Lenni Reviews: "The Thirteenth Man" by J.L. Doty

(Image Source)

*I received this book in exchange for an honest review.

When Charlie Cass - the unacknowledged son of a duke - is freed from a POW camp, he returns to find a kingdom on the cusp of war. The dukes are plotting against one another and the king and now with the presumed dead Charlie back in the picture, they fear he will interfere with their plans. But Charlie refuses to go down without a fight.

I'm not usually a fan of military sci-fi but I honestly have to say this was the characters that kept me interested in this book. Charlie is a compelling, sensible character who is smart enough to surround himself with competent, loyal, and colorful people. Especially the prostitutes. They made me laugh. The techno jargon and political dancing were a little much but I just let it wash over me until the cool stuff started happening again. All that posturing and double meaning give me a headache. It's why I could never be a politician...

As this book was filled with all these thrilling space battles and has a satisfying conclusion to the main conflict, I felt the epilogue deflated everything; especially after such a climactic ending. I honestly can't think of another way to mend all those plot threads together without adding a few hundred pages to the book so I'll let the exposition dump slide. For unexpectedly entertaining me despite being out of my usual tastes, I give this a 3.7 out of 5.

For more reviews, check out Lenni's blog: Haunting Hypatia.

Mastering Manga 3 Power Up Review

Expert manga artist Mark Crilley guides you to another level with this powered-up drawing book. Complete your Crilley collection with this third installation, which elevates the instruction to focus on drawing methods to help you create distinctive and detailed professional-level manga art. Through 40 in-depth step-by-step demonstrations not covered in other Mastering Manga books, Mark reveals his secrets for adding color, how to draw manga-style.

Mastering Manga 3 is an impressive step to step guide on the basic fundamentals on different drawing styles of Manga. Unlike many how to draw Manga books, Mark Crilley shows step to step examples on how to draw particular eyes, poses and much more. Crilley does a great job of explaining the different styles of Manga drawings that readers are accustomed too. Mark Crilley explains different drawing styles such as Shojo Cuteness, Shojo Elegance, Dark Fantasy, Shonen Realism and many more. Each style is shown thoroughly explaining a little bit of the history or perception of each style then gives you a basic overview of how to start the style. Mark starts off with explaining the shape, the eyes and even given detail angles to which the style should be done. Is the book beginner friendly it depends on the level you’re at to be honest. I can’t draw if my life depended on it and found the explanation and steps to be a nice guideline to even do some of the basic shapes. One thing that I like about this book is that Mark touches on the topic of clothing and accessories. He explains how to draw armor, how certain style of clothing helps and panel. This is a very informative book for a 65 page book. Examples are shown in detail and easy to follow. If you’re interested in drawing Manga this might be one you might want to check out.

Lenni Reviews: "The Deadbringer" by E. M. Markoff

(Image Source)

Kira Vidal is a Deadbringer, possessing the ability to summon souls and raise the dead. Likely the last of his kind, this fifteen year old boy hides his abilities while living with his uncle. In order to live in peace, he has to keep out of reach of the Ascendancy and their elite soldiers called the Sanctifiers; who are charged with the mission of killing all Deadbringers. When a stranger shows up at their door asking for help, Kira's secret is exposed and he must protect his uncle while learning the truth behind his powers.

The world-building done in this novel is accomplished by dumping you in and wishing you luck yet at the same time it's immersive enough for you to get lost in it. There are a lot of interesting and distinct characters and while some may fall into typical fantasy tropes (like the mysterious counsel of evil hidden in shadow, climactic battle at a wall with ground troops, horned people, etc...), they all managed to get into my head clearly so I stayed interested throughout the entire book. At times the conversations lagged or got bogged down in WAY more complicated words than necessary; the narrative meandered off on occasion but once the story centered on Kira and his journey, this novel shined. Even with the cliffhanger ending (Arrgh! Where's the next one!!!), I ended this book feeling like I had a good time. As a fan of dark fantasy, I give this story a 3.5 out of 5.

Lenni Reviews: "Iron Goddess" by Dharma Kelleher

(Image Source)

*I received this book in exchange for an honest review.

Reformed ex-con Shea Stevens has left a family history of crime behind her. Now the owner of Iron Goddess bike shop, Shea is content to build custom bikes, run her business, and enjoy her new relationship with her girlfriend. Things get complicated when not only is her shop robbed; an employee is shot, and her sister, Wendy, shows up after a decade of estrangement begging for help because her daughter has been kidnapped. Old ties come back to cause Shea much more trouble than just a couple stolen bikes.

I gotta say, this book was badass. There are straight, gay, and trans characters and they are people first. Their gender or sexuality are not used as tools to advance the plot, it is simply part of who they are as a complete character; not sterotypes at all.

Even though the motorcycle gangs were over the top with their racism, sexism, and at times an overt lack of logic, I'm not going to claim any knowledge of gang culture to call the book out on its portrayal of them. Overall, Shea was a believable character making the best of a shitty situation and everything works out as best she can manage without getting killed. A non-stop ride from start to finish, I give this book a 4 out of 5.

For more of Lenni's writing, check out Haunting Hypatia.

Lenni Reviews: "Like Heaven on Earth" by Jaime Samms

(Image Source)

*I received this book in exchange for an honest review and is rated 18+.

Cobolt Winslow is involved in an unhealthy, long-distance relationship with Calvin Denvers. Calvin infected Cobolt with HIV, which cost Cobolt his dancing career in their ballet company as his body became too weak to put up with such strenuous activity. The only stable person Cobolt has come to rely on Malory Preston; a driver who works for Cobolt's brother, Azure. As his health takes a turn for the better, Calvin comes back into the picture and Cobolt is faced with choosing between dancing and his growing attraction to Preston.

I cannot go any further without mentioning the naming conventions in this book. Yes, they are a little odd (at least for me) because it was like reading characters from a fantasy novel but this isn't fantasy. I did get used to it as the book went on.

The relationship between Cobolt and Preston works and makes sense the way those characters are written; even if there are times where I felt Cobolt needed a swat of sense on the back of his head. If a character can frustrate you, he/she is well written.

Other than that, this book is short, sweet, sultry when it needs to be, but standard. Cobolt and Calvin's HIV status is handled with maturity and not used as a crutch or a lame gimmick to make the characters act a certain way. The dancing was immersively written and the subtle nuances of stage culture were there but not as dark as something like Black Swan. I enjoyed it and by the end I was cheering for Cobolt but - and it's likely my personal bias here - the attempts to make Calvin a sympathetic character failed miserably. It would take MUCH more than 204 pages for an abusive cheater to redeem himself in my eyes but this is certainly not the book's fault. I'm betting since this is the third in the "Dance, Love, Live" series (and yes, this novel can totally stand on it's own), I'm sure Calvin has or will get an entire book to himself to work out his issues. As for this book, a happy 3.5 out of 5.

Skinit Custom PS4 Skin Review

I check out the Skinit PS4 Custom Skins which is avaialbe at Skinit.com If you like custom skins for tablets, phones, laptops etc this is something you might want to check out. For more details check out the review below. 

Lenni Reviews: "Relative Best" by Pat Henshaw

(Image Source)

*I received this book in exchange for an honest review.

Zeke Bandy believes life's too busy for love. He runs a historical hotel and sings two nights a week at a local saloon. Vic Longbow is in town involved in opening a branch of a brokerage firm and looking for some photos of his Native American ancestor. When they meet, Zeke and Vic discover they have a lot in common and friendship becomes more than they are prepared for.

I wanted to like this more but this was a pretty bland little story. Characters are tossed at you without enough detail so aside for out main beaus, you don't get to know anyone. As a result, the drama in the book falls flat since they're all strangers. Also, this is a pretty tame m/m romance. Other than hold each other and kiss, Zeke and Vic have a PG-13 relationship; so if that's what you're after with this book, you will be disappointed.

This is the 5th in a series of books from A Foothills Pride series and I don't know if this story is better or worse than the others but it can be read as a standalone novella. At only 80 pages it's wobbly on it's own feet, but perhaps this premise would benefit from a longer book. As it is, the whole thing meanders to the conclusion without any real impact. I give it a 2.7 out of 5 for it's competency as a written work even if it was flat.

Want more? See Lenni's blog Haunting Hypatia.

This Week's Comic Book Picks (Week August 17th 2016)

Comics Books are released every Wednesday to the public to purchase and buy. There are so many comic book companies we can't review every single book that comes out. Starting today I will be giving you my top picks each week of comics that you should check out. 

IMAGE Comics

Demonic #1

Description: SERIES PREMIERE! Detective Scott Graves will do anything to protect his family… even bargain away his soul. Now, the only thing to fear isn’t New York’s worst criminals, but what's already raging inside of him. After all, what's the cost of your soul when it's already damaged? 

Mini Review: Demonic #1 is the standout book from Image Comics this week. Story by Christopher Sebela and artwork by Niko Walter and Dan Brown. This story griped me from the beginning with it's gritty artwork and compelling main lead in Scott Graves. Scott is not in the best state of mind. He had a terrible childhood which was hinted at but not explained. His daughter is dying and he is keeping secrets. However the most compelling aspect of his story is that he has a demonic entity that has been attached to him since he was kid. This demon has been watching Scott and waiting for the best moment to strike. This demon wants Scott and offers something that he might not be able to refuse. I like the realism of the demon and how seductive and cunning it is. The relationship of Scott and this demon will have you hook to see if Scott can defeat the beast within. 4.5 out of 5.

IDW Publishing

Powerpuff Girls #2

Description: A hotshot movie director claims that his new movie is so scary, even THE POWERPUFF GIRLS will be too chicken to watch it! Never ones to back down from a challenge, fall into his trap! Using his “movie magic,” he’ll turn the girls into actual chickens so he’ll be free to enact his evil plans! Can the ChickenPuff Girls save the day?!

Mini Review: The Powerpuff Girls #2 is fun for all ages. Parents this is a comic series for your kids to enjoy. The art is work is spot on with the look and feel of the original television show. The writing and dialogue can be a little cheesy and can fall a little flat with it's pop culture references.  However issue #2 has a great lesson for kids about peer pressure and not doing something because of pride. The girls are in fear of the city calling them chicken because they don't want to see a horror movie. Not to be viewed the superheroes who are afraid of something they take the challenge of seeing the film. They end up being part of master scheme by the one who offered them the challenge. The guys motivation is completely silly and makes no sense but for the kids it will be hilarious. 4 out 5 Stars.

Dark Horse Comics

Briggs Land #1

Description: Briggs Land, nearly a hundred square miles of rural wilderness, contains the largest anti government secessionist movement in the United States. When matriarch Grace Briggs wrests control of the operation from her incarcerated husband, she sparks a war within the community—and her immediate family—that threatens to bring the full power of the federal government down on their heads.

Mini Review: Briggs Land is Dark Horse Comics standout book this week. If there is any book to put on your must buy list it's this one. Briggs Land #1 introduces a compelling world of Grace Briggs and she is seeking control of her husband Jim Briggs empire. Jim is locked up in prison for life for an assassination attempt. However Jim still operates the land from prison.  Grace finally fed up with her husband and his lifestyle decides she will start making changes to Briggs Land. For the sake of spoilers I won't go into further details about the plot. Briggs Land #1 setups of this world very nicely. Each member of the Briggs family gets time to get their characters a solid introduction. The relationship between Grace and her family is very fun to read and the ending has me waiting for the next issue. Briggs Land has great artwork and coloring and a compelling story. 4.5 out of 5 Stars.

Marvel Comics

Civil War II: The Fallen #1

Description: s a giant falls, friends and enemies alike gather to mourn his passing. Amadeus Cho, Rick Jones, Betty Ross, Thunderbolt Ross, the Warbound and more. Can they all keep a level head - or will some of them get ANGRY? Plus, what secrets lie in the Last Will and Testament of Bruce Banner?

Mini Review: Out of all the books from Marvel this week Civil War: The Fallen #1 is the standout book. This book packs an emotional punch as we see the Marvel Universe (well most of them) mourning the lost of The Hulk from the actions of Hawkeye. The Fallen #1 has beautiful art work that really brings out the tone and emotion set out to the reader. Seeing how everyone close to Bruce Banner/The Hulk reacts to his death was a treat. Betty reaction, Tony Stark Reaction and the entire Hulk family are spot one. This is an emotional book and will string at the heart for some Hulk fans. Bruce last message his touching and humorous at the same time. Marvel fans this one is the one to put in the shopping bag. 4.5/5 Stars.

DC Comics

Suicide Squad Rebirth #1

Description: “The Black Vault” part one! When a mysterious and definitely super-important cosmic item falls out of the heavens and into enemy hands, America has only one option: Task Force X, Amanda Waller’s strike team of incarcerated super-criminals. A one-stop-shop for plausibly deniable espionage and ultra- violence, this “Suicide Squad” only handles missions they’re not expected to survive. An insane new era of SUICIDE SQUAD begins here with superstar artist Jim Lee and red-hot writer Rob Williams (UNFOLLOW, MARTIAN MANHUNTER).

Mini Review: While some of the DC arcs like Batman are wrapping up. New arcs such as Suicide Squad, Supergirl and Birds of Prey are just beginning. Out of the three new additions to the Rebirth line I found Suicide Squad the most enjoyable. The new rebirth doesn't really add anything you don't already know about the squad and we don't get much of a backstory except for Deadshot. However the art work by Jim Lee is spot on and once again beautiful to see. There are some chuckle moments with Harley but otherwise nothing really new under the sun. 3.5/5 Stars

DC Comics

Lenni Reviews: "Ten Count" volume 1 by Rihito Takarai

(Image Source)

*I received this book in exchange for an honest review.

Tadaomi Shirotani works as a secretary for a CEO while suffering from germophobia and obsessive-compulsive disorder. One day, his boss is nearly hit by a truck and a young man named Riku Kurose; who is a therapist, saves the man from being killed. Kurose notices Shirotani's condition and offers to help him work through it. Kurose has Shirotani make a list of 10 things to get over in order of discomfort from least to most. Shirotani is only able to come up with 9. They make a deal to meet regularly to work through the list then Shirotani will come up with that 10th item, but he finds he develops more than just a friendly attraction to Kurose.

Unlike a lot of yaoi manga with an M rating, this first volume is very innocent. Our two main characters meet, get to know each other, and slowly build what will likely be a deeper relationship. There's an author's note in the back expressing concern that readers will be disappointed with the leisurely pace but I like it. The art is beautiful, the writing on point, and I think I would like to see Shirotani and Kurose take their time so I can enjoy their story. 4.5 out of 5.

For more of Lenni's writing and reviews, head over to Haunting Hypatia.

Lenni Reviews: "The Devouring God" by James Kendley

(Image Source)

**This book was sent to me in exchange for an honest review.**

Ghost hunters Takuda, Mori, and Suzuki are sent to investigate some mysterious and disturbing calls made to a local mental health facility. As the case goes on, they notice the clues come to them way too easy. Bodies start piling up all leading to a mysterious and evil artifact.

This book does a great job setting an atmosphere of tension and mystery. The writing is competent enough to give you a real sense of Japan (in 1993). It was intriguing to see the characters change the longer they do this treacherous job; as if corrupted by the very evil they are hunting. Our three main characters work off of each other well in a delicate balance of annoyance and loyalty. Endo - the villain - talks like The Architect from The Matrix; pontificating in a way that even makes other characters snap at him to get to the point. I gotta say, Endo is MUCH less annoying and makes WAY more sense than The Architect so it wasn't completely painful to read his little speeches.

On the whole, this book is written well enough that I didn't feel I was missing information from the first book in this series. The ending is left quite obviously open for a new story so while the immediate problem was solved; you're left curiously unsatisfied. The over-arching evil is still out there. If I come across the next one, I'm intrigued enough to want to pick it up as this one was an enjoyable, supernatural horror. 4.5 out of 5.

For more reviews, check out Haunting Hypatia.