Book Review: Annals of Alasia gives an idea on how to know your characters

Hi everyone. It's time for another book review. Today's lucky winner is none other than Annals of Alasia.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Story:
This book follows the author Annie Douglass Lima as she conducts interviews with each of her characters from the three books of the Alasia series. While there's not actual storyline the events flow really well and the characters act as if it's really happening. Lima also acts realistically as she interviews the inhabitants of Alasia and Malorn, both good and bad. This is definitely one to have if you've enjoyed her other books. However her method of interviewing her characters could be useful for other authors to get to know their characters.
Caution:
Nothing to worry about here. People do recount deeds of treason.
Lessons:
Everyone has a story to tell.

Book review: A Clash of Kings intensifies the series

Well it's time to do another review. This week I've finally finished reading the second book of A Song of Ice and Fire, A Clash of Kings.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Story:
Westeros is being plunged into a civil war. Not only are the Lannister forces fighting against the armies of the North, but the people of King's Landing are starving and people across the Riverlands are being attacked. To make matters worse their are some men who are not interested in taking any side but their own. Stannous and Renly Baratheon, brothers of the late King Robert Baratheon, have declared themselves king and are waging war against each other. Whoever wins will go on to attack King's Landing. King Robb Stark of the North sends Theon Greyjoy back to the Iron Islands to enlist the help of his father, but only unleashes another power hungry man upon Westeros. Sansa, Arya, and Tyrion are caught up in the various aspects of the war while Jon and Daenerys are experiencing forces at work elsewhere in the world. Loyalties will be tested, friends and foes will rise, and no one will escape the clash of kings unscathed.
George R. R. Martin captures complex politics at work in the world of Westeros. It's hard for any writer to capture the workings of a world in the way Martin has. You can feel the pain and sorrow of many who want to help people, but can't for one reason or another. The human element is also strong here. Most authors tend to have different sides put aside petty differences to work together, but that does not work here. Many people are too set in their pride to listen to reason and as a result many suffer. I also love the amount of world building Martin has done in creating the city of Quarth and the history and lore in the wilds north of the Wall.
However this book does take an incredibly darker turn. He shows that there are darker powers at work in the world, some of them working behind the self-proclaimed kings in their struggle for the Iron Throne. Men and women alike also discuss things that are incredible inappropriate, mainly body parts that shouldn't be discussed except with their spouses. Still if you enjoyed the first book go ahead and pick it up. Just remember: read at your own risk.
Caution:
The F word appears at least twenty times. Several scenes are sexually explicit and graphic. A man is poisoned. Battles break out and there is blood and gore. A woman goes to see some warlocks and passes through a house of horrors, where corpses try to eat her. Some swearing.
Lessons:
When an unrighteous king comes to power it's the people who end up suffering. A tyrant will enforce his rule upon the people and force them to accept their way. Sometimes what we want isn't what is best for us. We all have gifts that we can use to help others. If we do not control our ambition, we can become something terrible.

Book Review: The Great Battle lives up to its name

Hi everyone. Well, I know that you know what time it is now. It's time for me to review a new book. The lucky winner today is book one of the Guardians of Allon series, The Great Battle.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Story:
Allon is a country unlike any you've seen before. The people are capable of getting direct help from Jor'el, the god of the world. To help maintain peace Jor'el has created a race of super people known as the Guardians. Each guardian has their own special skills and use them to help mortals. However nowadays there are some guardians that are causing trouble, like a mysterious rogue who beats people. An investigation begins to uncover a dangerous plan that could change the course of Allon's history forever.
I was incredibly impressed with this story. Shawn Lamb has created an amazing world that definitely stands out on its own. It has a presence of the Divine like in Narnia, but the action of Middle-Earth. Most fantasy stories start out with the world in an age of darkness and tyranny, but the author here has come up with a well-written story that shows the world in a golden age before the fall from grace. There are mystical creatures, but they are not what you expect. One example of something fantasy fans are familiar with would be the kelpie, but it is more of a monster than the water horse we know. Shawn Lamb has also created some dangerous new monsters that most heroes would rather not face in battle. Different perspectives and characters help set things up for the future of Allon and help to move the story along. This is a must-have for anyone who loves fantasy or the Chronicles of Narnia.
Caution:
Some battles can be terrifying and intense. Characters are chased by monsters and injured. People are tortured by the villains. Cases of blood from battles. Many characters die. A man passes through fire to test his virtue.
Lessons:
Sometimes people are allowed to do bad things so the judgement will be just. Even when it seems like evil has won, God will prevail in the end. Sometimes doing the right thing means going against those around you.

Book Review: Immortal Guardians really catches you off guard

Hallo. It's time for another book review. Today I finished ready the first book of Fall of the Beasts, the next Spirit Animals series, Immortal Guardians.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Plot:
It's been several months since the events of The Evertree, and Erdas is rebuilding from the war with the Conquerors. However people have been calling the Great Beasts as Spirit Animals, much like Conor, Abeke, Rollan, and Meilin have called Briggan, Uraza, Jhi, and Essix. When you think everything will be fine and dandy, trouble rears its ugly head again. Zerif is back, and he has gained a power that allows him to rip the Great Beasts away from the people they've bonded with. What's more, the new Evertree is sick, and mysterious parasites are appearing that are causing trouble. Conor, Abeke, Meilin, and Rollan must return to the role of saving Erdas as they split up to investigate the source of what is poisoning the Evertree and find the remaining Great Beasts and their partners before Zerif can claim them for himself. The stakes are higher than before, for if they fail Erdas as we know it will fall.
I was surprised to find out that Spirit Animals would continue because I thought once the Conquerors were stopped that would be the end of the story. I was delighted to be proven wrong. I was surprised with how quickly things were escalating in this book, and more than once was given my share of surprises and shocks. I truly felt concerned for the safety of the characters, and the tragic turn of events was saddening. Eliot Schrefer knows his craft as he creates a delightful story that takes elements of interior-world novels and Norse mythology, and combines them in an incredible adventure that raises the level of entertainment and excitement from the last novels. If you haven't read these books yet I would highly recommend you do, especially if you love exploring the realms of fantasy.
Caution:
A parasite takes possession of people and turns them into ghouls. A man stealing animals from their partners might be too intense for some readers. Characters are in peril, and there is some action against the ghouls. Animals fight each other and are injured. Blood is mentioned.
Lessons:
A common cause can unite old enemies. We must try to remember the past, and if we don't learn from it we could hurt our future. Be proud of who you are. Selfishness and greed can ruin goodness. There is more to our world than what we know, and we should be willing to seek it out.

Book Review: Added Upon is an inspirational and heartwarming story

Hi everyone. I know it's been a while, but I am signed up for a class this fall that requires me to do a lot of reading. I got done with one of the books, and I loved it so much I'm going to review it here and now. That book is Added Upon.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Plot:

Added Upon is a story that takes place during the three phases of a person's life: Pre-existence, mortality, and life after death. Homan and Delsa are caught up in the events that led to the casting out of Lucifer and his followers from Heaven, and are later given the opportunity to come to Earth. Having forgotten all they must follow the events of their lives that will help them return to the presence of their Heavenly Father. 

Although the characters of this book are fiction Nephi Anderson does an incredible job at writing out things that have happened, and showing an interpretation of what the world could be like in the future. When I was reading this the story filled my heart with hope and refueled the fire in me to do my family history and genealogy. I loved how Anderson suggested that even though things will be different in the future with the Savior ruling in Zion people will still be able to create in the arts, including writing. Even if you don't agree with some of the beliefs of the author you will love the story for its imagery and the feeling of hope.

Caution:

The word hell is used once, but only in its proper form. Some people are said to have been drinking, but are not seen.

Lessons:

What is sealed on Earth will be sealed in Heaven. Death will not be the end of us. With faith in Jesus Christ anything is possible.

Book Review: Galthain's Bones is a fun journey of growth

Hi everyone. I finally got done with a book I said I'd read. Now it's time to give a review. This takes us beyond the land of Astarkand in the story Galthain's Bones.

Rating: Five out of Five stars
Story:
Long before he came to Astarkand Bjorn was living with his family in Hevla. However one day the Seeress comes and tells him that he must retrieve the bones of his ancestor Eiathan from the city of Deathwater, located in the desert, and bring them to Hevla so they can be properly buried. With a company of six men Bjorn will travel through a scorching and unforgiving desert, where danger follows them and water is hard to come by. What's more, how will they get the remains of Eiathan out of the desert, and is someone in the company hiding a secret? 
There is a bonus story included as well. This story accounts the life of Bjorn Horsa at home in Hevla. We get to see another side to Bjorn as he lives with his family, close and extended. The bonus story serves for good humor and helps to show the culture of the Horsa people. While living in Hevla Bjorn gets into all kind of mischief while he seeks to have fun with his brothers and cousins. But will there be a price to pay for his humor?
I'm glad that we got to see a little more of the world apart from Astarkand. This book helps to build the world Krystine Kercher has created in Legends of Astarkand, and takes us beyond the borders of the kingdom we have become acquainted with. Like how the Horsa are Christian, the people of the desert appear to be Muslim as they worship Allah. However the danger comes from the bandits and the mysterious Emir. The journey sometimes feels long, but it is a world. Of course traveling across it would be a long process. Magic doesn't really appear until halfway through the story, but it serves as a tool that helps the characters. Overall this is a fun fantasy story that should be read. 
Caution:
A character mentions the word rape, but it isn't seen. Bandits chase men across the desert. Some fighting, but not gory. 
Lessons:
We should remember our ancestors and do what we can to honor them. The Lord will provide a way for us to obey his will. It is good to befriend those who are not of our faith. Good people are found everywhere.

Book Review: A Game of Thrones puts the Epic in Epic Fantasy

Hi everyone. I’ve been reading a book that has been entertaining, but long. Now it is finished. That book is the story A Game of Thrones

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Story:

Enter the world of Westeros, a land with a heavy medieval culture and seven kingdoms are ruled by a monarch who sits on the Iron Throne. After years of not seeing each other Lord Eddard “Ned” Stark is visited by his old friend Robert Baratheon, the King of Westeros, and is made the new Hand of the King. Reluctantly Ned follows Robert to King’s Landing with his daughters Arya and Sansa. On the way Ned starts to uncover facts that led to the death of the past Hand, Jon Arryn. As he searches for answers he uncovers a secret that could plunge all Westeros into chaos and war.

Online friends have told me that George R. R. Martin is the new king of fantasy, and it’s easy to see why with A Game of Thrones. Significantly more toned down than the HBO series the book focuses more on the politics of the world than on magic and monsters. Martin is an imaginative writer who brings you into the wondrous, and oft times, violent world of Westeros. Westeros is not a place where gallant princes and fair maidens dance with each other at the ball until midnight, or legions of orcs are trying to wipe out the kingdoms of men. The real threat comes from within, from the people themselves. The characters are well rounded, there is some serious development for many characters and you don’t have to worry about the pages being filled with clichés. In other words, no elves, no centaurs, no guiding wizard companion and counsellor. Magic is in Westeros, but it's very subtle to the point where if you blink you'll miss it. Martin steps away from many of the stereotypes of fantasy and makes Westeros seem like a place that could exist in reality. A gritty yet engrossing tale of the food and fashion of the dark ages. Also has magic and dragons and sex (sadly) and stuff. If you want a serious upgrade in fantasy worldbuilding you should pick up this book. The multiple characters the story follows helps to show the epicness of this world and once you start reading you won’t want to put this book down.
Martin does an incredible job of developing his characters. Cersei is so evil she makes the Evil Queen seem as gentle as a lamb. Sansa starts out as a silly love-struck girl lost in ideas of what stories paint the world to be, but as the book progresses she gets a serious wake up call that the world is often cold and cruel, and doing the right thing can get you killed. The Dothraki people that Daenerys Targaryan ends up with are seen as animals by many people, but as she spends time with them she sees a human side to them. Martin has said that when it comes to doing his female characters he thinks of them as people, and his writing proves it. The characters feel fleshed out and real with shortcomings and faults that many people have. More impressive is the immense political system Martin has created for Westeros. Most people in fantasy just have the king do everything when it comes to politics. In Westeros the king has a council that helps him govern and rule the land. Each man has a certain job  that they do when it comes to ruling the land. One's in charge of the treasury, the other rumors that abound in the land, etc. This suggests the king doesn't hold absolute power in this world. It makes a nice and well needed change from the stereotypes that have engulfed modern fantasy.  

Caution:

People swear, a couple of times f-bomb someone. Jaime and Cersei Lannister have incestuous sex with each other. Daenerys Targaryan's wedding night has too much detail. Characters are raped. Tyrion mentions sleeping with whores, and one instance has too much detail. Privates are mentioned. Sometimes it takes paragraphs, but other times you have to skip pages to avoid it. Not a book for younger readers. Battles break out and people die, sometimes in a gory way, more so than in The Lord of the Rings or The Inheritance Cycle. If this book were adapted into a movie the content could go beyond a PG-13 rating into NC 17. 

Lessons:

Sometimes we are our own worst enemy. Sometimes doing the right thing means going against the popular opinion. Family can be a source of strength and comfort. Our choices define who we are.

Movie Review: Jurassic World brings the franchise back from extinction

Hi everyone. Sorry it's been so long. I'm still trying to get that book read and reviewed. I got back from seeing a movie that I've been waiting all summer to see and I've decided to blog about it. Those of you who know me can tell what it's going to be about, but I'm going to tell you anyway: Jurassic World.

Rating: Five out of five stars

Story:

            It’s been years since the initial disaster of Jurassic Park on Isla Nublar. Now, thanks to Simon Masrani, the park has finally come under control and is a popular attraction for families all over the world. While the brothers Zach and Gray Mitchell have come to Jurassic World to visit their workaholic aunt Claire Dearing, the staff behind the park is keeping an eye on their next attraction: a hybrid dinosaur dubbed the Indominus Rex. What they don’t anticipate is the skills this new species of dinosaur has, which it uses to escape and cause mayhem across the park. With the help of Velociraptor trainer Owen Grady they must stop the Indominus Rex from killing everyone and everything on the island.

            I am a big fan of dinosaurs and have loved all the Jurassic Park films. Each one keeps to the theme that the dinosaurs are animals, not monsters. This one, however, takes it all to the next level while keeping the formula that made the past films great. The majority of the original actors don’t appear, but we do get to see B.D. Wong reprise his role as Dr. Henry Wu, the geneticist who helped create the dinosaurs. Chris Pratt did an excellent job as Owen Wilson, providing humor and the voice of reason to the film. While moving on from the events of the first Jurassic Park films, this movie does contain plenty of Easter Eggs and references to the rest of the franchise. Most people were complaining about how the training of the Veliciraptors took away from the appeal, but that only helps to make them more realistic. Many animals, like lions, tigers, wolves, and bears, can be trained to do certain things and still be a wild animal at heart. Jurassic World takes that concept and incorporates it into one of the most popular dinosaurs of all time, which only became famous thanks to the films. One of the shocking things to me in the film was that we see a female character die for the first time. I had a feeling it was going to happen, and foolishly hoped that it wouldn’t. Still, to see it happen, it shocked me and weighed heavy through the film.

            Anyway, continuing on, we do have to bid good-bye to the Brachiosaurus. However we get to see a dinosaur that was written in Michael Crichton’s original novel but had yet to appear in the films: Apatosaurus. We also see other classic dinosaurs like Parasaurolophus, Triceratops, and Stegosaurus. Dinosaurs like Pachycephalosaurus and Dilophosaurus are discussed and make cameos. I was really excited to see something that used to swim in the oceans finally make an appearance in the films, and it was one of the ocean’s apex predators: the Mosasaurus. The Indominus Rex, due to being a hybrid dinosaur, is quite literally insane. That does correspond to science because hybrid cows that have been created have been reported to be a little crazy. The film also sets up for potential sequels, which I have to say thanks to this film will certainly happen. If you haven’t seen it yet, then you should. It stays loyal to the spirit of the films, and evolves so much to the next level of prehistoric entertainment.

Caution:

            Dinosaurs attack people, and blood is seen plenty of times. A dinosaur attacks several other dinosaurs and kills them. Some Apatosaurs are seen injured and dying. Pteranodons carry off a woman who is eaten. Carnivores fight a hybrid dinosaur. Some mild swearing. A woman takes off her jacket while a man watches in shock.

Lessons:

            Our families can be a source of comfort and love when we are in our darkest moments and need strength. Animals are living, breathing creatures like us and deserve our respect. The only monsters are the ones we create. Just because we can do something doesn’t mean we should. Our actions have consequences, and if we’re not careful others will get hurt.

I realized too late I could've been using this month to blog about dinosaurs before the film was released. I may still do that. If I have time I'll update more and share with you more information about dinosaurs. Until next time, enjoy the film. 

Learning to honor my heritage

Well, I didn't meet my goal to finish that book. I'll have to work harder. However I didn't want to just wait until I had read the book to update this blog. I've been meaning to do some variation on here for some time. The best I can do for today is talking about something I'm still trying to learn how to do: honor my heritage. 

Some time ago, I was visiting a museum close to where I currently reside. There I found something that talked about how a person honored their heritage by participating in the Scottish Dance. That has helped them to feel closer to their ancestors. That reminded me of a video I saw at the Family History Library in Salt Lake City, about a boy who learned they were of Scottish descent and decided he wanted to learn to play the bagpipes. It took him a while, but he refused to quit, and his actions led to his sisters learning to do Scottish dances as well. 

Sadly I've known for a while that I was of Scottish descent, but I've never really done anything to honor that heritage. I didn't learn to play the bagpipes, I haven't learned any dances. I'm even willing to try haggis, but I still haven't. If only heritage honoring is a class you can take at school, or a college elective. 

Right now the only way I've been able to do anything to honor my heritage was to start doing family history and genealogy. Yet there are times when I fear that's all I'll ever be able to do, and I want to be able to do more to honor my heritage. Sadly every time I ask nobody seems to have any suggestions other than just adding sources to RootsMagic, FamilySearch, and Ancestry. 

So as a result I've been trying to figure out on my own how I could honor my heritage. I love good stories so I've been trying to read up on the books and tales told in the countries my ancestors came from. Sadly I haven't done a lot of Scottish stories, but I have been looking at lots of stories from England. That country has a rich heritage of storytelling. Many of the classic stories come from England, but I already covered how in a previous blog post. I have also been buying DVDs that have stories that are somehow connected to England and Scotland. I just hope I'm going about it the right way. 

Another way I'm trying to honor my heritage is with the world building I'm doing for my books. I've been looking at the legends and stories of the places where my ancestors lived to get ideas as to how to build up the world of Dymos. I've gotten a lot of magical and prehistoric creatures for those places, but I'm also trying to build the culture similarly. I haven't been able to find any good books that could help with that, but I'm going to keep looking. Hopefully as time goes on I'll be able to find more ways I can honor my heritage. Maybe I should practice making Shepherd's Pie more. 

Book Review: The Long Patrol is an exciting adventure tale of Redwall

Hi everyone. School's out for me right now, so I might be able to do a little more with this blog than book reviews. In the meantime I do have a new book to review, and it comes from Brian Jacques wonderful world surrounding the amazing abbey of Redwall. This book is The Long Patrol.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Story:
Tamello De Fformelo Tussock is a young hare who dreams of joining the Long Patrol, a group of hares that serves Lady Cregga Rose Eyes, the badger who rules the stronghold of Salamandastron. Even though both of Tammo's parents have served in the Long Patrol it takes Tammo's mother to convince an old friend, a squirrel named Russa, to get Tammo started on his journey. However the journey isn't a smooth one. An army of sea vermin known as the Rapscallions has come ashore following their defeat at the hands, or paws, of Lady Cregga Rose Eyes, and their former leader has died. His heir, through treachery and deceit, is Damug Warfang, a rat who is eager to carve a name for himself. Leading his army inwards, he learns that the peaceful Redwall Abbey has a problem. The south wall is crumbling, and needs to be rebuilt. The race is on as Damug makes his way towards the peaceful abbey. Will Tammo and the Long Patrol be able to help save Redwall? Or will the abbey fall into the clutches of the Rapscallions?
Brian Jacques always does an incredible job with storytelling and world building. I like how he manages to replace the traditional fantasy races with woodland creatures like mice, squirrels, moles, badgers, etc. He also knows how to make use of poem, rhyme, and song to help further build up the world around Redwall. The book may start out slow for some, but it gets easier to read the further you go along. It may be hard to understand the style of speech several animals have, but that helps add to the world of Redwall. If you want to take a break from elves, dwarves, and other traditional fantasy races then you should take a trip to Redwall Abbey.
Caution:
Characters are in peril and threatened with death. An eel almost eats someone. Some characters end up trapped in a dark place and encounter blind cannibals. Damug Warfang's helmet has a skull on it. A badger is mentioned as having Bloodwrath. Animals fight and kill each other
Lessons:
Fighting is justified if you are trying to protect your family and loved ones from those who would harm them and take away their freedom. The greatest act of love is to give your life from another. We can find ourselves prepared for the future if we study the past.

Oh, just a little note, this week I'm going to be reading and reviewing a book for a friend before it becomes available online. I intend to read and review it before the week is out, so be sure to check back again this week.

Book Review: Spirit Animals: Evertree is awesome

Hi everyone. I've got a lot of stuff I need to do, but I think it's time I gave you another book review. Hopefully this summer I'll be able to branch out a little.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Story:
The Greencloaks are in trouble. The Conquerors have gotten their hands on all but three of the talismans, and only two are in their possession. The last talisman is the Platinum Elk, which belongs to Tellun the elk, the greatest and most powerful of all the Great Beasts. However with Kovo the ape about to break free of his prison there's no time to go and seek the aid of Tellun. Conor, Abeke, Rollan, and the Greencloaks will have to travel to the Conqueror's homeland of Stetriol to try and stop Gerathon and Kovo. However terrible things are happening across Erdas. Continents are changing, the weather's going berserk, and the animals are getting sick. Is there a way to reverse this chaos? Or will Erdas be plunged into an era of darkness?
I liked so much in the book. I liked how the actions of the Conquerors and Kovo and Gerathon are literally tearing Erdas apart. It really shows how serious the situation is. When Tellun made an appearance it's easy to see why he's the greatest of all the Great Beasts. I won't say what, but he does some pretty awesome stuff. Definitely not your average elk. I also liked how more Erdas mythology and history is brought into this book. However due to the fast pace of the book I was left feeling like they could've done more. While the battles were epic in their own right I was just left wanting a bit more. I'm not talking graphic or gory kind of violence. When I think about it I can see the point was to try and get through, not to fight bad guys except when absolutely necessary.
Caution:
A snake keeps taking control of people. Animals fight each other. The chaos the world is being thrown into might be intense for some.
Lessons:
The greatest act of love is to give our life for another. When the lives of our loved ones and our freedoms are threatened it's okay to fight to protect them. This is for people who are of a Christian background: The Atonement of Jesus Christ has the power to free us from the power of the Devil.

Book review: The Ice Dragon is a fun fantasy for winter

Hi everyone. School's starting to wrap up and I'm getting some great help to get caught up on assignments. I wanted to take some time today to do something I wasn't able to yesterday. Post a review for a book I finished reading.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Story:
Adara is a girl who's living in the North, a country in Westeros, with her father and siblings. Adara's noted for being a bit of an odd girl, such as she loves the winters. She would spend the time counting down to her birthday as that's during wintertime. Most do not enjoy the winters in the North, but Adara loves it. Each year Adara is visited by an ice dragon, a rare species of dragon that few ever see, and tales say it is a foul creature of death. However Adara manages to befriend the strange animal and flies around on it. That itself is a great accomplishment as ice dragons are held to be unridable. One day fierce invaders come to Adara's home and it's up to her and her ice dragon to stop them.
For a while now I've been encouraged to delve into George R. R. Martin's world of Westeros, and I was surprised to see there are books written by him that take place outside of his main series. Even though this book may be shorter and more geared to juvenile readers, I still found it a good place to enter Westeros. Most dragons are stereotyped to be fire breathers, but it made a nice change to see a dragon that could breath cold instead. Adara herself is a very interesting character. Winters can be fierce from what I read in the North, but the cold never bothers her. Sorry. Couldn't resist putting that joke in. I have read The World of Ice and Fire, and I spent some time wondering when this tale fits in chronologically with the history of Westeros. For reasons that I won't divulge so to not give any spoilers I'll say I think it happens in The Dance of the Dragons, which was the name of an old war. Anyway, I can see this book forming the basis of an animated film adaptation someday. Probably won't happen, but if you're looking for a fantasy book to read during the winter I would recommend this book.
Caution:
A woman dies from childbirth. Men are mentioned as swearing, but the words are not listed. Some battle scenes, but nothing graphic. A kid accidentally snaps an ice lizard in two.
Lessons:
The greatest form of love is to give your life for another. We should be willing to get out and explore.

Book Review: Five Kingdoms: Crystal Keepers is an amazing blend of fantasy and science fiction

Hi everyone. My prioritizing is still not good. For now I wanted to get this book review up for you. It's for Brandon Mull's new book: Five Kingdoms: Crystal Keepers.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Story:
Cole and his friends are still on the run in the Outskirts. This time, they are traveling to the kingdom of Zeropolis, the most advanced kingdom in this world. This kingdom matches the idea of most futuristic cities, and the magic system of shaping in this kingdom is called tinkering. This skill allows them to use crystals to accomplish their means. However this high-tech place is not a walk in the park. The Grand Shaper in this kingdom is seeking absolute control, and he is on the verge of crushing all resistance. To find Mira's sister Constance Cole will have to travel beyond Zeropolis, make unlikely alliances, and face the wrath of dangerous technology. All the while, the mystery of shapecrafting begins to be unraveled. But will they be able to face all the dangers and save the Outskirts? Or will Cole and his friends be unable to return home ever?
I really enjoyed the way Brandon Mull used magic to power high levels of technology in this book. It really breaks several cliches in the realm of fantasy. He also continues to pull unexpected twists and turns, keeping you on the edge of your seat. Some events happened in this book that I was not expecting until the last book, but I won't say what. His world building skills are really going in new directions in this series. Mull has created fun new games played only in Zeropolis, and unlike most kingdoms there is a way to find out what's going on in our world in Zeropolis. If you want a change from wizards, trolls, and knights, pick up this book.
Caution:
Children are in peril. Men try to capture the characters several times. A person is mentioned as having lost their leg a while ago. Someone is abducted. Some of the action scenes may prove too intense for younger readers. The appearance of a demonic creature might scare some people. A robotic dragon rampages across the city.
Lessons:
When we act out of selfishness we hurt others as well as ourselves. Technology can be used for good purposes as well as bad. Sometimes, despite our best efforts, the past will repeat itself.

Book Review: Inheritance ended things in ways unexpected

Hi everyone. I just got done reading a book, and you know what that means: review time. This book is the fourth and final title in the Inheritance Cycle, Inheritance.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Story:
The war to end the reign of Galbatorix has begun. As the Varden move through the empire capturing major cities Eragon and Saphira must prepare themselves for the time when they shall face the mad king. Too much is at stake for them to fail, and secrets of the past are revealing themselves. After an attack from the Empire on the Varden, Eragon and Sapphire learn of the location of the Rock of Kuthian, and must travel there in order to become more powerful to face Galbatorix. Will they find what they are looking for? Or will Alagaësia forever endure the rule of the mad king?
People have complained about how the elements of these books are similar to The Lord of the Rings and Star Wars. However people have been pointing out similarities in the Star Wars films to other myths and legends around the world, including but not limited to Japanese. It just shows that Paolini has done an extensive amount of research into old cultures and mythologies to create Alagaësia. The use of magic in this book is fun and exciting, and to be honest I never would've thought of the solutions that the characters came up with. The action sequences are well written and thought out. I also like how we see development in characters like Murtagh and Thorn. Most people would've ended the story with the death of Galbatorix, but Paolini goes on to include chapters on rebuilding Alagaësia after the war. It would've been nice if all the plot holes could've been wrapped up in the last few chapters, but for the most part this is a good end to an ambitious piece of work. 
Caution:
Battles are waged, and men are often killed. Some creatures found in the story may be intimidating to younger readers. A woman is tortured and described as being in a shift. Booby traps kill people. Bones are broken, and blood is seen. Some mild swearing. 
Lessons:
People have a right and a duty to protect their loved ones and their freedom from those who would seek to take them away. We should choose good and wise people to lead us. Our gifts and talents are best used to help and serve others. We can always change who we are. Learning from the past can help us face the future. There is no chance, fate, or destiny that can change or control the firm resolve of the human mind. Like Galbatorix, evil will try to paint its reasons and justifications as right. 

Review: The World of Ice & Fire gives a vast history to a vast world

Hi everyone. I got another book read that I am going to review today. After weeks of reading, I finally finished The World of Ice & Fire.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Story:
Unlike most stuff I read this doesn't really have a narrative to tell. However it is still interesting to read what is essentially supposed to be a history book for George R. R. Martin's world of Westeros. Going back to a time before men, Martin tells the history of Westeros and several other lands that serve as the setting for his epic fantasy series. This book also recounts the history of each of the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros, from the time when they were first settled up to the end of the Mad King's reign. We also get to learn of the lands beyond Westeros, and get some of their history as well. The addition of the illustrations helps to create the image of the events of Westerosi history for those who are getting into the books.
I am greatly impressed with the amount of imagination and creativity Martin put into his fantasy world. There are some things about parts of Martin's world that I don't like, but I understand the point that this is a different world. People will have customs and traditions that I won't agree with, just like people in ancient times didn't agree with some of the ideas that other nations had. Since this is the history of Westeros it's no different than if a person were reading about the Pharaohs of Egypt or how people lived in Medieval Europe. Reading this made me reflect on the history I've been creating for my books, and showed me that I probably still have a lot of work to do to make things fun for readers. Probably not for younger readers, but adults who love fantasy and/or are fans of Martin's books or the show Game of Thrones will want to add this book to their library.
Caution:
Incest is part of a family's history, though the effects of such a way of life are shown later in their history. Various kingdoms and people are mentioned as taking people as salt wives and concubines. There is a picture that, although faint and not clear, depicts the worship of a love goddess on an island. Some illustrations show cleavage and some outfits are reminiscent of Princess Leia's metal bikini. Wars and battles are listed.
Lessons:
We have such a vast world with complicated histories and cultures. We should seek to learn as much about the histories and cultures of another nations as well as our own.

Late Review: The False Prince is tense and fun

Hi everyone. So sorry that it's been a while. I meant to blog about RootsTech, but I didn't manage my time wisely. I wanted to get this review to you on The False Prince.

Rating: Five out of Five stars
Story:
Sage is an orphan living in Avenia. One day he is bought by Bevin Conner, who is a regent of the nearby kingdom of Carthya. The royal family of Carthya has been murdered and civil war threatens to erupt. To prevent this Conner has hatched a plan that if they fail will result in everyone being executed for treason. The plan is to train an orphan boy to behave and look like the lost prince Jaron, who was lost at sea years earlier. Sage finds himself against two other boys, Tobias and Roden. Those who do not convince Conner that they're perfect for the role will be killed. With enemies around him, and a reason to win, will Sage be able to stay alive and fill the role of Jaron?
This is not the typical fantasy. Yes there are kingdoms, but Jennifer A. Nielsen doesn't fill the land with dragons, elves, or any other fantasy creature we would expect. Her book focuses on the political side of a world. Treachery and deceptions are around every corner, and the reader will find themselves wondering who can be trusted. Even though I would've liked to have seen some fantasy creatures I enjoyed the story too much.
Caution:
A boy is killed by a crossbow to show the seriousness of the mission. Some boys attack each other with knives and blood is drawn. A soldier is killed. Boys are threatened with death.
Lessons:
There may be times where we have to hide who we are to help those in need. We should not be afraid to stand up for others. It is our duty as citizens of our country to keep men from abusing their power.

Book Review: Z. Apocalypse is an epic end.

Last review for the day. This book is the last of Steve Cole's Hunting Trilogy. And it is epic. Give it up for Z. Apocalypse!

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Story:
On their way to a meeting to give information about Geneflow Adam and his father are caught in the middle of an attack on Washington D.C., caused by super-evolved pterosaurs that are dubbed Z. dactyls. One of them is captured and the government gets to work trying to learn what they can from it. Meanwhile similar attacks are going on in countries across the world. After Geneflow tries to eliminate the captured Z. dactyl, dubbed Keera, Adam and his new friend Zoe are taken all the way to Siberia, where they meet up with Zed from the first book! After learning of Geneflow's plot to bring about the apocalypse Adam and his friends must work to stop Geneflow's demented plans, but can they really stop the end of the world?
In this epic finale Steve really doesn't hold back. Not only are there armies of super-evolved dinosaurs, but Geneflow's madness really shines forth. A plot to turn all world governments against each other, doubled with engineering species to be completely devoid of free will and thought. Science is shown at its worst here, and the stakes have been higher than ever before. If there was ever a book series that could use dinosaurs in an epic way, its The Hunting.
Caution:
Creature violence abounds. Blood is mentioned. A mad scientist clones people into human-reptile hybrids. Animals are fed to dinosaurs. Crashes and explosions may be a little intense.
Lessons:
It is wrong to force anyone to act against their will. It is okay to fight if you are not the offender and to protect your freedom and the freedom of those around you.

Book Review: Rise and Fall is exciting, fun, and unexpected.

Well, this next book I was surprised to find in the bookstore because I wasn't expecting this until next month. It's the next book in the Spirit Animals series, Rise and Fall:

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Story:
The team has been split. Abeke and Meilin have been captured by the Conquerors and Rollan and Conor have to travel across Nilo to find Cabaro, the Great Beast who's not only powerful and dangerous, but is a known human-hater. Finding allies in Nilo is next-to-impossible as the Conquerors have almost conquered all of the continent. Still they must find a way to get the Golden Lion talisman from the lion before the Conquerors do, or else risk Kovo the Ape getting free of his prison. Friendships will be tested, lives will be lost, and no one will be prepared for what is coming.
I have been enjoying the Spirit Animals series because I enjoy how the world feels like Earth but is still different. Plus the ability to bond and work with your own animal is just plain cool. You can tell in this book the situation is growing worse as the Conquerors seem to be pretty much unstoppable. This book will take you on a roller coaster ride that will blow your mind away.
Caution:
Children are in peril. Animals and people are killed. A lion threatens everyone. A girl is killed for failing.
Lessons:
People will try to use our trust against us. Our friends can give us love and support. Deception can come from anywhere.

Book Review: Z.Raptor is a heart-pounding thrill.

Well, with all these fantasy books some of you might be thinking I've lost my interest in dinosaurs. Not a chance! I still love dinosaurs, and to prove it this next review is on a book that features dinosaurs.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Story:
While trying to enjoy Christmas with his dad in New York Adam Adlar finds himself abducted by the FBI. He and his dad learn that the company Geneflow has people trapped on an island off of Hawaii where there are super-evolved raptors. On their way to rescue the people one of the ships is attacked and sunk, and Adam finds himself stranded on Raptor Island. With a group of survivors Adam learns there's not one, but two super-evolved raptor species on the island that are battling each other for domination, and for the right to eat the people. With the help of the outcast raptor Loner, Adam and the survivors launch a plan to break into Geneflow's base and stop this diabolical plan of theirs.
I enjoyed these books because the dinosaurs are not your average stereotype. I enjoy reading how these species are evolved into deadly creatures. Perfect blend of science fiction and horror. Steve Cole has plenty of unexpected twists in the story, and you will be on the edge of your seat long before you get to the end.
Caution:
Raptors fight each other and blood is mention. Some violence between survivors and raptors might be a little intense for some. Some mild swearing.
Lessons:
If we let ambition blind us we may become monsters ourselves. Be careful when it comes to trusting others.

Book Review: Glinda of Oz is magical.

Hello. While I've been away I was able to finish up a book series. That's right. I read the last Oz book L. Frank Baum wrote, Glinda of Oz:

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Story:
While visiting Glinda the Good Dorothy and Ozma learn that two people, the Flatheads and the Skeezers, are about to go to war with each other. Not wanting this to happen Ozma and Dorothy set out to make peace with the two nations. Along the way Dorothy learns some more about how magic works, and that everyone who can use magic has their limits. They have some adventures and mishaps along the way, but thanks to their friends and the good hearts of Oz's inhabitants everything manages to work out well.
This book features some elements that are usually not present in the books of Oz, like two people threatening war with each other, and Ozma and Dorothy both unable to figure a way out of a certain predicament. I think it does work because it allows their friends to come and help them. I also enjoy the philosophy L. Frank Baum puts in this book about magic because it holds true. While I found the Flatheads a little weird it still has that Oz feel about them.
Caution:
Spiders hold people captive, which may be a little scary. People threaten war with each other. A transforming witch might scare some.
Lessons:
We should always strive for peace. When we work hard for something we want we find joy in having accomplished what we set out to do. We should use our gifts and talents to help each other instead of ourselves.

Book Review: Ender's Game is a Sci-Fi must!

Well I was finally able to get this book read, and now I can review it.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Story:
After Earth has been invaded twice by the alien buggers the world has come together to train kids to fight battles in space for the impending third invasion. Andrew "Ender" Wiggin is one of the most promising cadets ever seen, and soon he is whisked off to Battle School, where he learns to fight as a soldier. As Ender progresses he learns that his battles are not just in the games, but in himself as well.
I'm sorry to say I saw the movie before I read the book, and I dislike it when I do that. I did notice several differences in the plot of both, but the book's spirit was still there. I could feel the pressure of war training on the mind of Ender Wiggin, and the conflict he has with himself feels incredibly realistic. This is definitely a book any fan of science fiction will want to read.
Caution:
Boys in battle school have some dirty humor. Some mild swearing. Kids bully and pick on each other. Some violence occurs.
Lessons:
When we love our enemies we lose all hatred for them. Forgiving others who have wronged us and loving them brings peace. There is nothing wrong with using self-defense as a last resort when we have offered our aggressors peace. Our words and actions can have consequences we do not foresee. Using others to satisfy our selfish gain is wrong.

Book Review: Sands of Nezza adds new levels to the series

Hi again. I've been doing a lot of reading lately, and that means new reviews. This review is for the fourth book in the Adventurers Wanted series, Sands of Nezza:

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Story:
Alex Taylor is enjoying his new life in Alusia. However he receives a message from one of his friends, who is trapped in the land of Nezza. Alex sets out to find and rescue his friend, but Nezza is a land where adventurers are not trusted, and wizards are seen as evil. Both big problems for Alex as he is both. Not only must Alex work in secret to rescue his friends, but he must help them find the one who can unite the land of Nezza and end the evil that is at work here. Not only will this affect the future of Nezza, but all the lands, known and unknown, could be at risk.
I've been enjoying how the Adventurers Wanted series has been developing, and now we are seeing more of what the future could hold in this book. M.L. Forman is coming forward as a writer, and in this book we see that not everything works out well for adventurers or wizards. Distrust and political games are becoming more evident, and the bad guys are willing to go as far as it takes to get what they want. I look forward to reading what happens in book five.
Caution:
Soldiers try to stop the characters. A snake attacks people and eats someone. There is fighting and sword clashing, but there is little to no blood.
Lessons:
We should not be afraid to learn to use our gifts and talents to help those in need. We should accept responsibility.

Book Review: Eiathan's Heir raises the stakes

Hi everyone. It's late getting this up, but better late than never. This book review deals with the third book in the Legends of Astarkand series, Eiathan's Heir:

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Story:
Bjorn Horsa has come to Hearthing Hall, and is trying to bring order to the land while waiting for the right moment to be crowned king. Not only does he have to deal with misguided heralds and political matters of the court, but there's a barber causing insurrection in the land that if not stopped will result in innocent people being sacrificed to Vodan. Unknown to Bjorn the sorceress and Vodan's own daughter Gunhild is spying on him, seeking to ruin his rule. Will Bjorn be able to save the folk of Firewind? Or will Astarkand forever fall under the shadow of Vodan?
I enjoyed this story as I've enjoyed the other books of Astarkand. Krystine manages to create an authentic medieval feel while still maintaining the elements of a high fantasy. Like in medieval times different religious views clash and find themselves at odds. Her heroes prove you don't need magic or super powers to save the day. All you need is faith and the courage to go forward.
Caution:
The word breast is used a few times. A woman is hinted to be pregnant. A man is hanged. A dragon attacks a town.
Lessons:
With God all things are possible. The Devil may try to slip us up and bring misfortune, but all will work out in the end. Sometimes doing what's right means going against what is popular.