Donations needed and Happy New Year

Update: It's January 1st 2018, so Happy New Year. Will return January 8th with new posts.

Now I don't usually do this but I'm adding this post to requests donations. Due to my illness and unexpected financial mishaps, I have fallen behind on things needing to be paid for. My computer is wonky and needs a better virus and other protections system and my Grammarly payments are almost due. All the while unexpected real-life situations have dipped into my savings making it impossible to pay for either.

 Having these things dealt with will help me as a freelancer to better do my job and create content. If my computer breaks down then I'll have no way of doing my work efficiently and replacing it anytime soon is impossible. If anyone can help me out please do so. I will continue to work hard and save on my own but any assistance would be greatly appreciated. Happy Holidays.

Donation Link

I will return to my regular blogging schedule on January 8th. 

Happy 2018

Top Ten Tuesday: Books I want from Santa and Merry Christmas

Top Ten Tuesday is a weekly meme hosted by The Broke and the Bookish. Which will close as of January 9th and new host The Artsy Reader Girl will take over the meme.

Leave it to me to find a new meme to add right at the end of the year. This week's topic is about books I want Santa to get me. Well, I'm pretty much certain I have to get these myself. But in the spirit of Christmas cheer, I'll play along.Here are my top ten books I want this Christmas.

1. Bloodwitch by Susan Dennard

2. All the R.L. Stine and Stephen King books I don't have

3. The Belles by Dhonielle Clayton

4. Forest of a Thousand Lanterns by Julie C. Dao

5. These Rebel Waves by Sara Raasch

6. Inkmistress by Audrey Coulthurst

7. The End of Oz by Danielle Paige

8. The Gauntlet by Karuna Riazi

9. The Princess saves herself in this one by Amanda Lovelace

10. Love and Misadventure by Lang Leav (also Lullaby and Sea of Strangers)

So there you go. What do you say Santa? Thanks for popping by.

Merry Christmas

Wishing all my regular readers and new visitors a Merry Christmas (and a Happy New Year). If you don't celebrate this holiday then I wish you all the best through December.

Won't be back to blogging until January 3 where I will drop a book and Netflix review. Enjoy the holidays' everybody.

Waiting on Wednesday: Sightwitch

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly event spotlighting upcoming books we're excited about. Formerly hosted by Breaking the Spine until her site went quiet. The meme is still followed today by dedicated bloggers who have a need to share their anticipation of upcoming reads.

Fans have been clamoring in support for the third book in the Witchlands series. I have no doubt that there will be even more rich stories and world building. Sightwitch already boasts an intriguing summary and a fantastic cover. But when Susan announced that the series would be delayed for three weeks moving the release date from January to February, the author and fans rallied to get the word out. All across the web updates and graphics have spread the word. Talk about a dedicated base.

Also I must personally commend the author because after promising my support as well (yup I'm a fan of this series), she donated to content creator and author Lily Meade. Lily had a financial hiccup and was seeking help. I not only donated but went about spreading the word on twitter for more donations or boosts to share her story. Susan was the first to answer and both donated and boost the tweet. Charity begins at home they say and Susan is not only talented but also has a big heart.

Title: Sightwitch by Susan Dennard

Release Date: February 13, 2019

Summary: Before Safi and Iseult battled a Bloodwitch…

Before Merik returned from the dead…

Ryber Fortiza was a Sightwitch Sister at a secluded convent, waiting to be called by her goddess into the depths of the mountain. There she would receive the gift of foretelling. But when that call never comes, Ryber finds herself the only Sister without the Sight.

Years pass and Ryber’s misfit pain becomes a dull ache, until one day, Sisters who already possess the Sight are summoned into the mountain, never to return. Soon enough, Ryber is the only Sister left. Now, it is up to her to save her Sisters, though she does not have the Sight—and though she does not know what might await her inside the mountain.

On her journey underground, she encounters a young captain named Kullen Ikray, who has no memory of who he is or how he got there. Together, the two journey ever deeper in search of answers, their road filled with horrors, and what they find at the end of that road will alter the fate of the Witchlands forever.

I have my sights *pun intended* set on this book. How about you?

Movie Love: December Trailers

The year is nearly over but movies are still coming out next year. Last week a few trailers dropped and I'm going to give my quick thoughts.

Spider-man: Into the Spiderverse

Miles Morales has been done justice in this trailer. This movie looks like it will appeal both to kids and adults alike. You get to see Miles in action as Spiderman and learning to master his abilities. The graphics are good and a few 2D shots thrown in pop in brilliant colour. A scene at the end is definitely a money shot and I will not spoil it for you. Lord and Miller seem to be doing just fine without Star Wars. Colour this girl unsurprised. As long as the movie is as brilliant as this trailer, December 2018 is going to swing in on a high note. An animated must see for me.

Jessica Jones Season 2

(I tried to get the trailer to come up but failed. This is a trailer 

reaction from Grace Randolph. But the trailer is still shown in full).

Yes, this is not a movie but Marvel Netflix shows are still a big event. Despite the last two or three being somewhat lackluster (depends on who you ask). There is a buzz in the air for Jessica Jones Season 2. While I was not wowed by the trailer personally it did the job of showing Jessica will be back. If you enjoyed Season 1 and still want more Jones then March 2018 might seem far away. 

Ready Player One: Official First Trailer

Steven Spielberg is back with what is hoped to be a huge blockbuster. While I can't say this will be for sure. There's no question that there will be some eye-popping visuals when people plug into a virtual world in hopes of winning billions of dollars and ownership of a top program. The added chance of death and corporate espionage helps sweeten the deal. The trailer looks great and the storyline is intriguing. But I must admit with how busy everything is, I wonder if this might have been better off as a series instead of a movie. Only time will tell.

Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom Trailer

Jurassic World is coming back with a sequel. While I'm excited to see what's next with this franchise, the story revealed so far seems super basic. This is just a first trailer of course but I hope I was not just told the entire story. Saving dinosaurs sounds cool and all but island hopping is not what I want to sit for over two hours watching. Still, there were some cool scenes and the trailer is great overall. If you just want to enjoy more of this franchise then this trailer should get you real excited. Me? I'm ready but must add I think Universal was smart to move the trailer from November. All the easter eggs and ideas dropped with the trailer Marvel dropped for Avengers 3 would have clobbered JW2. Just my thoughts though and this trailer still did well so I'm looking forward to this movie.

So what do you think of the trailers? Are any of these movies a must see for you in 2018?

Book Review: Caillou at the Sugar Shack

I will not be doing another Netflix Nation post until January. But look another book review! This time it is for the fun child character Caillou. If you have any small children, this book might hit the spot. Especially if you are in the winter season and in the mood for warm treats.

Title: Caillou at the Sugary Shack by Carine Laforest and Mario Allard

Publication Date: January 9, 2018

Source: Netgalley

Purchase: Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Book Depository

Summary on Netgalley: When Caillou's family makes a springtime visit to Jonas' ranch, he takes them on a sleigh ride to a maple forest where Caillou discovers how the maple sap is collected from maple trees. At the sugar shack, Caillou learns about the maple syrup transformation process. But the best surprise is outside, when Jonas pours the hot syrup on the snow and everyone gets to enjoy Caillou's new favorite treat, maple toffee!

Review

If you want a fun read to cuddle up with a child or have a short read along, this book is perfect. Caillou gets a chance to go outside his element with his family visiting a ranch. But what's really exciting is learning about the maple trees and getting to sample the delicious maple sap. The book is perfect for young readers both in length and not being too detailed or confusing. Kids can even try reading for themselves and I'm certain both parents and teachers alike can make learning to read extra fun with these books. And for those experiencing winter, who doesn't like reading about travels and enjoying warm sugary treats? I'm not the target audience and I enjoyed reading this. Highly recommend!

Rating: 5 Stars

Thanks for stopping by and enjoy your weekend.

Waiting on Wednesday: Royals

Hi everyone. I have to do my birthday post another time but I can still post my WOW.

Title: Royals by Rachel Hawkins

Release Date: May 1, 2018

Purchase: Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Book Depository

Summary on Goodreads: Meet Daisy Winters. She’s an offbeat sixteen-year-old Floridian with mermaid-red hair; a part time job at a bootleg Walmart, and a perfect older sister who’s nearly engaged to the Crown Prince of Scotland. Daisy has no desire to live in the spotlight, but relentless tabloid attention forces her join Ellie at the relative seclusion of the castle across the pond. 

While the dashing young Miles has been appointed to teach Daisy the ropes of being regal, the prince’s roguish younger brother kicks up scandal wherever he goes, and tries his best to take Daisy along for the ride. The crown–and the intriguing Miles–might be trying to make Daisy into a lady . . . but Daisy may just rewrite the royal rulebook to suit herself.

I saw a retweet online about this book and decided to check it out. I can see myself in Daisy. Even though I'm the eldest I do have that 'perfect' sister. The cover also looks really nice and I like how the font's done in diamonds. There was also a cosmo article on the book. Really excited to see how this book turns out.

Thanks for stopping by. See you on Friday.

Book Review: Long Way Down (Excerpt)

I read an excerpt from The Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds. It was available to read for free on the Riveted until December fourth. The book is on my to buy list and I want it even more now.

Title: Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds

Publication Date: October 24, 2017

Source: Riveted website for young adult reading

Purchase: Amazon, Barnes and Noble and Book Depository

Summary on Goodreads:

A cannon. A strap.
A piece. A biscuit.
A burner. A heater.
A chopper. A gat.
A hammer
A tool
for RULE

Or, you can call it a gun. That’s what fifteen-year-old Will has shoved in the back waistband of his jeans. See, his brother Shawn was just murdered. And Will knows the rules. No crying. No snitching. Revenge. That’s where Will’s now heading, with that gun shoved in the back waistband of his jeans, the gun that was his brother’s gun. He gets on the elevator, seventh floor, stoked. He knows who he’s after. Or does he? As the elevator stops on the sixth floor, on comes Buck. Buck, Will finds out, is who gave Shawn the gun before Will took the gun. Buck tells Will to check that the gun is even loaded. And that’s when Will sees that one bullet is missing. And the only one who could have fired Shawn’s gun was Shawn. Huh. Will didn’t know that Shawn had ever actually USED his gun. Bigger huh. BUCK IS DEAD. But Buck’s in the elevator? Just as Will’s trying to think this through, the door to the next floor opens. A teenage girl gets on, waves away the smoke from Dead Buck’s cigarette. Will doesn’t know her, but she knew him. Knew. When they were eight. And stray bullets had cut through the playground, and Will had tried to cover her, but she was hit anyway, and so what she wants to know, on that fifth-floor elevator stop, is, what if Will, Will with the gun shoved in the back waistband of his jeans, MISSES.

And so it goes, the whole long way down, as the elevator stops on each floor, and at each stop someone connected to his brother gets on to give Will a piece to a bigger story than the one he thinks he knows. A story that might never know an END…if WILL gets off that elevator.


Book Review

When I found out this book was written in verse and used a short moment in time to make a whole book, I was sold. I am a huge fan of books written in different ways from the norm. This book does that in spades. Using a short span of time to write a whole book is hard. You have to make each moment riveting enough to keep the reader engaged. Jason accomplishes this and he's definitely an author to watch. From showing how eczema affects a mother of two and that a moment as innocent as buying a bar of special soap can have long-reaching consequences. To a drawer that holds socks in contrast to the one holding an older brother's gun. Nothing in this book is without a purpose and you need to keep up with each versed scene to see everything fall into place.

I also lost a relative to gun violence. Ironic enough he had the same name as my brother, Andre. It was years ago over the Christmas holidays and I can tell you it is painful. But I would never want to be in the shoes of this book's main character. Will is a younger brother who witnessed the murder of his brother in a community where gun violence is not a rare occurrence. I never grew up in a place like that. Where rules to deal with such things included staying silent and planning revenge. A line from the book says it all.

Another Thing About the Rules

They weren't meant to be broken.

They were meant for the broken to follow.

Now that really gave me an inside look for those who think picking up a gun is the only solution. I will never agree with that but I'm not above knowing I could have a breaking point as well. This line just gave me more insight into those who see it as an only resort. A sad and dark insight but honest.

I highly recommend this book without question.

See you on Wednesday where I show my next WOW (Waiting on Wednesday) and discuss my birthday (November 29).

Netflix Nation: The Punisher Review

Review

Wow. I don't know where to begin. A gem of an idea turned into at best, a mid-level shoot them up. Because so much outside of kicking ass goes wrong in this series. But there's still some greatness under all the bruises. Netflix really half-assed on this one.

Overall to me The Punisher had great potential but turned into a half intriguing show, half muddled mess. The first three episodes (more precisely two and a half episodes, the last half of three heats up pretty good) are pretty painful to get through. A few episodes are absolute gems though and even the lesser episodes have epic moments in the latter half. Characters like Micro, Curtis and Bobby seem the best out of the bunch to me once not focused on Frank. Each has their role to play and do it perfectly. Karen also drops in and has her moments. Frank's still haunted by the loss of his family and the overwhelming need to make those who caused their deaths pay. Those on the side of the law play their part and the bad guys go from good to great, to over the top. Except Lewis who was an absolute dumpster fire. This arc should have been left on the cutting room floor. No, thrown in the furnace.

On a whole I think the enjoyment with this show will depend on how you feel about the set up. Personally the whole series could have been done in six episodes cutting out all the boring subplots and poor writing and pacing. If like me the poor pacing grates your nerves and the thirteen episode slog was unnecessary, it will be hard to love. If you don't care and love The Punisher no matter what, then you will enjoy it. My Recommendation is 'Buyer be Ware'. The Punisher is not unwatchable but you might want to go in prepared. Daredevil Season Two did such a great job introducing us to The Punisher. Hopefully future showings of him will be better than what we get here.

Rating: C (but a few episodes are better on their own, none are worse than first three)

P.S.: My birthday on Wednesday (November 29) was a fun time. More next week.

Break until Next Week

While I hoped to review Punisher today. Due to health and personal reasons that's sadly not possible. I will be taking a break until next week. My birthday's November 29 so I will either drop my review on Monday, November 27 or Friday, December 1st. After that, I hope to return to a more regular reviewing schedule as of Monday, December 4th. Thank you for your patience and support.

Netflix Nation: Summer 2017 Part Two

Update: Due to unavoidable issues, The Punisher review has been moved to Wednesday. So no Monday post. Thanks for your understanding. After Wednesday 22/11, I'll return Monday 27/11 with a book review. Enjoy your week and have a great holiday American visitors.

So I will say that I have improved upon binge watching. Been taking a little break and plan to start again by this weekend. Gears need a little rest plus I'm doing Nanowrimo (Mermaid Retelling). You can click here for my last summer Netflix post. Now on with the show!

Watch Period: August to September (30) 2017

Revenge Series

I watched all four seasons of this show and really enjoyed it. At least the first three. Four was over the top and I had to take a bit of a break then return to finish. So much happened in a series with main character Amanda returning under the secret identity Emily Thorne. Torn between her target Daniel and his family and the man she cared for as a child (Amanda), Jack Porter. Each season brought with it plans for revenge against those she felt wronged her and sent her father to prison for a crime he didn't commit.

Nolan was my favourite character in the series. Not only was he Emily's closest friend, confidant, and partner in crime. He was also the show's conscience. Reminding Emily that not every act of revenge was worth taking. I'm really glad the two never got romantically involved because not only is Emily sort of batshit but I really don't like it when friends are forced into lovers arc just for plot's sake.

Also, he had his own romantic and personal escapades that kept the ball rolling. Plus he went to prison for this chick. With the poor way she often treated him, he stuck by her through thick and thin. Including a fake marriage (to another character), being taken hostage/attacked and other crazy stuff. I will say that one quote looking back not only themed revenge's consequences well but also made me think of Marvel. Take a guess as to why.

I must say that Ashley's quote best sums up this series.

The first two seasons are really well developed despite insane twists. Season three kind of went off the rails for me but it was Season four that just flew the train right off the tracks. The show was still good but it was less fun to watch and some of the convoluted and insane storylines were too much. I highly recommend this series but just be prepared for some serious shifts in the last two seasons.

Rating: 4 Stars

Dragons: Race to the Edge - Season 5

I have to be honest that I don't remember a lot from this season. I recalled enjoying it. But I think after the disaster that was either Season three or four, I just don't have great recall on this show. I'll probably start to rewatch the whole thing in December. Still, recommend for fans as it's the best season since season two and there are some great surprises and new discoveries.

Rating: 4 Stars

Scandal Series

I had watched the first two seasons on television then fell off. With Season Seven being the last and also interested in catching up. I decided to start watching it from scratch and boy is this show a doozy. If you want dramatic twists without the super crazy antics then I would recommend this to you over Revenge. No matter how far things go, there's both a respect for the material and the viewers. 

I watched the first three seasons and started four then took a break. The rest I watched in October and will discuss in my next NN post (in December). Olivia Pope has gone through a lot being the mistress to the president of the United States and also running her own business. Still, she did break up a marriage and I'm definitely not okay with cheating. Oh and also stole the election for her lover, deceived people, caused deaths...just leave it at Olivia has a lot sins on her roster. Damn!

See this picture below of a great team? Don't be fooled, a lot of messed up things happen and not everyone survives. Highly Recommend. Watch it!

Rating: 5 Stars

Death Note (Netflix American Version)

I watched the movie version. It wasn't that great. The Death God looked really good though.

Rating: Meh

Gotham - Season 3

After season two, I definitely wanted to watch season three. Unfortunately locally in Jamaica, one of our channels got the bright idea to get exclusive broadcasting rights to the show. Then proceeded to barely even show it and also place it late at night. Because no one works during the week. So I ended up watching it on Netflix when it debuted. Boy, was it worth the wait. Despite a few over the top scenarios. That blood virus really made some moments too hokey and ridiculous and don't get me started on that hatter guy. If you think Penguin or Riddler are dramatic, God help you. As if his cringe-worthy relationship with his sister wasn't enough. The poor woman ended up running straight into the arms of death over staying around him. Don't blame her at all. We get great moments as well including the corrupting of the once stalwart police commissioner duo to the blood virus and multiple story and character arcs. Highly recommend and definitely watch Season Four now airing on Fox (the show is back so I guess TV J realized their folly and left the show in peace).

Rating: 4 Stars

Supergirl Series

I watched the second season on Netflix both to catch up and also because this show now has crossover episodes with Flash and Arrow series. It was a solid season and despite some cringey arcs and character choices did justice to the female heroine and show.

Rating: 4 Stars 

Other Shows

Transformers (Michael Bay): Rewatched the first Transformers movie. Still okay and the best this broken franchise has to offer. The last movie that came out in theaters was just awful.

Ex Machina: If not for the third half I would discuss this movie in detail. Two-thirds are amazing and I can see why it gets high praise. The third part, what the fuck? I can't even and that ending? Good Lord.

Little Witch Academia: Uh, no. Too hokey for me. But I liked the magic in the first episode.

The Defenders: It was all right and I even posted a review here.

Jessica Jones: It's a really good show but I just can't sit through the Season!

The Last Witch Hunter: Peeked and decided to watch the movie at a later date.

Superbad: Same as above.

So I watched a whole bunch of shows and finished this blog post. Victory!!

Now bed. Seriously it's 4 a.m. right now. Wonky bedtimes from exhaustion and flu combo. Need to rest a lot during the day. Got up after 1 pm in the afternoon yesterday and still needed rest in the evening.

Thanks for stopping by everyone. Before December's Netflix Nation post, I will review Punisher series on Monday. Enjoy your weekend.

Monday MishMash: November 2017

Monday Mishmash is a weekly meme created by Kelly Hashway for sharing what's going on in your life and noggin. You just grab a button and post your business...I mean thoughts online. No biggie. Have fun!

1. Working through some freelancing woes. Fiverr's changing its analytics and it's throwing my scores out of whack. Complaining to customer support isn't helping. I just have to work on fixing the damage before January's evaluation. I'm not losing my Level 2 Seller status. I mean falling by almost 20% for literally no reason should be explained or rectified. Not giving me an article on best sellers.

2. Considering which story to spruce up and post on Swoon Reads website. I considered fantasy but they rarely choose those and the last winners list was three instead of four pickups of new authors. Now I'm torn between a paranormal story that's set in modern day with contemporary elements or a contemporary story with a teen obsessed with a fictional character on her favourite show.

3. Reading is going poorly. I keep starting then stopping for days or weeks. Thank goodness I even read and reviewed Rotten Rapunzel recently. I'm determined to improve though. Wish me luck.

4. Doing Nanowrimo again this year with a Mermaid Retelling. No way I make the wordcount but at least I'll have the ground work.

5. My appetite is back so I'm mostly happy about that. Not 100% because yesterday I accidentally spilt soup on myself. Fatigue and flu don't mix well with reflexes. Ouch!

6. I will be doing a huge Netflix Nation post on Friday. Still considering exactly what to do with all my movie posts and series reviews (I think I'll keep them on Instagram). But despite making this a book blog, I think doing at least a monthly or bi monthly post on Netflix shows can fit. Other sites have done it sharing their other interest besides books once in a while. Besides these posts are fun.

7. My birthday is November 29th! I plan to buy my own cake. Never bought a whole cake myself before. I'm so excited!

Thanks for stopping by.

Book Review: Rotten Rapunzel

Title: Rotten Rapunzel by Anita Valle (Dark Fairy Tale Queen Series #3)

Publication Date: September 20, 2017

Source: Purchased kindle copy on Amazon

Purchase: Kindle, Amazon Paperback, Barnes and Noble Paperback

Summary on Goodreads: I have been in this tower for fifteen years. Snow White has frozen me inside it 

and covered the rest of our kingdom with ice and snow. I can't remember what
summer is like. And I have never seen people or had a friend.

It's not fair. I'm a princess, the daughter of Cinderella. This kingdom belongs to ME. Not to the nasty new queen who's taken over. Snowy ruined my life, she
doesn't care about me. She only keeps me because I cry magic tears.

I have to escape. Have to take back the palace before my lost twin gets it. Have to punish Snowy for wrecking the kingdom. Have to make at least ONE stupid
friend. And I really have to do something about my hair.

Book Review

This book really grabbed my attention from the start. I have been a fan of the series since book one and must say the third book Rotten Rapunzel is the best by far. The writing and story combine beautifully with a compelling story from beginning to end. Like every book, the main character has a bratty/naughty attitude. No sugar and spice females head these series. Each character feels owed something and Rapunzel's no different. Treating Snow, her older sister, and caregiver as more of a maid than a sibling and parental replacement. Readers are taken through the process of Rapunzel at the start of the book and who she becomes at the end of it. Like each book, change does come in a variety of ways. Every chapter has an evolution to what will eventually be the conclusion. I enjoyed the first two books despite them not being five star level in my opinion. Anita Valle had written compelling tales no matter the faults. But this time I believe she has found the perfect balance between writing and story structure. Highly recommend to new readers and fans alike.

Oh and don't worry readers. A certain fairy will make an appearance, oh yes she will.

Rating: 5 Stars

Cover Reveal: Unknown Trilogy by Wendy Higgins

So happy to introduce Wendy Higgins' amazing Unknown Trilogy and Cover Reveal today. Read on to find out more.

From New York Times and USA Today bestseller Wendy Higgins comes a frighteningly realistic apocalyptic America brought to life, entwined with searing romantic tension that will leave you eager for more. UNDONE, the final book in the Unknown Trilogy, is coming December 5^th, 2017! Don’t miss the stunning new covers for the Unknown Trilogy, and order your copies today!

About UNKNOWN (Unknown Trilogy #1):

Amber Tate believes the worst thing she’ll suffer in life is dealing with the unrequited love she feels for her brother’s best friend, Rylen Fite. She also believes war is something unfortunate that happens places far, far away from her rural Nevada town. She’s wrong on both counts.

When an unknown organization meticulously bombs major cities in the United States and across the globe, a trickle-down effect spreads to remaining towns at an alarming speed—everything from food and water sources to technology and communications are compromised. Without leadership, the nation is split between paralysis and panic, but Amber isn’t one to hide or watch helplessly. She’s determined to put her nursing skills to use, despite the danger, even if it means working alongside the man she can never have.

In this first installment of NY Times bestselling author, Wendy Higgins’s debut New Adult series, a frighteningly realistic apocalyptic America is brought to life, entwined with searing romantic tension that will leave you eager for more.

✦ Amazon ✦ Amazon Paperback ✦ Barnes & Noble ✦ iBooks ✦ Kobo

About UNREST (Unknown Trilogy #2):

Being on the run in the desert means food and sanctuary are hard to come by, but Amber Tate and her crew are not about to give up. Not after having so many of the things they love brutally ripped from them by an unknown enemy who sent their world into the apocalypse.

Survival takes precedence, but once safe shelter is found, their guards fall and the emotions they’ve been holding in are finally released. Anger, insecurities...lust. In their tight quarters, Amber, Rylen, Tater, and Remy can't escape it. The past must be faced, and passions run even stronger in the darkest of times.

In the midst of unrest, their worlds are rocked again when they discover the truth about the war that’s ruined their lives. They thought finding out the enemy's identity would give them the edge; instead it’s revealed terrifying dangers they never thought possible.

✦ Amazon ✦ Amazon Paperback ✦ Barnes & Noble ✦ iBooks ✦ Kobo

About UNDONE (Unknown Trilogy #3, Coming 12/5/17):

Amber Tate never dreamed their heart-wrenching escape from the enemy’s attack would lead them to the most beautiful place she’s ever seen. Like everywhere else in the world, Elmendorf military base in Alaska has been taken over, but it’s time to take it back—all of it—one base, one city at a time. After losing so much, Amber clings to the one precious person she has left, and vows to sacrifice everything to help save the Earth.

Remy Haines is a lover, not a fighter, so when she finds herself in enemy territory, expected to feign allegiance while gathering intel for the rebel cause, she’s never been more out of her element. Tensions only increase when her feelings for Jacob “Tater” Tate won’t go away, and the enemy’s leader takes an interest in her. She’s torn between what her heart wants, and what she knows she should do. As for what her body needs…well, it’s always had a mind of its own.

✦ Amazon ✦ Kobo

✦Stay Tuned for More Retailers Coming Soon!

About Wendy Higgins:

Wendy Higgins is a soccer mom and backstage drama mama. Most people in her tiny bayside town don’t know she’s a USA Today and NYT bestselling author of paranormal, fantasy, and science-fiction romances. Wendy is a former high school English teacher who now writes full time in her pajamas, and lives on the Eastern Shore of Virginia with her veterinarian husband, daughter, son, and little doggie Rue.

Wendy earned a bachelor’s in Creative Writing from George Mason University and a master’s in Curriculum and Instruction from Radford University.


Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | UNKNOWN Goodreads | UNREST Goodreads | UNDONE Goodreads | Wendy Higgins Goodreads

Book Review: The Glass Sphere Sneak Peek

I read the preview of The Glass Spare by Lauren DeStefano on the Epic Reads Website. Below is my review of the sample.

Title: The Glass Spare by Lauren DeStefano

Publication Date: October 24, 2017

Source: Epic Reads Website

Purchase: Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Book Depository.

Summary on Goodreads: 

A banished princess.
A deadly curse.
A kingdom at war.

Wil Heidle, the only daughter of the king of the world’s wealthiest nation, has grown up in the shadows. Kept hidden from the world in order to serve as a spy for her father—whose obsession with building his empire is causing a war—Wil wants nothing more than to explore the world beyond her kingdom, if only her father would give her the chance.

Until one night Wil is attacked, and she discovers a dangerous secret. Her touch turns people into gemstone. At first Wil is horrified—but as she tests its limits, she’s drawn more and more to the strange and volatile ability. When it leads to tragedy, Wil is forced to face the destructive power within her and finally leave her home to seek the truth and a cure.

But finding the key to her redemption puts her in the path of a cursed prince who has his own ideas for what to do with her power.

With a world on the brink of war and a power of ultimate destruction, can Wil find a way to help the kingdom that’s turned its back on her, or will she betray her past and her family forever? 
Book Review

The main character Wil was born after three previous attempts by her mother to have a girl. Yet from the start it was clear that she was different. The sneak peak gave readers from Prologue to Chapter Two to read for free. I got introduced to the world of The Glass Spare which isn't a happy go lucky one. As the youngest and a princess, Wil's often kept indoors and expected to be a lady. In truth she's anything but and sneaks out for one of her brothers to get ingredients for weapons he makes both for his own pleasure and at the order of the father. A wealthy king only desiring more power and places to rule. Even the poor are left to suffer as resources are more geared towards acquiring wealth than taking care of all the citizens.

This early Wil's secret power's not introduced but I got an idea of how complicated Wil's life is the desire to travel versus pleasing her family. Even one of her older brothers Owen had to return from traveling because he's to be married to create or strengthen an alliance. I think this story is definitely worth reading and I'd recommend it to current fans of Lauren and fantasy lovers alike.

But there was one problematic feature I didn't enjoy. There are some references to dark versus fair that I found troubling to offensive. I understand that dark can be used to represent darkness. But when you use dark eyes and features versus blue eyes and fair features to describe looks and family relationship from a good versus evil perspective. I think that can open a can of worms. I know fair hair and blue eyes have been used to typify innocence but it felt somewhat that dark references to people were being demonized. Writers need to be careful that these references don't implant hurtful thoughts in readers. I'm certain white as a ghost is not the same as a blonde white she-devil. It's all about the details and besides this blemish, I do want to read the book.

Thanks for stopping by.

Waiting on Wednesday: Children of Blood and Bone

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly event spotlighting upcoming books we're excited about. Formerly hosted by Breaking the Spine until her site went quiet. The meme is still followed today by dedicated bloggers who have a need to share their anticipation of upcoming reads.

Well, I have to say I have a soft spot for this upcoming book. There has been a burst of diverse books hitting the publishing arena and I'm here for it. Tomi's a dear who I've had the honor to chat with on Twitter. She's so fun and honest which means that her book will tear through you as we writers/authors go for the jugular with our books. I mean....well the story matters most and who knows what can happen? Anyway take a look at the jaw-dropping cover and read on to see if you'll be adding this to your bookshelf?

Title: Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi

Release Date: March 6, 2018

Pre-Order: Amazon, Barnes and Noble, The Book Depository

Summary on Goodreads: Zélie Adebola remembers when the soil of Orïsha hummed with magic. Burners ignited flames, Tiders beckoned waves, and Zelie’s Reaper mother summoned forth souls. 

But everything changed the night magic disappeared. Under the orders of a ruthless king, maji were targeted and killed, leaving Zélie without a mother and her people without hope.

Now, Zélie has one chance to bring back magic and strike against the monarchy. With the help of a rogue princess, Zélie must outwit and outrun the crown prince, who is hell-bent on eradicating magic for good. 

Danger lurks in Orïsha, where snow leoponaires prowl and vengeful spirits wait in the waters. Yet the greatest danger may be Zélie herself as she struggles to control her powers—and her growing feelings for the enemy.

So I can't wait to get my hands on this book. How about you?

Black Panther Trailer Review

This morning I decided to post about Netflix. Then the Black Panther Trailer dropped and do I need to explain?

I first watched it with one of my favourite Youtubers, Grace Randolph. I often watch her reaction videos and it's clear she also enjoyed it.





Of course, I had to also watch the trailer for myself. No question, this new trailer is stellar folks. My superhero love and black pride are on overdrive.

Link until I can ger reaction up. Darn it!


So I went to check up on more reactions. Sadly most my Youtube go tos didn't have reactions up yet. Especially to the black entertainment YouTubers, shame on you. Five minutes after Thor: Ragnarok drops something, you're there. Black Panther's upcoming movie aint nothing new, stay on top of your shit. Thankfully another Youtuber of colour was ready to react and he even broke his umbrella running to the office. That's dedication! Now you can watch Akasan channel reaction.

(Reaction won't upload. Click highlighted sentence above until I can fix this error and update)


Black Panther Trailer Review

Perfection. I know that's a lot of praise but this trailer had everything. It started with those beautiful waterfalls we saw in the last trailer then the flying ships came and you got to see amazing technology and everything else fell into place. The actors are on point, the scenes are all engaging and rewatchable, stunning visuals to compete with any superhero or sci-fi movie out there. Even Grace Randolph said "Avatar, eat your heart out". Black Panther's played by a smart charismatic actor who fits the role like a glove. The villains aren't playing and when someone wants your crown and kingdom, being nice goes out with the bath water. If you enjoyed that Captain America: Winter War trailer scene when Black Panther popped up. This trailer flips that upside down and builds a whole never pyramid of amazing.

So in short new Black Panther Trailer is Lit. Watch it, rewatch it, share it and heaven sakes go see the movie February 2018. I love it as a superhero trailer and beyond excited to see a black superhero movie that looks ready to stand toe to toe with Avengers and other top superhero movies. Don't mess this up, Marvel! Epic trailers better equal the same movie. Though so far, I'm convinced it will. Thanks for stopping by and let me know what you think of the trailer.

Book Daddy Wanted

Who wouldn't want a little help buying up those books in your TBR? Enjoy the weekend.

Waiting on Wednesday: Batman: Nightwalker

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly event spotlighting upcoming books we're excited about. Formerly hosted by Breaking the Spine until her site went quiet. The meme is still followed today by dedicated bloggers who have a need to share their anticipation of upcoming reads.

There's no doubt that in many countries Halloween fever is in the air. Jamaica doesn't celebrate Halloween as heavily as others but there are festivities around the exact date or week of. I personally think it's great and hope to one day don a costume and go do some real fun. Until then let's look at a book with a character whose future will make every day seem like Halloween.

Title: Batman: Nightwalker by Marie Lu (DC Icons #2)

Release Date: January 2, 2018

Pre-Order: Amazon, Barnes and Noble, The Book Depository

Summary on Goodreads: Before he was Batman, he was Bruce Wayne. A reckless boy willing to break the rules for a girl who may be his worst enemy.

The Nightwalkers are terrorizing Gotham City, and Bruce Wayne is next on their list.

One by one, the city's elites are being executed as their mansions' security systems turn against them, trapping them like prey. Meanwhile, Bruce is turning eighteen and about to inherit his family's fortune, not to mention the keys to Wayne Enterprises and all the tech gadgetry his heart could ever desire. But after a run-in with the police, he's forced to do community service at Arkham Asylum, the infamous prison that holds the city's most brutal criminals.

Madeleine Wallace is a brilliant killer . . . and Bruce's only hope.

In Arkham, Bruce meets Madeleine, a brilliant girl with ties to the Nightwalkers. What is she hiding? And why will she speak only to Bruce? Madeleine is the mystery Bruce must unravel. But is he getting her to divulge her secrets, or is he feeding her the information she needs to bring Gotham City to its knees? Bruce will walk the dark line between trust and betrayal as the Nightwalkers circle closer.

So what do you think? Personally, I'm excited to see what YA authors do with these updated stories about popular DC heroes and villains. Catwoman's supposed to be Icon #3. Of course, my favourite hero is Batman so I'm here for Batman: Nightwalker. Wow me, Marie Lu. Thanks for stopping by and is there an upcoming book that you're excited about?