Release Date: 18/08/11
SYNOPSIS:
Hidden in the dead sea scrolls - the secret of how Christ really died As ex-mercenary Leo Tillman and ambitious cop Heather Kennedy investigate a series of baffling deaths, the trail leads them to the Dead Sea Scrolls - and the deadly gospel hidden within them. But soon Tillman and Kennedy are running for their lives from a band of sinister assassins who weep tears of blood and believe themselves descended from Judas. These ‘fallen angels’ will stop at nothing to expose the world-changing secret of the Scrolls . . . the secret of who really died on Christ’s cross.Rocketing from a spectacular plane crash in the American desert to a brutal murder at a London university to a phantom city in Mexico, The Dead Sea Deception is the most gripping, revelatory thriller since The Da Vinci Code.
REVIEW:
Thrillers either take one of two routes these days, a fast action packed modern type tale or one where an ancient society is hidden behind a veil that few know exist. The later is the route that Adam Blake takes and whilst the genre is pretty full of this type of tale, the author takes a different take and gives the reader what they want with breakneck speed, top notch pace and of course a whole set of problems with a likeable character to solve all issues concerned.
It’s cleverly designed, has a decent overall arc and also gives the reader the story that they crave. All in, a decent offering and one that fulfilled my requirements.
Release Date: 18/07/11
SYNOPSIS:
Human remains are recovered from the bottom of the River Clyde. Not an unusual occurrence, but these have been sleeping the deep, dark sleep for eighteen years. Suddenly Glasgow's underworld is buzzing with the news that the dredged up bones belong to Gentleman Joe Strachan, Glasgow's most successful and ruthless armed robber.
When Isa and Violet, Strachan's daughters, hire Lennox to find out who has been sending them large sums of cash each year, on the anniversary of Strachan's most successful robbery, his instincts tell him that this job spells trouble and will take him back into the dark world of the Three Kings - the crime bosses who run the city.
He takes the job nevertheless. And soon learns that ignoring his instincts might just cost him his life.
This is the third fantastic thriller featuring shady investigator Lennox as he stalks Glasgow's tough streets. The Deep Dark Sleep is gritty, fast-paced, and totally absorbing.
REVIEW:
Having followed Lennox in his previous tales, I have to say that I love Craig’s dark gritty Glasgow of the fifties that creeps into your mind in much the same way that the Clyde creeps its way through the city itself. It’s well written, it has some cracking twists and when you add a darker look at the cities underworld to the mix, it’s one that is rich with images as well as characters for the tales antihero to pit himself against.
As usual the prose is top notch, the pace bracing and when added to a unique author writing voice, it’s one that will thrill and entertain from the first page to the last. Just remember that Glasgow gives up its secrets in much the same way as the Clyde and that sometimes pushing through the murk to find them will lead to inevitable consequences which leave you wondering how many more breaths Lennox has left in his body. Wonderful.
Having recently written a piece about banned books and conventions over at Bea’s Book Nook for the Banned Book Week, I couldn’t get out of my mind two sayings, never judge a book by its cover and Still Waters Run Deep. So when we had the opportunity to review actor Robert Lasardo’s two poetry titles we jumped at the chance.
Thanks to Lady Eleanor we were also lucky enough to have an interview with Robert where we asked about his writing, his body art and how he feels it has affected him in his career as well as mentally and spiritually…Falcata Times: Do you think that the poems were in your mind when you had the tattoo's done or were they something that arrived when you looked back upon the artwork? Robert Lasardo: My poems are a continued expression that manifested once I revisited the tattoo images and looked deeper within myself. For years people I did not know personally would ask me to explain the meaning behind the ink. Some would thank me proclaiming that I inspired them to get their first tattoo. Over time and with many more questions I started to feel a responsibility to share my story with people who seemed to express a genuine interest in the art form. FT: The Poem 1979 mentions about being warned against having tattoo's, what tattoo did you choose first and what happened when you got home and your family saw what you'd had done? RL: My first tattoo was a traditional cartoon 1950s style prize fighter. I had it tattooed on the right side of my chest. I was able to keep it a secret from my father for many months until I was arrested wearing a shirt that was unable to fully conceal the tattoo. It was after midnight and in the middle of summer when my father received the call that I had been arrested. Being a juvenile I was not booked or finger printed and released into my father’s custody. I was given a court date and faced criminal charges for assault and possession of a deadly weapon. As my father and I walked home that night my shirt exposed the tattoo and I wondered if he would beat me right there in the street. To my surprise he just yelled to me to zip my fucking shirt up. By now I had tattoos on both sides of my chest and had no shame in showing the world. My father on the other hand made it clear to me that my tattoos were a disgrace and represented everything he hated. Given the nature of my crime left me with little credibility for any argument in my defence for self-expression. I was assisting the ignorance in society and reinforcing the stigma that made tattoos seem so taboo. FT: Also in 1979 you mention that people will look at you differently for having tattoos. How do you feel they have affected your acting career? RL: I can only judge my acting career from the point of view of optimism. There is a line from the classic 40s film 'From Here To Eternity' spoken by the late and great Montgomery Clift "when you love a thing you have to be grateful. Doesn't mean it has to love you back." Before acting I had nothing. Acting has given me a purpose in life regardless of how I am measured by it. For years it has been suggested to me by some that my efforts have been in vain. That I will fail or have failed to transcend the physical choices I have made that were part of my evolution. I cannot deny or betray who I am as an expression for the sake of the conformed ego. No doubt there will always be people who see me as threat to conventional structures. I may not be the one to change things completely. But maybe through some of my achievements I have shown what is possible to those who have been told to give up and bury their dreams. FT: Reading the book (playing with fire) do you feel that tattoo's do speak a thousand words if people are prepared to listen and what do you feel the majority of your tattoo's are telling people?RL: Yes I do. If those who observe the images do so with an open mind. Art is a subjective experience that seems to be governed by personal criteria that varies from individual to individual. What people read into the pictures (Tattoos) I feel is a projection of their own belief system and thought process. Regardless of what I set out to communicate with image and word I cannot drive the response just witness the reactions. Some have found the images frightening while others have commented on their beauty. I guess it all depends on who is doing the looking. For me they encompass the extremes within life with the desire to expose and transcend inner conflict. FT: When did you start writing poetry or is it something that you think has developed as you've gotten older? RL: I remember writing poems in my late 20s. I don't think I even realized I was writing poetry until a friend pointed it out to me. He seemed surprised and asked me how I was able to write like that. I don't know if I was as impressed with the words as he was. I threw all of the work in the garbage. Maybe because the words marked such a turbulent time in my life. The writing was always in direct relationship to the emotional storms I found myself in. The words just came as a way to release extreme feelings. I could not control the words any more than what life was throwing at me at the time. I would not plan to write. I would not sit down to write. I just found myself writing. Over the years I would continue to write things down then discard them. One day a friend told me rather bluntly to stop doing that. He explained to me the value of my words and the significance of the experiences that brought them to life. I can't say that I keep everything I write now but I definitely think twice before trashing it. FT: How have the fans reacted to seeing a different side to you in this book? RL: The first thing that comes to mind is an email I received from a man who told me specifically what poems had affected him. He also wrote, "Keep going with this." This got my attention primarily because I did not know this man. My friends were supportive but I could not be sure if they would be objective enough, though someone did warn me "not everyone is going to understand this". I was not surprised by the warning. My goal was more about being true to what I needed to communicate rather than spelling everything out or editing myself. What I found within peoples response to my work did surprise me though. Not only did they understand it but it touched people in ways I did not expect. I knew what I had conjured was personal to me. But to see it penetrate others and create an emotional response other than fear was something very new for me. FT: Which is your favorite poem from your book? RL: In my second book, Playing With Fire' my favorite poem is FURY. FT: In general which poem is your favorite? RL: My favorite poem in general is from my first book, Choices: Inside Out. It is titled CRADLE. FT: Are there any more books in the pipe line and what do you think that they will tell people about you? RL: No doubt there will be more storms to come my way. And there will be an opportunity to learn something else which I can write about. My hope is that it will be something new. An inspiration perhaps that can dispel the dragon and remove the smoke that makes it so difficult to see the sun. I have a responsibility now to tell people who understand where I'm coming from a story that embraces hope. FT: You mention giving money to charity with your first book. Can you tell us more about your charity choice? RL: USA CARES.ORG is a charity that is working to provide US veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan with much needed supplies. Some men are leaving military hospitals with no more than a trash bag to store their personal belongings. Some of these men are disabled. The goal is to provide these men with at least a descent back pack or satchel.
Release Date: 07/01/10
SYNOPSIS:
"Choices: Inside Out" is the most eagerly awaited and unique coffee table book of its kind.
"Choices: Inside Out" takes you on a photographic and poetic journey into a man’s soul. Robert gives the reader an intimate glimpse of his life as a youth, his pain and certainly his triumphs.
The vivid tattoo images are jarring and uplifting in the same breath. Each image leaves the viewer with a sense of awe. This raw, jaw dropping book clearly states every tattoo has its own life, its own story, and literally its own poetic connection. Each gritty heartfelt piece inspires the reader to do and be more.
This rare book inspires the reader to take life by the horns and move forward without allowing obstacles to stop you! Robert candidly writes about how life experiences have shaped and molded him, while each vivid image leaves the viewer hungry for more.
REVIEW:
The world is a strange place and when you tend to see someone covered in tattoo’s (whilst I’m not as covered as Robert I have nine) it tends to elicit a fear response from many, yet from the other side of things, they’re a person’s journey through life as each one has a meaning that is hidden in ink and memory associated. Here in this, his first poetry book, Robert Lasardo takes us through a journey through his own mind in a frank, raw and emotive representation of his artwork in words.
It’s beautifully constructed, the pieces have words to whisper if you look beneath their appearance and to be honest a lot of the poems speak to the reader if you have the ears to hear their words and find that they’ll speak to yourself on a deeper level. It’s revealing, it has a power of its own and you can see the passion within purely from the way in which they tumble upon the page. Add to this some stark use of prose, some cleverly played upon connotations and it’s beautiful in its own fury as they take you on your journey.
Finally add a forward by Robert that speaks about his experiences with tattoo’s before you get to his poetry backed by the photography of Richard Wayne Miller and it’s a title that reveals a lot about a person going to prove the old adage of never judging a person until you’ve walked a mile in their shoes.
Release Date: 15/08/11
SYNOPSIS:
PLAYING WITH FIRE explores the spiritual conflict within the human heart when there is extreme emotional damage. This book is a collection of personal confessions, poetry and photographs that bring both beauty and corruption into play. Playing With Fire invites the reader to see love bare witness to the many monsters born of fear and to test loves value against the faces of despair. Unlike Robert’s first book, Choices: Inside Out, Playing With Fire introduces the concept of love in the feminine form with a series of real life images of a beautiful girl that is gradually transformed by the assault of pessimism. Playing With Fire is a vivid photographic memoir, filled with pain filled prose and uplifting poetry written by the multi-talented Robert La Sardo! This raw, mind-bending book clearly states that every tattoo has its own life, its own story, and literally its own poetic essence. The images in this gritty, yet incredible book will leave the reader speechless and hungry for more! The poetry and prose takes the reader on a journey, deep into the soul of a man and woman as they both triumph over life’s hurdles, judgment, and personal empowerment.
REVIEW:
The second poetry title from Robert that brings some of the pieces from his former release together with newer musings from his mind which when teamed up with the beautiful photography to create a piece that is both evocative and emotional at the same time.
Add to this the chance to venture into his thoughts and it’s a title that is not just for coffee tables but something the reader will continue to delve into for their own associations alongside the opportunity to see the power of the word in this thought provoking as well as complex medium.
Release Date: 04/08/11
SYNOPSIS:
Top army engineer Tyler Locke is given a mysterious ancient manuscript. Written in Greek, it initially seems indecipherable. But with the help of classics scholar Stacy Benedict, Locke comes to understand that this manuscript could provide the clues to the greatest riches known to mankind - the legendary treasure of King Midas. However, there are others who are also hot on the trail - and it rapidly becomes a race against time to crack a code that is both fiendishly difficult and potentially deadly...A sweeping, gripping read, The Midas Code blends fascinating incidents from myth and legend with a modern plot that will have you guessing to the very last page.
REVIEW:
I love a thriller that takes you on a journey of discovery and blends old myths with a modern twist. That’s exactly what you get from this tale by Boyd although in all honesty it’s a title that doesn’t really require you to think your way through it, just to sit back and enjoy the ride which to be honest is something that I really want from time to time. Whilst he won’t threaten a number of the big boys at the top of the game, it’s a nice bit of escapism and when blended with a decent pace as well as minimalist descriptive prose it gives the reader what they want without going in too deep making this a nice bit of fun.
Release Date: 18/08/11
SYNOPSIS:
Provide food for breakfast, fill the children's lunchboxes, stock the fridge with after-school snacks, cook everyone's supper day in, day out...every week. Weekends mean more shopping, cooking, baking - and there are always teenagers, hungry partners and friends who might want a snack. Ready-meals, takeaways and fast food are fine on the odd occasion, but especially in these purse-stretched times families need tasty and healthy meals. In this practical cookbook, Mary Gwynn shows the working mum what foods to buy that will last the week and how to have delicious, easy-to-make and nutritious meals ready in a trice with no wastage.
REVIEW:
As many people know, there’s never enough time in the day, so finding ways to either create a meal for hungry children or something a little more extravagant for a forgotten dinner party at what feels like light speed is a challenge fit for a super chef.
Yet it’s these little problems that cause havoc in the average person’s day to day as well as trying to find ways to cope. What this title by Mary provides is a book that has lots of quick easy meals that can be rustled up in minutes as well as a helpful guide as to some key ingredients to keep in stock in the cupboards that won’t rush you an absolute king’s ransom. The book is easy to use, fun to flick through and there will be some ideas about some interesting pairings such as cauliflower and macaroni cheese (I’ve often made them as separate side accompaniments but never thought to put both into the same dish.)
Add to this, different quick courses so that you can literally throw a party within an hour (provided you have all the ingredients) and it’s not only a time but also a life saver. Finally throw into this some family favourites (such as drop scones) and it’s a book that will impress as well as satisfy everyone on a budget.
Release Date: 15/09/11
SYNOPSIS:
Shaun Ryder has lived a life of glorious highs and desolate lows. As lead singer of the Happy Mondays, he turned Manchester into Madchester, combining all the excesses of a true rock'n'roll star with music and lyrics that led impresario Tony Wilson to describe him as 'the greatest poet since Yeats'. The young scally who left school at fifteen without ever learning his alphabet had come a very long way indeed. Huge chart success and a Glastonbury headline slot followed, plus numerous arrests and world tours – then Shaun's drug addiction reached its height, Factory Records was brought to its knees and the Mondays split.
But was this the end for Shaun Ryder? Not by a long shot. Two years later he was back with new band Black Grape, and their groundbreaking debut album topped the charts in possibly the greatest comeback of all time. Even his continuing struggle with drugs did not stem the tide of critically acclaimed tracks and collaborations as he went on to prove his musical genius time and again. And then there was the jungle...
Rock'n'roll legend, reality TV star, drug-dealer, poet, film star, heroin addict, son, brother, father, husband, foul-mouthed anthropologist and straight-talking survivor, Shaun Ryder has been a cultural icon and a 24-hour party person for a quarter of a century. Told in his own words, this is his story.
REVIEW:
Whenever you see an autobiography you know that its going to be heavily edited, its going to stick mainly to the sunny days and rarely will it follow the subjects bad habits or even give a fully rounded opinion of the person concerned. So whilst I ordered this as Shaun was a local lad (although don’t call him a Manc, he’s a Salford Lad) I expected a title just to deal with his golden years.
What this autobiography did was delve into everything from his early years in the family home and how things were for him, how he grew up, the friends he made and lost which gave a rounded picture of the Happy Monday’s Lead Singer before going into his music career. The book was emotive, it was sensitive and open about all the choices he made be they good or bad. Add to this a frank and honest look at his drug taking which whilst you shouldn’t really laugh some were hilarious in places.
All in I really enjoyed this book as we went through the years of his music career and my only disappointment was that it didn’t come with maracas, although I did wonder if something else had been added to the mix as this picture of Cas demonstrates who thinks that its twisted his Penquino. LOL
Release Date: 09/06/11
SYNOPSIS:
Two sisters: united by blood, divided by the crown…
They shared childhood memories and grown-up dreams…
Mary was England's precious jewel, the surviving child of the tumultuous relationship between Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon. However, when Henry fell passionately in love with the dark-eyed Anne Boleyn, he cast his wife and daughter aside.
Henry and Anne's union sees the birth of Elizabeth. Mary is soon declared a bastard, stripped of all royal privileges, performing the lowliest tasks. But, there is something about Elizabeth. And Mary soon grows to love her like a sister.
After the passage of three years, and Anne Boleyn's execution, Henry can no longer bear the sight of his female heir. With the birth of a son, Edward, both Mary and Elizabeth seem destined for oblivion. But as history will show, fate had something far more elaborate in store…
Mary and Elizabeth is an unforgettable story of a powerful love affair that changed the course of history, perfect for fans of The Tudors and Philippa Gregory.
REVIEW:
History is written by the victors as the old saying goes but I’d like to add an extension to this: and historical fiction writers to suit their own purposes. What Emily Purdy creates here is vastly inaccurate, has major problems with its timelines and of course sadly is pure sensationalism with a good smattering of sex included for no real reason but to titillate the reader.
Add to this problems with the perspective of the stories main two protagonists (as it’s told from Elizabeth and Mary’s first person point of view) and it’s sadly something that whilst OK, is not something startling or a title that stands out from the masses of titles out there. Finally add to the mix major problems with what’s gone before including lack of research and the story really falls far short of what I was hoping for.
Hail Mighty Readers,Richard K Morgan, friend of the blog, has let us know about his tour to support his new title, The Cold Commands (our review appears here on 06/11/11). Here are the dates for you and hope you can catch up with him:15th October 201112.30pm: SigningWaterstones (West End), 128 Princes StreetEdinburgh17th October 20116.30pm: Talk and signingWaterstones, Emerson Chambers, Blackett StreetNewcastle18th October 201112.30pm: SigningWaterstones, 28-29 High OusegateYork18th October 20117pm: Talk and signingWaterstones, 93-97 Albion StreetLeeds19th October 201112.30pm: SigningWaterstones Liverpool One, College LaneLiverpool19th October 20117pm: Talk and SigningWaterstones, Bridlesmith GateNottingham20th October 201112.30pm: SigningWaterstones, High StreetBirmingham20th October 20116.30pm: Talk and signingWaterstones, Broad StreetReading21st October 20112.30pm: SigningForbidden Planet, Clifton HeightsBristol21st October 20117pm: Talk and signingWaterstones, High StreetGuildford22nd October 20111pm: SigningForbidden Planet MegastoreShaftesbury AvenueLondon
Release Date: 22/09/11
SYNOPSIS:
THE SOOKIE STACKHOUSE COMPANION is a unique guide to Sookie Stackhouse and her dark fantasy southern-Gothic world, as well as an in-depth look at the award-winning HBO series TRUE BLOOD. The book will feature a brand-new Sookie story and Charlaine's own map of Bon Temps, never before published, with every place of interest in the town, including Merlotte's bar and Sookie's home. Other treats include: * An introduction by Charlaine about the impact Sookie Stackhouse has had on her writing career, and the influence on the genre at large * A large section on the award-winning HBO series TRUE BLOOD * Detailed summaries of each novel and entries on every important character, event and setting in the series, in Sookie's voice. * An overview of Sookie's world, including information on the vampires, shapeshifter/wereanimal, and fairie factions * Interviews with Charlaine Harris and Alan Ball * A selection of favourite Bon Temps recipes .
REVIEW:
If you’re a fan of True Blood or the original Sookie novels, then this is a wonderful companion for you as it not only contains some facts to do with the setting but also includes essentials like recipes used by characters. It’s quirky, it brings the dark world closer to our own and with wonderful additions from missing pieces within the stories (such as Eric and Bill phone conversations) as well as giving northern Louisiana a deeper flavour for the readers imagination
Finally add to this maps, Sookie’s family tree and of course a whole host of other factoids as well as background material which overall will be a well thumbed through addition to any fans collection. A wonderful gift at any time of year.
Release Date: 14/10/11
SYNOPSIS:
Drew Struzan has created some of the most iconic movie poster images of the last 30 years, from Raiders of the Lost Ark to Star Wars: Episode III. This sumptuous hardcover edition, with an Introduction by George Lucas, features over 300 pieces of art, including all of Drew Struzans most iconic movie images, as well as other highlights of his career, from album, book and comic book covers, to stamps, trading cards and original works.
REVIEW:
Whilst the name of Drew Struzan may not be instantly identifiable to a great many people, his artwork is iconic and as such this beautifully presented selection of pieces from his whole career to date makes this a title that is not only hard to put down but visually stunning.
Within are pieces from Star Wars to Indiana Jones, from cult films to personal choices. It’s a wonderful journey to explore and if you’re of a certain age a chance to wonder down memory lane. The only change that I’d like to have made to this would have been more from the artist himself about the inspiration behind the pieces and the choices but other than that it’s a title that stands on its own and one that is not just a coffee table book but one to be shared and enjoyed. Magical.
Release Date: 13/10/11
SYNOPSIS:
Arriving in the Scottish highlands, Martin and Sue decide to escape their luxury hotel, heading out for a night of back-to-basics living in an abandoned shack. When a storm strikes, they find themselves stranded in the simple hut, miles from anywhere and completely isolated. As gentle bickering leads to violent arguments, Sue starts to sense they are not truly alone - especially when a deep, dark presence seems to takes hold of the pair. With no way to escape, Sue and Martin must try to hold on to their sanity as the shelter quickly becomes a prison - and their thoughts begin to turn murderous...
REVIEW:
If you like a story that has plenty of scare with some clever twists that has a chill that settles upon your spine, then this book by Niki Valentine could well be the book for you. Set in the Scottish Highlands in a hut where the story takes place in one room with just two characters, it’s a story that is not only well written but one that proves you don’t need a huge cast or a complex plot line to enthral a reader, just a good idea, a few twists and a surprise ending.
All in, its more than satisfactory however my only real gripe is that I’d call it more a mystery suspense than a horror story, it does a great job of entertaining and whilst some of the lulls feel quite laborious the majority of the tale really does keep you hooked. Great stuff and a book that I more than enjoyed.
Release Date: 13/10/11
SYNOPSIS:
Upon his return to the Old World, the ambitious Grey Seer Thanquol is coerced into leading an army against the dwarfs of Karak Angkul. Renowned for its engineer clans, this city will not fall easily, but the true object of Thanquol’s fascination is their secret artefact of incredible power which he believes will assure his ascension to the Council of Thirteen. His efforts are thrown into disarray when the infamous skaven Ikit Claw usurps control of the army for his own nefarious schemes, and so Thanquol must act quickly before the warlock can unleash his ultimate weapon – the Doomsphere.
REVIEW:
Everyone’s favourite squeaky horned rat follower returns in this, his latest adventure as he troubles the great equation of the Slann with his own self-serving ways. As usual with Clint’s writing there is action a plenty, some great one lines from Thanquol and Warhammer's most positive spin sorcerer takes things to a new level of deceit.
Add to this the authors own dark humour, some sneaky tactics and double dealing as the tale literally unravels and the reader is in for another cracking story especially when you add the dwarves to the mix as Thanquol manipulates as well as causes a lot of sorcerous damage. Great fun all round.
Hail Mighy Readers, In honour of the Historical Novel Societies In the Shadow of Hasting's Blog Tour, we've been lucky enough to receive James Wilde's (author of Hereward which we reviewed here) contribution about Tostig Godwinson, brother to King Harold and hope that you enjoy it, in addition to this if you go the HNS' site you can enter a competition to win £50 in Amazon vouchers.Now with our further ado, James' piece:
With the anniversary of the Battle of Hastings looming on October 14, James Wilde, author of Hereward, examines one of the players in the events of 1066.
In the tumult of the mid-eleventh century, one lesser known figure has always intrigued me: Tostig, the brother of King Harold. We could argue that a large part of the reason for William of Normandy’s victory at Hastings may be laid at the feet of this younger Godwin.
Carve through the meat of the big events of history and you’ll find a sticky mess of humanity: jealousy, ambition, greed, lust and love, weakness of character and emotion, the true if often petty causes of those moments that shake society. Nowhere is this more evident than in 1066.
Peering between the cracks of what little evidence we have from that era, we see a picture of two brothers groomed from an early age to seek power. Harold was always the more capable of the two, celebrated by the English; cunning, courageous, trusted. We glimpse hints that Tostig must have lived all his life in the shadow of this reputation, jealous, perhaps, bitter that his own skills were not recognized, yet in awe of this charismatic elder brother with, perhaps, a touch of conflicted hero-worship. In this familiar tale of sibling rivalry, lay the seeds for the collapse of Harold’s ambitions, and eventually Anglo-Saxon England.
While Harold schemed for the throne, Tostig was dispatched to become Earl of Northumbria. Clearly designed to secure the Godwin clan’s grip on power, Tostig was not up to the demands of his new role. Inexperienced, he ruled badly, and began to damage the Godwin name with his cruelty and injustice. He was eventually deposed by a popular uprising. Yet in Tostig’s hour of need, Harold refused to stand by him. King Edward called a great council at Britford, near Salisbury. Harold persuaded the king to agree to the rebel demands and, amid Tostig’s accusations that his brother had fomented the rebellion, Tostig was made outlaw.
Abandoned, hurt, and seething at this treatment by Harold, Tostig fled to Flanders. He wanted revenge and he didn’t care what catastrophe he caused in the process. After ravaging the English coast with his navy, he either encouraged the seasoned adventurer Harold Hardrada of Norway to accompany him on a joint venture or joined forces with the viking’s army once the attack had been launched.
Though his attention was on the rapidly increasing threat from Normandy, Harold was forced to engage these combined forces at Stamford Bridge, just outside York. He won, but at a high cost. Tostig was killed in the fighting, yet the English army was devastated. In the confused aftermath of the Battle of Stamford Bridge, William of Normandy invaded. With no time to amass a new army, a long march south, and with many warriors exhausted by the previous campaign, Harold was ill-equipped for the coming struggle against a better-organised and better-armed foe.
If the two brothers had not fallen out so spectacularly, would Harold and his army have been strong enough to repel the Norman invaders? Perhaps the outcome would have been the same. Yet one of our major sources for this period, the Vita, certainly regards the quarrel between Harold and Tostig responsible for the collapse of the Godwin family’s fortunes, and with that died the hopes of the English.
To follow James join his Twitter Account.
Release Date: 13/10/11
SYNOPSIS:
1947. Threadbare London endures the bleakest, coldest winter for decades. Food rationing is worse than during the war. Coal supplies run out. The Thames freezes over.
Against a background of black ice, blackouts and the black market, agent Peter Cotton is seconded to Operation Sea-snake. MI5 is in the grip of civil war; MI6 is riddled with traitors. Unsure who to trust - or even who is pulling the strings - Cotton, ever the outsider, must protect an atomic scientist caught up in a vicious homophobic witch-hunt, limit the damage caused by a bully-boy MP, rely on a rent-boy informer and, despite the murderous attentions of a couple of Glasgow razor boys, embark on a ruthless hunt of his own.
REVIEW:
In all honesty, this title is a different type of book, it’s got all the hallmarks of a thriller with dodgy underhand dealings, political manipulations as well as a labyrinth of twists and turns which leave you wondering if it’s a painting by MC Escher but for me, it’s the characters that brings this title set during the late Forties to life.
The pace is stunning, the prose equally deceptive but when you add Aly’s writing style to the mix, it becomes something that I think will set the standard for future releases from other authors as she walk’s the path of established Spy Thrillers, not just with reckless abandon but with her own sure footed comprehension as to what the modern reader wants. Definitely an author to watch and one that I know a few people who are going to enjoy spending time with.
Release Date: 30/09/11
SYNOPSIS:
Five years after his death, Stieg Larsson is best known as the author of the Millennium Trilogy, but during his career as a journalist he was a crucial protagonist in the battle against racism and for democracy in Sweden, and one of the founders of the anti-facist magazine Expo. Kurdo Baksi first met Larsson in 1992; it was the beginning of an intense friendship, and a fruitful but challenging working relationship.
In this candid and rounded memoir, Baksi answers the questions a multitude of Larsson's fans have already asked, about his upbringing; the recurring death threats; his insomnia and his vices; his feminism - so evident in his books - and his dogmatism. What was he like as a colleague? Who provided the inspiration for his now-immortal characters (Baksi is one of the few who appears in the trilogy as himself)? Who was Lisbeth Salander?
REVIEW:
This book is not so much a biography but a tribute to a best friend from one of the people who knew him best. It’s rounded, it allows the reader to see the personal side to one of the best known Scandinavian authors and also allows the reader the chance to get to know him after he passed. In addition to this, this title takes the reader on this journey of discovery, of spiritual cleansing and of course from the start of Steig’s life to the end.
All in, whilst not for everyone, this book is a loving and personal tribute from Kurdo and all in helps keep an author’s memory alive for all which is perhaps the best tribute to anyone.
Release Date: 13/10/11
SYNOPSIS:
The Tanith First-And-Only embark on a desperate mission that could decide the fate of the Sabbat Worlds Crusade in the thirteenth book of this popular Imperial Guard series.
The Ghosts of the Tanith First-and-Only have been away from the front line for too long. Listless, and hungry for action, they are offered a mission that perfectly suits their talents. The objective: the mysterious Salvation’s Reach, a remote and impenetrable stronghold concealing secrets that could change the course of the Sabbat Worlds campaign. But the proposed raid is so hazardous, it’s regarded as a suicide mission, and the Ghosts may have been in reserve for so long they’ve lost their edge. Haunted by spectres from the past and stalked by the Archenemy, Colonel-Commissar Gaunt and his Ghosts embark upon what could be their finest hour… or their final mission.
REVIEW:
A book that’s been a long time in the making and one that fans of Gaunt’s Ghosts have been demanding since it was announced. As usual with Dan’s writing the action comes thick and fast, the characters of the Tanith’s First and Only take on a dangerous mission to capture a remote strategic location that could lead to an early ending of the Sabbat War.
Add to Dan’s usual sharp writing style, cracking prose, stunning strategy and of course heart in mouth action and you know that one of the Imperial Guards most highly regarded units could fail for one of the first times in their long history as this cracking story of the common man in a bleak future demonstrates that the Emperor’s Will demands a high price in blood and lives.
Hail Mighty Readers and Gamers,Our friends at Bethesda have let us know about some natty Xbox 360 Avatar wear that you'll just love, whether its the funky Skryim T-Shirt or the natty Skyrim Cap but personally we love the Nord Helm, so you can Barbarian up your character.These will be available on Xbox Live from the 13th October, so remember save those points, grab the bonuses from the games you already own, and start talking like a Barbarian for the 11 November. After all, its dragon slaying time.
Release Date: 28/06/11
SYNOPSIS:
Three generations ago Captain Vidarian Rulorat's great-grandfather gave up an imperial commission to marry a fire priestess. For love, he unwittingly obligated his descendants to an allegiance with the High Temple of Kara'zul, domain of the fire priestesses. Now Vidarian, the last surviving member of the Rulorat family, struggles to uphold his family's legacy. The priestess Endera has called upon Vidarian to fulfill his family's obligation by transporting a young fire priestess named Ariadel to a water temple far to the south, through dangerous pirate-controlled territory. A journey perilous in the best of conditions is made more so by their pursuers: rogue telepathic images called the Vkortha who will stop at nothing to recover Ariadel, who has witnessed their forbidden rites. Together, Vidarian and Ariadel will navigate more than treacherous waters: imperial intrigue, a world that has been slowly losing its magic for generations, secrets that the priestesshoods have kept for longer, the indifference of their elemental goddesses, gryphons - once thought mythical - now returning to the world, and their own labyrinthine family legacies.
REVIEW:
I’m a person who is usually world hopping from one fantasy title to the next and when this debut arrived from the US, I was more than excited to see what I was letting myself in for, the book blurb sounded like my cup of tea and so having made one, I sat down to get started.
What unfortunately unfurled was a title that really didn’t do much for me as s reader, the prose was clunky, the overall concept reasonable but it was the execution that made this feel wrong on so many levels as it felt more like various stages of journey that were written at different times when the characters weren’t fully formed for the author let alone their execution for the reader to latch onto.
Sadly this wasn’t the book I was hoping for and whilst I can see potential for the idea as well as the world, the overall presentation left a lot to be desired. I’ll take another look at Erin’s work in the future but hope that the errors are overridden in the next instalment to bring some order to the world and characters for the readers sake.
Release Date: 06/10/11
SYNOPSIS:
What is the difference between a dog and a fox? About 9 pints
What do you call a man with a 2 inch penis? Justin
What’s pink and hard in the morning? The Financial Times crossword
Did you hear about the consignment of Viagra pills stolen from a warehouse? Police are on the lookout for hardened criminals
An aeroplane is about to crash, when a female passenger jumps up frantically and announces, 'If I'm going to die, I want to die feeling like a woman.' She removes all her clothing and asks, 'Is there someone on this plane who is man enough to make me feel like a woman?'
A man stands up, removes his shirt and says, 'Here, iron this!'
The greatest ever collection of filthy jokes guaranteed to offend and outrage the prudish. Full of hilarious gags, it’s totally politically incorrect, unashamedly x-rated and downright dirty. Definitely one to keep well out of the way of the mother-in-law…
REVIEW:
As an adult I love to have a laugh and I’m always on the hunt for a good joke so finding them, when you do is like gold dust. What this title by Llewellyn and Phil does is give the reader a huge amount of jokes to tell and whilst a lot of them are colourful there are some crackers within, the main problem is that like Louis Lamour said about gold “… you have to dig through a ton of dirt to find the yellow stuff.”
Add to this a number of jokes that I didn’t get and whilst it is catagorised so you can flick through it, you have to remember that the humour is subjective. After all what makes one laugh will have others stony faced. All in a good attempt but you might be better seeking out a comedian that you like and looking through one of their titles to get a real humdinger.
Release Date: 06/10/11
SYNOPSIS:
Joe Clayton thought the dangers of his undercover career were behind him. He was wrong. One grey October morning, while working in a quiet Bristol street, he hears the voice of the man who has sworn to destroy him. Minutes later Joe is running for his life again.
Desperate for sanctuary, he heads for the small Cornish town of Trelennan, and the home of Diana Bamber, widow of a former police colleague. But Diana reacts strangely to his arrival, and gradually Joe discovers that Trelennan is far from the idyllic, law-abiding resort it claims to be.
The town is in the grip of one man. Leon Race doesn’t welcome strangers, especially ex-cops who start asking questions about missing women. Soon Joe is caught up in another undercover role, but as he penetrates the web of secrets that ensnares the town’s elite, his own secret is at risk of discovery. And all the time his old enemy is circling ...
REVIEW:
If you love a gritty UK based drama then this book is an absolute must read as Ex-Copper Joe Clayton has a close call and goes on the run for his life. It’s cleverly constructed, beautifully thought out and with a main character that the reader can’t help but associate with, it’s a book that really was hard to put down.
Add to this a wonderfully woven story, with a tapestry of deceit, shame as well as crime within a small community, it takes a special kind of “sheriff” to come into town to get to the root of the problem whilst worrying about his own survival from the gang that refuse to let him go. Finally add to this great pace and some clever twists which overall made this title a real joy before bed. Just expect a late night or two.
Release Date: 09/06/11
SYNOPSIS:
'I’ve wanted to make a series in Spain for a long time. I love Spanish food, I’ve been going there since I was a young boy – but until quite recently I don’t think people really took the food seriously. Thanks to a handful of really dedicated Spanish chefs and a growing enthusiasm for its rugged flavours, that has all begun to change. To me the underlying point of journeying to Spain would be to discover the ‘duende’ in the cooking. By that I mean a sense of soul, of authenticity. The word is normally used in flamenco but I think it could be equally applied to the art of Spanish cooking because to my mind, in really good food, there is a communication between the cook and diner that amounts to art.' Rick Stein
In his beautifully designed and illustrated cookbook to accompany a major BBC2, 4-part series, Rick has selected over 140 recipes that capture the authentic taste of Spain today.
Spain is a country that tantalises every sense with its colourful sights, evocative music, vibrant traditions and bold cookery. Spanish cooking has a rich history, with flavours reflecting a broad range of cultural influences. Rick samples his way through the specialties and hidden treats of each region, taking in the changing landscape from the mountainous northern regions through the Spanish plains to Mediterranean beaches.
With over 100 location and recipe photographs, this is an essential book for food-lovers as well as a stunning culinary guide to a diverse country.
REVIEW:
In a world where we tend to rush and miss things, it’s a real joy when you get chance to savour something not only healthy and delicious but something that you’ve made yourself. Whilst Rick is well known for his recipes that incorporate the freshest ingredients, it’s a wonder when you get the chance to try something a little different and a world away from Curry’s or traditional British Cuisine, so I was overjoyed at the chance to get to try something with a Spanish take on it. Not that I don’t like our own food, but there are times I yearn for something a little different with tastes and flavours that I can take my time to enjoy.
What this title does, is bring the taste of Spain, with its Moorish influences to the British table. It’s full of flavour, the recipes are easy to follow and to be honest, for someone who doesn’t eat as much fish as they should, it made more than a welcome addition to my own table. (So far my favourite recipe in here is a Rice Stew with Monkfish, Langoustines and wild mushrooms.) All in it’s a great book and one that I’ll definitely be using time and again, I just wish that these titles came laminated and ringbound so that they’d be easy to clean.
Release Date: 18/08/11
