SCIENCE FICTION REVIEW: Warhammer 40K: Horus Heresy: The Primarchs - Ed. Christian Dunn

Release Date: 24/05/12

SYNOPSIS:

Created in the Emperor’s own image, the primarchs had long thought themselves to be princes of the universe and masters of their own destiny – they led the Space Marine Legions in glorious conquest of the galaxy, and no enemy of the Imperium could stand against them. However, even amongst this legendary brotherhood, the seeds of dissent had been sown long before the treacherous Warmaster Horus declared his grand heresy.


REVIEW:

I’m a massive reader of the Warhammer 40K titles so when I had the chance to get to know the originators and Primarchs of the Emperor’s Legions I really couldn’t wait to get my hands on the book. What unfurls within is a series of four short stories written by some of the top talent at Black Library, Each has their own benefits and strengths and also their weaknesses within the text.

Whilst I did enjoy the tales, I wanted something that separated these venerable warriors from the masses that were to follow in their name, I wanted tales of inspirational history that demonstrated why the Space Marines would each lay down their lives in the battle for the Emperor and of course I wanted something that really grabbed firmly from start to finish without giving you chance to breath.

What I got did do this to a certain degree but in my opinion I feel that the writers had to hold something back purely for the fact that these warriors were the originators, and whilst I felt that they did fulfil their brief I think that for me the fear of filling these boots of the Astates “God” were mighty big to fill.

All in it was a solid read and I did enjoy it despite my niggles. But for me, the best tale was saga of Alpharius and Omegon. Great stuff.

SCIENCE FICTION REVIEW: Half Sick of Shadows - David Logan

Release Date: 10/05/12

SYNOPSIS:

On the eve of Granny Hazel's burial in the back garden, a stranger in his time machine - a machine that bears an uncanny resemblance to a Morris Minor - visits five year-old Edward with a strange request. And Edward agrees to be his friend. But Edward is not alone in the world. His twin sister Sophia is about to bring future tragedy upon herself through an all-too-literal misunderstanding of a promise she's made to their father. So while Sophia stays at home, seemingly condemned to spend the rest of her days in The Manse - a world untouched by modern trappings - Edward is sent to boarding school. There he encounters the kind and the not-so-kind, and meets the strangest child. His name is Alf, and Alf is a boy whose very existence would seem to hint at universes of unlimited possibilities ...and who might one day help Edward liberate Sophia. With its Gothic backdrop, "Half-Sick of Shadows" is a novel of many parts: at once a comical tragedy, a dark and dazzlingly told tale of childhood wonder and dismay, of familial dysfunction, of poetry, the imagination and theoretical physics.


REVIEW:

Having won the Anywhere but Here, Anywhere but Now Award in its inaugural year (alongside Michael Logan) I was expecting high things from this title. After all not only did they slash their way through the masses but to be backed by an Award Winning Author like Terry Pratchett, then you can only think that the talent must be some of the best out there of the next generation.

Sadly for me, I felt that this title lost its way after a cracking beginning. Don’t get me wrong, the lead character Edward was engaging, I liked the multifaceted complications of his life and the way that you could associate with him, but in parts it felt that the author lost the chain of thought as to the arc or was bulking out just to reach the word length, which I found detracted from the tale for me. With luck, the subsequent planned titles will fix this error and work harder on keeping the arc tight but if they don’t then this winner may find his career cut short.

HISTORICAL FICTION REVIEW: The Braveheart Chronicles: Rebel - Jack Whyte

Release Date: 10/05/12

SYNOPSIS:

A.D.1305. An hour before dawn. London's Smithfield prison. In a dank cell, the outlaw William Wallace waits to be executed at first light. He is visited by a Scottish priest who has come to hear his last confession - the confession of a life even more exciting, violent and astonishing than the legend that survived. From internationally bestselling author Jack Whyte comes a story of brutal battles and high adventure, of heroism and redemption - the story of William Wallace as the world has never heard it before.


REVIEW:

When you decide to write a book about one of Scotland’s heroes you’re heading into dangerous territory as first of all you have those who love Gibson’s Braveheart and another band of Scots who believe that he quartered a national hero nearly 7 Centuries after the English did the same to the original.

What this story by Jack Whyte does is cut though a lot of the myth and presents a historical fiction story that contains all the elements that readers love, first of all you have action and second of all a human element that allows the reader to associate with the characters within.

All in the story is cleverly crafted and for an opening novel of a trilogy its one that really does stand out as a wonderful piece of fiction. Add to this solid pace, decent dialogue as well as a solid arc and all it for me, it was a novel that I’ll reread before starting the second instalment.

DVD REVIEW: The Darkest Hour - Emile Hirsch, Rachael Taylor, Olivia Thirlby, Max Minghella, Joel Kinnaman

Release Date: 21/05/12

SYNOPSIS:

The Darkest Hour follows five young people who find themselves stranded in Moscow, following an unexplained global disaster and fighting to survive in the wake of a devastating alien attack… This sci-fi thriller highlights the classic beauty of Moscow alongside mind-blowing special effects from the genius of legendary film-maker Timur Bekmanbetov (Wanted and Night Watch).


REVIEW:

Like a great many people I tend to make a note of films that interest me but ones that I’m not 100% sure are worth the price of admission to the cinema to see, as such I have a whiteboard with films that I like the look of and wait for the DVD or if I’m really not sure, wait for the DVD to go down to a fiver before spending my money on it.

What attracted me to “The Darkest Hour” was the concept of invisible aliens that kill through disintegrating and can only be tracked through the activation of electrical items that power up when they’re near. It was interesting, it was set in Russia and for me, a film that relies on a relatively small cast to draw the reader in is usually something that works very well for me as a viewer. Alas this is the crutch of the film as for me, I didn’t find the cast believable. The acting was dire they didn’t bring the fear over and sadly with the acting being very wooden, it left me feeling short changed. Don’t get me wrong, the film had solid effects, a decent premise and of course a familiar road to travel for the viewer, but with dire acting, it left the viewer wondering why they should readily care about them.

Sadly this was the films downfall for me and whilst I did find it entertaining for an evening, I wouldn’t pay full price for it.

Science Fiction Audio Book Review: Eye of Vengeance - Graham McNeill, Narrated by Sean Barrett, performed by Rupert Degas and Saul Reichlin

Release Date: 07/05/12

SYNOPSIS:

When the twisted Dark Mechanicus priests of the Bloodborn descend upon Quintarn, the Ultramarines are quick to move in defence of their prized agri-world. However, it soon becomes apparent that the planet’s fate will not be decided by the massed battle companies of the Space Marines, but by the actions of just one lowly sergeant – Torias Telion. A master marksman and Scout with a long history of service to the Chapter, Telion must now face the worst of the Bloodborn’s technological terrors and secure the city of Idrisia from the enemy advance, if the Ultramarines are to have any hope of prevailing against an enemy whose numbers swell with every victory.


REVIEW:

Another cracking audio book that brings together cracking vocal acting talent with the writing skills of Graham McNeill which presents the listener with a high octane story. As with the other audio titles its entertaining and will make a wonderful addition to any fans of the blood battlefield that are fighting it out on the table-top.

Add to this that it’s a great way to spend any kind of journey, will add extra layers to the Ultramarines and also give them a story of honour, bravery alongside a high cost victory which all in, will demonstrate that the audio books are going from strength to strength.

SCIENCE FICTION REVIEW: Space Marine Battles 9: Architect of Fate - Sarah Cawkwell, Ben Counter, Darius Hinks, John French, Ed. Christian Dunn

Release Date: 07/05/12

SYNOPSIS:

The Space Marines stand against the darkness, and yet on countless battlefields they play unwitting roles in the schemes of Fateweaver. From the doomed world of Ilissus, through the embattled corridors of the Endeavour of Will, to the borders of the Eye of Terror itself – friend and foe alike follow the great plan that he set in motion many thousands of years ago. But not even the Architect of Fate himself can foresee the destiny that lies in wait for him...


REVIEW:

Fans of the Warhammer 40K Universe will be in for a treat with this compendium of tales that bring elements from throughout the worlds within them. Its wonderfully woven, with the various elements all touching on a greater truth that only unveils itself after the final page is turned.

Each author has worked well in conjunction with the others yet managed to bring their own styles and storytelling skills to the piece. Its dark, its brooding and as usual there is the sheer exhilaration of combat that’s both shocking in its bloody conflict as well as brutally blunt as it unveils. All in definitely something a little different but wonderful at the same time and it’ll be interesting to see how many other books come together in this successful format.

FANTASY REVIEW: The Dagger and the Coin 2: The King's Blood - Daniel Abraham

Release Date: 03/05/12

SYNOPSIS:

War casts its shadow over the lands that the dragons once ruled. Only the courage of a young woman with the mind of a gambler and loyalty to no one stands between hope and universal darkness. The high and powerful will fall, the despised and broken shall rise up and everything will be remade. And an old, broken-hearted warrior and an apostate priest will begin a terrible journey with an impossible goal: destroy a Goddess before she eats the world.


REVIEW:

I’ve been a fan of Daniel’s writing style for quite a while now and to be honest when I know that theres a new one coming out, I’m not only demanding it for myself but I’ve also got that fantasy monster that introduced me to the genre hanging on out to get his paws upon the text as soon as possible. (Yep that was my Dad in case you needed to know. LOL)

Why? Well Daniel’s writing style is addictive with its wonderful use of characters, politics and of course prose as it brings the reader deeper within his world to see events as they unfurl. Its fast paced, fascinating and with the machinations and character developments within the text makes this a tale to fully savour and enjoy over the nights, possibly with your favourite tipple. Great stuff all in.

VIDEO GAME NEWS: Darksiders 2: Death Strikes Part 2 - THQ

Hail Mighty Readers and Followers of the Calloused Thumbs,

Our friends at THQ have let us know about the second part to the Death Lives Trailer that went live yesterday.

Having been left with bated breath and whetted appetite we couldn't wait to see how Death would handle the Mighty Foe and what can we say but we weren't disappointed.

Lady Eleanor as we speak is currently working her way through the original Darksiders, to be all ready for this new adventure and can't wait to finish sorting the wheat from the chaff in August.

All the best and hope you enjoy it,

Gareth and Lady Eleanor

VIDEO GAME NEWS: Game of Thrones Release Date - Koch Media and Cyanide

Hail Mighty Readers and Followers of the Calloused Thumbs,

Having taken the time to capture the Spider and Littlefingers spies, we've found out the date for the release of the forthcoming Game of Thrones title from our friends at Koch Media and Cyanide.

Sharpen those Swords, polish that armour, loose the clarion call and prepare for warfare on the 8th June. 


We'll prepare to meet you on the field of honour with Lady Eleanor all set to massacre her way through the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros.  So whether you're Lanister, Stark, Baratheon or a Neutral, prepare to meet your doom on an epic scale...

FANTASY REVIEW: Dreamblood 1/2: The Killing Moon - NK Jemisin

Release Date: 03/05/12

SYNOPSIS:

In the ancient city-state of Gujaareh, peace is the only law. Upon its rooftops and amongst the shadows of its cobbled streets wait the Gatherers - the keepers of this peace. Priests of the dream-goddess, their duty is to harvest the magic of the sleeping mind and use it to heal, soothe ...and kill those judged corrupt. But when a conspiracy blooms within Gujaareh's great temple, Ehiru - the most famous of the city's Gatherers - must question everything he knows. Someone, or something, is murdering innocent dreamers in the goddess' name, stalking its prey both in Gujaareh's alleys and the realm of dreams. Ehiru must now protect the woman he was sent to kill - or watch the city be devoured by war and forbidden magic.


REVIEW:

Having fallen for NK’s writing style in her previous series, I was more than interested to see what she’d come up with in a new saga altogether. After all following on from a successful story is not only a daunting prospect for the author but for the reader who will unscrupulously compare the two to check that the qualities that they fell in love with are within this latest release.

What NK does is bring together the elements that won her the fans in the first together with wonderful world building. The characters are fully rounded, the pace is solid and when added to her overall arc alongside wonderful use of prose, makes this a new title that readers will find hard to put down. If you’re in doubt about diving in, borrow from your local library and you too will soon see the magic that brought many readers in has quickly bent you to its will.

URBAN FANTASY REVIEW: Ashley Parker 1: Plague Town - Dana Fredsti

Release Date: 27/04/12

SYNOPSIS:

Ashley was just trying to get through a tough day when the world turned upside down.
A terrifying virus appears, quickly becoming a pandemic that leaves its victims, not dead, but far worse. Attacked by zombies, Ashley discovers that she is a 'Wild-Card' -- immune to the virus -- and she is recruited to fight back and try to control the outbreak.
It's "Buffy" meets the "Walking Dead" in a rapid-fire zombie adventure!


REVIEW:

I love an author who takes a chance and take the zombie world to a different level and this title by Dana not only does that but brings a brand new kick ass heroine to the mix. The prose is slick, the character interesting and multifaceted and when added to the authors writing style, generates a tale that moves at a solid pace alongside giving the reader what they way.

Add to the mix, a solid overall arc, decent supporting cast and a whole new outlook on how a zombie outbreak is handled which will leave the reader in no doubt about what to expect from the pages within. Finally throw into this a complex love story as well ravaging alongside the fight for survival and all in it’s a tale that I couldn’t put down.

FANTASY REVIEW: Twilight of Kerberos 1-3: The Shadowmage Trilogy - Matthew Sprange

Release Date: 15/05/12

SYNOPSIS:

Forced onto the streets of Turnitia after the army destroys his home and murders his parents, Lucius Kane becomes an excellent thief, gaining notoriety in his new profession. Soon drawn into a war between rival thieves guilds, Kane fights for friends and profit but finds himself pulled into the darker and more mysterious world of the Shadowmage. Mercenary practitioners who combine stealth with magic, Shadowmages make the best scouts, infiltrators, spies ... and assassins!

This stunning fantasy features a never before seen final part of the Shadowmage Trilogy, completing the saga of Lucius Kane.

A perfect place for new readers to begin!


REVIEW:

Available for the first time as a compendium, Matthew’s Shadowmage trilogy is a set of tales that’s sheer value for money. It has great prose, wonderful characters and when backed with an imaginative world as well as solid script it makes for a series that really will hit that fantasy spot.

Finally add to this great understanding of pace and character interaction and the reader really is in for a treat. Great stuff all in and a magical offering. Top stuff.

HISTORICAL FICTION: Crusade - Stewart Binns

Release Date: 26/04/12

SYNOPSIS:

1072 - England is firmly under the heel of its new Norman rulers. The few survivors of the English resistance look to Edgar the Atheling, the rightful heir to the English throne, to overthrow William the Conqueror. Years of intrigue and vicious civil war follow: brother against brother, family against family, friend against friend. In the face of chaos and death, Edgar and his allies form a secret brotherhood, pledging to fight for justice and freedom wherever they are denied. But soon they are called to fight for an even greater cause: the plight of the Holy Land. Embarking on the epic First Crusade to recapture Jerusalem, together they will participate in some of the cruellest battles the world has ever known, the savage Siege of Antioch and the brutal Fall of Jerusalem, and together they will fight to the death.


REVIEW:

Having read the first book by Stewart last year I was left wondering if the second would live up to what the reader would be expecting, after all the first title is to announce them to the reader, whereas the second is the one that either keeps a reader or turns them against the writer.

What Stewart presents is a story of heroism, one of high ideals and whilst taking the reader on the crusades, he also manages to intertwine the fates of so many with in the pages. Add to this solid prose, a decent understanding of pace and when added to a wide story arc, generates a story that will have many gripped within its fist to the final page. All in a solid second novel and whilst he’s still learning the craft, he’s an author who seeks to improve with each release. Here’s hoping the third improves just as much.

TRUE CRIME REVIEW: At the Devil's Table - William C Rempel

Release Date: 10/05/12

SYNOPSIS:

Would you risk your life to save your soul? Colombia in the 1990s was a country on the brink. A weak government battled in vain against billion-dollar cocaine cartels, run with cold-blooded violence by warring gangsters Pablo Escobar in Medellin and the Orejuela brothers in Cali. Countless innocent lives were torn apart. One such life was Jorge Salcedo's, a part-time soldier and respected business and familyman, who lost a childhood friend to Escobar's blood feud. His military connections lead him to a secret meeting with the Cali cartel, sworn enemies of Escobar, where he was offered the chance to help take Pablo out. With mixed feelings, he agreed. Once inside, Salcedo rose to become head of security for one of the principal godfathers, struggling to preserve his integrity as he was cast deeper into the mire. Then came an order that he could not obey and could not refuse; where the only way out was to bring down the biggest, richest crime family of all time. And so begins a heart-pumping roller coaster ride that has to be read to be believed. Secretly aided by DEA agents, Salcedo must help capture his fugitive bosses and save the life of a witness targeted for murder. Death is always a misstep away. Salcedo remains in hiding in the United Sates, but has revealed his experiences in full explosive detail to the only reporter who has ever had access. This is his remarkable story and a gripping piece of true crime.


REVIEW:

There are times when you want to find out a little more about real crime but aren’t quite sure on how to do this, whether its waiting for the memoirs of old criminals who’ve finally decided to spill the beans or delving into the stories of those who solved the cases, it always leaves you with a dark shadow over your shoulder wondering what is not only missing but how they’ve glorified what they do. Add to this, the writing style is usually pretty straight forward and you can be left wondering why you'd delve here when you could be enjoying a crime thriller.

What William’s writing does is bring the best of both worlds to the table, he has a talent for getting to the truth writing it from how he saw it, relying on first hand account and then added a thriller style to the overall writing that made it compulsive reading. Its not for the faint hearted and to be honest some of the stuff in here is very dark but as a reader I love having something like this out there as it shows what can be done to tempt and taunt you all at the same time. A great read all in and one I’m pleased I took the time to.

VIDEO GAME NEWS: Game of Thrones Developer Video - Cyanide and Koch Media

Hail Mighty Readers and Followers of the Calloused Thumbs,

Our friends at Koch Media and Cyanide, have let us know about thier new development V-Blog that went live earlier today that lets you know a little more about the game.

Already Lady Eleanor is sharpening her skills and preparing to slaughter her way across the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros so that she can soak the earth with the blood of her enemies.  As to me, well I'm taking the diplomatic road (and yes, Lady Eleanor is getting to play first, hence why I've decided that diplomacy is the better road.  LOL)

Game of Thrones will be available in June and when we get a precise date we'll let you know.

The game, according to the press release will be :

"Offering a brand new story developed with creative input from George R.R, Martin himself, Game of Thrones is a stunning action role-playing game that throws fans into a rich, fantasy environment as they engage in a heart-pounding quest for the famous Iron Throne.  Playing as Mors, Sworn Brother of the Night’s Watch, and Alester, a Red Priest in search of redemption, players can expect to visit familiar locations from Westeros, such as The Wall and the famous King’s Landing, while well-known faces you’ll encounter include Queen Cersei, Varys the Spider and Jeor Mormont, Lord Commander of the Night’s Watch.

 
In Game of Thrones, players have full control of their character’s development; choose your character’s class, find your fighting style, develop a balance between your strengths and weaknesses, and take part in epic battles. Find, buy or loot new equipment and weapons to fit your fighting style, and gain experience to improve your abilities. Likewise, political skills can be every bit as lethal as a sharpened sword, so never underestimate the power of a silver tongue when it comes to solving a critical situation!

● An epic Action/RPG offering an original story based on the best-selling novels, “A Song of Ice and Fire” by George R.R. Martin
● Lush, fantasy visuals powered by Unreal Engine 3.
● Visit familiar places and meet well-known characters, faithfully reproduced from the TV series
● Play the game from the viewpoint of two different charismatic characters, each with their own background and skills
● Progress the way you choose: get involved in epic fights, or try to solve explosive situations through dialogue!"

All the best and keep those thumbs and fingers dexterous.

CRIME REVIEW: A SANDRO CELLINI MYSTERY 2 and 3: A Fine and Private Place and The Dead Season - Christobel Kent

Release Date: 08/05/12

SYNOPSIS:

As Sandro gets to grips with the dispiriting realities of life as a private detective, touting for business among old contacts and following errant teenagers, an old case comes back to haunt him...

Once the subject of a routine investigation back in Sandro's early days as an investigator, Loni Meadows - the glamorous, charming and ruthless director of an artistic Trust based in a castle in the hills outside Florence - is found dead in circumstances Sandro cannot convince himself are accidental. However inconvenient his suspicions might be, both to Sandro - whose marriage appears to be disintegrating - and to Meadows's erstwhile employers at the Trust, he presses ahead with the case. And as Sandro attempts to uncover the truth of Loni Meadows's violent and lonely death, he finds himself drawn into the lives of the castle's highly strung community and the closed world they inhabit in the Casentino's isolated hills.


REVIEW:

Prior to this book I haven’t read any of Christobel’s work but having two of her works on my TBR pile I thought that I’d best get on with it. What this crime author presents to the reader is a tale that deals more with the nitty gritty than wasting time with descriptive prose which allows you to devote your time to the key matters here.

The writing is crisp, if not a little too sharp in places, the prose reasonable and when you get right into it, the supporting cast feel more like shadows that anything else, although that said, the key players, whilst vague have their emotional aspects out there which, for my money, allows the reader to see themselves in their place. Its quirky, its definitely a marmite type of writing and for me it was a story that I had a lot of fun with working out the clues. All in a decent crime story and one I found worth my time reading.

Release Date: 08/05/12

SYNOPSIS:

Florence is deserted. The sluggish Arno and the Ponte Vecchio shimmer in the summer haze. A corpse lies on the roadside, waiting for discovery...

Every August, Florence shimmers in the summer heat. But this year the heatwave is fiercer than usual, and the city's inhabitants have fled to the cool of the hills and beaches of the surrounding countryside. So it is no surprise that amidst the shrubbery of a normally busy roundabout, a corpse lies unnoticed, bloating in the humid air.

Sandro Cellini will not be joining the crowds of holidaymakers this year. The former policeman turned private detective has a case: a man who seems to have vanished into thin air - leaving his pregnant young wife alone in the city. Meanwhile, bankteller Roxana Delfino is also stuck in the city for the season, with nothing to do but worry for her aging mother and puzzle over the disappearance of one her regular clients.

As all Florence sweats it out, Cellini attempts as best he can to grapple with his case and the complications it throws up. And when the weather finally breaks, it brings with it a shocking revelation...


REVIEW:

Having just read Christobel’s last title in this series I couldn’t wait to get hold of this next tale, after all I felt that I had a good grip on the characters concerned and of course, thought that I might have a better insight into the authors mind so that I could see where it was all going.

What Christobel does well for me is present a story that requires some thought, misdirecting the reader where required and also presents it in a way that you can quite easily see yourself within the scene without going overly flowery on the language. Its no nonsense writing and whilst some may not be fully enamoured of this style it allows the full attention to be spent upon the solving of the case. It is a tale that has multiple twists, some cracking deductions and of course exposes the seedy underbelly that may leave you feeling a little uncomfortable. Magic.

VIDEO GAME NEWS: Darksiders 2 Collectors Edition and New VBlog - THQ

Hail Mighty Readers and Followers of the Calloused Thumbs,

Our friends at THQ have let us know about the Collectors Edition of the Forthcoming Darksiders 2 and what it contains plus a short interest piece about the games development. 

Here's what they had to say:

"THQ Inc. (NASDAQ: THQI) today announced that a European version of the Darksiders® II Collector's Edition is available for pre-order on the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system and Windows PC.

The Darksiders® II Collector's Edition will include The Limited Edition version of the game as well as a life-sized replica Death Mask with display stand, a unique Shadow of Death armour and scythe set with enhanced stats, a digital copy of the Darksiders II sound-track and a hard-cover Darksiders II art book. The Collector's Edition will be available in limited quantities as a pre-order item only.

In UK; Ireland the Collector's Edition will be available from GAME, HMV, Amazon, Play.com, Gamestop and other select retailers as well as the THQ.com store.

Jim Huntley, Vice President of Global Brand Marketing commented: "We are pleased to be able to offer the Darksiders II Collector's Edition to our European fans. Our European Operations team has worked extremely hard in order for us to make this happen. Stock is incredibly limited so pre-order now to avoid disappointment."

Limited quantities of the Collector's Edition are still available to pre-order from Gamestop, Amazon.com, Best Buy, Walmart.com, EB Games, the THQ.com store and other select retailers in the US and Canada while stocks last.

The Darksiders II Limited Edition will include the standard retail game along with a unique code allowing the purchaser the opportunity to download the game's first single player downloadable content pack, Argul's Tomb for free once it becomes available. All pre-orders of Darksiders II will receive the Limited Edition version of the game at no additional cost."

Darksiders II follows the exploits of DEATH, one of the four horsemen of the Apocalypse, in an action-packed tale that runs parallel to the events in the original Darksiders game. This epic journey propels DEATH through various light and dark realms as he tries to redeem his brother WAR, the horseman blamed for prematurely starting the Apocalypse in Darksiders.

To keep up to date please check the Darksiders 2 Website.

FACTUAL REVIEW: Deadly Animals: Savage Encounters Between Man and Beast - Gordon Grice

Release Date: 03/05/12

SYNOPSIS:

Consider, if you can, the case of Jacob Fowler, who heard what he thought was the sound of his own skull cracking between the jaws of a grizzly bear - only to discover that it was. Or the Arizonan jogger who ran a mile back to her car with a rabid fox clamped to her arm before driving to hospital for live-saving inoculations. Or the woman who was attacked by a hyena, dragged from her tent by her face and survived to tell of her ordeal. The dangers of the animal kingdom are the stuff of legend but the reality of man's vulnerability and of nature's savage power is far more various, improbable and chilling than even the most active imagination would fear. In this unique work of nature writing, you will encounter the most formidable predators on land and sea - as well as the most overlooked, bizarre and inventive hazards that mother nature has to offer. Meet the cougar that can leap 40 feet and clear 8-foot fences with a fully-grown deer in its jaws, the tapeworm that's been known to grow as long as 82 feet in the human gut and the elephant that single-handedly destroyed an oil tanker. Drawing on an enormous host of true encounters between man and beast, this is the world's most authoritative compendium of animal attacks on human beings. With mordant wit and expert timing, Gordon Grice provides a gripping journey to the dark side of the animal kingdom and a celebration of its humbling, savage glory. It was originally published in hardback as "The Book of Deadly Animals".


REVIEW:

If you love books about animals at their most deadly wrapped up in easy to read chapters then this book may well be the one for you. Its full of trivia, interesting facts and stories of survival. That said, personally I felt that it needed more illustrations or, failing that, would have perhaps been better as a TV series where you can follow everything from start to finish.

Don’t get me wrong, it is a good read, it is well written and the author knows their stuff as well as facts. Add this to a personable approachable writing style and its something that a lot of people will enjoy but without the visual it feels a little flat.

VIDEO GAME NEWS: Dishonored Gets Release Date - Bethesda

Hail Mighty Readers and Followers of the Calloused Thumbs,

Our friends at Bethesda have let us know the release date for the forthcoming Supernatural Assassin Game Dishonored.  

Here is what they had to say:

"Bethesda Softworks®, a ZeniMax® Media company, today announced that Dishonored™, the supernatural assassin action game under development at Arkane® Studios, will be available in  North America on October 9, in Australia on October 11 and throughout Europe on October 12, 2012.  Developed under the direction of co-creative directors Raphael Colantonio and Harvey Smith, Dishonored is slated for release on the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system, and Games for Windows.

“We are pleased that Dishonored has captured people’s attention,” said Vlatko Andonov, president of Bethesda Softworks. “We are looking forward to sharing lots more information about the game leading up to its launch in October, and having a hands-on build of Dishonored in our booth at E3!” 

GAME BACKGROUND STORY:

Dishonored is set in Dunwall, an industrial whaling city where steampunk- inspired technology and otherworldly forces coexist in the shadows. You are Corvo, the once-trusted bodyguard of the beloved Empress who has been murdered. Framed for the crime, you become an infamous assassin, known by the disturbing mask that has become your calling card. In a time of uncertainty, when the city is besieged by plague and ruled by a corrupt government armed with frightening technologies, dark forces bestow supernatural abilities upon you – but at what cost? The truth behind your betrayal is as murky as the waters surrounding the city, and the life you once had is gone forever.

Creatively eliminate your enemies with Dishonored’s flexible combat system as you combine supernatural abilities with weapons and gadgets at your disposal. Pursue your targets under the cover of darkness or boldly attack them head on with weapons drawn. The outcome of each mission plays out based on the choices you make.

For more information please check out the Dishonoured Website.

URBAN FANTSY REVIEW: An Elder Races Novel 1: Dragon Bound - Thea Harrison

Release Date: 03/05/12

SYNOPSIS:

Half-human and half-wyr, Pia Giovanni spent her life keeping a low profile among the wyrkind and avoiding the continuing conflict between them and their Dark Fae enemies. But after being blackmailed into stealing a coin from the hoard of a dragon, Pia finds herself targeted by one of the most powerful - and passionate - of the Elder Races. As the most feared and respected of the wyrkind, Dragos Cuelebre cannot believe someone had the audacity to steal from him, much less succeed. And when he catches the thief, Dragos spares her life, claiming her as his own to further explore the desire they've ignited in one another.


REVIEW:

Dragon Bound was a book that I put off as for me I felt that it wasn’t the type of book that I’d enjoy. Sadly for me, when I did pluck up the courage to read, I realised what a disservice I’d done to the author as well as the publisher. It was well written, the lead character had an internal strength that stood out and made her likeable and when manipulated the way she tried to find her own way out by keeping off the grid was a real solid piece of writing.

Add to this solid secondary character’s, basic world building but done in a way to allow you easily transcend to her world and all in with the overall arc, it was a cracking read. I’ll definitely be looking into other books by this author and she will be moved higher up the TBR pile instantly.

SCIENCE FICTION REVIEW: The Testimony - James Smythe

Release Date: 26/04/12

SYNOPSIS:

A global thriller presenting an apocalyptic vision of a world on the brink of despair and destruction. What would you do if the world was brought to a standstill? If you heard deafening static followed by the words 'MY CHILDREN, DO NOT BE AFRAID'? Would you turn to God? Declare it an act of terrorism? Subscribe to the conspiracy theories? Or put your faith in science and a rational explanation? The lives of all twenty-six people in this account are affected by the message. Most because they heard it. Some because they didn't. The Testimony -- a gripping story of the world brought to its knees and of its people, confused and afraid.


REVIEW:

If you’re a fan of apocalypse and an usual audible transmission, the reader is hurled into a book where a multitude of characters (utilising a Diary style) each tell how the “miracle” effected them and brings together a whole host of characters that really allows the book to not only grow but have a sense of believability about it.

It’s cleverly written with characters that will work their way into the readers subconscious which when added to an author who knows how to twist the emotional knife with a solid use of prose and dialogue really brings together what could have been a mishmash into a solid release. All in definitely something different and a book that I’d suggest for others to give a try, especially if you have aspirations of writing.

CRIME THRILLER REVIEW: Murder Mile - Tony Black

Release Date: 12/04/12

SYNOPSIS:

In a cold, windswept field on the outskirts of Edinburgh, lies the brutally mutilated body of a young woman. As DI Rob Brennan looks at the tangled mass of limbs and blood, he feels his heart freeze. Like Fiona Gow five years earlier, this girl has been strangled with her own stockings, sexually mutilated and her eyes have been gouged out. Is this the work of an Edinburgh Ripper? The press certainly think so. Rob Brennan is determined to uncover the truth - however painful that might be. But truth is hard to come by in a world of police rivalries, media hysteria and copycat crime.


REVIEW:

There are some authors who when they release a new title, allow the reader to feel that they’re catching up with an old friend. In this Tony’s second book following DI Rob Brennan the reader is thrown headlong into a murder investigation that has a horrible feeling of déjà vu for our lead character.

What makes this book from Tony a wonderful read is his tight prose, solid arc and when backed with a character that is fully fleshed that feels like a familiar friend after a short time, makes this a title that is not only hard to put down but nigh impossible. All in a wonderful read and as the title builds to its inevitable conclusion I found myself reading slower to have more time within the pages. Cracking.

SCIENCE FICTION REVIEW: Warhammer 40K: The Night Lords 3: Void Stalker - Aaron Dembski-Bowden

Release Date: 07/05/12

SYNOPSIS:

The hunters have become the hunted. The Night Lords flee to the dark fringes of the Imperium to escape their relentless pursuers – the eldar of Craftworld Ulthwé. Their flight takes them to the carrion world of Tsagualsa, where their primarch died and their Legion was broken. There, history will repeat itself as a deadly assassin stalks the shadows, and the Night Lords are drawn into a battle they are destined to lose.

REVIEW:

Dark Deed and even darker characters as the Night Lords seek their goal through a mix of combat (both internal and against a common enemy) with an antihero who seeks to obtain his target to the best of his ability. It’s a quirky style of writing and when you get the flavour of the dark side alongside a modified version of honour which all in generates a tale that will give the reader a story that is different to the norm.

Add to this solid prose, great bloody gouts of gore alongside witty dialogue and double dealing which all in leaves the reader more than sated dealing with the darker gods. Aaron most assuredly must be conducting his own rituals to the gods to create tales that not only take the reader on an adventure but crushes you in its bloody fist until the final page is turned.

FANTASY REVIEW: Warhammer Fantasy: Dead Winter - CL Werner

Release Date: 07/05/12

SYNOPSIS:

More than a thousand years after the Age of Sigmar, the Empire he struggled to create rests on the edge of destruction – the reign of the greedy and incompetent Emperor Boris Goldgather has shaken down the great and prosperous edifice of his erstwhile realm. Without warning, a terrible and deadly plague strikes, wiping out entire villages and leaving towns eerily silent through the long frozen months. As the survivors struggle to maintain order and a worthy military presence, vermin pour up from the sewers and caverns beneath the cities, heralding a new and unspeakable threat – the insidious skaven!

REVIEW:

Clint Werner’s writing is a tale of savage combat, hard characters and when backed with a harsh setting, leaves the reader in no doubt about how he plays for keeps. In this tale set during a different time period of the Empire to the norm, the reader is treated to a book that sets the plague against mankind as the Ratkin seek to utilise their own brand of chemical warfare.

It’s different, its harsh and all in a satisfying read as the lead characters allow the tale to flow from start to finish during this difficult period in its history. Add to this a clear overall view of where he wants to go and the reader in in for a treat. All in this is Clint’s writing at its best which when backed with heroics and dastardly deed leave the reader in no doubt what to expect.

SCIENCE FICTION REVIEW: Micro - Michael Crichton and Richard Preston

Release Date: 12/04/12

SYNOPSIS:

An instant classic in the vein of Jurassic Park, this boundary-pushing novel has all the hallmarks of Michael Crichton's greatest adventures with its combination of pulse-pounding thrills, cutting-edge technology, and extraordinary research Three men are found dead in a locked second-floor office in Honolulu. There is no sign of struggle, though their bodies are covered in ultra-fine, razor-sharp cuts. With no evidence, the police dismiss it as a bizarre suicide pact. But the murder weapon is still in the room, almost invisible to the human eye. In Cambridge, Massachusetts, seven graduate students at the forefront of their fields are recruited by a pioneering microbiology start-up company. Nanigen MicroTechnologies sends them to a mysterious laboratory in Hawaii, where they are promised access to tools that will open up a whole new scientific frontier. But this opportunity of a lifetime will teach them the true cost of existing at the cutting-edge! The group becomes prey to a technology of radical, unimaginable power and is thrust out into the teeming rainforest. Armed only with their knowledge of the natural world, the young scientists face a hostile wilderness that threatens danger at every turn. To survive, they must harness the awe-inspiring creative -- and destructive -- forces of nature itself.


REVIEW:

I’ve been a fan of Michaels writing for years, enjoying such classics as Jurassic Park, Timeline, Andromeda Strain and Rising Sun to name a few. So after hearing about his death I was a little hesitant to pick up any new titles as I knew of at least one that was half finished and worried that it wouldn’t reach the standard that I’d come to expect.

Sadly for me, this title feels more like a title that’s just grabbed idea’s that have gone before and been rehashed to create a title that for me, should have been left on the shelf as there was nothing new with the Crichton Magic left sadly in the grave. Add to this substandard characters, poorly phrased sequences and a lack of anything new which all in left me a very unhappy reader. If you must read this, borrow it from the library, you’ll be pleased you did.

VIDEO GAME NEWS: Skyrim MMO - Bethesda

Hail Mighty Readers and Hardcore Gamers,

Our friends at Bethesda have let us know about the latest details on the Elder Scroll online game. Here is the press excerpt for you:

"Bethesda Softworks®, a ZeniMax® Media company, today announced The Elder Scrolls® Online, an MMO in development at ZeniMax Online Studios. The Elder Scrolls Online will be the first Elder Scrolls game to allow gamers to explore the legendary Elder Scrolls world with others.

The Elder Scrolls Online is being developed for PC and Mac under the leadership of industry veteran Matt Firor, who has spent the last two decades working in online game development. Details about the game are revealed in an exclusive cover story in Game Informer®’s June issue, which ships to subscribers and newsstands this month.

“We have been working hard to create an online world in which players will be able to experience the epic Elder Scrolls universe with their friends, something fans have long said they wanted,” said Matt Firor, game director of The Elder Scrolls Online. “It will be extremely rewarding finally to unveil what we have been developing the last several years. The entire team is committed to creating the best MMO ever made – and one that is worthy of The Elder Scrolls franchise.”

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim® is the most recent title set in the award-winning Elder Scrolls universe. Skyrim, developed by Bethesda Game Studios, was released in November 2011 and enjoyed worldwide critical and commercial success. Skyrim earned hundreds of ‘Game of the Year’ awards, including top honors at the 2012 Game Developers Choice Awards, the 15th Annual 2012 Interactive Achievement Awards held at the 2012 D.I.C.E. Summit, and at the 2011 Video Game Awards. Internationally, Skyrim shipped over 10 million units within the first month of its release, was the second highest grossing title in the industry last year, and is the fastest selling title in Steam’s history.

The Elder Scrolls Online will be featured on magazine covers across Europe and in online stories in the coming months which will provide gamers with more information about this exciting title.

Upon release, The Elder Scrolls Online will be available in English, German and French languages. "

For more news please visit the online website.

THRILLER REVIEW: Force of Nature - CJ Box

Release Date: 19/04/12

SYNOPSIS:

Joe Pickett's outlaw falconer companion, Nate Romanowski, faces the battle of his life and one he may very likely lose. His mysterious past comes back in the form of his former special forces colleague, an utterly ruthless soldier/homeland security official who knows his rise through the military and intelligence community will be derailed if Nate ever tells what he knows about their time together in Afghanistan in 1995. After years of dispatching fellow special forces team members to take him out, Nate's nemesis decides the time has come to end the threat to him once and for all. And he does it by incorporating many of the same tactics that served their unique and secret unit well in the Middle East: by recruiting locals. Nate can trust no one except Joe Pickett, who is constrained by his oath and duty to the law and the state. But Nate must involve Joe because he knows his enemy will strike at his friends in order to draw him out and the entire Pickett family will be a target. Because of Nate's fugitive status he can only fight back outside the law, and Joe must make a choice: help his friend or adhere to his principles?"


REVIEW:

Sadly for me, this new title by CJ was a book that felt like nothing new and whilst I was happy at the return of Romanowski, I felt that the overall plot lacked decent pace, solid arc and felt more like a rushed filler than anything else. Add to this a sadly lacklustre use of prose, a disappointing lack of development and when compared to the previous two offerings, almost felt like a title that was there to allow the author to sit back for breathing space rather than a serious release for the reader.

With luck the next title will pick up and give the readers more of what they want but it is going to have to be something spectacular as this title will, in my opinion, damage the authors writing credibility due to, in my opinion, a fall in standards.

URBAN FANTASY REVIEW: An Occult Crimes Investigation 2: Evil Dark - Justin Gustainis

Release Date: 03/05/12

SYNOPSIS:

“My name’s Markowski. I carry a badge. Also a crucifix, some wooden stakes, big vial of holy water and a 9mm Beretta loaded with silver bullets.”

A series of seemingly motiveless murders of supernatural creatures points to a vigilante targeting the supe community of Scranton.

Markowski wouldn’t normally have much of a problem with that, but his daughter may be next on the killer’s list…

REVIEW:

The Occult Crimes Unit returns in a new tale that not only hits the spot but pokes fun at the real world with this cracking new title. It has everything a reader could want, beautiful women, treacherous twists and when backed with Justin’s tongue in cheek style alongside a cracking lead character, it’s a tale of absolute Urban Fantasy delight.

Back this up with great prose, a wonderful twist of fate that keeps you guessing and of course a whole host of colourful supporting cast members and all in it’s a book that satisfies on so many levels. All in a cracking read and a tale that demonstrates why I’m such a huge Gustainis fan. Finally on a final note, if you’re finding waiting for the new Dresden book hard, then please give Justin a try, for me, he’s a wonderful diversion and another name to watch.

HISTORICAL FICTION REVIEW: Vespasian 2: Rome's Executioner - Robert Fabbri

Release Date: 01/05/12

SYNOPSIS:

Thracia, AD30: Even after four years military service at the edge of the Roman world, Vespasian can't escape the tumultuous politics of an Empire on the brink of disintegration. His patrons in Rome have charged him with the clandestine extraction of an old enemy from a fortress on the banks of the Danube before it falls to the Roman legion besieging it. Vespasian's mission is the key move in a deadly struggle for the right to rule the Roman Empire. The man he has been ordered to seize could be the witness that will destroy Sejanus, commander of the Praetorian Guard and ruler of the Empire in all but name. Before he completes his mission, Vespasian will face ambush in snowbound mountains, pirates on the high seas, and Sejanus's spies all around him. But by far the greatest danger lies at the rotten heart of the Empire, at the nightmarish court of Tiberius, Emperor of Rome and debauched, paranoid madman.


REVIEW:

Having fallen for Robert’s writing style last year with his debut I was interested to see what would happen with the second title based on the life of one of Rome’s fascinating characters that was one of the earliest recorded self-made men. It’s addictive, it is hard to put down and when you add solid prose, great pace as well as a lead character that is charming, knows how to play the system of politics alongside the battlefield and this book is a real triumph.

Finally add to the whole mix, an addictive series that just goes from good to better, it really announces him as one of the historical fiction authors to not only watch but get in early. Magic.

FANTASY REVIEW: Bitterblue - Kristin Cashore

Release Date: 01/05/12

SYNOPSIS:

The long-awaited companion to the New York Times bestsellers Graceling and Fire Eight years have passed since the young Princess Bitterblue, and her country, were saved from the vicious King Leck. Now Bitterblue is the queen of Monsea, and her land is at peace. But the influence of her father, a violent psychopath with mind-altering abilities, lives on. Her advisers, who have run the country on her behalf since Leck's death, believe in a forward-thinking plan: to pardon all of those who committed terrible acts during Leck's reign; and to forget every dark event that ever happened. Monsea's past has become shrouded in mystery, and it's only when Bitterblue begins sneaking out of her castle - curious, disguised and alone - to walk the streets of her own city, that she begins to realise the truth. Her kingdom has been under the thirty-five-year long spell of a madman, and now their only chance to move forward is to revisit the past. Whatever that past holds. Two thieves, who have sworn only to steal what has already been stolen, change her life forever. They hold a key to the truth of Leck's reign. And one of them, who possesses an unidentified Grace, may also hold a key to her heart ..

REVIEW:

If you loved Graceling and Fire, then you’ve more than likely been waiting to get your hands on this title. It’s got Kristens usual writing style of solid prose, wonderful adventure and a heroine that you really can’t help but like which when added to a clean overall arc leaves the reader with a story that is a joy to read.

Add to this great dialogue alongside an author who mixes all the elements to just the right proportions of action, character growth and personal interaction and all in this is a title that really will hit the spot. Finally add to this a cleverly concealed target backed with wonderfully placed threads and for me as a reader I was more than satisfied with the book.