DVD NEWS: 20th Century Fox Pranks Trafalgar Square Visitors - 20th Century Fox

Hail Mighty Readers,
Our friends at 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment have let us know about how they pranked visitors to Trafalgar Squares lions this week as part of the release for Night at the Museum 3: Secrets of the Tomb.

Here's what they had to say:
"Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment brings back to life your favorite museum heroes in NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM: SECRET OF THE TOMB available on Blu-ray™, DVD and Digital HD on 13 April. Families around the globe have come out to see the hysterical third and final installment in the franchise which has grossed more than a billion dollars1.

If it’s laughter you’re after, get ready for the most hilarious night ever! Ben Stiller leads an all-star comedy cast, including British favourites Dan Stevens, Steve Coogan, Ben Kingsley and Ricky Gervais, alongside Robin Williams, Owen Wilson and Rebel Wilson, for one final, fun-filled Night at the Museum. This time, Larry Daley (Stiller) and his heroic friends embark on their greatest adventure yet as they travel to London in order to save the magic that brings the museum exhibits to life! 

The Blu-ray™ comes with lots of special features that will have the entire family laughing! You can check out how Stiller got into character for his alter ego Laaa, and learn how the film’s iconic flight scene inside an M.C. Escher painting came to life. 


Families can experience NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM: SECRET OF THE TOMB anytime, anywhere on Digital HD 


NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM: SECRET OF THE TOMB BLU-RAY™ SPECIAL FEATURES
* Improv, Absurdity and Cracking Up - The Comedy of Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb
* The Theory of Relativity
* Becoming Laaa
* A Day in the Afterlife
* Fight at the Museum
* Creating Visual Effects
* Seven Deleted and Extended Scenes
* Audio Commentary by Shawn Levy
* Gallery
* Theatrical Trailers 

NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM: SECRET OF THE TOMB DVD SPECIAL FEATURES
* Improv, Absurdity and Cracking Up - The Comedy of Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb
* Two Deleted and Extended Scenes
* Gallery
* Theatrical Trailers"

YOUNG ADULT REVIEW: The Ghosts of Heaven- Marcus Sedgwick

Release Date: 02/10/14
Publisher:  Hatchette Children's Group

SYNOPSIS:

A cleverly interlinked novel written in four parts by PRINTZ AWARD-winning author, Marcus Sedgwick, about survival and discovery, and about the effect of the spiral, a symbol that has no end, on all our lives. The spiral has existed as long as time has existed. It's there when a girl walks through the forest, the moist green air clinging to her skin. There centuries later in a pleasant green dale, hiding the treacherous waters of Golden Beck that take Anna, who they call a witch. There on the other side of the world, where a mad poet watches the waves and knows the horrors they hide, and far into the future as Keir Bowman realises his destiny. Each takes their next step in life. None will ever go back to the same place. And so their journeys begin...


REVIEW:

A young adult novel that is one that you’re either going to love or hate and whilst it’s a novel for young adults its one that will make the reader of any age ask questions. Its definitely a book that has a solid arc, one that has some interesting characters and whilst I’m still not sure on it, I did feel that overall it’s a book that deserves to be read, if only for the experience of questioning yourself afterwards.

All round, a book that fits into Marcus’ style very well and one that all round was a reasonable enough read.

FANTASY SHORT STORY COMPENDIUM: Operation Arcana - John Jospeh Adams

Release Date: 14/04/15
Publisher:  Baen Books

SYNOPSIS:

From Tolkien's Battle of Helm's Deep to George R.R. Martin's Blackwater to Elizabeth Moon's Civil War of Fintha, it is in the battles of epic fantasy, sword and sorcery, and contemporary fantasy where heroism comes alive, magic is unleashed, and legends are made and unmade. Here are stories on the military side of both high fantasy, contemporary fantasy, and urban fantasy. These tales feature beautifully crafted worlds of a past and present filled with magic and mayhem - all served up by a range of top authors including Jonathan Maberry, Tobias Buckell, Elizabeth Moon, Tanya Huff, Glen Cook, Simon R. Green, Seanan McGuire, and Linda Nagata.


REVIEW:

Ah a book that brings not only high octane action but cracking short stories that will keep the reader glued as military and fantasy collide on an epic scale through a great many imaginations. Its definitely quirky, has some top notch options and when added to easy to dip into worlds gives the reader a whole host of tales that will make them think as well as giving them the chance to try new authors.

All round a book that was a thorough joy to read and when I’ve also managed to add some additional names to my TBR list gives me something that was a gift beyond words. Magic.

URBAN FANTASY REVIEW: The Hellequin Chronicles 4: Prison of Hope - Steve McHugh

Release Date: 14/04/15
Publisher:  47 North

SYNOPSIS:

Long ago, Olympian gods imprisoned the demon Pandora in a human—Hope—creating a creature whose only purpose was chaos and death. Remorseful, the gods locked Pandora away in Tartarus, ruled by Hades.

Now, centuries later, Pandora escapes. Nate Garrett, a 1,600-year-old sorcerer, is sent to recapture her and discovers her plan to disrupt the 1936 Berlin Olympic Games, killing thousands in a misplaced quest for vengeance.

Fast forward to modern-day Berlin, where Nate has agreed to act as guardian on a school trip to Germany to visit Hades at the entrance to Tartarus. When Titan King Cronus becomes the second ever to escape Tartarus, Nate is forced to track him down and bring him back, to avert a civil war between those who would use his escape to gain power.

Prison of Hope is the fourth book in the highly acclaimed and action-packed dark urban fantasy series, the Hellequin Chronicles.


REVIEW:

The latest Hellequin title from Steve McHugh and one I’ve been waiting for for quite some time. It hits with all the power of the other books and brings our principle hero to the fore against the very gods (and titans) themselves as he seeks to avert chaos in all its natural glory.

Tis definitely something novel, has a great number of twists to the plot and when given the reader will find them glued to the pages for the infamous “One more Chapter” before bed line. (Alas my “One More Chapter” turned into a very long night (or rather it felt quite short,) with me turning the final page as the birds began to sing.

All round a magical outing and one that really leaves me singing the authors praises. Cracking.

URBAN FANTASY REVIEW: Fin Fancy Necromancy - Randy Henderson

Release Date: 13/02/15
Publisher:  Titan

SYNOPSIS:

Found guilty of a terrible crime he didn't commit in 1986, 15-year-old necromancer Finn Gramaraye was exiled to the Other Realm for 25 years. But now he's back in the mortal world and is disappointed to discover that he's middle-aged, DeLoreans can't fly, and he's been framed for using dark magic, again. All Finn wants is to pick up the pieces of his life and patch things up with his family: his mad scientist father, the ghost of his mother, a sister who is allergic to magic, a younger brother who thinks he's a werewolf and an older brother who is most unhappy to see him. But with just three days to clear his name before he's sent back into exile forever, Finn will need all the help he can get to figure out who wants him gone, and why.


REVIEW:

Titan often play a blinder with fiction and there are times that they take a chance and bring something not only new to the fore but give the reader a book that is not only enjoyable but something that stands out in the readers imagination and will do for quite some time.

Whilst its not something that happens to often, this book by Randy Henderson is one that you cannot afford to miss. It has a quirky lead character, one that not only has to bumble through a modern world (as he’s lost a quarter of a century due to a crime he didn’t commit) and being thrust into a whole struggle to not only clear his name but also to find a way to help himself against a hidden foe, all round generates a title that is not only gripping but something that you don’t tend to come across to often.

All round a fine read and one that I definitely had a good time doing. Magic.

DVD REVIEW: Dracula Untold - Universal Pictures UK

Release Date: 09/02/15
Publisher:  Universal Pictures UK

SYNOPSIS:

Gary Shore directs and Luke Evans stars in this fantasy horror origin story. The film follows Vlad Tepes (Evans) and his struggle to protect his family and his people from the malevolent Ottoman sultan Mehmed (Dominic Cooper), whose ever-expanding empire has put Vlad's homeland in danger of being conquered. Desperate to find a solution, Vlad seeks the help of a mysterious man (Charles Dance) who grants him the powers to defeat his enemy. But do these newly-gained powers come at too high a price?


REVIEW:

As a fan of the early Turtles cartoon it was pretty cool to hear that it was back for my nephew’s generation as a three d animation and whilst I missed the old villain characters like Beebop and Rocksteady, the new series had their own set of villains for the heroes to deal with.

So having been a fan of the Transformers franchise, when I heard Michael Bay was having a hand in dealing with the new film I thought it should be a pretty solid offering that would be fun for all. Yet originally upon release all I heard were negatives. It worried me and put me off, after all the cast looked solid enough, so I thought it could only be something to do with the script.

So when the DVD came out, I was lucky enough to get a review copy and settled myself in not expecting too much from this new release but actually I was pretty sold within the first few minutes. I liked the way that they poked fun at other hero franchises, loved the way that April O’Neal came across as the still sassy reporter and when added to the over villainy of William Fichtner really worked well for me.

All round a film that whilst not an Oscar winner, was something that not only entertained me but also gave me a good laugh, definitely worth watching with your kids and for me is something I look forward to watching with my nephews. Cowabunga.

FANTASY REVIEW: Of Bone and Thunder - Chris Evans

Release Date: 06/02/15
Publisher:  Titan Books

SYNOPSIS:

"Chris Evans PLACES the broad sword and sorcery archetypes in a new and exciting environment." R. A. Salvatore A land of thick jungle and mist-swirled mountains. An enemy moving unseen beneath the lush canopy. The growing threat of thaumics - a magic wielded by few that threatens to destabilise all. The youth of a kingdom sent to fight in a faraway hell while back home, discord and disillusionment reign - Chris Evans takes a daring new approach to the traditional world of sword and sorcery by thrusting it into a maelstrom of racial animus, drug use, rebellion, and a growing war that seems at once unwinnable and with no end in sight. In this thrilling epic, channelling the cultural upheaval and wholesale destruction of the Vietnam War, right and wrong, country and honour, freedom and sacrifice are all put to the ultimate test in the heart of a dark, bloody, otherworldly jungle.


REVIEW:

If you want something different from a fantasy book then you have to try Chris Evan’s Of Bone and Thunder that brings modern military context to the fantasy world with issues that not only fog the world of black and white into shades of grey but also allows the reader a glimpse into something that is greater than the sum of the parts as addiction wars with honour alongside patriotism vs ideals.

Its definitely something that makes you ask questions, has realistic characters and when added overall to an arc that adds more textures all round generates a world that whilst hard to survive in, makes for a hugely entertaining read as fantasy warfare takes on a new level of horror.

DVD REVIEW: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles - Paramount Home Entertainment

Release Date: 16/02/15
Publisher:  Paramount Home Entertainment

SYNOPSIS:

Darkness has settled over New York City as Shredder and his evil Foot Clan have an iron grip on everything from the police to the politicians. The future is grim until four unlikely outcast brothers rise from the sewers and discover their destiny as Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. The Turtles must work with fearless reporter April O'Neil and her cameraman Vern Fenwick to save the city and unravel Shredder's diabolical plan.


REVIEW:

As a fan of the early Turtles cartoon it was pretty cool to hear that it was back for my nephew’s generation as a three d animation and whilst I missed the old villain characters like Beebop and Rocksteady, the new series had their own set of villains for the heroes to deal with.

So having been a fan of the Transformers franchise, when I heard Michael Bay was having a hand in dealing with the new film I thought it should be a pretty solid offering that would be fun for all. Yet originally upon release all I heard were negatives. It worried me and put me off, after all the cast looked solid enough, so I thought it could only be something to do with the script.

So when the DVD came out, I was lucky enough to get a review copy and settled myself in not expecting too much from this new release but actually I was pretty sold within the first few minutes. I liked the way that they poked fun at other hero franchises, loved the way that April O’Neal came across as the still sassy reporter and when added to the over villainy of William Fichtner really worked well for me.

All round a film that whilst not an Oscar winner, was something that not only entertained me but also gave me a good laugh, definitely worth watching with your kids and for me is something I look forward to watching with my nephews. Cowabunga.

SCIENCE FICTION REVIEW: The Lightship Chronicles 1: Impulse - Dave Bara

Release Date: 12/02/15
Publisher:  Ebury Press

SYNOPSIS:

A remote solar system A fragile galactic alliance An interstellar war is on the brink of eruption...When the Lightship Impulse is attacked without provocation, Lt. Peter Cochrane, son of the Grand Admiral, is sent to investigate. His first deep space mission, this isn't what Peter has spent three years in training for. Surrounded by strangers and following secret orders, is he willing to do what it takes to keep the alliance together? Even mutiny? Book one in The Lightship Chronicles, a groundbreaking new action-adventure space opera from Dave Bara.


REVIEW:

OK, I’m going to get right to the point here. I wasn’t a huge fan of this novel. There, I’ve said it. The characters felt pretty much just 2d with a book feeling much like something in the vein of a title that’s more old school than anything new or innovative with the whole concept of the tale being revealed pretty early on.

It got to me that I wasn’t going to get something new and whilst at times, nostalgia can be a good thing, when it feels like its something that you’ve not only seen time and again but done better in other incarnations then its perhaps time to borrow rather than spend your money on the book.

All round, whilst there were some cool idea’s within, I felt a more than a little cheated, losing a good chunk of reading time, however if you want something that harks back to the days of old Sci-Fi then this could be the book for you.

AUTOBIOGRAPHY REVIEW: We Need to Talk About... - Kevin Bridges

Release Date: 09/10/15
Publisher:  Penguin UK

SYNOPSIS:

This is the comic autobiography of 2014. A comedian's autobiography? I wonder if he's ever used humour to deflect from his insecurities? To avoid being bullied? Is there heartache behind the humour? I wonder if he's a manic-depressive? Tears of a clown? Yes, all of that. Discover the hilarious life-story of one of Britain's best-loved comedians in Kevin Bridges' brilliant memoir. 'First of all, I have never written a book before, you probably haven't either, so there we have it; a connection is established between reader and writer...' Aged just 17, Kevin Bridges walked on stage for the first time in a Glasgow comedy club and brought the house down. He only had a five-minute set but in that short time he discovered that he really could earn a living from making people laugh. Kevin began life as a shy, nerve-ridden school-boy, whose weekly highlights included a cake-bombing attack by the local youths. Reaching his teens, he followed his true calling as the class clown, and was soon after arrested for kidnapping Hugh Grant from his local cinema on a quiet Saturday night. This was a guy going somewhere - off the rails seeming most likely. Kevin's trademark social commentary, sharp one-liners and laugh-out-loud humour blend with his reflections on his Glaswegian childhood and the journey he's taken to become one of the most-loved comedians of our time. '...Hopefully now you'll take this over to the till and I can accompany you for the next wee while. That's the benefit of book shops, reading the little bit and then deciding if the author deserves to be part of your carefully selected 3 for 2 deal, or part of your plane journey, train journey, your next bath, your next shite.'



REVIEW:

I originally came across Kevin on one of the Comedy Channel’s shows and his sense of humour hit me as a lot of the stuff he was saying about growing up struck a chord. He’s funny, his humour takes a poke at life so I thought I’d give his book a go and whilst it did contain some jokes, Kevin really took a long honest look at his life and laid some quite emotional things bare for the reader.

Its written pretty well and whilst you can tell he had a hard time starting, as the book progresses the patter becomes more of a friendly chat with each subsequent chapter. All round, a book that I was pleased I read and whilst I don’t go through many autobiographies, this one more than showed me I should give a few more a go.

URBAN FANTASY REVIEW: Deadly Spells - Jaye Wells

Release Date: 12/02/15
Publisher:  Orbit

SYNOPSIS:

MAGIC IS A DRUG. ADDICTIVE AND DEADLY. After the gristly murder of a dirty magic coven leader, Kate Prospero and The Magical Enforcement Agency team up with the local police to find the killer. But as the infighting between covens turns ugly, an all-out war brews in the slums of Babylon. When a tenacious reporter sticks her nose in both the investigation and Prospero's past in the covens, old ghosts resurface. The team will have to use all the weapons in their arsenal to stop the coven war and find the killer before the case brings down all their careers - and their lives. Deadly Spells is the third urban fantasy in the Prospero's War series by USA Today Bestseller Jaye Wells. The first two novels in the series were Dirty Magic and Cursed Moon.


REVIEW:

As a huge fan of Urban Fantasy, I always love it when someone tries not only something different but blasts the ball not only out of the park but puts it into its own orbit. One such author, is Jaye Wells, whose Prospero series really delivers a huge bang for your money, so whilst I was introduced to the series in the original book Dirty Magic, when I heard that the latest was due, I not only got pretty excited but automatically gave myself a reread just for that extra spice when I began the third title.

As usual with Jaye the writing has a cracking arc, some top notch prose but for me, its her characters that really do step out of the pages into your imagination. They’re rounded, they have flaws and when tied to some great dialogue means that not only kicks ass but also gives the reader high octane entertainment for their cash. If you haven’t started this series yet, do so. You really won’t regret it.

URBAN FANTASY REVIEW: Yesterday's Hero - Jonathan Wood

Release Date: 12/10/15
Publisher:  Titan

SYNOPSIS:

Another day, another zombie T-Rex to put down. All part of the routine for Arthur Wallace and MI37 - the government department devoted to defending Britain from threats magical, supernatural, extraterrestrial, and generally odd. But a zombie T-Rex is only the first of Arthur's problems, as Russian cyborg wizards threaten his life, and his co-workers threaten his sanity.


REVIEW:

OK, so this book has been out quite a while and whilst I’ve read the 2014 reprint, I was more than satisfied with not only the lead character but the humour of Jonathan that splattered the pages with a cracking plotline. Whilst it’s a bit more serious than the original title the reader is treated to a book that has solid prose and some solid dialogue. All round a book that was a thorough joy to spend time with and one that I had an awful lot of fun with.

FICTION REVIEW: Haterz - James Goss

Release Date: 06/02/15
Publisher:  Solaris

SYNOPSIS:

Is there someone online who really grates on you? That friend who's always bragging about their awesome life and endlessly sharing tired memes, and who just doesn't get jokes? Look at your Twitter feed: don't you get cross at the endless rage, the thoughtless bigotry and the pleading for celebrity retweets? Meet Dave, a street fundraiser and fan of cat pictures. He's decided that unfollowing just isn't enough. He's determined to make the internet a nicer place, whatever it takes. When he killed his best friend's girlfriend, he wasn't planning on changing the world. She was just really annoying on Facebook. But someone saw, and made him an offer. Someone who knows what he's capable of, and wants to use him to take control of the darkness at the heart of the internet. And now the bodies - the comment trolls, the sexual predators, the obnoxious pop stars - are starting to mount up...


REVIEW:

Ah, as a reader who spends quite a lot of time on the internet its delicious to come across a novel where the characters do what you want to do to so many people that you meet online.

Its dark, funny and with a crime aspect added also has a lot of reading pleasure to be had within the pages. Back this up with solid prose alongside some thoroughly enjoyable dialogue and all round it was a sheer pleasure to read. An absolute cracker.

VIDEO GAME NEWS: Deus Ex New Chapter Announced - Square Enix, Eidos

Hail Mighty Reader and Followers of the Calloused Thumbs,
Our friends at Square Enix and Eidos have let us know about thier latest announcement, the next instalment of the franchise, heres what they've had to say:
"Eidos-Montréal® a part of Square Enix Europe and the award-winning studio behind the critically acclaimed DEUS EX: HUMAN REVOLUTION™, today announced that DEUS EX: MANKIND DIVIDED™, the next chapter in the legendary DEUS EX™ franchise, is in development for the PlayStation®4 computer entertainment system, Xbox One, the all-in-one games and entertainment system from Microsoft, and Windows PC.

“For 15 years, Deus Ex has been a point of conversation across the games industry and beyond, whether the topic is the franchise’s unique gameplay or topical narrative focused on advanced biotechnology and human augmentation,” said David Anfossi, Head of Studio, Eidos-Montréal. “What began with Deus Ex: Human Revolution goes to a whole new level in Deus Ex: Mankind Divided, diving even deeper into this discussion and, in turn, offering fans an all-encompassing experience, one which will challenge their skills as players and emphasize decision-making based on real world topics.”

"DEUS EX: MANKIND DIVIDED takes place in 2029, two years after the events of HUMAN REVOLUTION and the infamous ‘Aug Incident’ in Panchaea that resulted in the death of millions at the hands of those who had installed augmentations. This event has created a huge divide between those who have augmentations, and those who do not. Amongst this emotional turmoil are various factions looking to manipulate the public by twisting public opinion of augmentation to further their own agenda and hide the truth of what really happened.

As the social and political chaos reaches boiling point, super-augmented anti-terrorist agent Adam Jensen re-enters the fray. Empowered by brand new augmentations that bolster his formidable, strategic arsenal, Jensen will visit multiple new locations to uncover the truths that are hidden by a cloak of new conspiracies. With more choice at the player’s disposal than ever before, DEUS EX: MANKIND DIVIDED is the ultimate DEUS EX experience.

DEUS EX: MANKIND DIVIDED marks a new era in Eidos-Montréal’s technology, utilising the advanced visual and immersive capabilities of the DAWN ENGINE™, specifically built for the recent generation of consoles and PC. Under the umbrella of the Gaming Evolved program, AMD and Eidos-Montréal have been collaborating on DEUS EX: MANKIND DIVIDED, and the game will feature Microsoft's DirectX® 12 support as well as AMD's TressFX™. These features will not only raise the bar in game performance but bring unrivalled visual fidelity to the Deus Ex franchise. "

URBAN FANTASY REVIEW: Obsidian Heart: The Wolves of London - Mark Morris

Release Date: 24/10/15
Publisher:  Titan Books

SYNOPSIS:

Psychology professor Alex Locke is an ex-convict, forced back into the criminal underworld when his daughter is threatened. After he agrees to steal a mysterious Obsidian Heart, Locke is pursued by unearthly assassins known as the 'Wolves of London'. Soon he discovers the heart can enable him to travel through time, and while it bestows him with his own dark powers, it also corrupts...


REVIEW:

If you want an Urban Fantasy title that is dark, has deliciously devious angles alongside solid prose then you really have to give Mark Morris’ new book a try. It has a great principle player, an antihero who will often leave you a little (if you’ll pardon the expression) “foxed” as he weaves his way through the overall arc which at the end of the day really will keep you glued.

Back this up with some solid twists, a few unforeseen angles and a good support cast and all round, it’s a series that has something different for the UF fan out there.

HISTORICAL FICTION REVIEW: Imperial Fire - Robert Lyndon

Release Date: 05/02/15
Publisher:  Sphere/Little Brown

SYNOPSIS:

AD 1081: Vast empires struggle for dominance. From the Normans in the north to the Byzantines in the south, battles rage across Europe and around its fringes. But in the east, an empire still mightier stirs, wielding a weapon to rule the world: gunpowder. Seeking the destructive might of this 'fire drug', the mercenary Vallon is sent by the defeated Byzantine emperor on a near-impossible quest to the far-off land of Song Dynasty China. Leading a highly trained squadron, Vallon is accompanied by the physician Hero, Wayland the English hunter, and a young upstart named Lucas. All have their own reasons for going, all have secrets. It's a quest that leads them across treacherous seas and broiling deserts, and into the uncharted land of mountains and plains beyond the Silk Road. Many will die...but the rewards are unbelievable.


REVIEW:

Having read and loved the authors debut title Hawk Quest last year, I really couldn’t wait to see what he’d hit back with, especially since you could see all the time he not only lavished on the titles creation but on research for it. Whilst many see book one as the beginning of something wonderful for any author, for me, it’s the second title that is the one that shows whether they’re a one hit wonder or have the ability to create writing to deadlines. Here, we not only get to return to his world but get to enjoy again the chance to spend time with the principle hero Vallon.

So what do you get in this title?

As with the original, the authors writing is something that is not only stunning but a sheer joy to sit back and savour. The prose is crisp, the overall arc gripping and when added to a whole set of characters that not only bring the world to life but give it a flesh that helps keep it in the readers mind all round generates a tale that is pure magic to read.

Back this up with a cracking set of dialogue and all round you’re in for a treat.

SCIENCE FICTION REVIEW: Warhammer 40K: Yarrick: Sarcophagus - David Annadale

Release Date: Out Now
Publisher:  Black Library

SYNOPSIS:

Trapped in an overturned tank after being caught in a bombing run on Armageddon, Commissar Sebastian Yarrick fights to escape and return to his forces, but as he emerges, he finds himself surrounded by greenskin foes. Can the Old Man of Armageddon survive the onslaught with power claw and Evil Eye, or will he finally fall to the servants of the Great Beast Ghazghkull Thraka?


REVIEW:

Recently I’ve had a thing for short story fiction, so I’ve spent quite a bit of time diving from the far future to the distant past and somewhere in between. What you get in this title in the ever popular Yarrick series is a short story of a hard fought war of attrition against the Greenskins and as usual the reader isn’t let down as we not only find our principle hero in a tight squeeze (literally) but also get to see him power his way through.

As you’d expect with a short story, the prose is hard hitting, to the point and when added to a character that you love to spend time around generates a tale that not only gives you hardcore action but also generates a tale that fits in exceedingly well for the characters traits. All round a lot of fun and a tale that I thoroughly enjoyed.

HISTORICAL SHORT STORY FICTION REVIEW: The Shrine - Ben Kane

Release Date: 31/03/15
Publisher:  Conerstone Publishing

SYNOPSIS:

A closely fought race, treachery in a back alley, a visit to the shrine of an Egyptian Goddess. A Roman centurion discovers that Fate will always hold him in her power.

The German frontier, spring 6 BC. When Lucius Cominius Tullus, a recently promoted centurion, gambles on a foot race between rival legionaries, he has no idea that his wager will endanger his very life, and that the streets of an Empire border town can be as deadly as the bloodiest battlefield.

A prequel to Ben Kane’s dramatic new trilogy, Eagles at War, The Shrine also includes a sample chapter from the first book in the series.


REVIEW:

A cracking short story from Ben Kane that delves into the past of a hero to be. Its definitely quirky, has a lot going for it and in some parts is reminiscent of David Gemmell’s fortune telling for Druss the Legend. All round, a read that not only drew you into Ben’s world but one that will act as a great way to start the cracking series. Back this up with solid prose and of course an author who knows how to weave a story and all round you’re in for a treat.
(The Shrine is available for Free on Amazon,.co,.uk, Kobo, I-tunes)

URBAN FANTASY REVIEW: Weirder Shadows Over Innsmouth - Edited by Stephen Jones

Release Date: 30/01/15
Publisher:  Titan

SYNOPSIS:

Respected horror anthologist Stephen Jones edits this collection of 17 stories inspired by the 20th century's master of horror, H.P. Lovecraft's "The Shadow Over Innsmouth," in which a young man goes to an isolated, desolate fishing village in Massachusetts, and finds that the entire village has interbred with strange creatures that live beneath the sea, and worship ancient gods.


REVIEW:

OK, to be honest this isn’t a book that you’re going to read cover to cover in a short time, however it is a book that is a lot of fun to dip into when you want a touch of not only the weird but the macabre. I loved the differing writing styles within and to have a good few names I know in there made this a book that was not only fun but one that I had a lot of pleasure from when I dipped into.

As with a lot of short stories, this is the type of book that you really want for journey’s or just the times when you want to lose yourself and get to the full conclusion of the tale within a short time. All round a solid book and whilst a reprint under the Titan name, a book that will definitely keep many a reader entertained. Cracking.

URBAN FANTASY REVIEW: Fangborn 3: Hellbender - Dana Cameron

Release Date: 31/03/15
Publisher:  47 North

SYNOPSIS:

I-Day is near at hand, and soon the Fangborn will reveal themselves to humankind. As a member of this secretive race of werewolves, vampires, and oracles, will archaeologist Zoe Miller be prepared?

Still grappling with the newfound powers she gained after opening Pandora’s box, Zoe shares the responsibility of protecting “Normal” humans. Having long preferred to keep to the shadows, she knows the pending revelation of the Fangborn will set the world on fire. With Fangborn enemies in the Order of Nicomedia forcing their hand, Zoe and her supernatural Family have no choice but to step into the spotlight. But that decision has garnered the attention of the powerful and otherworldly beings known as the Makers. They claim to have created the Fangborn—not as saviors, but as predators. And it seems they have their own plans for Zoe…and for the fate of all the Fangborn.

Filled with stunning twists, Hellbender takes the Fangborn series to a thrilling new dimension.


REVIEW:

The third book of Dana’s Fangborn series and one that really sets up a cracking read for readers. Now having not read the previous titles (Seven Kinds of Hell and Pack of Strays), I was a little worried that I wouldn’t be able to make head of tails (pardon the pun) of what was occurring, yet whilst a little confused and obviously realising that I’d missed the earlier books after starting, I found that it was not only a fab read but one that I managed to be able to get into quite quickly.

I loved the principle character and the way she dealt with trouble. I loved the way that her dialogue fit her down to a tee and perhaps most of all I loved the way that she grew as the story developed. Yes, at first she felt overpowered against everyone else, yet as it developed her foibles came to the fore and showed her vulnerable. Back this up with solid prose, cracking pace and all round a set up for another thrilling instalment which will lead readers into a much darker world than the one we already knew existed. Magic.

BIOGRAPHY REVIEW: Life in a Cold Climate: Nancy Mitford - Laura Thompson

Release Date: 29/01/15
Publisher:  Head of Zeus

SYNOPSIS:

This is the final book in the enthralling Engelsfor's trilogy. After the terrible events in Fire, the Chosen Ones are reduced from seven to six. Will they be strong enough to face the final showdown with terrifying the demons? In The Key questions are answered. Secrets are revealed. Loyalties are tested. Only one thing is certain: Everything will change.


REVIEW:

Nancy Mitford was, in the words of her sister Lady Diana Mosley, 'very, very complex'. Her highly autobiographical early work, the biographies and novels of her more mature French period, her journalism, and the vast body of letters to her family, friends such as Evelyn Waugh, and to the great love of her life, Gaston Palewski, all tell an intriguing story. Drawing from these, as well as conversations with Mitford's two surviving sisters, acquaintances and colleagues, prize-winning author Laura Thompson has fashioned a portrait of a contradictory and courageous woman. Approaching her subject with wit, perspicacity and huge affection, Thompson makes her serious points lightly, eschewing cliches about the eccentricities of the Mitford clan. Life in a Cold Climate is full of the sound of Mitfordian laughter; but tells also the often paradoxical and complex story beneath the smiling and ever elegant facade.

URBAN FANTASY REVIEW: The Key - Sara Elfgren and Mats Strandberg

Release Date: 29/01/15
Publisher:  Hammer/Cornerstone Publishing

SYNOPSIS:

This is the final book in the enthralling Engelsfor's trilogy. After the terrible events in Fire, the Chosen Ones are reduced from seven to six. Will they be strong enough to face the final showdown with terrifying the demons? In The Key questions are answered. Secrets are revealed. Loyalties are tested. Only one thing is certain: Everything will change.


REVIEW:

Ah a satisfying conclusion to the Engelsfors Trilogy, a series that blends elements of Buffy with more witchcraft and one that works very well. The characters are realistic, have real world worries and when added to their ability to grow through the series, not just in power but emotional aspects all round gives the reader a book that more than hits the spot.

Back this up with solid prose and of course dialogue that just buzzes through your imagination, for me generates a book that I had not only plenty of fun with but thoroughly enjoyed. Top Notch.

FICTION REVIEW: Breakfast with the Borgia's - DBC Pierre

Release Date: 15/01/15
Publisher:  Cornerstone Publishing

SYNOPSIS:

'Hell is other people.' This is a chilling, page-turning Hammer novella by the Booker-Prize-winning author of Vernon God Little. The setting: a faded, lonely guesthouse on the Essex coast. Outside, it's dark, and very foggy. Inside there's no phone or internet reception, no connection with the outside world. Enter Ariel Panek, a promising young academic en route from the USA to an important convention in Amsterdam. With his plane grounded by fog at Stanstead, he has been booked in for the night at the guesthouse. Discombobulated and jetlagged, he falls in with a family who appear to be commemorating an event. But this is no ordinary celebration. And this is no ordinary family. As evening becomes night, Panek realises that he has become caught in an insidious web of other people's secrets and lies, a Sartrian hell from which for him there may be no escape.


REVIEW:

A book that is hard to define and one that whilst well written with good language skills alongside prose, personally I felt that it was a title that was a let down rather than something that could have been grander. Don’t get me wrong as a reader I found it a book that had some thought provoking moments in it, but for me it felt rather short and with no real character development within left it feeling 2D. All round a book that I’d recommend to borrow from your library rather than lay out the cash for.

FACTUAL ESSAYS REVIEW: What Makes This Book So Great - Jo Walton

Release Date: 08/01/15
Publisher:  Corsair

SYNOPSIS:

Jo Walton is an award-winning author of, inveterate reader of, and chronic re-reader of science fiction and fantasy books. What Makes This Book So Great? is a selection of the best of her musings about her prodigious reading habit. Jo Walton's many subjects range from acknowledged classics, to guilty pleasures, to forgotten oddities and gems. Among them, the Zones of Thought novels of Vernor Vinge; the question of what genre readers mean by 'mainstream'; the under-appreciated SF adventures of C. J. Cherryh; the field's many approaches to time travel; the masterful science fiction of Samuel R. Delany; Salman Rushdie's Midnight's Children; the early Hainish novels of Ursula K. Le Guin; and a Robert A. Heinlein novel you have most certainly never read. Over 130 essays in all, What Makes This Book So Great is an immensely engaging collection of provocative, opinionated thoughts about past and present-day fantasy and science fiction, from one of our best writers.


REVIEW:

If like me you’re on Facebook or Twitter, the odds are you’ve received numerous lists of books asking how many have you read. As a reader it can be quite irksome to find out that you’ve not sat back and read what some people consider classics but to be honest they’re just books that people think you should have read.

Here in this title by Jo, is a book that helps explain why you should read certain titles. It’s easy to follow with well-constructed points of view and backs it all up with a huge selection that really will make your reading list harder to get through (due to the increase in volume.)

FANTASY REVIEW: The Slow Regard of Silent Things - Patrick Rothfuss

Release Date: 28/10/14
Publisher:  Gollancz

SYNOPSIS:

The University, a renowned bastion of knowledge, attracts the brightest minds to unravel the mysteries of enlightened sciences like artificing and alchemy. Yet deep below its bustling halls lies a complex and cavernous maze of abandoned rooms and ancient passageways - and in the heart of it all lives Auri. Formerly a student at the University, now Auri spends her days tending the world around her. She has learned that some mysteries are best left settled and safe. No longer fooled by the sharp rationality so treasured by the University, Auri sees beyond the surface of things, into subtle dangers and hidden names. At once joyous and haunting, THE SLOW REGARD OF SILENT THINGS is a rich, atmospheric and lyrical tale, featuring one of the most beloved characters from Rothfuss' acclaimed fantasy series.


REVIEW:

Ah, the cracking world of Patrick Rothfuss returns whilst readers await the next instalment with a cracking novella that give you that hit that you need whilst things are on the air for the next publication date. Its wonderfully written with a rich tapestry of fantastical elements that really speak to the reader within.

Back this up with the usual cracking prose, top notch dialogue and an overall kickass plot and all round you really will get a cracking title.

CRIME THRILLER REVIEW: Serpents in the Cold - Thomas O'Malley and Douglas Graham Purdy

Release Date: 29/01/15
Publisher:  Hodder

SYNOPSIS:

They found her on the beach, frozen, like a statue carved in ice...Post-war Boston is down on its luck, and desperate to reinvent itself. But promises of a brighter future sound ever more hollow as the worst winter in recent memory tightens its grip. No one is interested in a string of murdered women - everyone would much rather pretend they don't exist. But the latest victim was loved...Old friends Cal and Dante are both struggling to find a way to live in a city that seems to be leaving them behind. The hunt for a killer gives them new purpose, as well as making them powerful enemies. But they believe in justice and second chances, and they will see this thing through - whatever the cost.


REVIEW:

A book that was a joy to read and whilst it was dark and set on the seedier side of life, I found it quite refreshing to have characters with foibles that not only made them an unlikely duo to team up but also allowed the reader to see something different in their interactions.

All round it’s a book that has quite a few facets within that will not only keep you guessing but when tied in with a solid enough mystery arc all round generates a story that whilst at times quite depressing, was well worth the read for me.

YOUNG ADULT FANTASY: Brotherband 5: Scorpion Mountain - John Flanagan

Release Date: 06/11/14
Publisher:  Random House Childrens

SYNOPSIS:

More exciting adventures from the longest running shared-world superhero series created and edited by George R.R. Martin, bestselling author of GAME OF THRONES Decades after an alien virus changed the course of history, the surviving population of Manhattan still struggles to understand the new world left in its wake. Natural humans share the rough city with those given extraordinary - and sometimes terrifying - traits. While most manage to coexist in an uneasy peace, not everyone is willing to adapt. Down in the seedy underbelly of Jokertown, residents are going missing. The authorities are unwilling to investigate, except for a fresh lieutenant looking to prove himself and a collection of unlikely jokers forced to take matters into their own hands - or tentacles. The deeper into the kidnapping case these misfits and miscreants get, the higher the stakes are raised. Edited by No.1 NEW YORK TIMES bestselling author George R.R. Martin and acclaimed author Melinda M. Snodgrass, LOWBALL is the latest mosaic novel in the acclaimed Wild Cards universe, featuring original fiction by Carrie Vaughn, Ian Tregillis, David Anthony Durham, Melinda M. Snodgrass, Mary Anne Mohanraj, David D. Levine, Michael Cassutt and Walter Jon Williams. Perfect for old fans and new readers alike, LOWBALL delves deeper into the world of aces, jokers, and the hard-boiled men and women of the Fort Freak police precinct in a pulpy, page-turning novel of superheroics and mystery.


REVIEW:

The latest Brotherband title and one that will more than hit the spot as the Heron’s help Araluen with a matter of a regicidal contract. As usual with John, the young reader is given a tale of daring, a story of smarts and with a fair few feeling that one of the crew hasn’t come into his own, the reader is treated to seeing him come into his own.

It’s a cracking read and as a fan of the series, its another cracker. They really should consider making these into films as there is so much to offer people of all ages. Cracking.

SCIENCE FICTION VIDEO GAME TIE-IN: Halo: Broken Circle - John Shirley

Release Date: 04/11/14
Publisher:  Simon and Schuster

SYNOPSIS:

Humanity has been forced to the brink of extinction. Even as we take our first steps into space, civil strife, the enigmatic legacy of an ancient civilization, and a fanatical covenant of alien races each threaten to destroy us. All eyes turn to the Spartan super-soldiers to save us, and in particular to their symbol and leader, Master Chief John-117. Once a legendary instrument of death, he has now become an unlikely symbol of hope.If we can emerge from the chaos of war and reclaim the ancient mantle of stewardship over a troubled galaxy, we may find the secret to our ultimate evolution.


REVIEW:

I don’t know if I’m getting bored with the Halo titles or if they seem to be failing more and more for me as a reader but this latest release was something that was more than flat. It relies on people being fans of the series with two dimensional characters that feel more phantom than anyone you’d want to spend time with.

The overall arc is sadly lacking and at the end of the day, when you really don’t care about either the players or wondering what the hell the plots up to then it is perhaps time to let it go.

URBAN FANTASY REVIEW: Wild Cards: Low Ball - Ed. George RR Martin and Melinda Snodgrass

Release Date: 13/11/14
Publisher:  Gollancz

SYNOPSIS:

More exciting adventures from the longest running shared-world superhero series created and edited by George R.R. Martin, bestselling author of GAME OF THRONES Decades after an alien virus changed the course of history, the surviving population of Manhattan still struggles to understand the new world left in its wake. Natural humans share the rough city with those given extraordinary - and sometimes terrifying - traits. While most manage to coexist in an uneasy peace, not everyone is willing to adapt. Down in the seedy underbelly of Jokertown, residents are going missing. The authorities are unwilling to investigate, except for a fresh lieutenant looking to prove himself and a collection of unlikely jokers forced to take matters into their own hands - or tentacles. The deeper into the kidnapping case these misfits and miscreants get, the higher the stakes are raised. Edited by No.1 NEW YORK TIMES bestselling author George R.R. Martin and acclaimed author Melinda M. Snodgrass, LOWBALL is the latest mosaic novel in the acclaimed Wild Cards universe, featuring original fiction by Carrie Vaughn, Ian Tregillis, David Anthony Durham, Melinda M. Snodgrass, Mary Anne Mohanraj, David D. Levine, Michael Cassutt and Walter Jon Williams. Perfect for old fans and new readers alike, LOWBALL delves deeper into the world of aces, jokers, and the hard-boiled men and women of the Fort Freak police precinct in a pulpy, page-turning novel of superheroics and mystery.


REVIEW:

If you want something light full of typical fantastical UF Superhero tropes, then this long running series edited by GRRM will more than hit the spot for readers out there. If you’re a fan you’ll find old friends, if you’re new, well a set of tales to take you on a journey that will more than hit your requirements as a whole host of top talent create a whole new set of short stories.

Back this up with some cracking offerings, some top notch prose and of course links to earlier titles all round give this series an edge that a fair number of others out there haven’t quite hit yet. Magic.

CRIME THRILLER REVIEW: Frozen Grave - Lee Weeks

Release Date: 27/11/14
Publisher:  Simon and Schuster

SYNOPSIS:

Someone has a list of women. And they're crossing the names out one by one. The first body is found in a dilapidated warehouse in London's East End - an attractive woman, brutally murdered. She went into the building, dressed for sex - and didn't come out...Then another woman burns to death in her own home. She was alone but all signs point to murder. Two seemingly separate victims, but Detective Inspector Carter and Detective Constable Willis are convinced they were killed by the same person. And when a third body is found, the detectives start to suspect a serial killer is on the loose. But what connects the victims? And who will the killer go after next? From the author of the bestselling Dead of Winter and Cold As Ice comes a page-turning new thriller that will have you hooked from start to finish.


REVIEW:

To be brutal here (almost as brutal as the killings within) this book from Lee Weeks was one that was more middle of the road than real trend setter for me. Whilst the Scandinavians have a good foothold on the market, they tend to be the ones that are presenting readers with something not only new but tales that will stick with you long after the final page is turned.

Whilst this book fails on that angle, there is a good plotline, the characters are reasonable but for me, it just felt lacklustre almost as if it was there to just settle in with the other books out there rather than strike out on its one. All round a book that is an OK read if you’ve nothing better to do but if you want a crime title that really will kick you in the guts, then go for one of the current plethora of European Crime.

SCIENCE FICTION REVIEW: The Blood Red City - Justin Richards

Release Date: 13/11/14
Publisher:  Ebury

SYNOPSIS:

The Vril are here. The war for humanity has begun. The Germans have lost control of their most deadly discovery. The alien Vril have awakened and are scouring the Earth for ancient relics. From the Hollywood lights of LA to the bloody devastation of Stalingrad, Major Guy Pentecross and the team at Station Z must uncover the mystery and stop the Vril and Nazis alike. Failure will mean the end of life as we know it.


REVIEW:

If you’re after a series that has something different to a lot of books out there, then you really need to try Justin Richards Never War with its alternate world Science Fiction concepts that has not only cracking characters but also top notch prose alongside dialogue.

Here in the second outing the reader is treated to a tale that not only keeps the reader glued but also feels like it has influences of Gerry Anderson within the pages. Back this up with a story arc that doesn’t let up for a moment which when added to an author that understands how to deliver a careful mix of high octane action alongside cooler scenes to let the reader get their breath back all round gives you a book that is as rewarding as the original.

URBAN FANTASY REVIEW: Dangerous Games - Ed. Jonathan Oliver

Release Date: 04/12/14
Publisher:  Rebellion

SYNOPSIS:

In a world of chances, one decision can bring down the house, one roll of the dice could bring untold wealth, or the end of everything. Here the players gather, their stories often dark, and always compelling. The players and the played, this new anthology from Jonathan Oliver (Magic, End of The Road, House of Fear, The End of The Line, World War Cthulhu) brings together brand new stories from an international team of talented authors, each with their own deadly game. This collection is set to include a full house of top authors including Hugo award-winning American writer Pat Cadigan, Brit Gary McMahon, Mexican Silvia Moreno Garcia, plus Tade Thompson, Rebecca Levene and more!


REVIEW:

I’m a huge fan of anthologies as readers get the chance to try authors that they may not yet have had finances or the time for prior to purchasing the book. Its an easy way to dip into various writing styles and finding what suits in much the same way as finding old friends to spend time with as well as new and exciting possibilities.

Hidden within this title are quite a few gems and with cracking prose and top notch editing when backed with solid editorship alongside cracking talent, presents a book that is a pure joy to read. All round a cracking title for short journeys or for just a tale or two to take up that lunch break or to escape the real world. Magic.

URBAN FANTASY REVIEW: Samantha Carter 1: Vampire Seeker - Tim O'Rourke

Release Date: 16/01/14
Publisher:  Piatkus

SYNOPSIS:

250,000 books sold 4000 five star reviews Discover an underground phenomenon Discover Tim O'Rourke Samantha Carter believes a vampire is responsible for the brutal deaths of four women in London and finally she has the chance to catch him. Desperate to prove the killer's identity, she chases him onto a late night tube train. But Samantha doesn't reach the next station - instead she's pulled into a very different journey, back in time to the Wild West - where friendship, desire and even love all come hand in hand with deadly danger. To stay alive she'll have to work out who to trust - and when to resist temptation. For Sammy's nightmares are about to come true - vampires are real and more lethal than she ever imagined..


REVIEW:

I love something a little different and having heard of Tim’s work through friends, when Piatkus picked him up, I decided that I was more than happy to spend time in the Old West in the company of Samantha “Sammy” Carter I couldn’t wait to see what would happen. Within this title, the first outing in the series, was a story that was light, had some interesting twists as well as solid action sequences that all round generated a book that was a good bit of fun to spend time away from reality within.

Add to this a curious cast of characters, some double dealing mixed in with a touch of sparkly romance and all round it was a book that left me wanting more in the series. Thanks, Tim.