J.M. NORTHUP's BLOG

Thursday, January 28, 2016

My Book Reviews for Novels 9-12 of the Peoples Books

North America's Forgotten Past
The First North Americans
Written by
Kathleen O'Neal Gear and W. Michael Gear

People of the Mist (North America's Forgotten Past, #9)People of the Mist by W. Michael Gear
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A Book For All Readers Who Love Mysteries, Crime Novels, and Romance!
Once again we see why the Gears are award-winning archaeologists and acclaimed writers!
This book is a little different in the series because the focus isn't on a dreamer. However, it is riddled with intense emotion, plots twists, political agendas from the prehistoric landscape that could rival any seen in today's news headlines, and it brings our American history to life. It educates readers about the Algonquin Nation, located in the Chesapeake Bay with a captivating tale that draws you in and keeps you guessing!
I highly recommend this book and the entire series!

People of the Masks (North America's Forgotten Past, #10)People of the Masks by W. Michael Gear
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A Little Something for Everyone - humor, heartbreak, horror, and so much more!
I loved the characters in this novel. I loved the relationships between Rumbler and Wren. It was also interesting to see how these two children faced the hardships a prehistoric landscape and politically charged power-struggle presented.
Though the story is very suspenseful, it also has humor in the pages. It is a very entertaining read and I highly recommend it. You don't have to be a historical fiction fan to appreciate this book. There's so much it offers to readers that I wouldn't try to diminish its value by limiting it to one particular genre. If you love reading, then you are such to love this novel!
This book covers the Iroquois Nation, which has been a huge influence on our country's history before it became the United States and in the structure of the government itself. This book does a wonderful job of showing us how our Native American ancestors lived, believed, and helped to shape the world we live in.

People of the Owl (North America's Forgotten Past, #11)People of the Owl by Kathleen O'Neal Gear
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

One of My Favorites From the Series!
I loved Mud Puppy, who is later named Salamander when he is trust into a leadership role after the death of his older brother. He is such a loving soul and I just adore him. The struggles he faces and the uncontrollable events that shape and direct his life just tear my heart apart.
I enjoyed the rich descriptions of the landscapes and the detailed depiction of the Native Americans who created Poverty Point in Epps, Louisiana. The story pulled me in and kept me in its grips from cover to cover. I felt like I was really there and I received a wonderful understanding of the cultural beliefs of our ancestors.
I think this story will appeal to readers of all genres. It is a psychological thriller with a supernatural flare, but it is also historical fiction at its best with a romantic flow. That is one thing I love about this series and the Gears - they has something for everyone!

People of the Raven (North America's Forgotten Past, #12)People of the Raven by W. Michael Gear
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Masterful, Intriguing, and Thought-provoking!
The Kennewick Man - do I have your attention yet? That was all it took for the Gears to have mine!
I love the different theories about how North America was populated and what peoples were here pre-Columbus. I am also an avid reader, particularly drawn to historical fiction, pre-historic works, and Native American lore. The Gears give me all the elements that make a story a powerhouse for me and the biggest part of that mix is their detailed and rich storytelling. They just make me live the story along with the incredible characters.
While I was in the military, I was stationed out in the Pacific Northwest. I have been to the Columbia River Gorge and other areas presented in the book so that added an extra layer to my reading experience. I also remember the head lines when the Kennewick Man was discovered and the debates its discovery incited about the Caucasoids in our Nation's pre-history. This made the tale more enticing because it was something I could really relate to on a personal level.
Masterful storytelling, vivid images, intriguing characters, questionable creatures, and fascinating theories... I love the Gears and this series only gets better and better! HIGHLY recommended to book-lovers!

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Wednesday, January 20, 2016

My Book Reviews for Novels 5-8 of the Peoples Books

North America's Forgotten Past
The First North Americans
Written by
Kathleen O'Neal Gear and W. Michael Gear

People of the Sea (North America's Forgotten Past, #5)People of the Sea by W. Michael Gear
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Layered With Adventure and Heart!
I love how the Gears write an opener to each of the stories that is set in modern times. I enjoy the way they link the past to the present. I also appreciate how the issues of today are echoed in the truths of the ancients.
This tale has domestic abuse, incest, and strife. It shows the impact of environmental change on its society and how it literally altered the landscape of the world. I was so sad with the loss of the Mammoths, especially as I see so many species in danger of extinction today.
The Gears hit the mark again by writing intriguing characters, exciting adventures, and surprising twists. The struggle for Kestrel to find independence from an abusive husband, withstand a birth unaided while being pursued, and battling to survive in a prehistoric landscape are incredible. To add the layer of emotion that allows the reader to connect to the insecurities of the Dreamer and the sense of being abandoned by the spirit world to face destruction was genius. I definitely recommend this book, especially if you love historical fiction or Native American lore.

People of the Lakes (North America's Forgotten Past, #6)People of the Lakes by W. Michael Gear
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another Thought-provoking Novel by the Amazing Gears!
This book in the series is one that had a deeper impact on me. The haunting elements from the tale still provoke deep thought.
Tallman, the dwarf magician of the High head society, is such an intriguing character. Most of the time, I cannot tell if I like him or hate him. Either way, he fascinates me. The false dreamer in the book is an accurate depiction of the corruption of power and it evokes a lot of emotion. There is a lot of humanity in this story, both good and bad.
Growing up so close to Lake Superior, having played on its shores and in its water, I really enjoyed the setting of this book. I enjoyed learning about the Native American tribes that lived on my homelands in the ancient past. It gave a deeper sense of connection for me, both to the writing and to history. Well done!

People of the Lightning (North America's Forgotten Past, #7)People of the Lightning by W. Michael Gear
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An Albino Living in the Sunshine State? Great Stuff!
I loved this book. Again, the introduction from modern times was interesting, educational, and set the foundations for the coming story. I liked that this was about a Native American tribe - Windover people - that was sort of set apart from other tribes. I enjoyed the explanations and depictions of the burial rights and other cultural elements from this ancient society. It helped to bring history to life in a very relate-able way.
I found the hero, White Lightning Boy, Pondwater to be endearing. He sounded beautiful to me. The way people felt about Thunderbirds and Albinos was interesting and added to the story greatly. I enjoyed seeing how people's beliefs tie into nature and how they try to explain natural events.
Having visited Florida and having had lived in Charleston, SC and TX, where I encountered hurricanes, it was cool to see how ancient peoples might have looked at those same areas and events. The story was very vivid for me and I loved getting lost in the tale!

People of the Silence (North America's Forgotten Past, #8)People of the Silence by W. Michael Gear
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Gears Weave a Tale that is Captivating and Educational!
Wow! Just, wow!
This was one of my first in-depth views of the Anasazi, the Katchinas, and to Chaco Canyon. It created a thirst for knowledge in me and drew me deeper into the overall book series. It not only gave me a greater understanding of the culture of these ancient peoples and how they impacted life in the southwestern region of the United States, but it also offered a plausible explanation to their disappearance. The story was well-written, intelligent, and face-paced. It was gripping and heart-felt, while offering dangers and darkness in the midst of love and hope.
Once again, the Gears shine as their literary talents display their amazing abilities as enticing storytellers. The reader is swallowed into this rich, detailed world and captivate from cover to cover. This is one of those novels that give readers a "book hangover" and must be pondered and experienced even after the tale ends!

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Tuesday, January 19, 2016

My Book Reviews for Novels 1-4 of the Peoples Books

North America's Forgotten Past
The First North Americans
Written by
Kathleen O'Neal Gear and W. Michael Gear

People of the Wolf (North America's Forgotten Past, #1)People of the Wolf by W. Michael Gear
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The start of a literary journey that changed my life!
This novel started me on a journey that changed my life. It drew me in and forever linked me to the historical fiction genre and the Gear's work. They have helped to educate me about Native American culture while entertaining me. This book is fantastic and I loved it! I love how it is interlinked through the whole The First North Americans series and how well it brings history to life!

People of the Fire (North America's Forgotten Past)People of the Fire by Kathleen O'Neal Gear
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A respectful presentation of Native American Beliefs wrapped in an exciting tale!
When I read book 1 of this series, PEOPLE OF THE WOLF, I was hooked. Picking up PEOPLE OF THE FIRE just ensnared me more! I have never read a book series so deep and compelling; so rich and complete.
I am a huge fan of historical fiction and loving archaeology, I was initially drawn to this tale. The Native American culture, which is so respectfully presented in this book (and the entire series), fascinated me. I am amazed by the detail of the story and how beautifully it is linked to verifiable facts from history. I love how the Native American beliefs and lore are expanded in this book, building on book 1 (though each book can stand lone and can be read out of order). I was happier to have a better understand of The One and the Spiral. I found this story very educational in relationship to Spirit Bundles and it helped give me the foundation of the cultural believes of many Native American tribes.

People of the Earth (North America's Forgotten Past, #3)People of the Earth by W. Michael Gear
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A Richer Look Into Our Past!
One of the things that I love about this book series is that it is both educational and highly entertaining. It has a depth that allows the authors to bring history to life, allowing modern man to relate to their ancestors from long ago.
The complex characters represent all aspects of the human psyche. They show the good, the bad, and the ugly. Still, my favorite thing about them is that it doesn't matter if they are male or female, visually handsome or somehow broken; it's about the heart of the person. Of course, it was nice to have a female heroine - girl power! LOL Still, it was nice to see that it was the love of an unexpected soul that helped to keep the Dreamer grounded!
Though each book in this series can be read as a stand alone or even out of sequence, I love how each book enriches the next. I enjoyed seeing a deeper view of my Native American ancestors and how early man survived in the untamed world of North America. Excellent story!

People of the River (North America's Forgotten Past, #4)People of the River by W. Michael Gear
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Historical fiction that hits home!
Having grown up on the shores of the Mississippi, I felt I could really relate to the Peoples of this story. Having a love of history and having a rich heritage of trappers and traders in my home town, the rivers are major highways and the cities that become transportation hubs for trade seemed normal. I was not surprised by the rich society that had been Cahokia. Having seen the actual archaeological site only made this story more real to me. I realize this a beautiful rendition of historical fiction, but it is spot on for bringing the real understands of the past - what made it great and also what tore it apart - rich and lively.
Again, I was moved by the characters in the story. I absolutely love NIghtshade - she is one of my favorite characters from this entire book series. Badgertail is also one of my favorites. I feel for their struggles and I resent the Sun Chief, not only for his selfishness and cruelty, but for making so many people do things they wouldn't normally do. Having been in the military, I understand the necessity of following orders, but it doesn't always make them right and sometimes it conflicts with your own beliefs.
I love the lore of the Native American religion and mythology. I love the deeper understanding I find with each book in the amazing series. I think it is a must read for anyone who loves history, but also for every American. This is our past and the Gears make the lessons of the past just as valid for our modern society!

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AUTHOR TAKEOVER EVENT!

JOIN ME AT THE PARTY
3:00 PM EST on January 26, 2016!

Come join me for my author takeover
and help us celebrate the new release from Chantel Seabrook!
The event is at www.facebook.com/events/1722320241332369 on January 26, 2016!
My time slot will be at 3:00 pm EASTERN time.
There are going to be lots of giveaways, raffles, and fun!

Author Saleh M. Radaideh's MEET MY CHARACTER, Yaser

MEET MY CHARACTER


1.      Who are you?
o   What is your name?
My name is Yaser.
o   Are you a fictional or historical character?
I am a fictional character.
o   What should we know about you?
I am very perceptive about the problems humanity faces. Me and my friends do whatever it takes to find happiness and spread it throughout the world. We saw sadness in the world, and my friends and I acted to change that.
2.      Tell us about your story:
o   When and where is your tale set?
The story is set in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, and my story began on 2014.
o   What is your personal goal?  I mean, what do you ultimately want?
I want to find the happiness man has been seeking since his very conception. I want to see love upon humanity as a way of life rather than a forceful task. I want people to get along, and unite under the banner of understanding, and to an extent, humor.
o   What is standing in your way?  What conflict(s) do you face?
What stands in my way is only fear. My friends and I know that. It took a long time, but when we conquered fear, we realized that we could do anything. Our conflict was against the police force on Earth, and the demons lurking in Hell. Such hard times my friends and I had gone through, and funny times as well.
3.      How do I get a copy of your book?
o   What is the title or working title for this piece?
Yaser and Yasmeen. It’s a novel written in verse.
o   Is it available now or when can we except to see it released?
Yes, it is available now through Kindle at http://www.amazon.com/Yaser-Yasmeen-Novel-Verse-Poetry-ebook/dp/B0178OFGUO
It will be available in Paperback soon.

To learn more about Saleh and his books, click on the picture below to be redirected to his Amazon page:

Thursday, January 14, 2016

My Book Review of WHEN THE MUSIC ENDS

Book One in
The HEARTS IN WINTER Chronicles
Written by Simone Beaudelaire

When the Music Ends (The Hearts in Winter Chronicles, #1)When the Music Ends by Simone Beaudelaire
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Tender and painful, while hope-inspiring and loving!
I am a huge fan of Simone Beaudelaire's. I have found her work to be tender, romantic, heart-wrenching, and hopeful. This novel, WHEN THE MUSIC ENDS, is no less so!
I love the intensity of the story and the passion of the characters. I loved the characters and I look forward to reading more of the series so I can share in their lives more. Erin and Sean are by far my favorites! I can easily relate to them both on many levels.
Love is expression on many levels and in many realms in this tale. Though the Ancient Greeks had a word for each form of love, we do not recognize nor differentiate in today's world. However, each was represented here: Eros (sexual love), Philia (deep friendship), Ludus (childish or young love), Agape (selfless love), Pragma (long-standing love between married couples), and finally, Philautia (love of self). Each form has a place in this romance and each helps to make the story so much deeper and real.
This story is so endearing and emotional. It is well-rounded and well-written. I definitely recommend it!

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Chantel Seabrook's The Therian Agents Series

Author WIPs and New Releases

1)      Tell us about your work-in-progress, or WIP, as it’s known as in the industry or New Release…
Ø  What is the story about?
·   I have just completed book two in the Therian Agents series and am working on book three. TURNING PAYNE is now available on Amazon!
Ø  Who is the main character?
·   Turner Payne, Therian agent and lion shifter and Riley Boyd, scientist and daughter of Turner's archenemy Richard Boyd.
2)     What inspired this tale?
Ø  How did the story come to you?
·   It is the continuation of book one, CHASING PAYNE.  I've always enjoyed paranormal romance, but I'm finding I'm enjoying writing it even more.
3)     Do you relate to your character?
Ø  Is your protagonist anything like you personally?
·   I think there is a little piece of me in all of my characters.
Ø  What made you write this character; what made them important to you or made you want to tell their story?
·   I fell in love with Turner in the first book and couldn't wait to write his story. He's been caught up in revenge for so many years that it has become toxic and self-destructive. Turner wants vengeance whatever the cost—His lion has other plans. Plans that involve the daughter of his mortal enemy.
4)    Is there anything you specific want readers to know about this piece of work?
I had a lot of fun writing it. I hope my readers enjoy it.
5)    Where can readers learn more about you and your books?
On my Amazon Author Page or on my publisher, Creativia's Author Page.  I also have an Author Website, for those interested readers.
OTHER BOOKS BY CHANTEL INCLUDE:

Sunday, January 10, 2016

Frank Scozzari's THE WIND GUARDIAN

WIPs and New Releases


1)      Tell us about your work-in-progress, or WIP, as it’s known as in the industry or New Release…
Ø  What is the story about?
The Wind Guardian is about a terrorist attack on a nuclear power plant, and how two misfit security guards throw a monkey wrench into the sophisticated plans of the terrorists by virtue of their dereliction of duty.
Ø  Who is/are the main character(s)?
Cameron and Grace are the protagonists; two star-crossed lovers employed as security officers at a nuclear power plant.
2)     What inspired this tale?
Ø  How did the story come to you?
I once worked as an ‘armed responder’ at a Nuclear Power Plant. There were two security guards who ran off and made love on top of one of the reactors (or so it was said). That’s what originally sparked the idea for the story.  What would occur if a terrorist attack happened when two security guards were not where they were suppose to be?
Ø  Did you have to research for this novel and if so, why?
My research came about as a result of my employment in the field of nuclear security. During the time I worked at a nuclear power plant, I received a thorough education on nuclear power & security.
Ø  If you did research, what do you think surprised you most to learn and why?
I was surprised to learn that, not matter how much money and intelligence goes into the planning and execution of a security system, nothing can be made truly invulnerable.
3)     Do you relate to your character?
Ø  Is/Are your protagonist(s) anything like you personally?
I think all authors put a little of themselves into the protagonist, but also build a character based on other personalities as well. Once a character begins to have its own voice, it’s best for the author to stay out of its way.
Ø  If yes, then how?
Both Cameron and I are nature lovers.
Ø  What made you write this character; what made them important to you or made you want to tell their story?
Both Cameron and Grace are in fact anti-heroes; Cameron in particular. I've always like film characters who lack conventional heroic qualities; who portray a negative, non-caring image, but when it comes right down to it does the right thing (such as Rick in Casablanca). That’s what I had in mind for both Cameron and Grace. Of course, once you start writing, the characters begin to have a mind of their own. Then all an author can do is follow them and see where they go.
4)    Is there anything you specific want readers to know about this piece of work?
An underling theme to this story is nature verses technology. I did not intend to make a statement. I simply wanted to show the contrast.
5)     When will the novel be available for purchase?  If it already is, where can it be purchased?
Currently available at http://www.amazon.com/Wind-Guardian-Frank-Scozzari-ebook/dp/B017HFIIY0 in both ebook and paperback editions.  You can also order the hardcopy from other venues, including your local book store.  To purchase from your local book store, you will need to do a “special order” as this is a “Print-by-Order book.  You can do so by using the follow information:
Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform (December 4, 2015)
ISBN-10: 1519162103
ISBN-13: 978-1519162106

6)    Where can readers find out more about you and your books?
They can find me on Amazon at http://www.amazon.com/dp/B017HFIIY0/ or on my publisher, Creativia’s page at http://www.creativia.org/frank-scozzari.html

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