Elena Santangelo - By Blood Possessed -- An Author Interview

It was threatening to storm the day I met Elena Santangelo at Merrymead Farms. We were closely watching the weather while eating delicious ice cream and discussing her body of work. She has written historical mysteries with modern characters. Being true to the time periods is important to her so she does the research before using her creative side. Though she remains relatively subdued throughout the interview, her passion for and belief in using language of the time to create new characters and events is evident.

She wrote her first book, By Blood Possessed, in 1995 and it took four years to get published. It was started because of a dare from her brother. Just as he influenced the start of her career, her parents have influenced the books she wrote, but she is now ready for a new chapter.

When asked about her upcoming plans, Elena mentioned wanting to write a book that would encourage girls to be interested in science. She also mentioned that she would like the challenge of writing a children's book.

Her writing cannot begin without knowing where things are going. She will listen to hear the narrator's voice in her head. Because she is a fan of language, the color/flavor of her characters come to her before she begins to write. She further develops the language and character as she writes. Elena firmly believes that writers need to work at their words to get it right.

Elena gives credit to all the writers she knows for influencing her. Agatha Christie has been the most influential author for her. The great narrative style of Christie's early books spoke to Elena. She recently did a companion book for Christie's short stories entitled Dame Agatha's Shorts.

As a mystery writer, her competitors are also friends that she wishes success. As she gives encouragement to others, I wish it for her to meet the level of success she desires. Elena is a creator and wishes that for others. She believes in using imagination to fully develop her music and stories.

For more information about Elena and her books visit: http://www.elenasantangelo.com/Books.html.

Prophecy of the Sisters by Michelle Zink -- A Book Review

Twin sisters Lia and Alice Milthorpe find themselves at opposing sides of a prophecy that has been foretold for centuries. Lia is slowly introduced to this information after the death of her father. As the mystery unfolds, Lia must determine what roles she plays, who she can trust, and the motivations of her sister in order to prevail.

Lia finds herself torn between the temptations of evil, the path of good, and the love she has for her family. She is tested emotionally and physically at every turn. The friends that assist her are in danger as long as they stay close yet can she continue on her quest without them?

Michelle Zink cleverly weaves the struggle within Lia into the unveiling of the prophecy. The descriptors pull the reader into Lia's mind and emotions. You find yourself experiencing the same tensions, thoughts, fears; and coming to the same questions and next steps.

The internal and external forces that influence Lia carefully play off each other. The transition between these perspectives is flawless. For this I highly complement Zink.

This book is a wonderful combination of character and plot. Readers will find it hard to put down. For more information on the book check out the website: www.prophecyofthesisters.com.

On a personal note, I cannot wait for Zink's next book.

This promotional copy was received during BookExpo America 2009 as a free marketing tool by either the publisher or author and was given to many attendees. It was not given to me to review. I did not receive any compensation from the publisher or author for this review.

How To Grow a Child By Bernard Percy -- A Book Review

This book contains insight into the 34 year relationship between a teacher and his student writers as well as the original book that was published in 1978.

Ann Arthur, Linden Jackson, Lori Johnson, Crystal Kornegay, Beth Wallace, and Reggie Wright each wrote entries, thoughts, poems, etc. for parents when they were just children. The book focuses on the truth that kids are people and should be treated as such.

Parents should read this book to remind themselves that children are smart and do understand more than they are usually given credit. Readers will enjoy this easy read that is an inspiration for all adults.

The biggest lesson from this book that I hope people would take away is that children deserve love, respect, and understanding.

This promotional copy was received during BookExpo America 2009 as a free marketing tool by either the publisher or author and was given to many attendees. It was not given to me to review. I did not receive any compensation from the publisher or author for this review.

The Twelve by William Gladstone -- A Book Review

In this tale, William Gladstone has the reader following the life of Max from his birth until the end of the Mayan calendar - 12/21/2012. During his life Max lives in a constant state of change. He travels the world, does many jobs, loves different women, and befriends people of varying backgrounds.

Max has a near-death experience in his youth that leaves a mystery for him to solve. There are twelve names, each associated with a color, that he knows are important for him. Unfortunately he only remembers the name of the final person. As time passes he begins to meet these people without knowing the connection they all share.

As Max finally approaches the meeting of these twelve people, he realizes the scope of their importance. He will also learn to accept his role in this world-changing climax.

Gladstone carefully mixes the meetings with the twelve people in with the telling of Max's life so that his personality is a pivotal part of figuring out the final element of the book. The book is fiction that pulls from beliefs held by others. It is a fascinating read if one is able to lose themselves in the reality the book presents.

By the end it felt as if Gladstone was being overly soapboxish. Even with this, it is an enjoyable, easy read.

This promotional copy was received during BookExpo America 2009 as a free marketing tool by either the publisher or author and was given to many attendees. It was not given to me to review. I did not receive any compensation from the publisher or author for this review.