Blog - K. Weikel

The Beast Emerges: The Earthborn Saga Vol. II by Steven Bissett Review!

3/31/2024

My Review:

Paying close attention to the history in the first book really gave this book a boost. Learning about the aliens and the planets and their histories was truly fascinating, and it only expands further in this book. There are twists to the history told, much like in our society, where history is skewed, perverted, or even fictitious in places--and these books have done such an amazing job at knowing, sharing, and delivering the importance of it.

The human race is under attack, but it's more than that. These Devourers are after the energy stored within these living planets. There's a weapon they've prepared to finally rid of these Devourers, but for some reason it won't work.

Our OG group with Hunt, Lily, Gromyko, Milo, and Wellelsey return. I love watching their interactions, especially between Hunt and Lily. The dialogue isn't as stiff as the first book, and there were many times I've busted out laughing because of these characters. They're flawed and imperfect, but they do their best to be the best they can be.

The universe Bissett's created is so intricate and fascinating. I know I mentioned it before, but the sheer amount of history he came up with for this series is AMAZING. And don't get me started on how many things I've highlighted. This series is a gold mine of quotable moments.

I loved reading this. It's quite lengthy, and the chapters are no different, but it's still a great read. Can't wait for the third.

Summary:

Ancient secrets. New battles.

An unyielding, insidious peril, the Devourers unleash chaos in the galaxy.

First in their malevolent the ice planet Delta-13, next the enigmatic jungles of Preleteth. Rex Hunt, driven by destiny and cryptic legends, forges alliances in the galaxy's darkest corners.

From pirate-infested asteroids to secret Imperial bases, danger lurks at every corner. When ancient prophecies from the sentient world of Preleteth point to a shadowy salvation, Rex's fate becomes irrevocably intertwined with a journey that spans galaxies.

Every alliance forged, every secret unveiled, and every battle waged will shape the future in this grand space opera of courage, sacrifice, and cosmic revelation.

Dive deep with Rex and his crew as they embark on a perilous journey. If you think you've outsmarted the might of the Empire or the ruthlessness of the Devourers… prepare for your reckoning.

Jump into book two of The Earthborn Saga today!

Many Mansions by Alexis Soleil Book Review

3/30/2024

My Review:

Heartbreaking but the ending’s worth it

This book follows the story of twins, one talented in everything, and the other, constantly getting in his own way. This book really shows the dynamics between siblings and having parents that aren’t fully invested in all but one. Seeing how contrasted their lives ended up was an interesting journey, but seeing Isaac’s thought process broke my heart. No one should feel as worthless as people, made him feel. Or even bled over into his thoughts, and he’d tear himself down, hindering his ability to fully live his life.

My only complaints is there was a LOT of repetitive telling and not showing, and transitions between moments, scenes, and paragraphs were nearly nonexistent, making the flow and pacing of this book almost jarring at points. That being said, it was interesting to read a different style such as this, but I wasn’t too much of a fan. The dialogue also felt stiff at points and I found myself a little lost in the writing at times.

All in all, I love the happy ending, it made the struggles the boys went through worth it. It was an enjoyable read, maybe just a bit too dense in places.

Summary:

A successful real estate tycoon reunites with his long-lost brother who's homeless and living in the tunnels of the New York subway system. Moses and Isaac Remington fraternal twins dreamt of having their own real estate business as kids. They had a tight bond that couldn't be broken, but the brothers went their own way due to parental favoritism, popularity, and girls. On their high school graduation day, the brothers got into a physical altercation after Moses got a car and Isaac didn't. Eventually, Isaac left home and never returned.

Moses moved on, graduated from college, and started his real estate business. He networked with real investors, contractors, and realtors in the field. He became a lucrative businessman selling luxurious homes for the rich and famous. Over the next decade, Moses thought of his brother, Isaac. He was so caught up in himself that he forgot about the brother who was out in the world somewhere. He didn't know if Isaac was dead or alive.

While shopping at the supermarket with his girlfriend, Moses stood in line waiting to purchase his items. He noticed a filthy, unkempt gentleman who couldn't afford his purchases, and offered to help him out. Moses noticed it was Isaac. The twins reunion wasn't heartwarming. Instead, it was filled with jealousy, envy, and hate from the past. Moses and Isaac reconciled their differences. They realized who caused their broken bond. It was their stepfather who came into their lives, turning everything upside down. Finally, Moses and Isaac got rid of this man with the help of their mother who also suffered from this man's lies, abuse, and cheating. Now, the brothers made their dreams became a reality. They sold luxury properties and also provided homes for the homeless.

Monstrous Power by Eva Chase Book Review!

3/30/2024

My Review:

I've come to realize I don't like harems.

While I enjoy the lore and depth of the characters, I loathe Jacob and how everything seems to be swept under the rug, more or less. No one should be treated the way he treats her, especailly when, out of guilt and shame, begins to mutilate himself by attempting to cut off his arm. It gives me "If you don't love me, I'll hurt myself" vibes, and that's... not okay. Plus, I swear he's going psycho.

The book is well-written and I love Eva Chase's voice.

I also just hate smut scenes.

Anyway...

The ending was great, and I have mixed emotions for the start of the third book. Wish me luck.

Summary:

The truth has come to light... but can I ever trust my men again?

After weeks of cruel hostility, the guys I swore to save know how wrong they were—at least about what I did four years ago. Now that they've seen my horrifying new power, will they decide I'm an enemy after all?

With what they put me through, I'm not sure I even want to stick with them. These brutal men aren't the boys I fell in love with anymore.

But nothing matters more than learning how to control my own vicious urges. So I'll accept a tentative truce while we hunt down more answers... by turning to the very monsters our creator feared most.

TAILS OF LOVE: Canine Parables for the Heart by Daniel G Weaver Review!

3/29/2024

My Review:

I loved the stories this books told about the dogs! Especially since it's about "Love is patient, love is kind," etc. Each one was heartfelt and sweet, and a wonderful lesson for anyone. This is perfect for teaching a child what love is and should be, and I do believe dogs are one of the best examples out there.

The reason I gave this 3 stars (instead of 4) was because of the AI art used for each page and the cover art. Some dogs have extra limbs or tails, and a few kids have extra or missing fingers.

All in all, this short children's book holds amazing stories and lessons. Great read.

Summary:

Journey through the pages of Tails of Love, where the profound companionship and selfless affection of dogs come to life in enchanting parables.

This collection invites readers into a realm where dogs, with their instinctive loyalty and unwavering dedication, become our greatest teachers in the essence of love.

Explore these parables that serve as poignant reminders of the lessons learned from paws and tails – from the exuberant leaps of a playful puppy to the reassuring nuzzle of a seasoned companion. These tales encapsulate the enduring bonds forged between humans and their canine friends, showcasing that the most profound truths of love and kindness often manifest in the simplicity of their actions.

Tailored for dog lovers of all ages, Tails of Love is a jubilant celebration of the silent, yet powerful language of love communicated through barks, wags, and tender, trusting gazes. These tales are guaranteed to tug at your heartstrings, providing a fresh perspective on the four-legged companions that walk alongside us. Follow the paw-printed path towards understanding life's most precious gift: love, unwavering and ever-present.

Key Features:

Heartwarming Canine Parables: These tales beautifully capture the unique bond between humans and dogs, illuminating the profound lessons they impart.
Universal Appeal: Ideal for readers of all ages who cherish the unspoken connection with their furry friends or seek to understand the transformative power of canine love.
Emotional Resonance: Experience a rollercoaster of emotions as each tale unfolds, leaving an indelible mark on your heart and fostering a deeper appreciation for the love that dogs bring into our lives.

Join us in celebrating the extraordinary love that dogs share with us – a love that is both a source of joy and a powerful testament to the beauty found in the simplicity of unconditional affection. This is the perfect read for anyone seeking to embrace the remarkable impact of dogs on the human heart.

Get your copy today and let the pawprints guide you to a world of love, understanding, and the enduring bond between humans and their beloved canine companions.

The Day I Sold My Corvette by Santrell Travanté Carson Book Review!

3/28/2024

My Review:

This book is filled with encouragement and great advice, accompanied by true life accounts and examples from the author. Honestly, I've been in a rut lately, kind of wanting to give up on the things I'm pursuing. However, this book helped reinvigorate my love and desire for what I do and where I want to be. The system we've created and call society pushes against anyone who isn't in the 1%, keeping us in debt and making those at the top richer. There's a specific mindset we have to break free from, and Carson has amazing advice on that. This book is a quick and easy read, and you can consider me fully inspired and motivated again.

Summary:

Introducing "The Day I Sold my Corvette" - a thought-provoking and enlightening book that challenges your perceptions of wealth and money. If you find yourself living paycheck-to-paycheck, struggling financially, or constantly craving material possessions, this book is a must-read.

Through his personal story, the author shares his financial education journey and how he broke the cycle of poverty by taking risks and building assets. He sheds light on the common misconceptions about wealth and exposes the true meaning of financial freedom.

This book is not just about selling a car, but about selling a lifestyle that keeps you in financial bondage. The author challenges readers to re-evaluate their spending habits and focus on acquiring assets instead of liabilities.

"The Day I Sold my Corvette" is a compelling and insightful read that will inspire you to take control of your finances and make positive changes in your life. Whether you are a young adult just starting your financial journey or someone looking to shift their mindset about wealth, this book offers practical advice and a refreshing perspective on money.

Shattered Vow by Eva Chase Book Review!

3/23/2024

My Review:

This book was okay, and not exactly what I was hoping. I hated the whole group hated her and she was like “Oh, they’ll come around eventually. I’ll prove myself to them.” Even though they were treating her like crud. It was the bane of enjoyment for the first 70%. After the spicy scene (of which I don’t like in any book, but I just kind of breeze past and don’t think about it), it finally held my attention. The lore as to why they are what they are and how they became that, alongside the monster growing within her, was great, and there was a lot of awesome questions and observations made. I did enjoy Riva’s personality, aside from in the beginning, and the dialogue felt real. I kept getting the guys mixed up because it’s a lot to keep track of for me for some reason.

Long story short, the beginning was rocky for me, but it got better toward the end. The fight scenes were well done, as were the transitions and the author’s voice. I hope things keep getting better throughout the series.

Summary:

We vowed to escape together. I broke that promise. Now the men I loved just might break me.

There were six of us. Caged, turned into monsters, and tormented with brutal tests of our horrific emerging abilities.

We had only each other to count on... until our escape attempt ended with one dead, the others recaptured, and me dragged away into a different nightmare.

Now I've finally fought my way back to rescue them. Except the men I set free are hardened, beastly versions of the devoted boys I remember.

They see me as a traitor and a murderer—but they refuse to let me go now that they have me back.

They have no idea that the greatest threat may be the new darkness that’s woken up inside me.

I don’t know how to control it. And if these men break me, I could destroy us all.

*Shattered Vow is the first in a new urban fantasy series for those who love savagely possessive men and fierce heroines who'll fight for what's theirs.*

Moon Soul by Nathaniel Luscombe Video Review

3/20/2024

Book review: Canasta Made Simple: The Beginner´s Guide to Learning How to Successfully Play Canasta with the Best Tactics and Strategies by Christian Dennison

3/18/2024

My Review:

What a cool introduction and walkthrough of this game. It's well informed and easy to follow, and there are even pictures for reference for quite a few of the strategies/explanations. It even includes strategies to win and different ways to play. Perfect for beginners like me. I almost wish there were more images, but I'm also a hands-on/visual learner. All in all, this book is an amazing resource, and is a great read. Love it.

Summary:

Are you intrigued by the allure of Canasta, yet find yourself baffled by the ease with which others play, leaving you feeling lost amidst unfamiliar lingo and strategic maneuvers?Are you in search of a comprehensive guide that unravels the mysteries of this captivating card game, equipping you with the knowledge of dos, don'ts, rules, pro moves, and more, to play with unwavering confidence?If your answer is a resounding YES,
then let this book be your passport to the world of Canasta, where you can play with assurance and emerge victorious, whether you're diving into the realms of modern, classic, or samba Canasta!
While Canasta may appear daunting initially, fear not, for mastery is within reach with the right guidance.
This book aims to provide precisely that – the guidance you need to excel at Canasta and truly shine! Addressing burning questions like:
How do you embark on a game of Canasta?
What are the essential rules and terms?
When does triumph or defeat befall a player?
Which strategic maneuvers offer a competitive edge?

This guide covers it all, offering clear explanations in simple, straightforward language.
In this book, you will discover:

The basics of Canasta, including what it is and how it has evolved over the years
The general rules and terminology of classic canasta, including the basic and advanced strategies
What modern American canasta looks like and how to deal and play the game, amongst other modern American canasta rules
What samba canasta is and the rules of samba canasta, including how to score and strategy hints

And so much more...!
Even if you’ve never heard of canasta before or if you’ve never played the game before, this book is still for you, as it will take you from the basics to the advanced strategies so that you can learn and understand the game in depth!
Scroll up and click Buy Now With 1-Click or Buy Now to get your copy!

Restless by Madeline Freeman Book Review

3/16/2024

My Review:

Such an amazing ending to a great story. Freeman knows exactly how to tell a story, and each book got better as I went along. This series will definitely stay in my heart and has made its way to the tops of my favorites lists. This one in particular had me on edge and hardly able to breathe as I panicked for Calix and the things he was experiencing. I mean, yeah, the other characters too, but he was who I was mainly concerned about. I loved every moment, and I definitely look forward to reading more from this author in the future.

Summary:

Everything he’s done has been for her. Soon, he won’t remember she exists.

Calix Reed joined the Dolus Order with one goal: to save the girl he loves from the mysterious illness that plagues her. When his true loyalty is revealed, the Order’s leader, Uma Withers, will stop at nothing to bring him back into the fold.

Zora Korbel has lived in a world of secrets for years. Now, she may finally be able to unravel the mysteries that have plagued her—if her malady remains at bay. But the secrets are more dangerous than she ever imagined, and when the wrong person finds out what she knows, her life hangs in the balance.

Aria and her friends will do everything they can to help them both, but if they’re too late, two lives will be destroyed forever.

A Son of the Shadows: The Earthborn Saga Vol. I by Steven Bissett Book Review

3/13/2024

My Review:

I enjoyed this story and the creativity of everything involved. Aliens, living planets, and super powers? Yes, please.

This book is an amazing blend of fantasy, scifi, and political intrigue. There's some [super sweet] romance, and interesting delves into the psyche early on in the book. It's intellectually stimulating and I thoroughly enjoyed reading the history, albeit a bit hard to chew sometimes.

The world building is astounding and well thought-out, and I love the interactions between the characters. Gromyko at first was a bit too big-headed at first, but he grew on me SO fast. Wellesley was my first favorite though, the snarky AI created by aliens. It was an uphill battle to get Lily and Hunt to meet, but when it finally happened, I fell in love with their relationship.

My complaints: There's too much talking and planning and not enough doing and describing. Something would happen that had me like, "Oh, no that's going to be a problem!" But in the next chapter or page, that thing is easily taken care of. I wish there was more buildup to Hunt's father, and I wish they didn't have that revelation until they actually saw him toward the end. I was really wanting the dramatic irony to build until the bubble went pop, but there was no buildup, so the delivery fell flat. I was tired of everything just working out, and I wanted SOMETHING to cling for more than a chapter.

Also, the chapters were SUPER long, and some of the dialogue was stiff. Oh, and I wish there was more of a thought process to some of the deaths/encounters.

All in all, this book is a solid read. I just wish the chapters were tighter and maybe half the length they are. The journey this book takes you on is on I won't soon forget, and I can't wait to see what lies ahead in the next books.

Summary:

On the ice-clad prison world of Delta-13, where minds teeter on the edge of madness, mankind's future dangles by a thread.

Living under the shadow of an imperial conspiracy, Rex Hunt discovers a psychic gift that will upset the balance of power in the entire galaxy.

As Rex grapples with his newfound power, prison psychiatrist, Dr. Lily Tselitel, delves into the chilling surge of madness among the inmates, pulling her closer to a secret as old as the galaxy itself.

Their paths converge as they uncover an imperial plot to build a weapon that threatens to suffocate the flickering spirit of rebellion in the galaxy's fringe colonies.

Unbeknownst to the rebels, as they fight against the empire's sinister plan, an ancient shadow looms over the galaxy, threatening to consume humanity's vast colonies, and even Earth itself!

Discover the first book in an epic space opera where hope survives in secret taverns, and the line between life and death is blurred in the snowy expanse of Delta-13.

You're just one click away from learning mankind's fate.

Hopeless by Madeline Freeman Book Review!

3/9/2024

My Review:

What a great third book to the series. The Rapunzel retelling was really cool, too, and Tressa is adorable. As with the others, I love the characters and the emotions, and I adore the ending, but I wish there was a bit more description for areas or things they're holding/using. Other than that, I am WORRIED about Calix. Yeah, everyone else is great, but Calix has had my attention since book one and I'm so scared for him going into book four. Aaaaaahhhhh... Here I go, diving in once again. Fingers crossed about the fourth book!

Summary:

A hacker without loyalty. A psychic without hope. A future in peril.

Declan Perth is an expert in looking out for himself. As a highly sought-after hacker, he has spent years moving from job to job, concerned only with who could pay the most. But after his last mission nearly made him a murderer, he longs to make amends.

Tressa Bakar spent the last six years hidden away from the world—and from anyone who might seek to exploit her mind-reading abilities. She longs to end her life of isolation—if even only for a day—but her handler forbids it.

When their lives collide, Declan finds himself linked to Tressa in an unforeseen way. His companion, Calix Reed, is desperate to use Tressa’s power, but unleashing her ability is more dangerous than any of them imagine.

The Comprehensive Guide to Writing and Marketing Your First Book by Elisa Frag (Guest Blogger)

3/1/2024

Introduction

Starting the exciting path of writing and publishing your first book is the first step towards a possibly life-changing career as a self-published author. This all-inclusive manual is intended to help you through the complex process of turning your book from an idea into a finished work that appeals to readers. Understanding the dual importance of crafting compelling content and employing effective marketing strategies cannot be overstated. With the right approach and resources, including book writing and marketing services, you can significantly increase your book's chances of success. Whether you aim to inspire, educate, or entertain, this guide is your roadmap to becoming a self-published author with a story that captivates and sells.

Part 1: The Writing Process

Idea Generation and Planning

Every great book begins with a compelling idea. Finding and refining your concept involves exploring your passions, experiences, and the gaps in the current market. Once you've honed in on your unique angle, outlining becomes crucial. A detailed outline serves as a blueprint for your book, ensuring a logical flow and helping keep your writing process focused and efficient.

Writing Your First Draft

The journey from the first word to the last of your manuscript is often the most daunting. Setting realistic goals and establishing a regular writing routine can keep the momentum going. For those struggling with writer's block or time constraints, book writing services offer professional support, turning your ideas into a polished manuscript ready for the world.

Editing and Polishing

After completing your draft, the editing phase begins. This critical step involves self-editing and professional editing to ensure clarity, coherence, and a captivating narrative. Selecting the right editor, someone who aligns with your vision and genre, is pivotal. Additionally, various self-editing tools can help refine your manuscript before it reaches professional hands.

Part 2: The Publishing Process

Choosing the Right Publishing Path

In today's digital age, authors have more publishing options than ever before. The choice between traditional publishing and self-publishing is a pivotal one. Self-publishing offers greater creative control, faster time to market, and higher royalties. Platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) make it straightforward for self-published authors to reach a global audience, providing tools for publishing both eBooks and paperbacks.

Design and Formatting

The visual appeal of your book can significantly affect its marketability. A professional cover design captures attention, while a well-formatted interior ensures a pleasant reading experience. While there are DIY design tools available, hiring a professional can make a substantial difference. This investment not only enhances the look of your book but also its perceived value to readers.

Part 3: Marketing Your Book