Blog Archives - K. Weikel

Book Review: How the White Trash Zombie Got Her Groove Back by Diana Rowland

2/24/2024

My Review:

I feel like I finally got everything I wanted with this book. Diana Rowland's finally hit her stride with this series. It fixed everything I've been complaining about and more, and I can't wait for the next book.

She's supposed to be white trash--which I feel like I got to see more of--and a former drug addict--which I got to see more of that mindset. She's still a bit too aware of everything, but also, I feel like with everything she's been through, she's earned it. She's learned to assess her situation properly, and she has the makings of a great leader. I just wish I got to see her get to that point instead of her being like that from book one. BUT this book was by far my favorite. I could see myself reading it again.

The new developments with the zombies are amazing, and I love all the scientific stuff happening. The action scenes are always a pleasure, as they're action-packed and a lot of fun. I love the characters, and, boy, did Kyle get a bit too relatable for me at one part. This one was creative and clever, and I'm so looking forward to book 5.

Summary:

Horror meets humorous urban fantasy in fourth book in the White Trash Zombie series • Winner of the 2012 Best Urban Fantasy Protagonist by the RT Awards

Our favorite zombie Angel Crawford has come a long way from her days as a pain-pill-addicted high school dropout with a felony record. After a year highlighted by murder, kidnapping, and the loss of her home, all she wants to do is kick back, relax, and maybe even think about college.

But when key members of the “Zombie Mafia” go missing, she has no choice but to get involved. Angel is certain Saberton Corporation is behind the disappearances, yet she can’t shake the sense that a far deeper conspiracy is at work. With the small band of friends she can trust, Angel strikes out to track down the missing zombies.

From a seedy redneck bar in the backwoods of south Louisiana to a high society cocktail party halfway across the country, Angel claws her way through corporate intrigue, zombie drugs, and undead trafficking. In no time at all she's embroiled in kidnapping plits and hostage negotiations—though for once she's the one calling the felonious shots. Add some breaking and entering, criminal damage, and a wee bit of terrorism, and Angel's up to her undead ears in the kind of trouble she excels at.

But when unexpected danger threatens to destroy her, all the brains and bravado in the world may not be enough to keep her from going to pieces.

Book Review: How To Draw For Kids: Simple and easy step-by-step drawing book for kids by Elephant Buddy

2/23/2024

My Review:

This is so cute! The steps are easy to follow and the pictures are absolutely adorable. I love the way the instructions don’t have words, making it super easy for a child of any age to follow along, and I believe the way they’re structured would hold their attention longer because it’s not a rigid stream of information, but instead dances down the page.

Summary:

Following simple and easy step-by-step instructions, this book "How To Draw For Kids" will help your child learn to draw like a little artist.
More than 100 cute drawings of animals, fruits, vegetables, sports, and everyday items.
Suitable for kids of all ages.
No need for a sketchbook to draw. There is a dedicated practice section on each page.
Over 100 illustrations to color using your kids' imagination.
Awesome Gift for your little one.

The Azure Abyss by Ian Emmerson ARC Book Review

2/20/2024

My Review:

This is one of my favorite books so far this year. It kept me on the edge of my seat and I gasped in shock quite a few times. I had no idea where this journey was going to lead me, and I loved every second of it. It gives me big D&D vibes, but I'm a nerd, so a lot of books like this will. Also, the way it's written is beautiful, and the imagery is breathtaking.

The characters are amazing, and so supportive of one another. They truly were the perfect team to delve into the depths of their floating city, and they're crafty and clever enough to get out *mostly* unscathed. The problems that arise kept me gripping my Kindle because I didn't want to see any of them hurt.

Aah, I loved this book so much. Now I have to wait for it to come out to own a hardcopy, and then I'll have to wait for the sequel. The agony! But I highly recommend this book if you're looking for a science fiction adventure with unexpected twists and turns that will leave you breathless.

Summary:

Amidst the smog of Victorian England, the floating city of Alexandria On The Azure Abyss represents the pinnacle of human aspiration, rising above the English coast into the realms of possibility. It stands as a crowning jewel of progress, its gears and pistons a beating heart of hope for all who gaze upon its splendor. Yet, behind its lustrous façade, a veiled history whispers of forgotten truths, buried in the depths of its mechanical heart.

Thaddeus, a wily engineer, Bella, a troubled healer, and Percy, an ambitious combatant have been chosen as this generations Torchbearers. They are tasked with mending the city’s faltering engines, but as they peel back layers of shadow they find harrowing secrets and nightmarish creatures inside the corroded foundation of Alexandria. Confronted by a legacy of silence and subjugation, the Torchbearers stand at a crossroads. Torn between allegiance to a city steeped in tradition and the unyielding pull of truth and justice, they must tread carefully both above and below.

"The Azure Abyss: Secrets of Alexandria" is a gripping tale of adventure, betrayal, and the courage to confront the truth. As the Torchbearers unravel the city's secrets, they will be forced to question everything they thought they knew about their home, their leaders, and themselves. Will they choose duty over truth, or will they risk everything to expose the lies that keep Alexandria in the sky? The destiny of Alexandria teeters on the brink of their decision, and with it, the fate of all its people.

Book Review: Fearless by Madeline Freeman

2/17/2024

My Review:

This book kept me entertained throughout. I loved seeing the characters again, and am a sucker for anything Little Mermaid (within the realm of it actually resembling the original). It was great seeing more of Alonzo and the romance between him and [redacted]. It's done really well, and is an easy read. The author keeps it clean, and the story is engaging and had me on the edge of my seat. Truly loving this series, and I can't wait for the rest of it.

Summary:

To save the sister he loves, Alonzo will return to a life he thought he left behind.

When his plan to locate his sister Aria fails, Alonzo must team up with a man he doesn’t trust if he has any hope of seeing her again. But when deception is part of the game, it’s only a matter of time before even the best-laid plans begin to unravel.

Fearless, an Aladdin retelling, is the second book in the Unfortunate Souls series and shouldn’t be read as a stand-alone. Speechless, a Little Mermaid retelling, is currently available as part of the Once Upon a Rebel Fairytale box set.

Fans of Marissa Meyer will love this pulse-pounding retelling!

If you like fast-paced action, suave heroes, and strong heroines, pre-order FEARLESS today!

Book Review: The Midnight Witness: A Short Crime Thriller by Paul Publishing

2/12/2024

My Review:

Interesting concept, I'd give it a 3.5. The imagery and commentary between characters speaking was well done, and there were one or two quotable moments. The killer is trying to spread a message, no matter how messed up the delivery is. It wasn't a bad read at all, and it was quite quick.

Summary:

When a twisted killer begins orchestrating murders like a gruesome play, only one woman holds the key to understanding his next move – and she may be his final victim.

Haunted by a past trauma, ex-reporter Maya Rossi vows never to become entangled in another crime. But when a child is murdered in an alley, leaving behind a cryptic playing card, Maya realizes the killer is sending a chilling message, one only she can decipher.

Teaming up with the brooding Detective Grant, Maya's investigative instincts ignite anew. Yet, with each macabre scene, their killer draws her deeper into his game. His targets aren't random victims, but the city's forgotten – those discarded by society. As the body count rises, Maya's past intertwines with the killer's dark motives, making her both hunter and prey.

In a world where the truth is buried beneath layers of neglect and indifference, Maya risks everything to uncover the killer's twisted master plan. But with each step closer to the shadows, she must confront the terrifying realization – what if the next card bears her name?

Fans of dark psychological mysteries, relentless detectives, and killers with chilling motives will devour "The Midnight Witness" in a single sitting.

Book Review: A Love Like Ours is touching my heart by Tony Glez

2/12/2024

My Review:

This is a short, semi-spicy book with wonderful moments where the characters express character growth and realistic reactions to the world around them.

The spicy scenes aren't too detailed, which I was glad for, but they are there.

The best part about this were the characters--which is a good thing, since normally books are about their characters. And to be honest, I really disliked Paolo in the beginning, and the romance kicked in a bit too quickly, but it's a short book, so I can't fault it so much. The reason I didn't like him is because he was sabotaging Abigail's attempts to sell her late father's bar for money to help her dying mom with treatments. Sure, he didn't know that, but still. He was a jerk.

That being said, she isn't all sunflowers and rainbows in the beginning, either. She's going through a lot, and is doing the best she can with what she has. And, wow, this girl has some quips that made me go, "Oof." So neither of them is perfect, and I love that. Especially watching them grow as people.

Their relationship starts toxic, but it smooths out as we go along. They have some really great moments, like when she breaks down crying and he just comforts her instead of fueling the fire of his own needs/wants. Another good moment is when the both of them realize what they want, what they need, and if they can't find it in each other, they need to find it in themselves.

All in all, I loved watching these two grow and become better both for themselves and each other. If you want a quick romance with a little spice and great messages about growth, growing up, and moving on, this is the book for you!

Summary:

A new beginning, a chance encounter, and the decision of a lifetime.

It’s safe to say that Abigail never imagined moving to a quiet town. She was a New Yorker for goodness’ sake! What would make her even consider moving?And yet, that’s exactly what Abigail found herself doing when her estranged father passed away, bequeathing her a bar she never wanted.Abigail is 100% committed to selling the bar (even for parts!) to the highest bidder—anything to get it off her hands as soon as possible!

But might that commitment waver?

After all, the bar may not be enough to convince Abigail to stay in this sleepy town, but perhaps a handsome, brooding musician might just do the trick…Join Abigail as she stumbles into a completely alien world, battling obstacles, twists, and turns along the way, trying not to get caught up in a sweeping, unexpected romance.

One thing is A Love Like Ours Is Touching My Heart is a thrilling love story you don’t want to miss! Grab your copy now

Book Review: Journey of Awakening and Higher Consciousness by Jane Kim Yu

2/6/2024

My Review:

From the first sentence of this book to the last, it is filled with encouragement and gentle advice to those looking for a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them. The poetic nature embraces you and warms your heart as it lifts you up and inspires confidence on whatever journey you're currently trekking.

This book motivates you to look inside and love yourself. Forgive yourself. While reading it, I felt nothing but a comfortable safe space as it seemed the author reached out with a smile, excited to watch me continue on my path--albeit with more positivity and self-assurance.

As a Christian, I saw many parallels with Christianity and the Bible's teachings, but the topics inside also remind me of Buddhism and Hinduism. In fact, quite a lot of religions/beliefs have the same core values that are expanded upon in this book. So whether you have a belief system or not, this book would benefit anyone seeking to better themselves and the world around them.

I loved every moment in this book, and I know I'll be thinking about it as I continue forward. 5 stars.

Summary:

"True spirituality is a true coming alive, for it’s not what you do; it’s who you are. Which means living the life of your dreams on your terms and, most of all, in your heart as the you that you are. Love unleashed."

Discover the journey of awakening in a new light never seen before. Read about our universal journey of discovery, of awakening to the greatest truth of the land, the truth that reverberates in our very hands, the hands of heart, the very heart of our being, that - you are love.

Through a profoundly rare experience that left the author’s mind silent for nearly half a year, it awakened her own desire to find her fire. The very fire that lit the night sky. The very fire that lives in all our hearts nigh. The very fire, to come alive.

Jane’s debut book Journey of Awakening and Higher Consciousness, is an offering of love that crystalizes her 3 eloquent writing, creative expression, and the exploration of our divine humanity. These combine into an unforgettable experience that will awaken your inner fire and bring passion and purpose back into your life.

Book Review: White Trash Zombie Apocalypse by Diana Rowland

2/3/2024

My Review:

I love the depth of scientific explanations gone into for this series, and I think that's my favorite part. I really, really keep wanting to see the growth from "trailer trash" to what she has been since the beginning: smart, in control, and perceptive. I want her to be more flawed so I can cheer even louder at her victories.

That being said, I love the zombie abilities she has, and I love the fact it keeps ramping up with each book. I'm a sucker for power-scaling (even if it's not by a ton each time), and I can't wait for more.

On to the fourth book!

Summary:

Our favorite white trash zombie, Angel Crawford, has enough problems of her own, what with dealing with her alcoholic, deadbeat dad, issues with her not-quite boyfriend, the zombie mafia, industrial espionage and evil corporations. Oh, and it’s raining, and won’t let up.

But things get even crazier when a zombie movie starts filming in town, and Angel begins to suspect that it’s not just the plot of the movie that's rotten. Soon she's fighting her way through mud, blood, bullets and intrigue, even as zombies, both real and fake, prowl the streets.

Angel’s been through more than her share of crap, but this time she’s in way over her head. She’ll need plenty of brainpower to fit all the pieces—and body parts—together in order to save herself, her town, and quite possibly the human race.