RECENT REVIEWS & ENDORSEMENTS
Everyday Enchantments
Maria F. DeBlassie
Maria DeBlassie and I have never met, but after reading her new book Everyday Enchantments, I think it might have been written just for me.
From the very first page, Maira DeBleassie’s words drew me in. I was not familiar with her before. I found this book as an advanced reader offering and selected simply because of the title. By page 4, I was already typing her name in Google. Who is this woman? Why have I not seen her words until now?
Full Review at:
http://www.sherrireads.com/2018/11/everyday-enchantments-book-review.html ~ Sherri Martin , Sherri Reads
Malaise, The
David Turton
A fascinating, atmospheric and enthralling book that keeps you hooked til the last page.
I loved this dystopian novel, well written and full of well developed and interesting characters.
There is a lot of darkness but there's also hope.
The ending is open and I hope this is going to be a series with further instalment.
Recommended! ~ Anna Maria Giacomasso , NetGalley
Don't Doubt the Magic!
Cathie Devitt
'Don't Doubt the Magic' is an engaging novella. I love that Devitt calls this trilogy 'literary tapas', because novellas are perfect for that. The form of the book lends well to Devitt's writing, and Bernice O'Hanlon's story in particular. The energy of the story moves well, even through the darker bits, and keeps the reader from feeling caught. The only issue I have is that it feels magically kitschy, which may appeal more to some readers than others, or even some moods over others. Not a bad thing, but not something I enjoyed personally. However, I would like to read the other two novellas to see how the rest of Bernice O'Hanlon's story plays out, and how Devitt shares this same narrative across three novellas. Will it feel like a book cut into three pieces, or will it feel like a complete series? Will report back! ~ Lakin Starwing, NetGalley
Divine Meditations: 26 Spiritual Qualities of the Bhagavad Gita
Jenny Light
A great introduction to some of the most important Buddhist meditations. I'll be recommending this one.
~ Adam Di Filippe, NetGalley
Fear of the Fathers
Dominic C. James
This is just a test ~ Chris, SR
You Are Not Your Thoughts
Frances Trussell
It’s a handy book for those who really want to find good ways to ease into practices that are scientifically shown to be good for you.
Full Review https://bw-reviews.com/2018/10/29/book-review-you-are-not-your-thoughts-the-secret-magic-of-mindfulness-by-frances-trussell/
~ Caidyn Young, Bw Reviews
Haunted: Horror of Haverfordwest
G.L. Davies
I don't want to give away anymore than I feel I should as I believe the reader should experience what the couple does first hand. This story gave me chills while reading it and chills as I thought about it as I walked my own house at night. ~ Lisa Campbell, NetGalley- Haunted: Horror of Haverfordwest
G.L. Davies
I enjoyed this one. This was a perfect book for October. This is the story of two sets of couples who lived in the same house at different times. The couples both experienced different unusual circumstances while they lived in this house. The house had also been the scene of numerous move ins and move outs over the years. It had also simply been abandoned a few times. Several people that had previously lived at the house claimed it was haunted. I appreciate the author giving a list of reasons why these events could happen. Many of his theories have nothing to do with the paranormal. This to me made the author a reliable witness. I would like to thank the occupants of the house for sharing their stories with us. I am left to wonder how many more people have lived there since. I am also curious if the house still stands and is currently occupied. ~ Tia Dalley , NetGalley 
All Things are Nothing to Me
Jacob Blumenfeld
Stirner argued that thoughts can and should be violently appropriated and made our own, if they are to be of any use. This is what Jacob Blumenfeld does in this book: provide an interpretation of Stirner’s philosophy that can make it truly our own. In doing so, not only does he illuminate neglected aspects of Stirner’s philosophy, but, most importantly, make it breath and palpitate for our times. ~ Chiara Bottici, New School for Social Reseach
Senator's Assignment, The
Joan E. Histon
If you know anything about this turbulent period of Roman history then the names Pontius Pilate, Sejanus and Emperor Tiberius will give you a clue that anyone getting involved with them is probably entering dangerous waters (and I don’t mean the ones across to the Isle of Capri). So it turns out for Senator Vivius Marcianus – and those close to him – when he’s tasked with an assignment notable for the vagueness of its instructions and the fact it will take him to a hotbed of civil and political unrest – Roman occupied Jerusalem.
The author does a great job of conjuring up the sights, sounds and smells of Jerusalem’s teeming streets and market places. Our hero, Vivius, is plunged into a world awash with personal and political rivalries, intrigue, corruption, the casual use of violence and cruel punishments. Furthermore, the sectarian infighting is not confined to the upper reaches of the Roman Empire but is evident in Jerusalem as well with religious sects such as the Zealots and the Nazarenes pursuing competing strategies. (Those familiar with the film ‘The Life of Brian’ may find their thoughts straying to the scenes featuring the People’s Front of Judea and the Judean People’s Front.)
Meanwhile back in Rome, Vivius’s bride-to-be, Aurelia, finds herself drawn into similarly dangerous political intrigues and shows herself to be a suitably courageous and intrepid partner.
As Vivius attempts to carry out his assignment, he encounters threats, stonewalling and distraction techniques of a more subtle nature designed to undermine his investigation. However, on the principle that ‘my enemy’s enemy is my friend’, Vivius finds unlikely allies as he seeks to reveal the truth and bring the guilty parties to justice. I was definitely rooting for him and his companions by this point. What Vivius uncovers will have repercussions at the highest level of the Roman Empire.
The Senator’s Assignment is a really enjoyable historical mystery set in a period of Roman history rife with political intrigue that makes the perfect backdrop for its clever, well-constructed plot.
I received an advance review copy courtesy of publishers, Top Hat Books, and Random Things Tours.
https://whatcathyreadnext.wordpress.com/2018/10/25/blog-tour-book-review-the-senators-assignment-by-joan-e-histon/
~ Cathy Johnson, What Cathy Read Next- Senator's Assignment, The
Joan E. Histon
A very interesting and different read. Well researched it is an excellent read for lovers of historical fiction ~ Greta Halliday, NetGalley 
Anne of Cleves
Sarah-Beth Watkins
Sarah-Beth Watkins has a knack for writing meticulously researched accounts of the lives of those who have been neglected by most historians to some extent, and as I thoroughly enjoyed her portrayal of the life and times of Margaret Tudor published at the end of last year, I knew I would appreciate this too. Despite being non-fiction, what really sets this author apart from the rest is that she makes an often dry topic seem exciting and accessible. It almost reads as easily as a fiction novel. I couldn't think of anything worse - being the unwanted wife to a king who was renowned for his fiery, temperamental personality, and I am certainly glad that she has not been forgotten by every historian, so kudos to Watkins for bringing this maligned queen to the forefront. What is crystal clear is that Anne of Cleves was an interesting character, a strong woman and someone who had the depth and intelligence to make sure to remain in favour with Henry VIII, albeit as his "beloved sister", to maintain her position of wealth and power. Brief, interesting and a worthwhile addition to any history buffs bookshelf, this was an informative read. I look forward to enjoying some more of Sarah-Beth Watkins' books in the future! ~ Lou, readers-retreats- Haunted: Horror of Haverfordwest
G.L. Davies
I liked the way the story was set out and really got a sense of the terror experienced by Dai and Anne.
Whether you are a believer in the paranormal or not, this book is well worth a read. 5/5 ~ Melanie L, Reviewer, Netgalley - Haunted: Horror of Haverfordwest
G.L. Davies
Haunted: Horror of Haverfordwest by G.L. Davies in not for the faint of heart! Which I clearly am!
This book is a true horror story where things REALLY did go bump in the night. Haunted is the prequel to author G.L. Davies' own experiences in a house in Haverfordwest, Wales in which he stayed and almost died in. His first book A Most Haunted House came out in 2013 and was an e-book bestseller which chronicles his paranormal experiences, depression and drinking problem while living there.
After his book began to get noticed, a couple contacted him and said they had bought and lived in the same house back in 1989 and had similar experiences which nearly broke them up. After getting approval from the current owner of the house who does not actually live there, but rents it out, and under the condition that the house and street would never be divulged, Davies confirmed the information of the couple only known as Dai and Anne, and their ownership of the house in the '80's. This is their story.
Their experiences in the house range from a bathroom which was so cold you could see your breath, to noises coming from different rooms which would leave one to believe there were other people in the house. There is a tall shadowy figure who seems to border on demonic who they call "The Angry Man". Their radio and TV become filled with static for no reason and voices seem to be heard when the radio has this static. There are also visions Anne has of people who they believe to have lived in the house centuries prior and are trapped there.
I don't want to give away any more than I feel I should as I believe the reader should experience what the couple does first hand. This story gave me chills while reading it and chills as I thought about it as I walked my own house at night.
Haunted: Horror of Haverfordwest is just plain creepy! You have been forewarned! The book comes out December 1 4/5 ~ Lisa C, Netgalley - Haunted: Horror of Haverfordwest
G.L. Davies
The book is very atmospheric, builds at an excellent - as well as suspenseful - pace with Davis knowing when to step back and let his interviewees do the talking. I found myself unexpectedly invested in Dai and Anne's story in particular as their personalities shone through in the transcript formatting, both coming across as relatable, likeable, although not really credible outside of a fictional setting.
Their account of the goings on at the house is enough to put a chill down the spines of most horror fans, there is some deeply disturbing and upsetting imagery throughout. There was more than enough here to make me deeply regret not reading it during the day. 4/5 ~ Kat M, Bookseller, Netgalley - Haunted: Horror of Haverfordwest
G.L. Davies
The book is presented in the form of an interview with the couple who have lived in the haunted house, giving a sense of immediacy as everything comes directly from them. There’s a large section at the back dealing with possible explanations that I think a lot of people would find fascinating. The story itself, though, really stayed with me. Spooky stuff. 4/5 ~ Tara O, Netgalley - Haunted: Horror of Haverfordwest
G.L. Davies
This book is creepy! If you get nightmares because you read at night about haunted houses, this will do it! There are many eyewitness accounts by people who lived in the same house at different time periods.
I typically do not have a problem with books like this, but there were parts that bothered me. Fair warning. Whether these accounts are true or not, it is interesting and unlike anything, I have read before. Would recommend to anyone wanting to read about a haunted house that is not your usual haunting. 4/5 ~ Angela K, Netgalley - Haunted: Horror of Haverfordwest
G.L. Davies
I enjoyed this one. This was a perfect book. This is the story of two sets of couples who lived in the same house at different times. The couples both experienced different unusual circumstances while they lived in this house. The house had also been the scene of numerous move ins and move outs over the years. It had also simply been abandoned a few times. Several people that had previously lived at the house claimed it was haunted. I appreciate the author giving a list of reasons why these events could happen. Many of his theories have nothing to do with the paranormal. This to me made the author a reliable witness.
I would like to thank the occupants of the house for sharing their stories with us. I am left to wonder how many more people have lived there since. I am also curious if the house still stands and is currently occupied. 5/5 ~ Tia D, Netgalley - Haunted: Horror of Haverfordwest
G.L. Davies
Good book, a great prequel. I look forward to more from this author. In the future Love a good horror 5/5 ~ Carrie-Anne P, Netgalley - Haunted: Horror of Haverfordwest
G.L. Davies
I really enjoyed reading this book and I would definitely look into reading more books by this author 4/5 Stars ~ A D, Reviewer , Netgalley
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