Books, Books, and more Books

The books I read in January -> 

Smoke & Summons by Charlie N. Holmberg. This book was “recommended” by kindle because of past books I’ve read. I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was very well written and the characters' development was nice. The world was unlike anything I’ve read about before and the idea that people could be used as vessels for other worldly beings to enter our 'plan' of existence, well that’s intriguing. I also appreciated the tongue-in-cheek middle finger to organized religion. It’s not blasphemous but does highlight dangerous pitfalls. I liked this book enough to check out more work by this author since the sequel to Smoke & Summons isn’t out yet.

Blood for Blood by Victoria Selman. This was a free book that kindle lets users choose monthly. I really love this feature as it turns me onto new authors. As for the book, female heroine who’s a badass but dealing with internal demons (metaphorical) that brings her back into the human realm. No magic or ethereal qualities in this book. I didn’t mind that. The action kept my attention and the crimes were disturbing enough without crossing a line, but it got close in the flashbacks. It made me feel and I appreciated it. I would definitely read another book by this author, especially with the same main character.

The Paper Magician by Charlie N. Holmberg. So I researched Holmberg’s other works and came across this book. I think it’s going to be made into a movie in the future, maybe. I read that Disney bought the rights. Honestly, I didn’t enjoy this one has much as Smoke & Summons. The world was just as fantastic, the characters and the plot were directed more towards a younger audience, in my opinion. I kept thinking to myself that I would have loved reading something like this growing up. Strong female character, evil female character, strong male characters without a ‘savior’ complex. I think it paints a great picture of human qualities and sets up good examples for young readers to see. I don’t think I will continue this trilogy but I will keep my eye out for other books. Great author.

Belial Plan by R.D. Brady. I was excited to jump back into this series. I believe it is book 10. Nice book but seemed a bit 'filler'. I alway love reading these characters and the close proximity to history and historical characters though. Fillers are necessary if not always page-turning. Appreciated the backstory. 

Belial Witches by R.D. Brady. Book 11. To say that this was a fun read would be a bit macabre since it focused on the heinous actions of the Salem Witch Trails in the 1600's. This book was a great read though. The characters, and the twist on what could have happened. Great story-telling, terrifying mob-mentally, fear, religion. Great stuff.