ART BOOK REVIEW: Oil Painting for the Absolute Beginner - Mark and Mary Willenbrink

Release Date: 24/09/10

BOOK BLURB:

This title includes easy-to-follow techniques, tips and step-by-step demonstrations that provide guidance and encouragement for beginning artists to paint with oils. Familiar subjects, simple compositions and a realistic style build confidence in beginning artists giving them the skills they need to create finished oil paintings. The reader will enjoy the 10 mini demonstrations and 12 complete painting demonstrations. The bonus DVD features a complete painting workshop with the authors.


REVIEW:

To a lot of people, art has always been something that completely escapes them, not that they don’t have an interest but the question of where to begin feels to big a piece for them to tackle. Looking at it in the perspective of a mountain that has to be moved rather than looking for the first rock and going from there.

What Mark and Mary do in this title is break it all down into manageable chunks so that the reader has a chance to get started and begin to get their own footing into the world of oil painting. This title covers everything from gathering your materials (which includes help setting you up with paints alongside brushes and easel etc.) through to some basic art principles so that you can break your subject down and make a start. Add practical techniques and then step by step guides to some paintings and you can see how it all begins to work and gather a useful set of skills to begin learning on your own. Finally add a comprehensive DVD to help and its pretty much an ideal tutor.

All in, I found this a great book, it was informative, the subject matter was easily broken down and comprehensive to understand and I’ve gained a few new skills (alongside some paint stains on clothing) to begin my own exploration. It’s a great way to get started and if I’m honest will open the way so that many people can start to create their own artwork which will make ideal presents for friends and family.

SCIENCE FICTION REVIEW: Mass Effect: Retribution - Drew Karpyshyn

Release Date: 19/08/10

BOOK BLURB:

Humanity has reached the stars, joining the vast galactic community of alien species. But beyond the fringes of explored space lurk the Reapers, a race of sentient starships bent on 'harvesting' the galaxy's organic species for their own dark purpose. The Illusive Man, leader of the pro-human black ops group Cerberus, is one of the few who know the truth about the Reapers. To ensure humanity's survival, he launches a desperate plan to uncover the enemy's strengths - and weaknesses - by studying someone implanted with modified Reaper technology. He knows the perfect subject for his horrific experiments: former Cerberus operative Paul Grayson, who wrested his daughter from the cabal's control with the help of Ascension project director Kahlee Sanders. But when Kahlee learns that Grayson is missing, she turns to the only person she can trust: Alliance war hero Captain David Anderson. Together they set out to find the secret Cerberus facility where Grayson is being held. But they aren't the only ones after him. And time is running out.


REVIEW:

Having read the original Mass Effect novel I looked forward to reading the next one. So whilst I haven’t currently played the games, I’m a least clued up on what’s what in order to make the most of this title.

Drew is perhaps best known for his forays into various established series, I do have a weakness for well written science fiction that is more character driven rather than science. Don’t get me wrong, I admit that the hard science does have a place but when you start dealing in complex jargon I don’t have a clue what they’re going on about and I’m the type that’s more than willing to accept that the technology does work in order to enjoy the story.

All in a fun excursion to an alternate universe with great characters and of course some serious action. Great stuff.

FANTASY REVIEW: Legend of Eli Monpress 1: Spirit Thief - Rachel Aaron

Release Date: 07/10/10

BOOK BLURB:

Eli Monpress is talented. He's charming. And he's a thief. But not just any thief. He's the greatest thief of the age - and he's also a wizard. And with the help of his partners - a swordsman with the most powerful magic sword in the world but no magical ability of his own, and a demonseed who can step through shadows and punch through walls - he's going to put his plan into effect. The first step is to increase the size of the bounty on his head, so he'll need to steal some big things. But he'll start small for now. He'll just steal something that no one will miss - at least for a while. Like a king.


REVIEW:

Fantasy is often a genre that takes itself way to seriously, so it’s always enjoyable when you find an author that takes a step into the imagination and turns conventions upon themselves. IN part this title has similarities between Karen Miller’s (aka KE Mills) Rogue Agent Series and the Gentlemen Bastards of Scott Lynch fame. It’s definitely quirky, it’s got some great characters and the way in which the world is built really will give the reader a great experience. Finally back that up with some top notch story arc, some great dialogue and a rogue hero who you’ll just love to hang out with and I look forward to seeing where Rachel will take the series.

FANTASY REVIEW: Moorehawke Trilogy 3: The Rebel Prince - Celine Kiernan

Release Date: 07/10/10

BOOK BLURB:

Wynter is at last reunited with the exiled Prince Alberon, as he plots insurgency from his forest encampment. But she is losing faith with her companions, as they attempt to drive Alberon's plans in different directions. Caught between Razi's complex diplomacy, Alberon's desire for martial strength and Christopher's fierce personal loyalty, Wynter finds herself torn. Can she combine these philosophies, and find a way to heal the rift between king and heir? Or will each side destroy the other, causing Wynter to lose everything she holds dear? She fears the answers lie veiled in conflict and loss.


REVIEW:

The third part in Celine’s Moorehawke Trilogy and one that will leave the reader in not doubt that she plays for keeps as everything is to play for with some pretty good twists. Back that up with some seriously good dialogue, the pace is working well and to be honest it was a title that we really enjoyed. Add a number of great characters, some solid world building and finish it off with a descriptive style that doesn’t waste words and the reader will be more than satisfied.

Finally with an author who has learned so much over the course of a series, Celine has set herself up well for a future in the genre. I look forward to seeing what she comes up with and wish her every success.

FANTASY REVIEW: Terra Incognita 2: The Map of All Things - Kevin J Anderson

Release Date: 10/06/10

BOOK BLURB:

After terrible atrocities by both sides, the religious war between Tierra and Uraba has spread and intensified - the series of skirmishes erupting into a full-blown crusade. Now that the Uraban leader Soldan-Shah Omra has captured the ruined city of Ishalem, his construction teams discover a priceless ancient map in an underground vault - a map that can guide brave explorers to the mysterious Key to Creation. Omra dispatches his adoptive son Saan to sail east across the uncharted Middlesea on a quest to find it. In Tierra, Captain Criston Vora has built a grand new vessel, and sets out to explore the great unknown and find the fabled land of Terravitae. But Criston cannot forget his previous voyage that ended in shipwreck and disaster ...and the loss of his beloved wife Adrea - who is now the wife of the soldan-shah in far-off Uraba, fighting to survive against palace intrigues and constant threats against her life.


REVIEW:

Known perhaps more for his Dune work, Kevin’s fantasy offering may not be something that you’re too aware of. Here in the second tale in his Terra Incognita series the tale picks up where the original left off leaving the reader without chance to gather breath.

The prose is sharp, the descriptiveness ideal and characters that really leap off the page to make them a cast that you just can’t wait to adventure with. Whilst there’s a great round up of previous events at the beginning you really have to read the original to get the most out of the careful world building as its on a similar scale to Erikson’s Malazan world. Hopefully some of the awards will recognise this as it really does deserve some recognition.

FANTASY REVIEW: The Folding Knife - KJ Parker

Release Date: 10/06/10

BOOK BLURB:

Basso the Magnificent. Basso the Great. Basso the Wise. Basso the Murderer. The First Citizen of the Vesani Republic is an extraordinary man. He is ruthless, cunning and, above all, lucky. He brings wealth, power and prestige to his people. But with power comes unwanted attention, and Basso must defend his nation and himself from threats foreign and domestic. In a lifetime of crucial decisions, he's only ever made one mistake. One mistake, though, can be enough.


REVIEW:

Over the recent years, one name is coming up consistently time and again with quality fantasy writing, and that’s KJ Parker. Whilst masquerading behind a pseudonym this established author really does bring everything to the table, you’ve got great characters, top quality dialogue and above all else a story arc that keeps the reader glued from the first to the last page. Add to the mix character growth and a world that you can believe in with double dealing and politics and it really is a well rounded self supporting novel. Great stuff.

NEWS: Black Library Free E-Books

Hail Mighty Readers,
We've had word from our Snotling Spy's that the Black Libary is celebrating the launch of Black Library Digital on the 8th October (just gone) and that if you visit their site (on the following four Fridays, you'll be rewarded with a free EBook. (Available from Midday (GMT). To get your copy click the Black Library Link or their logo.

So keep an eye, enjoy the books and remember who let you know. (This week's is First and Only, the first book in the Warhammer 40K Gaunt's Ghost series by Dan Abnett.)

SCIENCE FICTION REVIEW: Zendegi - Greg Egan

Release Date: 17/06/10

BOOK BLURB:

Nasim is a young computer scientist, hoping to work on the Human Connectome Project: a plan to map every neural connection in the human brain. But funding for the project is cancelled, and Nasim ends up devoting her career to Zendegi, a computerised virtual world used by millions of people. Fifteen years later, a revived Connectome Project has published a map of the brain. Zendegi is facing fierce competition from its rivals, and Nasim decides to exploit the map to fill the virtual world with better Proxies: the bit-players that bring its crowd scenes to life. As controversy rages over the nature and rights of the Proxies, a friend with terminal cancer begs Nasim to make a Proxy of him, so some part of him will survive to help raise his orphaned son. But Zendegi is about to become a battlefield ...


REVIEW:

To be honest this book is a none starter right from the get go. It’s pretty mundane, the science within pretty standard and all in all a very weak principle cast member who really doesn’t achieve much within this title. It’s slow, it’s got no real pace and at the end of the day a book that is well below what I’ve come to expect from this established author. A real let down and a title that I felt was more of a book that relies on the authors name to sell rather than one that should have made it to the final printing. A real let down.

HUMOUR REVIEW: 501 Things to do with a Zombie - JC Richards

Release Date: 25/06/10

BOOK BLURB:

What's more fun than doing it alone? Doing it with a Zombie. Escape routes. Defence plans. Survival kits. Really, isn't it time we put down the pitchforks and learned to live with the undead? Sure, Zombies may be brain-eating virus-plagued monsters, but it doesn't mean you can't also have fun with a Zombie. After all, Zombies have many redeeming qualities. With 501 Things to Do With a Zombie , open-minded readers everywhere will discover what infectious fun awaits when they let the undead into their lives, including: have a pillowfight; decoupage; tell dirty jokes; have a staring contest; and, take up swing dancing. Note: watch out for flying limbs. Finally, with 501 Things to Do With a Zombie , Zombie supporters can come out the closet (without machetes) and prove that we all can learn to love the undead!


REVIEW:

I ordered this title as I had fond childhood memories of a book entitled 101 Things to Do with a dead Cat. That said, I expected pretty much the same sort of thing with this title, lots of Larsonesque type humourous images backed up with the occasional witty line. What actually unfurled was a book that was more list than anything else with the odd piece of art added and that was about it. Whilst I can appreciate it for what it is, I’d have preferred a smaller list of things to do but more illustrations that could have left the title open for sequels that could have made this a lot better. All in, it is OK but it could have been improved and whilst it won’t be to everyone’s tastes (for some reason there is a hint of Brain matter within the paper, LOL) if you have a deadhead fan within the family it will certainly make an ideal gift.

FANTASY REVIEW: The Elder Scrolls: The Infernal City - Greg Keyes

Release Date: 25/06/10

BOOK BLURB:

Four decades after the Oblivion Crisis, Tamriel is threatened anew by an ancient and all-consuming evil: Umbriel, a floating city, casts a terrifying shadow - for wherever it falls, people die and rise again. And inside Umbriel's shadow, a great adventure begins - and a group of unlikely heroes meet. A legendary prince with a deep secret. A daring spy on the trail of a vast conspiracy. A mage obsessed with his desire for revenge. And Annaig, a young girl in whose hands the fate of Tamriel may rest...Based on the award-winning The Elder Scrolls , The Infernal City is the first of two exhilarating novels following events that continue the story from The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion , named 2006 Game of the Year.


REVIEW:

As a huge fan of the Elder Scrolls games by Bethesda, I really couldn’t wait to get my hands on this offering, as I thought that it would help give some of the magic back whilst awaiting the announcement and release date of the fifth title in the series.

The title is set 40 years after the events in Oblivion and looked like it had the opportunity to bring the game to the print media in such a way that it would generate more readers and could have been a great way to get more gamers back into reading. Add to the mix a title that has an established name behind it and I thought that I was in for a real treat.

What unfurled within however was an offering that I just couldn’t take seriously/ The story arc was sadly lacking in the complexities of the game, the characters were two dimensional and the names went from ridiculous to the absurd. Add to the mix that this title was aimed at an audience that should have been clamouring for this offering and it falls sadly short of the mark. A real shame all in as this should have been something really special.

CRIME REVIEW: Scream - Nigel McCrery

Release Date: 07/10/10

BOOK BLURB:

As people disappear from his streets, and a handful of battered and broken bodies are discovered on his patch, Lapslie has no idea that he's up against a man who feels sound like he can taste it. He hunts people down. Men, women, anyone with a voice. He makes them hurt, he makes them bleed, he makes them scream. If the sound is ugly, he dispatches them without thought, but if it makes him feel good inside, he keeps them in his basement. Torturing them slowly, listening for that awful, wonderful sound. And sooner or later he'll have enough to make them sing his favourite things.


REVIEW:

This is my first outing with Nigel so I really didn’t know what to expect. Obviously with the author having worked for the Nottinghamshire Police Force I expected solid police work, great deductive reasoning alongside the characters developing a solidly built case.

So what did I get? Well, for one, you get a seriously scary villain, a really frightening set of tortures and a solidly built arc that will fascinate the reader.

Back that up with great characterisation, descent dialogue alongside cleverly designed devices and prose which will leave the reader satisfied with a Brit Flick Crime novel that will take some time to beat.

FANTASY REVIEW: Clockwork Vampires Chronicles 2: Soul Stealers - Andy Remic

Release Date: 07/10/10

BOOK BLURB:

THE CLOCKWORK VAMPIRES THIRST FOR BLOOD-OIL. The land of Falanor has fallen. On his way to recruit reinforcements to launch the counter-attack, the mighty hero Kell finds himself the prey of two beautiful but deadly vampire assassins. Their bronze fangs are coming for him.


REVIEW:

Andy is perhaps best known for his hardcore science fiction tales and recently has expanded into the realm of Fantasy with his last two titles. Whilst I had a number of problems with the first story, this second one feels like it fixed a number of the problems with the characters coming more into their own over being so similar to another authors. They grow, they claim a higher body count and their continual survival against the odds will appeal to readers who love the graphic combat that Andy is famed for. Add to the mix a good dollop of battlefield humour, a good handful of Howard’s style backed up with a stark descriptiveness and it’s a tale that gives Remic a firm footing within the genre. I look forward to seeing how he builds the next offering.

SCIENCE FICTION REVIEW: Damage Time - Colin Harvey

Release Date: 07/10/10

BOOK BLURB:

Rock-hard SF Thriller from the author of Winter Song: no-one here gets out alive.

It's 2050 and sea-levels have swamped today's coastal regions. New York City is protected by tidal barriers and the USA is bankrupt.

Detective Pervez (Pete) Shah serves with the NYPD's Web Crimes Division as a Memory Association Specialist. When he's accused of murdering a glamorous woman in a bar, he must find the killer, save himself … and the world.


REVIEW:

Having enjoyed Colin’s Winter Song, I was looking forward to seeing what would arrive next. After all, I enjoyed the build up, I enjoyed his characterisation and above all else, his character building was almost as extensive as his world.

Here, within this title, I got all of that and more as crime meets sci-fi head in this no holds barred offering. Back that up with a lead character that’s just as confused as we are which aids in building a link to the readers emotions alongside a beautifully written tale with great pace and you know that you have a tale that is 100% story with no added waffle that won’t let up from the beginning through to the end.

SCIENCE FICTION REVIEW: The Holy Machine - Chris Beckett

Release Date: 01/07/10

BOOK BLURB:

George Simling has grown up in the city state of Illyria in the Eastern Mediterranean, an enclave of logic and reason founded as a refuge from the Reaction, a wave of religious fundamentalism that swept away the nations of the 21st century. Yet to George, Illyria's militant rationalism is as close-minded and stifling as the faith-based superstition that dominates the world outside its walls. For George has fallen in love with Lucy. A prostitute. A robot. She might be a machine, but the semblance of life is perfect. And beneath her good looks and real human skin, her seductive, sultry, sluttish software is simmering on the edge of consciousness. To the city authorities, robot sentience is a malfunction, curable by periodically erasing and resetting silicon minds. Simple maintenance, no real problem, it's only a machine. But it's a problem for George; he knows that Lucy is something more. His only alternative is to flee Illyria, taking Lucy deep into the religious Outlands where she must pass as human because robots are seen as demonic mockeries of God, burned at the stake, dismembered, crucified. Their odyssey leads through betrayal, war and madness, ending only at the monastery of the Holy Machine...


REVIEW:

To be honest I really wasn’t sure what to expect from this debut offering by Chris Beckett. What unfurls however is a journey, not only over distance but one that is as much spiritual. It has a great principle character, an interesting take on a possible future and above all else a tale where emotional exploration is as key to the overall arc as the journey taken by the characters concerned. It’s definitely something a little different and whilst it is firmly within the remit of Science Fiction, it is a tale that will speak to a number of other genres such as romance. Definitely something new to try and one that I think you’ll be pleased you did.

SCIENCE FICTION REVIEW: Surface Detail - Iain M Banks

Release Date: 07/10/10

BOOK BLURB:

It begins in the realm of the Real, where matter still matters. It begins with a murder. And it will not end until the Culture has gone to war with death itself. Lededje Y'breq is one of the Intagliated, her marked body bearing witness to a family shame, her life belonging to a man whose lust for power is without limit. Prepared to risk everything for her freedom, her release, when it comes, is at a price, and to put things right she will need the help of the Culture. Benevolent, enlightened and almost infinitely resourceful though it may be, the Culture can only do so much for any individual. With the assistance of one of its most powerful - and arguably deranged - warships, Lededje finds herself heading into a combat zone not even sure which side the Culture is really on. A war - brutal, far-reaching - is already raging within the digital realms that store the souls of the dead, and it's about to erupt into reality. It started in the realm of the Real and that is where it will end. It will touch countless lives and affect entire civilizations, but at the centre of it all is a young woman whose need for revenge masks another motive altogether.


REVIEW:

Fan’s of Iain’s writing have been buzzing for some time about this new offering in his Culture series. What you get is a high octane, action packed adventure that also usually takes a different direction to the expectation of the reader.

What makes this title special is Iain’s attention to detail which really takes the reader to the bleak future of the authors imagination. Back that up with great characterisation, some seriously delightful dialogue and some prose that demonstrates the authors skill which will leave the reader more than happy.

I’ll eagerly await the next offering in this series which has, to date, provided some seriously fun science fiction escapism.

URBAN FANTASY REVIEW: Icarus Project 2: Shades of Night - Jackie Kessler, Caitlin Kittredge

Release Date: 01/07/10

BOOK BLURB:

When Jet and Iridium - best friends turned enemies - came together to bring down a supervillain, they inadvertently destroyed the secret Corp-Co transmitter, whose frequency kept the New Chicago's heroes of in-line - and sane. Now the city is plunged into chaos as these heroes are suddenly the biggest threat. Corp-Co brings in a new Squadron from India - but when heroes are tied into a system of sponsorship, only money, and not a sense of duty, can persuade them to save the day. As they haggle, Everyman sets out to destroy the powers with a group of enhanced super-soldiers, and the mysterious villain Doctor Hypnotic is lulling heroes and supervillains alike into his seductive web - a dream-world where everything is perfect, but nothing is real. Once again Jet and Iridium are forced to set aside their hatred of each other to do what they were born to do: save the world.


REVIEW:

If you loved your superhero tales as a child, then this grown up version from two of the hottest Team Seattle Urban Fantasy Authors really will keep you happy. It doesn’t pull any punches as romance, vengeance, larceny and the lines of heroism/villainy become blurred by the slant placed upon the cast by the media. Whilst I am more of a fan of Ennis’ The Boys type fiction this offering really does do what the genre a huge favour with its presentation. Beautifully written with two principle protagonista’s you really can’t get quite enough of backed up with great prose solid dialogue and women who know how to kick butt and its something that many will get a real blast out of.

HORROR REVIEW: Pan Book of Horror - Ed Herbert Van Thal

Release Date: 01/10/10

BOOK BLURB:

Fifty years ago Pan launched a series of books that were to delight and disgust - sometimes even on the same page - readers for thirty years. From classics in the genre to scraping-the-barrel nastiness, The Pan Books of Horror had them all and they continue to be a major influence in published anthologies to the present day. We're delighted, therefore, to announce the reissue of the very first Pan Book of Horror . Specially selected for Pan, here are 22 terrifying tales of horror by such famous authors as Peter Fleming, C. S. Forester, Bram Stoker, Angus Wilson, Noel Langley, Jack Finney and L. P. Hartley - stories of the uncanny jostle with tales of the macabre, stories of subtle beastliness - like 'Rasberry Jam'; of sickening horror - like 'The Fly' or 'His Beautiful Hands'; and of utter chilling terror - like 'The Horror of the Museum'! This is the perfect bedside book - for those with nerves of steel!


REVIEW:

Horror over the last few years has come on leaps and bounds so it’s a great shame when a title is re-released that sadly shows its age. This is the case with this offering from Pan originally released in 1959 which is more a book with a twist at the end of the short stories, which whilst by some of the names who made their name in horror, are sadly now no longer identifiable for the modern reader in situation or in character.

It was a brave move by Pan, it definitely had potential but the market has long since moved on with the readers tastes and demands having changed. A sad shame to be honest as I loved the nostalgic look of the cover which could bring back some nostalgic memories for your parents or grandparents.

FANTASY REVIEW: Warhammer Fantasy: Gotrek and Felix 12: Zombie Slayer - Nathan Long

Release Date:

BOOK BLURB:

Pursued by the dark forces of the necromancer Heinrich Kemmler, Gotrek and Felix arrive at Castle Reikgard, where they must hold out against the zombie hordes.The brutality of the siege is unremitting as wave after wave of horrific creatures, led by the undead champion Krell, attempt to take the walls. With supplies running low and morale sinking, the defenders begin to hear terriblewhispers and endure awful nightmares. Suspicion and paranoia run rampant within the castle walls, and the defence seems impossible. Somehow Gotrek and Felix must unite the forces of the Empire against Kemmler’s ever-growing legion until help arrives, or will the Slayer find his doom amidst the unrelenting undead?


REVIEW:

With the previous title leaving Gotrek and Felix on a cliffhanger, fans of this long established series have been not only chomping at the bit to get their hands on this new outing, but also, if rumours are to be believed, sent nasty groin chewing Snotling’s in the post to Nathan. Of all the titles in the series, this one, has perhaps, set the reader up for the highest expectations and whilst it is, in my opinion, the best, I see a lot of David Gemmell’s Legend within. It’s well written, the characters really pull together and whilst theres underlying themes within, it ties up pretty nicely by the tales end. A great offering from Nathan and one that I think will have Kemmler chasing the duo down in future adventures.

ART BOOK REVIEW: Bryan Hitch's Ultimate Comic Studio - Bryan Hitch

Release Date: 01/10/10

BOOK BLURB:

The world's top comic artist Bryan Hitch, explores his inspirations, approaches and techniques through a stunning collection of his finest pieces from Marvel, as well as brand new pieces commissioned especially for this book. Special highlights include step-by-step development sequences on some of the "Fantastic Four" scenes, and extended commentaries on some of his classic pieces from the "Ultimates". Packed with information, practical tips on panel composition, storytelling, tools and materials, inspiration and references, how to break into the industry and much more, this is the long awaited guide and a must-have for Bryan Hitch fans the world over. Including a foreword by writer, director and producer of "Buffy the Vampire Slayer", Joss Whedon, this is a veritable visual feast of dynamic, impactful art for comic fans all over the world.


REVIEW:

Whilst this isn’t strictly an aid to the craft of art, it’s a title that talks the reader through various things, lessons learned the hard way by this famed artist.

What this book does is take you through each stage to help the artist create somthingg special. Everything is dealt with using examples to back up the authors points, from story telling to actual composition.

Back that up with some drawing tips, how to ink and colour alongside how to deal with the business end such as getting your work seen by professionals and this title is fascinating. Add to this other tips such as how to build a portfolio as well as a work ethic and you know that it’s a tool that can help the comic artist in much the same way as the writers market helps new writers with tips on how to get further. The only downside to this title is that Bryan doesn’t believe in pulling his punches, some of the stuff that he says may hurt and force the reader to face reality but in real life don’t we all. Its great to have an honest look at a graphic world of the professional artist and whilst you may disagree with some of the advice, its what has worked for him and could help you to find the medium that also works for you.

SCIENCE FICTION REVIEW: Warhammer 40K: Sabbat Worlds Anthology - Dan Abnett, Aaron Dembski-Bowden, Graham McNeill and more

Release Date: 01/10/10

BOOK BLURB:

Across the Sabbat Worlds, a bitter conflict is fought, a conflict that can only end in victory or annihilation. The innumerable forces of the Archenemy attack without mercy, and planet after planet burns with the flames of war. Yet even amidst this nightmare, the Imperial Guard stand stoic against their foes. The Phantine Air Corps battle the enemies of mankind across burning skies, while the Gereon resistance tries to break the foothold of Chaos on their beleaguered world and the legendary Gaunt's Ghosts fight in the most violent and bloody of warzones. This anthology opens the gateway to the Sabbat Worlds like never before, featuring new stories from some of the Black Library's best-known authors including Dan Abnett, Graham McNeill, Aaron Dembski-Bowden and many more.


REVIEW:

A compendium of the Black Library’s finest authors who each write a tale based in Abnett’s 40K Sabbat Worlds. Featured within is the 2008 Games Day Gaunt’s Ghost story, a new battle of the Skies tale featuring the Apostle’s from Double Eagle alongside my personal favourite, Cell by Nik Vincent. It’s beautifully constructed and whilst fans are eagerly awaiting Salvations Reach in the Gaunt’s Ghost series it’s an ideal filler to help you get your fix and with the talent within serious value for money.

SCIENCE FICTION REVIEW: Caiphas Cain: Defender of the Imperium - Sandy Mitchell

Release Date: 01/10/10

BOOK BLURB:

The legendary Commissar Ciaphas Cain, lauded as one of the great heroes of the Imperium, finds himself thrust onto the battlefield again. Cain wants nothing more than to keep out of trouble and get to the other side of his commission in one piece, but the war-torn 41st millennium has other ideas. Confronted with the powers of Chaos and hordes of alien foes, our intrepid Commissar seeks to sidestep danger and talk his way out of trouble. Yet each time he survives his legend only grows, and his life is in ever-greater jeopardy - Defender of the Imperium contains the novels Death or Glory, Duty Calls and Cain's Last Stand, plus the short story Traitor's Gambit and a new introduction from author Sandy Mitchell.


REVIEW:

Fans of Sandy’s writing will be familiar with one of the Imperium’s greatest heroes, not because he’s a gene spliced super charged warrior but because he’s the common man, who fights to the last and, in effect perhaps the only popular member of the feared Commissar’s. What Sandy does well is bring to life a hero, who has his own fears and overcomes them with each offering. But unlike a lot of the other tales in the 40K world, Cain is the only one who really pokes fun at himself (along with his faithful servant Jurgen) as he struggles through each battle.

It is well written and with a principle character who charges into the fray to get out of it quicker, he is a hero that many a reader will love. Add to the mix that this is an omnibus collection of titles 4-6 with two additional short stories, you know that you’re getting a lot of adventure for your buck. Finally, with the next title in the series out soon (The Emperors Finest is out in November) it could be an ideal series to pick up for those long winter nights. Superb value and, if I’m honest, one of the 40K heroes that I really can’t wait to join in combat.

FANTASY AUDIO REVIEW: Warhammer Fantasy: Aenarion - Gav Thorpe

Release Date: 01/10/10

BOOK BLURB:

The Sword of Khaine resides upon the Blighted Isle, veiled in mystery and guarded by forces both living and dead. Despite the warnings, Aenarion rides out upon his dragon Indraugnir to seek the prize in order to save his homeland of Ulthuan. The journey is fraught with danger, and Aenarion must confront daemons, spirits and the elemental forces of nature itself if he is to succeed. But in drawing the blade from the Black Anvil, he will unleash the ancient and malevolent force that will tear the elven race apart…


REVIEW:

Fan’s of the Warhammer Pointy Eared ones will lap up this new audio CD as to be honest it’s action all the way as the Phoenix King carves his legend.

Told by Beth Chalmers, this tale is just the thing for long car journey’s or to raise the moral of the elven general prior to entering the combat of the fantasy battle table. Add to the mix atmospheric music, additional vocal talents to bring the vocals to life and you know that no expense has been spared to bring this offering to the fan, especially when some of the best Warhammer authors are drawn into the fray for the plot, in this case Gav Thorpe. Great stuff.

SCIENCE FICTION REVIEW: The Quantum Thief - Hannu Rajaniemi

Release Date: 30/09/10

BOOK BLURB:

Jean le Flambeur is a post-human criminal, mind burglar, confidence artist and trickster. His origins are shrouded in mystery, but his exploits are known throughout the Heterarchy - from breaking into the vast Zeusbrains of the Inner System to steal their thoughts, to stealing rare Earth antiques from the aristocrats of the Moving Cities of Mars. Except that Jean made one mistake. Now he is condemned to play endless variations of a game-theoretic riddle in the vast virtual jail of the Axelrod Archons - the Dilemma Prison - against countless copies of himself. Jean's routine of death, defection and cooperation is upset by the arrival of Mieli and her spidership, Perhonen. She offers him a chance to win back his freedom and the powers of his old self - in exchange for finishing the one heist he never quite managed ...The Quantum Thief is a dazzling hard SF novel set in the solar system of the far future - a heist novel peopled by bizarre post-humans but powered by very human motives of betrayal, revenge and jealousy. It is a stunning debut.


REVIEW:

Whilst I do tend to keep a very close eye on the Fantasy genre, there are times when an author of huge talent almost slips me by in the Science Fiction genre. What drew my attention to Hannu, was thankfully a recommendation from friend John Jarrold, an agent, well known for spotting alongside nurturing talent.

Hannu’s writing style is pretty unique as he blends what could be science fact skilfully with a mystery, a heist and above all else a cast of characters that you want to be around. They are fully rounded, each serves their own ideals alongside code of morals and they definitely add more to this offering than many other titles out there. The peaks and lulls of the author prose make this a title that you have to read and whilst there are quotes from notables within the genre, they really do not do this author justice to their own individual skill. It is definitely a title that I am backing to the hilt and one I think will soon be grasped by a bevy of awards and a whole host of readers demanding to know who this author is. Trust me, you won’t regret it.

THRILLER REVIEW: Worth Dying For - Lee Child

Release Date: 30/09/10

BOOK BLURB:

Has Jack Reacher finally met his match? 61 Hours ended with Reacher trapped in a desperate situation from which escape seemed impossible. Even for him. Was that really the end of the road for the maverick loner?


REVIEW:

Child is back with an explosive offering that will more than satisfy the many Reacher fans out there which picks up from where 61 hours left off. It’s got a key set up and one that when the touch paper is lit really is on a fast track to destruction for which the reader will have to hold onto. It’s beautifully constructed, it’s got great additional characters and Reacher is the type of hero that every reader wishes they could be at some point in their lives. A real gem of a title and one that clearly demonstrates why Lee is top of his game. Finally, each title in this series can be read as a standalone (except for this and 61 hours which have to be read together), but why waste the pleasure that each book can bring you. Start from the beginning and enjoy the Roller-Coaster series from start to finish. You won’t regret it.

GRAPHIC NOVEL REVIEW: Simon and Kirby Superheroes - Joe Simon and Jack Kirby

Release Date: 29/09/10

BOOK BLURB:

Simon and Kirby set the standard for costumed heroes with Blue Bolt and Captain America. This title introduces some of their most exciting characters: Fighting American, The Fly, Lancelor Strong and The Stuntman.


REVIEW:

Comic book aficionados have long held Simon and Kirby in great esteem and whilst their names have echoed in the hallowed halls of the mythic Superhero genre since the forties, a number of their titles have long been lost to the reader. Here, in this offering, Titan have not only located a number of these comic holy grail releases but brought them back for the modern reader beautifully restored to appear in this offering, even bringing in modern masters to colour some of the original black and whites to give the reader the ultimate experience.

It’s definitely an offering that will be worth purchasing for the graphic novel fan in your life as they not only get to see the ancestors of the modern interpretations but also visit the world that has had readers glued since it’s inception. Simon and Kirby, it has to be said were the first to amalgamate the worlds of serious storytelling with the action panels that brought the fans to the fold in the first place, setting themselves as the standard for others to follow becoming the archetype that has held sway ever since. In fact, I’d even go so far as to say that without Simon and Kirby the genre wouldn’t be what it is today as these pioneers brought many of the key ingredients that can still be seen years later.

To some this item may seem very expensive but when you learn that you’re getting titles that have not only been long out of print and presumed lost, but also the forebear’s of many of today’s heroes by the creator’s of Captain America (amongst many others including the original sandman that Gaiman would re-envision in the Eighties) leaves you know with a history book that your “fan” just can’t live without. Failing all else, the artwork mixed with the storytelling backed up with names to guarantee quality by will also provide inspiration for their own artwork and creativity, a serious title and one that will have pride and place in my own collection. A true gem and one that I’ll lay odds will soon be adorning the shelves of modern artists and storytellers in the comic industry. After all if they’re backing it, how can you not?

AUTOBIOGRAPHY: A Journey - Tony Blair

Release Date: 01/09/10

BOOK BLURB:

In 1997, Tony Blair won the biggest Labour victory in history to sweep the party to power and end eighteen years of Conservative government. He has been one of the most dynamic leaders of modern times; few British prime ministers have shaped the nation's course as profoundly as Blair during his ten years in power, and his achievements and his legacy will be debated for years to come. Now his memoirs reveal in intimate detail this unique political and personal journey, providing an insight into the man, the politician and the statesman, and charting successes, controversies and disappointments with an extraordinary candour. "A Journey" will prove essential and compulsive reading for anyone who wants to understand the complexities of our global world. As an account of the nature and uses of power, it will also have a readership that extends well beyond politics, to all those who want to understand the challenges of leadership today.


REVIEW:

Whilst you may not agree with the politics or choices that Tony Blair made during his time as Prime Minister, here the reader has the opportunity to get to into Blair’s mind and see how he ran the country from his point of view.

It’s well put together and to be honest I found it fascinating to read about things as they were developing at the time, which goes to prove that hindsight is a wonderful thing.

All in, it’s a title that will have people talking, a book that will explain modern historical points and above all else a novel that gives the read a clear view on how events can spiral out of control as well as seeing things without them being coloured or hidden by the media to influence the readers thoughts.

HORROR REVIEW: The Djinn - Graham Masterton

Release Date: 30/09/10

BOOK BLURB:

It had all begun with a curious investigation of an ancient Arabian jar and the strange legends of sorcery symbolized by it. Then legend and logic decide that the jar must be opened. The secret of the Djinn must be exposed to the light of reality...


REVIEW:

The second novel by Graham Masterton and his writing style was accomplished early on as there was no padding with the reader thrust straight to the heart of the tale. As I’d come to expect from Graham, the story was creepy and whilst Genies hadn’t done anything to me in the past, I found it to be quite horrific as the darker side of these creatures came to the fore.

My main gripe with this offering was the lack of character building from the author and whilst he goes to correct this later on in his writing was a complaint that I felt I should being to the fore here. You still get a great offering and a title that will impress but perhaps most of all you get to see a writer at the start of his career with a story that is still just as powerful nearly 40 years later.

THRILLER REVIEW: The Tenth Chamber - Glenn Cooper

Release Date: 16/09/10

BOOK BLURB:

Abbey of Ruac, rural France: A medieval script is discovered hidden behind an antique bookcase. Badly damaged, it is sent to Paris for restoration, and there literary historian Hugo Pineau begins to read the startling fourteenth-century text. Within its pages lies a fanciful tale of a painted cave and the secrets it contains - and a rudimentary map showing its position close to the abbey. Intrigued, Hugo enlists the help of archaeologist Luc Simard and the two men go exploring. When they discover a vast network of prehistoric caves, buried deep within the cliffs, they realise that they've stumbled across something extraordinary. And at the very core of the labyrinth lies the most astonishing chamber of all, just as the manuscript chronicled. Aware of the significance of their discovery, they set up camp with a team of experts, determined to bring their find to the world. But as they begin to unlock the ancient secrets the cavern holds, they find themselves at the centre of a dangerous game. One 'accidental' death leads to another. And it seems that someone will stop at nothing to protect the enigma of the tenth chamber...


REVIEW:

Whilst I do enjoy a piece of escapism in the Thriller titles you’re never sure what to expect. This one had excerpts from three various time periods which added to the mythos, however part of the problem with this book is that parts of it felt that they were added just for padding and really didn’t add to the overall story arc.

The characters are interesting, the plot intriguing and the concept within something that has a lot of merit for the reader but with a touch too much padding the reader can easily become distracted which for me was a shame.

HISTORICAL FICTION - Quest for Honour - Sam Barone

Release Date: 02/09/10

BOOK BLURB:

At the dawn of history, an epic war is about to begin in the deadly quest for honour. The city of Sumer, ruled by a brutal murderer and his vicious, power hungry sister, is poised to give birth to the mightiest empire in history. No one stands a chance as it brings a bloody war to all those who stand in its way, determined to crush and enslave those on its borders. The little city state of Akkad must prepare its fledgling nation to fight for its very survival. Akkad's warriors are a loyal and courageous brotherhood, but this is not a battle of villages or of roving warrior bands; it is a battle for Empire and a fight to the death...


REVIEW:

Fan’s of Barone really can’t get enough of his prehistory civlisation titles. Here, in this, his third outing, readers are treated to an all out bloody war to the death.

Add to this a touch of Howard’s heroic Cimmerian to the mix and you know that it’s going to be something special.

Whilst firmly in the historical fiction genre this is a book that will appeal to fans of fantasy and if you’re looking for something a little different or even a new series to occupy their time this year you really can’t go wrong with this one as it will more than impress with the authors writing style. Just don’t blame us if you get ignored from Christmas day onwards until completion.

GRAPHIC NOVEL REVIEW: Batman: Whatever Happened to the Caped Crusader - Neil Gaiman and Andy Kubert

Release Date: 27/08/10

BOOK BLURB:

New York Times Number 1 best-selling author Neil Gaiman takes on The Dark Knight! Neil Gaiman, co-creator of The Sandman and writer of The Graveyard Book , re-teams with his collaborator on Marvel's 1602, superstar artist Andy Kubert, to tell the story that delves into life, death and the afterlife, leaving no stone unturned and exploring every aspect of The Dark Knight's life and crime-fighting career. This tale parallels the classic Superman: Whatever Happened to the Man of Tomorrow? epic, written by Alan Moore.


REVIEW:

Gaiman is often said to be a man who takes a tale a new route to the previously expected offerings. Yet here in this one about Gotham’s crime fighting hero you get a story that’s more of a backtale (or bat tale if you prefer) that pays homage to the various incarnations of Batman alongside the Villains he fought. It’s definitely something that’s a tribute to all that’s gone before and with the beautiful artwork of Andy Kubert to back each panel up you know that it’s a story that will add to the rich history of what has gone before. Definitely a tale that is more nostalgic than anything else and one that fans will love especially with a number of references that those old enough to remember the TV series will love make this a story that will endear itself hopefully to new readers in this beautifully scripted offering.

DEJA REVIEW

Hail Mighty Readers,
Here's this months round up of previously reviewed titles that have either been released in PB format or have undergone new binding/artwork. (Covers in review may differ from current incarnation.)

This month you'll find:
Souless - Gail Carriger
Mr Shivers - Robert Jackson Bennett

Hopefully you'll find this feature of use,


Gareth

POETRY BOOK REVIEW: Werewolf Haiku - Ryan Mecum

Release Date: 24/09/10

BOOK BLURB:

These pages contain the heartbreaking story of a repressed man who slowly loses control of his inner beast after he's bitten by a werewolf. As he wrestles with the monster inside, he chronicles his feelings and urges in a haiku journal. The resulting poems are gross, strange, dark and hilarious. Together, they tell the story of a mailman who is in love with a woman on his route, but has never had the courage to tell her. As the beast comes out, wreaking havoc on his life, the man learns that his werewolf side might actually be able to help him in his quest for love.


REVIEW:

Having read the previous titles by this author (Zombie Haiku and Vampire Haiku) I knew pretty much what I was getting. The poetry is apt for the supernatural reader and is something to buy the intellectual Loup Garou about town. It’s quirky, it’s funny and to be honest, I had a blast reading it (although perhaps a Silver Bullet might have be worth having to hand if a number of these Haiku’s seem awfully familiar. LOL) Great stuff.

URBAN FANTASY REVIEW: The Unit - Terry DeHart

Release Date: 01/07/10

BOOK BLURB:

Jerry Sharpe is an ex-marine and, for him, survival means protecting his family by any means necessary. Susan is learning just how far a mother will go for her children. But how far will she go for a man she doubted before the bombs fell? As Jerry's training and instincts take over, she is certain of one thing - her children need her. Melanie was going to go to college. Now, she is struggling to find a way to live in a world gone mad without losing sight of what she believes in. Scotty has a new mission - more than survival. He was saved, and he'll be damned if he won't fight for what's right. And Bill - Bill was locked up, but the power went out and the guards left. Now he and his fellow inmates have realised that everything is free for the taking ...if you're strong enough to hold on to it.


REVIEW:

To be honest not a tale that really did much for me as I really didn’t like the group of people that we followed in this offering. It is well written, the concept pretty standard and topped off with some acceptable dialogue but without characters that I really care about, it was a tale that I felt I could have done without.

Not that Terry isn’t a good author. What is done with the cast is acceptable and felt more like a film script than a tale but for me it just didn’t scratch that itch that I expect to be satisfied with a tale that the book blurb promised. Although I was a tad upset with this title I will keep an eye out for this authors future work but I think I’ll be avoiding this apocalyptic world for the time being.

NEWS: RIP Jennifer Rardin

It's with great regret and sadness that we have to let you know that friend of the blog and talented author Jennifer Rardin passed on Monday, September 20th.

Plans are still set to publish the 7th Jaz Park novel in November with teh final book (already completed) set for publication in June 2011.

Our thoughts are with her family, of whom, she always had a wry smile and cheeky anecdote to share.

SCIENCE FICTION REVIEW: Nova War 3: Empire of Light - Gary Gibson

Release Date: 02/07/10

BOOK BLURB:

The nova war has begun to spread as the Emissaries wage a fierce and reckless campaign, encroaching on the area of space occupied by humanity and forcing the Shoal into a desperate retreat. While Dakota goes in search of the entity responsible for creating the Maker caches, Corso, left in charge of a fleet of human-piloted Magi ships, finds his authority crumbling in the face of assassination attempts and politically-motivated sabotage. If any hope exists at all, it lies in an abandoned asteroid a thousand light-years beyond the Consortium's borders, and with Ty Whitecloud, the only man alive with the skill to decipher the messages left behind by an ancient race of star travellers. Unfortunately Whitecloud is locked in a prison cell aboard a dying coreship adrift in space, awaiting execution for war crimes against Corso's own people. But if humanity has any hope of survival, Corso is going to have to find some way to keep him alive - and that's only if Dakota doesn't kill him first...


REVIEW:

Gary, for me, has always been an author who has taken new directions and provides the reader with the unexpected. Here, within the third part of the Nova War series, is a title that takes the reader not only into the unknown but does it with bags of talent. Beautifully written with a great story arc, colourful characters and a talent to tie threads together in a minimalist way that just screams of the sheer talent within alongside an overall sensational round up to help give the series a rounded feel. Finally back all that up with great pace, some memorable villains but perhaps most of all with a scope that is nearly as big within the pages as the universe itself and you know that you’ve had a really satisfactory read. Great stuff.

SCIENCE FICTION REVIEW: Twisted Metal 2: Blood and Iron - Tony Ballantyne

Release Date: 02/07/10

BOOK BLURB:

Appointed Commander of the Emperor's Army of Sangrel, Wa-Ka-Mo-Do of Ko tries to establish relations between the existing robot population and the humans who have recently arrived on Yukawa. On the continent of Shull, Kavan forms the Uncertain Army and is marching to Artemis City. Upon discovery that the city's generals have made an alliance with the humans, he retreats to Stark where he plans the eventual overthrow of Artemis and the humans. Meanwhile, Karel is heading South, hoping to be reunited with Susan, his wife. As he walks, he hears more of the stories of the robots, and begins to understand something about his place on the world of Penrose. But with limited resources and tensions growing between robot and human it's only a matter of time before problems arise. And it's becoming more and more apparent that the humans are a lot more powerful than the robots first expected...


REVIEW:

Science Fiction tales often have to break the mould and present the reader with something new. You definitely get that with Tony Ballantyne. With this offering Tony brings the second tale from the Penrose series to the fore and ups the anti with every passing page. The characters have human traits whilst still retaining their metal forms backed up with an overall arc that is really breathtaking. A real treat and one that I hope to enjoy again shortly. One word of advice is to reread the original offering, Twisted Metal, prior to starting the second. I failed to do this and was confused for a little bit until I reread the original and had a lot more fun with this second book.

FACTUAL REVIEW: Leadership Secrets of Genghis Khan - John Man

Release Date: 08/07/10

BOOK BLURB:

Genghis Khan has a very strong claim to be the greatest leader the world has ever seen. As a teenager he was an outcast fleeing enemies on a mountain in northern Mongolia, an exile, a nobody. Yet it took only twenty years for Genghis to build the largest land empire in history - four times the size of Alexander's, twice the size of Rome's. How did he do it? What lessons does his life reveal about the nature of leadership? What is 'greatness' in leadership?What traits did Genghis possess exactly? Were they unique, or might some apply in other times and other places - even here and today? In Leadership Secrets of Genghis Khan , John Man re-examines the life of Genghis Khan to discover the qualities, characteristics and strategies that made him the great leader that he was. The answers are sometimes surprising. Genghis was far from just the tyrant that history records, but rather a leader of exceptional vision and modernity. And many of the secrets of his success are as valuable and applicable in today's competitive business world as they were in rallying the Mongol hordes.


REVIEW:

Whilst the title of this book may seem a bit of a joke, the subject matter is fascinating and has practical uses for the modern businessman. (Not that we’re saying you should rampage across Europe and making about 2 Million people your personal descendents in approximately 800 years.) Through the use of modern analyses, the author looks at traits that made Genghis the man he was against the backdrop of the modern world alongside practices that led to people being promoted through talent rather than birth.

It’s well thought out, it has great lessons and above all else it goes to show that solid foundations can make an empire. An ideal gift for the business minded reader.