Now in My Bookbag: Winter Shadows, by Casey L. Bond

This book is far different than Bond’s other books set in West Virginia. Where the other books fit within the New Adult/College Romance genre, Winter Shadows is a Christian/Dystopian novel.

I believe the story is okay. I find the multiple point-of-views a little confusing because there are no chapter headings to delineate one voice from the others. It is necessary to read through the beginning of each chapter in order to determine whether it is Claire, Ethan, or Colin speaking. If these headings were added, it would make a dramatic difference.  These characters are interesting and likeable. Their evolutions throughout the novel are surprising and unexpected. I feel that one evolution in particular is a bit of a stretch. It is a tangent that pops up near the end of the book, and it doesn’t seem to fit with the rest of the story.

The concept of the book is interesting. The pace of the plot seems to flow steadily, then suddenly hits a fast pace. Then it slows. Before long, it speeds up again. For me, this is a bit disconcerting. There are also several typos in this work, nothing that another proofreading wouldn’t fix. 3 1/4 stars

This will not, however, keep me from reading more from this author. I have been very pleased with her work.

Now in My Bookbag: BREEDER (Arrow's Flight Book 1), by Casey Hays

I find this to be a very interesting dystopian story. The concept is fresh, but violent. The array of characters brings balance to the story. However, there is a problem in the book’s flow.

It is obvious that author Casey Hays attempts to interject Christian scripture into the book, but the story does not lend itself to the interjection of Christian principles, yet. In fact, the plethora of scriptures is a bit confusing when trying to immerse myself into the plot of the story.

Having  read all three books available in this series now, I can honestly say that there is a perfect opening for the scriptures important to this overall story arc at a different point. It makes sense to interject more scripture into that part of the story where it more appropriately fits.

Despite the problems with the flow of the book, it is an interesting book. It is worth adding to the TBR list just to meet Kate, Ian, John and Justin. 3 stars

Now in My Bookbag: Hostile, (Book #4 of The Afterlight Saga), by Cameo Renae

Before the After Light Saga, I never even considered reading dystopian literature. Thankfully, I was already a fan of author Cameo Renae’s work. Therefore, I decided to give the After Light Saga a try. Now, I can honestly say I am a true fan.

Cameo has such an excellent way of weaving a story full of excitement and danger, while still creating complex characters that steal my heart. Abi is such a strong heroine, badass to the core. She is also one half of a soul. The other half is Finn, (who I secretly love).

I truly understand Abi’s rationale for her heartbreaking decisions, but her path leaves me sad, much the way that she herself feels. This author crafts Abi’s solo journey as a dangerous adventure of self-discovery. It tests her humanity, resourcefulness, and her ability to draw people to her. She also proves herself when the stakes are the highest.

I truly love this book and this series. There are a couple of grammatical errors, but they really don’t detract from my reading enjoyment. I recommend this series to anyone who likes dystopian/post-apocalyptic literature. Also, it should appeal to those who like a little suspense with loveable characters.

4 3/4 stars

Amazon.com Purchase Link

Now in My Bookbag: Catalyst, by Casey L. Bond

This is a moving and very enjoyable book. I feel that author Casey Bond does a great job of weaving together the many elements of this story into a cohesive read.

With a very well thought out theme of a dystopian world in need of revolution, Bond exposes the ugliness of a corrupt and dangerous society.

Within this overall story, Bond addresses the topics of terminal illness, loss, and revenge. The heart of the story is Seven; she is also its strength, thanks to her friendship with Mitis.

The book provides many surprises, and I can say without exaggeration, it is a true page-turner. I highly recommend this book and believe that it will appeal to a wide array of readers. 5 stars

Currently Reading: Catalyst, by Author Casey L. Bond

Blurb

The city of Confidence is surrounded by a thick, concrete wall. These walls are built to protect those within and to keep dangers outside. What happens when the only danger to the citizens within is its leadership?

When a young man on a suicide mission meets a young woman with a terminal illness, both of them use one another as a means to their own ends. They never expect to become friends. They never expect to become so much more to each other. Their backgrounds and the secrets they uncover are more dangerous than any plans they could make together or separately.

Revolution begins with a spark

http://www.amazon.com/Catalyst-Casey-L-Bond-ebook/dp/B00ZFX3HNE

Now in My Bookbag: Lorelai, You'll Never Die

I was taken in by Lorelai’s gritty journey. The collection of short stories combined to provide a mostly cohesive book. I developed a respect for the evolution of her character and appreciated the imagination of the quest. I wished that the scene from the train had been incorporated somehow into the end of the book. It would have made more sense to me.

There were some of the stories that seemed as though they did not belong with Lorelai’s journey, at all, and they detracted from the flow of the book. I wished that they had been saved as seeds for future projects by author Laura Konrad. 3 1/4 stars

Now in My Bookbag: The Treemakers by Christina Rozelle

This is a very interesting and intense view of the dystopian world. It is not a book for teen readers due to adult content, including rape and other violence.

Author Christina Rozelle infuses this story with her vivid imagination. The concept is well thought out and the flow is excellent. Her characters are so real, and Joy is the kind of strong leader needed by the children who are forced to work in the Treemaking Factory.

I am conflicted about the progression of Jax and Joy’s story. Once you read The Treemakers, you will understand my reasons. The mysteries sprinkled throughout the book remain mostly unanswered, which means that waiting for the next book, The Soultakers, is driving me crazy.

The Treemakers is a great beginning to this dystopian trilogy. It is an exciting read that riveting and full of twists. I highly recommend this book.

4 3/4 stars

Now in My Bookbag: Intransigent (After Light Saga #3) by Cameo Renae

This saga just became awesome on a whole new level!!

Renae’s focus on Abi’s abilities and strengths creates a story all its own. At its heart is the accelerated growth of Abi’s telepathy and powers, and her new friendships with the other “Readers” in the program.

Intransigent delivers action and excitement. It brings new characters to life while never leaving the favorite characters behind. The continued story of Abi and Finn is always both heartwarming and bittersweet. As always, her family provides Abi’s strength while being her greatest weakness.

Renae ends this book with solemn questions hanging in the air. What will Abi do next? What will be the fallout when she chooses?

This book is a definite page-turner and a must-read. If you have not already started this series, now is the time.