adventure | Ad Librum Aeternam

*I received a free ecopy in exchange for an honest review. No compensation has been given and I write this book review willingly. A big thanks to BookTasters and Deston J. Munden!*

Introduction:

I was kindly offered by BookTasters to review one of the books they had, and Tavern’s blurb stood out to me. It sounded so fantasy-like and magical… How could I resist? So, here I am, reviewing it with pleasure!

I hope many of you will find this read to their liking as I did.

Shall we go on a quest together and explore this book in more details?

Come, dear reader…

Blurb:

Information, Power. Respect.

Xelnath of the Gnarled Root—a tavern owner, information broker, healer, and guildmaster of the Blackwind Company—has found a place, far better than the forest from which he came in the magical metropolis and city-state of Lladad in the Magiian Empire.

When a simple act of kindness draws the ire of a troubled assassin, his love-stricken Archmage father and an army of magically constructed golems, Xel must scheme with vipers of the high court, mingle with royalty at the castle, blackmail drug dealers in the slums, and fight assassins and mercenaries in the streets.

He needs to lean on the support of his motley crew of a dark elf assassin, a dragon pirate, a high elf royal, and a talking dog artificer to keep him from his own inner demons and doubts.

The Positive Sides:

For starters, may I say this lad writes excellent descriptions of fights and action scenes? Because it’s true. They were so engrossing and immersive! Moreover, the whole reading experience was amusing and thrilling (despite the first confusing chapter, though). The quest Xelnath embarks on is fun and so are the other, smaller adventures in his path.

Another magnificent point is how really exotic the story and settings are! There is an orc for a main character, as well as other creatures and tribes. And magic! Did I talk about this one yet? Nope. Here goes: I love the nature-based magic system found in Tavern. All this variety gives me the feeling I am reading The Witcher, which is amazing as I love this series. (I’m even reading it in Polish! Yup, that’s a polyglot for you.)

I loved being on this reading adventure with Xelnath the orc and his motley crew. It reminded me of why I enjoy High and Epic fantasy (I’ve been falling out of touch with it lately, but now I want to resume The Witcher books—still in Polish—and go back to Lord of the Rings). I call this a win by this book and author!

The Negative Sides:

However, I found that the text was sometimes too telling and not showing enough—it was rather straightforward in multiple occasions, but I’m not sure whether it’s a fault or the author’s intention. Hmmm… Also, the first chapter was confusing as h.

It took me a while to get used to the whole situation, the world, and the orc main character! Everything was too vague, and while I understand the strategy to keep his MC’s nature a mystery at the beginning, it doesn’t help the confusion. I had a hard time immersing myself or believing the story at first. But then after the first chapter, I had a blast reading!

In Conclusion:

What can I say? It rekindled my flame for this genre. I’ve had a blast (except that damn first chapter) and I can’t wait to read the next one in this series! I will definitely follow this series and author (already doing so on his Amazon Author’s page, yup). All in all, I give Tavern by Deston J. Munden a rating of 4 stars out of 5! If you enjoy high or epic fantasy, a big and varied cast of characters, and an intricate story with amusing parts, this is the read for you!

If you want to learn more about the author, you can visit his Web site, you can also follow him on Goodreads and Twitter. You can also add Tavern to your bookshelves on Goodreads and LibraryThing.

Isola Volume 1: A Book Review

Book Reviews December 12, 2018 Leave a comment

by Brenden Fletcher, Karl Kerschl, Msassyk

Image Comics (Publisher)

Goodreads

LibraryThing

WorldCat

Genre: Comic books, Graphic Novels, Magic, Fantasy, Spiritual, Adventure

Pages: 136

ISBN: 9781534309227

Format: Paperback

Publication date: October 30th, 2018

Publisher: Image Comics

Type: Comic book

Collects Issues: #1-5

*A special thanks to Edelweiss+ and Image Comics for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.*

The Blurb:

Isola Vol.1 is a fantasy and adventure comic book series brought to you by renown Brenden Fletcher and Karl Kerschl (Gotham Academy creators) and MSASSYK (Gotham Academy colorist).

Olwyn, Queen of Maar, has been changed into a gorgeous black-and-blue tiger thanks to an evil spell. Accompanied by her loyal Captain of the Guard, she will travel far and wide to reverse it in hopes of finding Isola, a mythical island also known as the land of the dead.

Embark with them on this grand and surprising quest! Be ready for beauty, brilliant colour choices, spirituality, and an emotional journey you won’t regret.

Introduction:

When I first lay eyes on this comic book, the colours and strange animals in this adventurous scene caught my attention. I’ve got to admit I’m a real sucker for bright and/or thematic colours. Also, Isola? What does it mean? Such a beautiful word! Did you see the glyphs that represent an unknown fictional language? As a polyglot and language lover, this appealed to me!

Then, I read the summary. A queen, stuck in a tiger’s body, travels the world with her Captain of the Guard to reverse the curse placed on her? Fantasy and adventure? Plus, a queen as a main character?!

There was no other choice: I had to read this book.

Thanks a lot, Edelweiss+ and Image Comics!

The Positive Sides:

Since I have several positive points, I figured it’d be nice to present them in a… bullet list, yay!

It is INSANELY GOOD! (see other points)

I love the colour themes and contrasts! They add a lot to the story and the emotions, mostly.

Gorgeous drawings. There, I said it. They’re a beautiful mix between American and Japanese comics (manga), which is simply lovely.

Speaking of drawing, the depth techniques the artists used resulted in amazing effects! The characters and important items somehow look closer to the reader than the background itself. It’s mesmerizing, honestly.

As for the characters, their facial expressions are great and quite believable!

The Queen, dear Olwyn, I love her (I hope that’s clear) and she looks AWE-FREAKING-SOME as a human! I love her skin colour—it’s a surprise but a very pleasant one at that.

Also: LGBTQ+ representation, YAY! This time, it’s lesbians, yes! FANTASTIC *throws confetti*! It’s so rare in general and even more in comics! Excuse me while I sit there squealing about this oh-so-cute relationship in Isola.

Did I tell you about my emotions while reading this work of art? No? Here I come: AH, my emotions! The story tugged on them so hard I feared for my safety. And damn, how I love Olwyn and Rook (her Captain of the Guard)!!!

There is tension and a hella lot of mystery. The story’s also mystic and spiritual (in terms of these characters’ beliefs, not ours).

Animals play a big part in this story (the ever-present fox is awesome!) and it’s so refreshing.

Last point but a very important one to me, the symbols of unknown languages (at least to us) are just woooow. As a polyglot, let me tell you they excited me!

The Negative Sides:

Hmmmm… None?

Perhaps the fact that the story is sometimes confusing due to a lot of spirituality and flashbacks involved, but really, it’s not off-putting. But then again, it fits the story… This is not a negative side per se, only a small confusion.

In Conclusion:

Seriously? If this were an attraction at a park, I’d stand in line again after every. damn. time. I get off it. I genuinely loved Isola! All-in-all, I want to KNOW MORE ABOUT THIS STORY! I’ll be damn sure to read the rest of the series and subscribe to Image Comics newsletter just to know when each issue is out and all that jazz. Count me in as a big fan!

On this joyous note, I give Isola a rating of *gasps* 5 out of 5! (I swear I would give it more if I could, like 10 out of 5, but hey!)

If you want to learn more about the artists, you can visit their Web sites: Brenden Fletcher, Karl Kerschl, Msassyk. Their book is featured on the publisher’s Web site. You can also add Isola Vol.1 to your bookshelves on Goodreads and LibraryThing.

Empress of a Thousand Skies: A Review

Book Reviews May 27, 2017 Leave a comment

A saga of vengeance, warfare, and the true meaning of legacy.:

Empress
Rhee, also known as Crown Princess Rhiannon Ta’an, is the sole surviving heir to a powerful dynasty. She’ll stop at nothing to avenge her family and claim her throne.

Fugitive
Aly has risen above his war refugee origins to find fame as the dashing star of a DroneVision show. But when he’s falsely accused of killing Rhee, he’s forced to prove his innocence to save his reputation – and his life.

Madman
With planets on the brink of war, Rhee and Aly must confront a ruthless evil that threatens the fate of the entire galaxy.

This review is spoiler-free.

Let me say that I loved this book! First of all, I usually dislike anything that has to do with sci-fi (except for Star Trek: TOS), but this novel caught my attention on the shelves and I had to take it home! Needless to say I was pleasantly surprised. I now call it my go-to sci-fi series.

The main characters, Princess Rhiannon and Alyosha, are quite lovable and deeply flawed, which helps greatly in making you want to see what they can do next. There is a lot of action and twists and turns. No kidding: I was panting while reading the last 50 pages! It was so engrossing. Also, I loved the cube technology (it allows living beings to re-live their memories, sensations, and feelings!) and the different alien races. Although there are aliens, the focus is not on their differences, which I particularly liked. It reminded me of Star Trek with how they all know the other races and live with them like it’s no big deal. Of course, there is tension because of different point of views, but overall it was a nice change. A funny fact: the story is happening in another galaxy than ours! I think it’s a good idea, having them live out their lives out in the open (instead of aliens hiding in our galaxy), all civilized and advanced in technology.

The only negative point I could find was how the author, Rhoda Belleza, uses euphemisms and wording that sometimes reminds me of middle grade fiction. I think her job as a children’s book editor showed in this novel… However, it’s not always like that and it’s worth reading for all the fun and adventure it can give you!

Because of all the action that left me panting and how lovable the characters are and the writing that is sometimes a bit too young for the intended readership, I give this awesome novel a rating of 4 stars out of 5. And that’s coming from a woman who dislikes sci-fi in general, remember? So that’s saying a lot, in my opinion.

P.S.: I just can’t wait for the sequel! I want it now.

A Step on the Publishing Path (and Other Great Stuff!)

chit-chatting with Cat, My project, Short Stories March 2, 2017 Leave a comment

Hello, ladies and gentlemen!

I have two good news for you, an update, and a question.

Let’s start with the good news (it’s my favorite part!).

I will participate in the Writer’s Digest Annual Writing Contest this year in the genre short story category (Romance). Yes, you’ve read it well! I am so thrilled it’s unbelievable. It’s the biggest contest in which I have ever participated. What is pleasant about it too is that they give every participant a free webinar. So everyone wins in a way! I’m just happy to be in.

The second fun thing I want to tell you is making me bubble up with joy: I’ll have my short story edited! I have never had an editor work on a short story of mine, so this is a huge step toward publication and I’m as excited as one can be – I’m ecstatic actually. I can’t wait to read the edited version and learn from it!

As for the update, I am still working hard on Nightshade: The Death Stone. Truth is I had to slow down a little due to midterm exams; however, I now have more free time to dedicate to writing, yay! My main focus is on characterisation and world-building this week and the next, along with outlining (of course!).

With that being said, I have a question: would you be interested in character, world-building, and other worksheets if I made them? Some free and others you would be able to purchase.

What do you think?

Or would you prefer a story binder or a writing planner, or other products?

Moreover, what writing issues would you like me to tackle in order to help you, guys (and girls)?

Tell me your opinion in the comments below! I’m always happy to interact with you.

P.S.: Book reviews are coming your way as well!

A Pinch of Greek and Worldbuilding

chit-chatting with Cat, My project February 5, 2017 Leave a comment

Hello, folks!

I know it’s been a while but my life has been pretty rocky lately. But I’m here now, that’s all that matters. I wanted to let you know how hard I’m working on my novel Nightshade: The Death Stone. I am currently worldbuilding, yes! Not one world: four. And you want to know the best thing about it? It’s fun and going great!

Moreover, this has nothing to do with writing but I figured it’d be fun to share: I have started to learn Greek this week. It’s such a marvellous language! I printed free sheets about Greek and I’m practising. I’ll even order workbooks and CDs for it. I love learning languages: it’s thrilling! Just like an adventure. 🙂 Oh heck, it’s one! I already speak French, English (obviously), Italian, and Spanish.

So that was for my update ^.^

Thank you for staying with me! I love you, people!

P.S.: I am thinking of a poem I’ll soon write for you, guys. I’ll keep you updated about it too.

A Whole New World! Wait, two?!

chit-chatting with Cat October 14, 2016 Leave a comment

Hello again!

Two posts in the same day? Whoa, calm down, Cat!

There’s some news I want to let you in about. I didn’t tell anyone but I’m currently working on a TV show manuscript. Yup. ”You’re writing what we see on television?” Not yet, but yes, I’m getting there.

”At the same time as your novel?” Yes, I know, I’m crazy! But if I wasn’t, where would be the fun in that?

So, yes, I thought I needed to let you know because it’s a project that is dear to me too. Plus, I’ve found something fun!

If you go on http://www.screencraft.org and click on ”Screenwriting software”, you’ll have two different versions of the software. It’s like Final Draft, but cheaper because you can use it for free! AND you get incentives. I kid you not.

Here are the discounts and such:

Introduction to Screenwriting ebook
50% discount on ecourses for free users!

The ecourses they offer are ”How to write a drama TV pilot in 45 days” (which I jumped on – at 50% discounted it was worth it and I’m loving it so far), ”How to write a comedy pilot in 30 days”, and ”How to write a screenplay in 60 days”.

So, for simply signing up and using their FREE software, you get an ebook to help you out and a 50% discount on their ecourses. In my opinion, it’s awesome.

Plus, their software is easy-to-use and beautiful.

Of course, you can choose the paid option (there are annually and lifetime paid options), but it costs a lot of money. I suggest signing up to try and feel the software, and you get the goodies! The ecourses aren’t that expensive, it’s less than $100 so with a 50% discount, it’s really tempting.

If you’ve always wanted to jump into the screenwriting wagon, this is your chance!

When I’ll know the title of my TV show (I’m still working on that…), I’ll let you know. For now I have the basic plot and theme. And one page of script.

if you’re not into screenwriting, it’s fine too! But it’s always good to know other options are available to you. I want you to bloom in writing! It’s so important. Every aspect of the writing art should be your priority.

At least it’s mine.

Oh, did I tell you? I found two free Steampunk ebooks and I decided to read them. It’s a whole new adventure into a world I like but I am not familiar with. Curiosity killed the cat, I know, but… It’s how I progress in life. 🙂 Moreover, there’s this Steampunk writing contest on Scribophile and I’m entering!

You’ll read more about how it goes as soon as the judging and reviews are in. The deadline is October 31st so you’ll have to wait a bit.

But still, I wanted to share all of these findings with you! I hope you find this entertaining, if not helpful.

See you tomorrow with a writing tip!

Kisses,

Catherine G.V.

One More Step (Flash Fiction)

Short Stories January 30, 2016 Comments: 7

One more step…

Dalia bit her lower lip in an attempt to stop it from quivering too much. Tears were rolling down her face as she stared into the vast emptiness before her. Locks of her brown hair were gently brushing her face. The teenager gulped and passed her tongue over her teeth, her mind reeling with all the countless possibilities and consequences of her act. Would she do it? Could she, really? She couldn’t see anything apart the big black void and, somehow, it seemed to try and attract her into its very center.

‘’I can’t!’’ she screamed.

Dalia turned round, her hands covering her face as she cried. She could hear the sound of metal screeching and it terrified her. This emptiness… Was she that desperate? Then, she heard the voice of the only person there with her.

‘’Go on. Jump!’’

She wished he hadn’t talked. Oh, why did people feel the need to talk in such dire moments?

‘’But I’m scared!’’

‘’Everyone is scared at this point,’’ he said, his tone of voice more serious.

Dalia clenched her fists and turned round again, only to face the darkness. Her breathing was shallow and quick and her eyes just wouldn’t leave the void. Where had it gone wrong?

‘’Go on!’’

She closed her eyes and took a deep breath. She had to regain her composure before the final act. As calmly as she could, Dalia looked up and jumped at the right time.

‘’Gotcha!’’

Dalia beamed up as her hands firmly caught his. Her body was swinging rapidly above the net as her best friend was keeping his legs tightly wrapped around the trapeze. She had made it!

‘’I told you I would catch you,’’ Antoine said. ‘’I’ll always catch you.’’