog tour, I jumped at the chance. Emma is a looked after child with a secret at her very core. Of course, all of this brings its own emotional baggage. This could be a depressing book but it is very definitely not. Emma, is a relatable character and even though this book is for young adults I, as an adult, was rooting for her every step of the way. She shows courage and strength of character, supported at every turn by her best friend and boyfriend. The relationships are described well and are believable and the characterisation is spot on. When Emma discovers dance, her life is transformed through her passion for dancing and the reader almost feels her come alive. The book is structured well and leads the reader through the highs and lows of the teenage life. The author has a real grasp of the teenage psyche and this shines through in every carefully chosen word. 

I like the way the author has not shied away from the impact of past trauma on a young person. This is handled sensitively and is an important part of the storyline. It takes great skill to do so. It does have some faith aspects but this is woven into the story in a way which does not overwhelm. It is handled sensitively and allows the reader to think about matters of faith. 

Although this is a story for Young Adults I would also recommend it to adults. A well thought out, well written book which would have wide appeal.

If you would like to find out more about Annie Try and her work you can find her via the links below.

https://annie-try.co.uk

http://annie-try.blogspot.com 

https://twitter.com/Annie_Try/@annie_try 

https://www.facebook.com/annietrywriter

Thanks for reading my bookaholic friend. I will be back soon with another great read. Until then, keep reading and keep writing. 

 

The Migrant by Paul Alkazraji

Good morning Bookaholics. I hope you are in fine fettle and ready for another great week of reading. Have I got a treat in store for you. I am honoured to be kicking of the Blog Tour for Paul Alkazraji. Having read Paul's first book, I was looking forward to this one and he did not disappoint.

The Migrant is a cracking thriller, not the edge of your seat type but, one which uses pace to extremely good effect to heighten the tension and draw out the action. The very nature of this made me want to keep reading way past a sensible bedtime. It kept me from my own writing so that I could read it, and as regular readers of this blog know, that is not easily done. The main character, Jude, the pastor of a church in Albania, did not expect to be involved in a cat and mouse chase with various nefarious parties - as it says in the blurb - Fascist populists, callous sex-traffickers and murderous mafia gangs. Not your average day for a pastor. In fact, not your average day for most people. There are also political issues sprinkled throughout the book but this is done with a light touch so that it enhances rather than detracts from the story.

The characters are well rounded and believable. There are minor touches thrown in that give you a real sense of who they are. Jude and his wife resonated with me as they are people who care about others and put this above their own safety or needs. I liked Jude immensely and was rooting for him  for every step of his tense journey to rescue nineteen-year-old Alban. By the way, I love the fact the name is the first part of Albania. It appealed to me. 

The action moves between Albania and Greece. Alkarjazi is a master of description, using just enough that one gets a real sense of place. I've never been to Albania but could picture it perfectly and want to go there now. Without the gangsters, fascist populists, callous sex-traffickers or mafia gangs of course. I have been to Greece and Alkarjazi has this spot on. 

This is a Christian novel and the Christianity is important to the book. However, it does not overwhelm and this is a book which can be read by anyone. This is a good thing as I will certainly be recommending it to all my friends. And especially to you my bookaholic friends. This is a book you should buy and read now. You will not regret it. You can even click below, download and be reading before you know it.

    

Bye for now and I'll be back soon with another fantastic bookaholic post. Remember, keep on reading.

Paul Alkazraji

Paul is the author of 'The Migrant', a thriller set against the background of the European Migrant Crisis, and published by Instant Apostle on 15 February 2019. Paul worked as a freelance journalist in the UK from the mid-nineties. His was published in Christianity Magazine, The Christian Herald, The Church Times and The Baptist Times among other publications, and his travel articles were also published in The Independent.

Paul’s first book Love Changes Everything, a collection of seven testimonies, was published by Scripture Union in 2001, and his second, Heart of a Hooligan, a biography of ex-football hooligan Dave Jeal, was published by Highland Books in 2000. His third book Christ and the Kalashnikov, a biography of missionaries Ian and Caralee Loring, was published by Harper Collins in 2001. The Silencer, a thriller set in Albania, Greece and Turkey, was published by Highland Books in 2012.

Paul has lived and worked with the church in Albania for fifteen years. He likes listening to music, being by the Aegean Sea or Ohrid Lake, and skiing – when the snow comes!

The Fate of Kings

I like historical books but picked this up in a bookshop on a whim. The cover attracted me as did the storyline so decided to give it a shot. I am so glad I did. 

1793. As the Terror begins to cast a great shadow over France, Thomas Pryce, the new Vicar of Deal, crosses the Channel to find the missing parents of his beautiful French wife. Facing grave dangers, he makes his way to Brittany where he not only discovers the fate of his in-laws but also uncovers a plot which threatens to topple the British monarchy. Fighting against a sinister secret society in a race against time, Pryce battles to thwart the plans of a Parisian spymaster and his agents in London.

The Fate of Kings is the first in a series of gripping spy thrillers that will engross readers of C.J. Sansom, Dan Brown, as well as the many avid watchers of Poldark and Grantchester. In the first years of the British Secret Service, Thomas Pryce truly is the original James Bond.

From the first word to the last I couldn’t put this book down. The attention to historical detail is outstanding and makes the book fascinating. Yet it is woven into a story so gripping it does not overwhelm. The story moves along at a fast pace. At times my pulse was pounding, at others it felt like it had slowed right down. The characters are well developed and believable and I found myself caring what happened to them. Thomas Pryce is a strong main character who carries the story, yet all other characters are both realisticall and necessary. It is said that books are either character or plot driven, but each is equally important in this book. I believe, but am not sure, that this is Mark Stibbe’s first foray into fiction. If so, he has played a blinder. I cannot wait for the next one.

Dare You Face The Dagger's Curse?

Good afternoon Bookaholics, both readers and writers. I hope you are well and enjoying the summer. 

It's been a busy time recently for this author. I've been doing final edits of my latest book, The Dagger's Curse ready for its launch on 10th September. This is the first in a new Young Adult Mystery series called, The Fergus and Flora Mysteries. Fergus and Flora are typical Scottish teens until they find themselves smack bang in the middle of a mystery, following the theft of a cursed dagger. Cue adventure,  clues, non stop action, and a curse which holds Dundee in its grip. This is meant for young Adults and can be read by teens, older teens and adults alike. I hope you will fall in love with Fergus and Flora as much as I have.

My question to you today is - are you brave enough to face The Dagger's Curse? 

For DI Shona McKenzie Fans do not panic. The fifth book is well on its way and will be ready for release in November. I'm not ready to reveal too much about the plot as yet but I can tell you it is called Killer's Crew. I can promise you it will be another high profile and action packed case for Dundee's most famous Detective and her team. 

At the moment I am gearing up for Bouchercon 2016 in New orleans. I will be speaking on a panel talking about Police and Crooks. Now that should be fun. DI Shona McKenzie and her team will be coming along with me. The books will be for sale at the convention, but will New orleans feature in a future book. That's for Shona to know and me  to find out. It might involve some skilful interrogation on my part as Shona does not give up information easily. Whatever the outcome I am looking forward to the trip. There will be a strong Scottish contingent with several other Scottish authors also making the journey. Watch out New Orleans, the Scots are coming. 

If you would like a free ebook, DI Shona McKenzie's Guide to Killing your Boss then go to my website

On that note it is time for me to get back to the writing. I'll see you all back here soon. Until then keep reading and writing. 

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The Village by Eleanor Watkins

Good morning bookaholics. Sorry I haven't been around lately. Life has been busy and I've been at 2 conferences. More about them later. In the meantime I have a review of a fabulous YA book for you..

The Village is set in an English Village during the time of the plague. It is seen from the viewpoint of three different children - Ellen, William and Sam. Each child is unique and I love the way we see the village and the effects of the Black Death through their different perspectives. The book is well researched and great attention paid to historical detail. However, do not be fooled into thinking that this is a dry book as it is not. The story is fascinating and kept me reading to find out what happens next. I genuinely could not put it down.

The attention to detail in this book is exquisite. At the top of each chapter there is a small illustration. This illustration is repeated on the page number. The icon is different for each character so emphasizes the character who is speaking in the particular chapter. I love this. It demonstrates that a great deal of thought has gone into it's production. All kudos to the publisher, Books to Treasure. 

This is a book which I can highly recommend. Children will love it and I am sure adults will too. 

Amazon UK The Village

Amazon USA The Village

There we have it for another week bookaholics.  See you back here soon.

I was given a copy of this book by the publisher in return for an honest review. At no time was I asked to provide a positive review. This is based on my reading, and enjoyment, of the book. 

Writing Crossover Fiction

I have been listening to a lot of podcsts recently about both writing and marketing. A recurring theme is to understand your audience and write for them. Now to a great extent this is true, although some people may like multiple genres. When marketing your books this also holds true. 

Regular readers of this blog will know I write crime books. These are realistic and therefore deal with the seedier underbelly of Scotland. They pull no punches when it comes to description. The descriptions of the city are both real and factionalized. In other words they are as authentic as I can make them. 

Long before I heard this advice I had decided my target market was anyone who read crime books. Many people on here will know I am a Christian. Many Christian authors will only write for a Christian Market. My books are not Christian and contain no Christian themes. They have been written for the secular market. However, they have been written in a way which means they can be read by anyone. There is a fine dividing line when writing crossover crime fiction. The books need to be gritty and absorbing, whilst avoiding themes such as sex, or containing too many swear words. I feel I have managed the balance in the DI Shona McKenzie Mysteries.

 

Many people have asked me how I have managed to write a book about the police and criminals with no swear words. Especially since my books are definitely not cozy crime. I have made this issue a part of the books. Shona is totally against swearing and this is a recurring, if minor, theme. It leads to some comedic scenes and many readers have said they like this aspect of the book. It is also fun to write. 

That' sit for another week bookaholics. If you want to take a look at the books then you can do so by clicking on the links on the right. See you all back here soon. Until then, grab a good book and keep reading 

Interview with Children's Writer Joey Paul

Today on the blog we welcome Children's Writer, Joey Paul. Today is the cover reveal for Joey's new book Dying Thoughts - Fourth Week. It is a pleasure to have you Joey. Thank you for answering the questions.

I am sure the readers would love to hear about you. Could you start by telling us a little bit about yourself?

Thanks Wendy. I’m 33, I live in the UK and I’m disabled. I’ve been writing since I was about thirteen, but stopped for a while and picked it up again when I was 19. I was first published at 22, and then at 28, I turned to indie publishing and released another story as an ebook. I love to write, love to read, and live with my best friend and her 10 year old daughter. I’m chronically ill with several medical conditions and use a wheelchair 90% of the time. I do love to get out and about and grab geocaches though, which is basically using expensive satellites to find Tupperware in the strangest of places!

You came to writing via a bit of a different route. What gave you the impetus to change careers to become a writer?
I'd always imagined that I'd become a doctor. From the age of five, I remember telling my parents that was what I was going to do. Obviously it didn’t work out! I went from school to college and lasted a term before my lung condition caused me to drop out. I decided that I would skip the learning and go straight into the working world. I got a proper job and worked in various positions before being hired at what would turn out to be my last traditional job. I worked there for about five months before I become sick with M.E and Fibromyalgia. I ended up going on long term sick and by the time I turned 19, I was medically retired. At the same time, I had to move back home because I couldn’t afford rent, and then went from there to live with a friend who’s parents would accept housing benefit. I was crushed at not being able to work, while also trying to juggle three chronic conditions. In the end, I decided that if I was going to be at home all the time, I was going to do something with my day. So, I grabbed a “book” I had written at thirteen, and tore it to pieces. I rewrote it several times and finally declared it finished. I then went on to write what would become my debut novel – Blackout – and was finished in ten days. The next book followed and it’s been like that ever since.

I know you’re a prolific writer. Can you give us a flavour of the books you have written?
I generally write in the young adult crime and mystery genre. I have seven books published, with my eighth coming up in a few weeks. Three of the books are part of a series, of which the next book will be the fourth. These also fall into the paranormal genre too. I’ve also written a general fiction young adult, a contemporary romance and two other crime and mystery books. They're usually all in the first person, or switching points of view, though one is third person. I like to tell the story from that angle so that the readers can see the world from the protagonist’s eyes.

I also have four other books completed, which will be released at the rate of one a year – which is my usual way – and I’m currently working on two more.

Are you able to tell us a bit about your next book without giving too much away?
My next book is the fourth in the Dying Thoughts series. They follow the life of Tara, who has a gift. She’s able to see the last moments of someone’s life when she touches something that belonged to them. She works as an informant with a local Detective Inspector, using her gift to provide him with clues as to who killed who and what evidence could be used to help catch them. She’s also solved a string of murders which everyone thought were deaths from natural causes. In this book, she’s faced with the possibility of not being able to save the person she’s closest to – her best friend, Kaolin. It’s a bit of an up and down story, and it allows for Tara to find new ways to use her gift.


Where do you get the inspiration for the books?

To be honest with you, life! I see things in my life that would make a good story. I see things in my friends and family’s lives that would make a good twist. I also have a very overactive imagination and it’s nice to be able to put it to some good use! I’ve always been a lover of crime books, and so writing my own seemed to make the most sense as it was something I am passionate about and find very interesting.

What draws you to writing YA Books?
I’ve been asked this before, and to be honest I don’t fully know. I think part of it is that when I wrote that first “book” – all 36 pages of it! I was a young adult reader. When I tore it apart and rewrote it, I was still technically a young adult reader. As time has gone past and I’ve grown older, I still find myself happier when I’m writing young adult. I don’t know if it’s because as an adult I have been fairly isolated because of my disability, and haven’t, therefore experienced as much “adult” life, or if it’s just because I'm comfortable in the young adult area now.

When you are not writing what types of books do you read? What would you say was the best book you have ever read?
I read books from a wide variety of authors. I’ll read crime, mystery, romance, paranormal, sci-fi, fantasy and more. Though my to-go genre in writing is crime and mystery, I do enjoy reading it a lot. It’s been the same way throughout my life. I still have young adult books on my goodreads 'to be read' list and I'll continue to dip in and out of genres. Now, if I had to pick just one book that was the best I’d ever read? That’s hard. I love the alphabet series by Sue Grafton, I love everything Harlan Coben has every written. I love Sophie Kinsella, Kathy Reichs, Karin Slaughter and the list goes on and on! Those are only the mainstream names, I have a fair few indie authors I also love, Jana Petken, Brenda Perlin, Lindy Spencer, yourself, Jalpa Williby and Jan Raymond to name a few of those! I can’t just pick one!

Who would you say was your favourite character in any book you have read?

Now, this is slightly easier, I love Kinsey Millhone from the alphabet series by Sue Grafton. She’s just what I want to be when I grow up (though some would argue I already have!)

What is a writing day like for you?

A normal writing day for me begins in one of two settings. I'll either be in my office and therefore writing at my computer, or using my tablet and writing in bed or somewhere like a coffee shop. I spend the morning catching up on email, blog posts and any other admin duties and then focus on whichever book I’m working on that day. I write a chapter or two, before switching and writing two chapters of the other book. Some days I get four chapters done (though it’s rare!) and other days I barely get a page written. It really just does depend on my pain levels, my energy level and how much I’m inspired to continue the story.

If you could travel to any three countries in the world where would you go?
The Maldives, Australia and the USA.

Why these countries?

The Maldives, because when I started writing at thirteen, it was where I planned to go to spend my money from the book sales (never happened, but boy can I dream big!)

Australia, because it’s so far away, I have friends there I have never met and probably never will and it’s just something I would love to experience.

The USA, because while I’ve been before, there are other places I’d love to see, like Hawaii and more friends to visit!

If you ever have a day off from writing exciting books what do you like to do in your spare time?

I love to go out geocaching! I try to do that at least twice a week, but I can’t go alone so I have to wait for when both B and I have a spare day or two. I recently went on an overnight stay away from home and we went on a long walk (I trundled in my chair!) and found a fair few geocaches. It was awesome!

Now that we are all excited about your next novel, when will it be available to buy?

The pre-order link for the ebook will be up on the 14th August and my hope is to release it at the end of August!

Dying Thoughts Fourth week USA

Dying Thoughts Fourth Week UK

Book Launch: On a Wing and a Prayer by Ruby Jackson

On Tuesday evening I had the honour of being invited to the launch of On A Wing and a Prayer by Ruby Jackson. This was held in Waterstones, Dundee and has to be the most entertaining book launch I have attended. Ruby Jackson held the audience in the palm of her hand as she told tales of the people she met whilst researching the book. The book is set during World War 2 and for the book Ruby Jackson interviewed people who did extraordinary things during this period. The accounts of what they did had the audience spellbound. 

Ruby Jackson does an incredible amount of research for her books. She tells the tale of contacting Fortnum and Mason in London. She needed to know the cost of honey during WW2. Fortnum and Mason told her she needed to speak to their archivist. What? Who would have known that a London store would have an archivist. I also learned that Fortnum and Mason have bee hives on their roof. How interesting is that? Something else I learned was that many rich young men, who had their own planes, handed them over to the military for the war effort. I could go on. 

Attending this event has made me think very carefully about how a book launch can be entertaining, interesting and informative. I hope that Bookaholic readers will also take some ideas away from this blog on rethinking their own launch.

So what is the book about. This is book 3 in the Churchill's Angels series, which is about four plucky girls from Dartford, Grace, Sally, Rose and Daisy. This book tells the story of Rose, an ordinary working class girl, who joins the ATS. You can rest assured that the historic details are 100% accurate as, in most cases, they come straight from the horse's mouth. If you like historical romance then this is an excellent book which I would highly recommend. You can buy the book from Amazon UK or USA by clicking below. 

     

See you all again soon Bookaholics. Whatever you are reading, enjoy.

Interview with Scottish Author Rosemary Gemmell

Today on the blog we welcome highly talented Scottish author Rosemary Gemmell. It is a real pleasure to welcome a fellow Scot to Bookaholics. Thank you for taking time out of, what I know is, a hectic schedule to join us.

many thanks for inviting me along to your blog Wendy

I am sure the readers would love to hear about you. Could you start by telling us a little bit about yourself?

Now that my two children are well grown up, one with a child of his own, I’m lucky enough to be a full-time writer, although I don’t write full-time hours! I also have a very supportive husband and I reward him by doing some of his admin and proof-reading.

I was a well-published short story and article writer before turning to novel length and I still like the variety of different types of writing, including poetry and children’s. I write historical romance and contemporary novellas with a touch of mythological fantasy as Romy, and tween fiction as Ros. The Highland Lass, published by Crooked Cat, is the first novel under my full name.

I live in the beautiful west coast of Scotland and am inspired by living so near the sea and countryside. I love to share information with other writers and often adjudicate competitions, one of the best ways to learn what works!

In what way are The Highlands important to your story

Although my new novel is called The Highland Lass, it doesn’t take place in the usual highlands of Scotland. The title is significant for another reason. The novel is set in the present and the past and the historical chapters trace the story of Highland Mary, one of Robert Burns’ great loves. The highland part refers to the area of Argyllshire where Mary grew up speaking Gaelic, which gave her a lilt to her voice and earned her that name when she moved to the lowlands of Ayrshire. The other significance is the letter the modern character, Eilidh, find addressed to her late mother, where the unknown writer refers to her as his ‘highland lass’ – all part of the mystery!

What is it about books set in Scotland that would excite the reader?

One of the most popular aspects of Scottish-based books is the wonderful scenery that incorporates mountains, glens, rivers and lochs. The Highland Lass takes the reader on a journey to Argyllshire, Ayrshire, Loch Lomond, Glasgow and Inverclyde with Eilidh trying to discover the identity of her father while researching Highland Mary and Burns. Some readers have said they learned a lot more about this area of Scotland!

Where do you get the inspiration for your fiction?

Anywhere and everywhere, from snippets of news or history to places I’ve visited. My Aphrodite and Adonis series was inspired by a visit to Cyprus some years ago, as it is known as Aphrodite’s Island and I’ve always loved mythology! Some of my short stories were inspired by paintings or photographs. Inspiration is literally all around if you look at it with a writer’s mind.

Which is your favourite character in any of your books and why?

I think it’s still the hero from my very first novel, Dangerous Deceit, set in 1813. Lord Sheldon is my ideal male character: strong, brave and sensitive with a respect for the heroine, Lydia’s, headstrong independence.

When you are not writing what types of books do you read? What would you say was the best book you have ever read?

I read constantly, especially in the evening. I love a variety of genres from historical romantic intrigue, to crime and modern mysteries. I also love philosophical type novels that make me think. I have lots of favourite books but one of my all-time favourites which I read many years ago is Knowledge of Angels by Jill Paton Walsh and I keep meaning to re-read it one day.

What are you working on at the moment? Without giving too much away can you tell us something about it?

I’m trying to finish the third novella in the Aphrodite and Adonis series which I promised the publisher, Tirgearr, some time ago! That’s the priority, but I’m also working on a couple of other novellas in different eras and the first in a Victorian crime series set in my own area. Plus several articles and the odd short story.

Now we are getting personal. What is your favourite food?

Apart from chocolate you mean? I love Chinese food with noodles and the occasional Italian or Indian dish. I also adore salmon.

If you could travel to any one country in the world where would it be and why?

I’ve been lucky enough to travel to many countries already as my husband works in travel. I loved Canada and one of my eternal favourites is Venice. Of those I haven’t yet seen, I quite fancy India (though husband doesn’t!) as I’ve often been fascinated by its culture, colour and noise, through films and books set there.

Who is your favourite author and why?

As with books, I have many! One of my favourites is Sarah Waters and I always look forward to her new books as she is such a wonderful storyteller, no matter where or when the story is set. Fingersmith is one of the best novels for its unexpected twist and turns and I love being surprised like that.

If you ever have a day off from writing exciting books what do you like to do in your spare time?
I love going out for coffee and walks with my husband at the weekend, especially beside the coast. Even during the week, I make sure to meet up with friends now and then over coffee or lunch. I also enjoy visiting interesting places or exhibitions as they often provide inspiration. I love swimming and dancing and both have been neglected recently so I’m aiming to put that right. I can only sit at a computer for so long before I need a distraction. These days, I’m sometimes called upon to look after my gorgeous wee granddaughter who will soon be three and that’s a great delight.

Thank you Rosemary. It has been a real pleasure chatting up with you and getting to know a bit more about you. It would seem that all my guests have one thing in common with me, we all love chocolate. I love Rosemary's Video which accompanies her book.

You can find out more about Rosemary and her books below as well as the links to buy The Highland Lass from Amazon UK and USA

    

Website: www.rosemarygemmell.com  

Reading and Writing Blog: http://ros-readingandwriting.blogspot.com

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Romy-Gemmell/1422387704702586

Twitter: https://twitter.com/RosemaryGemmell

Guest Post: Review of YA book What If?

Today I welcome very special guest to Bookaholic. 13 Year old Zoe has agreed to review a superb new Young Adult book for us. I am sure all Bookaholics will join me in extending her a very warm welcome.

Hi! I’m Zoe and I’m 13 years old. I am reviewing What If? by Caroline Johnston.

What If? is a really interesting and worthwhile read for any teenager who has been thinking about God. Caroline Johnston presents an interesting view point about what it means to be a follower of Jesus.

The story is about 14 year old Rachel Anderson, a shy girl who has gone to church her whole life. She faces a lot of interesting challenges and opportunities, including auditioning for the school play, and imagining that Jesus is one of her friends at school.

I really like this book as I find a lot of teenage fiction is dark and heavily layered with deep traumatic issues. Although this book has some big questions in it, it is basically positive, and it has a nice storyline.

Rachel is a character who I found easy to relate to and understand. She is not a generic teen fiction heroine either. Unlike most of the main girls in recent YA book, she is not ridiculously brave, nor totally quiet and shy. She is not a two dimensional character, but neither is she impossibly deep as some heroines are. She has some friends, but isn’t the most popular kid in school. I think most girls my age will be able to relate to her, and like her. It is easy to believe that Rachel lives in your town, or goes to your school. The author has really nailed exactly what it means to be a teenage girl.

I would recommend What If? to girls (and boys who don’t mind reading about girls) aged 11 – 15. It is not hard to read, or too long, but it is thought provoking, and stays with you a long time. This book is a very good specimen of Christian YA fiction.

Thank you Zoe for an excellent review. Zoe, as well as being a reviewer, is also a writer in her own right. I am sure we will be sharing a lot of Zoe in the future.

What if? is a book which is well worth buying for all young women. It will make them think about what they are doing and the way their faith plays out. If you would like to buy the book it is available from Amazon in paperback in UK. This would make a fabulous present for any Christian teenage girl.

Also available as an ebook from EatACD

That brings us to the end of another Bookaholic blog. I look forward to seeing you all back here soon. Until then keep reading.

The Altogether Unexpected Disappearance of Atticus Craftsman

Hello my bookaholic friends. I know it has been a little while since I brought you a good book but this book is worth the wait. Today I bring you a quirky and yet engaging mystery which is translated from the Spanish.

At first glance it would seem that this book is a Spanish crime novel but you soon find out it is so much more than this. you know the book is going to be good when the Inspector in charge of a missing persons case has changed his name to Manchego rather than the more humdrum (in Spanish quarters) Jandalillo. The inspector is an engaging chap who seems to play fast and loose with giving out privileged information to whomever he likes. Although the storyline had the possibility of being somewhat disjointed, the author holds it all together so well that it flows together and works. The storyline itself is good but the characters are where this book really comes into its own, they are larger than life and appear to be charicatures, but ones which work. The English characters are quinissentially upper class English with myriad eccentricities. The Spanish are flamboyant and the numerous gypsies, dark but lovable and over the top. I loved every one of them. The mystery is good, it rattles a long at a fair clip but at the same time is laugh out loud funny. It is a long time since a book has engaged me this much. I would definitely recommend it to all lovers of a madcap mystery. I shall certainly be looking out for more books by this author.

Please note I was given an advance copy of this book from the publishers in return for a fair and honest review. My review is based upon my reading of, and enjoyment of, the book. The book will not be available until January but you can preorder from the links below

Amazon UK

Amazon US

There we have it for another day my bookaholic friends. It will soon be Christmas and my hope for you is that Santa brings you lots of books.

A Winter Murderland by Juliet B. Madison

Today I’m pleased to welcome fellow crime author Juliet B Madison back to my blog to talk about A Winter Murderland, her recently released DI Frank Lyle novellas collection.

Can you briefly sum up A Winter Murderland for those who haven’t read it?

Juliet:  It’s winter and DI Frank Lyle, along with his team, are hoping for a crime-free season.

DS Thomas Fox feels threatened after a chance encounter with someone from his past. Can he and his boyfriend, James Lyle, deal with the emotional consequences of both the encounter and a revelation it forces Thomas to make?

John Cassidy is found dead. As DI Lyle and his team investigate they uncover sinister secrets and darker motives as they are drawn into the unfamiliar world of pharmaceutical malpractise and the minefield of murder by prescription.

A Winter Murderland also includes two DI Frank Lyle short stories: Wishing on a Star and The Dare.

I haven’t read the book as yet, but I believe it includes your NaNoWriMo piece?

Juliet:  Yes, that’s right Wendy. I’m really very proud of Prescription for Murder. I had to do more research than normal as I had to find out about pharmaceutical practise and prescription drugs, including ones which contraindicate one another. Cathy Goddard, the palliative care pharmacist where my mum works, was incredibly helpful and her husband, Tim, features in a cameo role as a paramedic (his real life profession)

Do you think DI Frank Lyle learns anything new as a result of this investigation?

Juliet: I don’t think he learns anything new police procedure-wise as he’s already an experienced detective, but he learns about prescription drugs and gets an insight into more of the darker facets of the human psyche.

Why did you include short stories in this collection?

Juliet: Originally the first novella, A Murder-Free Christmas, was to be published separately, but I decided to put two novellas together. Wishing on a Star is a story set in 1977 when James, DI Lyle’s son, is only six. The other story, The Dare was published in the Shadows & Light charity anthology to promote the work of Women’s Aid and to raise awareness of the more subtle aspects of domestic violence. James is sixteen and it’s a kind of emotional maturity coming of age tale (although not legally coming of age as no one turns eighteen).

I understand that DI Lyle is a big fan of Joan Baez and his colleague, DI Redfern, is into Bruce Springsteen. Do your characters’ musical tastes reflect your own in any way?

Juliet: When it comes to a character’s preferences in matters like music, reading matter, gastronomic tastes and even sexual tastes I think a lot of the author’s personal preferences do tend to creep in. Yes, I do admire Joan Baez and have seen her live twice. The fact that she is still doing live performances at the age of 73 shows incredible resilience. How many X factor winners will we remember even a year from now? I suspect that there is probably quite a bit of you in DI Shona McKenzie as well.

I know from previous interviews you’ve done that you enjoy reading crime fiction, but what’s the last book you read that wasn’t in the crime genre?

Juliet: I’m currently reading “My Life”, (David Jason’s autobiography), which I’m really enjoying.  I’m a huge David Jason fan and I think that DI Frost was the best part he played. I learnt a lot from watching that series and paid homage to the airing of the first ever episode in my last novel Best Served Cold. David is one actor I would love to meet.

Do you think DI Lyle & DI Frost would get on?

Juliet: On a personal level maybe, But DI Lyle would definitely be a straight man to Frost’s constant flouting of procedure and rule-breaking. I think he would really disapprove of Frost’s methods. They both get results in different ways.

Do you think that the crimes DI Lyle investigates will change as you move the series closer to the present day?

Juliet: There will ALWAYS be murderers, but yes, I suspect he will start to investigate things like Internet crime and identity theft as time moves on.

What’s next for DI Lyle & his team?

Juliet:  Another investigation involving people and drug trafficking, murder and corruption. I haven’t gotten very far with Dead on Arrival yet though.

Would you be prepared to share a short excerpt from A Winter Murderland with us?

JULIET:  Here’s a little bit from Prescription for Murder

Jean crossed the street and pressed the intercom button for Cassidy’s flat. The receiver crackled but there was no response. She swallowed hard.

“Mr Cassidy, are you alright?” she called. Ashbeck City Council paid Cassidy’s housing benefit direct to his bank account on a fortnightly basis and she came to collect. He had once been a lecturer at Ashbeck University, but about a year ago he had had surgery for a heart problem and not worked since. It seemed wrong to Jean, he was only in his early forties after all, but, she reminded, herself, when had life ever been fair?

There was still no response. Jean gave a glance at the leaden skies, before another tenant came out and held the door open for her.

“Thank you Mr Sakura,” she said, “Have you seen Mr Cassidy lately?”

“Not for a couple days, Miss Leyton,” he bowed respectfully as was Japanese custom.

“Alright, thank you.” she watched the Japanese walk across the road and down the street before ascending a flight of stairs to Cassidy’s apartment.

She knocked on the door, but there was no response.

She hated to invade a tenant’s privacy, but she had a need.

She unlocked the door and went in, calling his name. As she approached the door to the lounge she smelt an overpowering stench of decay. Almost afraid she pushed open the door and went in. She had not gotten more than two steps inside when the reason for Cassidy’s lack of response was made shockingly clear. Cassidy was slumped in the armchair, a bottle clutched in his hand. His dead eyes stared past her at nothing.

                                                                                                                                                                                             

Where can my readers get their own copy of A Winter Murderland?

JULIET:  You can buy A Winter Murderland here

Thank you Juliet. It was a pleasure to have you on the blog today and to find out more about your latest book. I wish you and all the readers of Bookaholic a very Merry Christmas