Reviews By Charline

“The Keya Quests: The Battle for Shivenridge”

Author: Glenn Skinner

Had Glenn Skinner known that I would be the person reviewing his book “The Battle for Shivenridge” I think he might have contemplated requesting the review be cancelled rather than chance receiving another scathing one from me. I initially became acquainted with Skinner’s writings when I read the first book in “The Keya Quests” fantasy/epic line: “Three Souls Destiny-Bound.” That particular book was a very difficult read and I was extremely explanatory of why in its subsequent review.

In all honesty when I saw “The Battle for Shivenridge” was available for review I cautiously weighed whether I wanted to tackle it or not. I hoped that Skinner had taken some of my previous review advice to heart but I was afraid that his writing style would be unchanged and I would be forced to write yet another harsh critique. I definitely didn’t want that; I don’t enjoy writing bad reviews, however, my curiosity got the better of me, and I went ahead and requested it.

Upon receiving “The Battle for Shivenridge” I looked it over, front and back, and decided that it looked much more interesting/appealing than its predecessor had. Finding a quiet spot a day or so later I cracked the book open and began to read. I was happily surprised. Skinner’s writing style had improved…dramatically…and as I turned the pages I found myself lost in the tale and several hours slipped by without my noticing their passing.

To sum up quickly: “The Battle for Shivenridge” is the continuing story of Keya and her faithful friends/family as they travel through a magical portal in order to return to Keya’s home world and save her people from the insidious evil that remains even after Lord Randar’s previous defeat.

I don’t want to give any parts of this story away; suffice it to say that “The Battle for Shivenridge” is well worth the read. It is interesting and entertaining and while there are still some minor problems with the writing they are small enough not to hinder the reader’s enjoyment of the story.

Kudos to Skinner for a much improved book and I’m truly looking forward to reading (and hopefully) reviewing the next one.

“Against the Storm”

Author: Kat Martin

I wasn’t sure what to expect when I agreed to review “Against the Storm” by author Kat Martin but…I certainly didn’t expect to read a romance novel that was as fast-paced, compelling and interesting as one of today’s well-written action / adventure novels. After finishing my copy of “Against the Storm” I can completely understand why Kat Martin is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author.

The premise of “Against the Storm” is this: Maggie O’Connell is a beautiful and extremely talented photographer who has, unfortunately, managed to acquire a stalker. Maggie has used all of the legal options available to her; she’s even gone so far as to move but she can’t rid herself of this psycho. When the stalking first started Maggie even went to the police but they were absolutely no help; in fact, they seemed to think she was making it all up.

One afternoon while Maggie was having lunch with a friend she happened to witness Trace Rawlins, a private investigator, intercede and handle a bad situation before it turned worse. Impressed by what she saw; knowing she needs more help than what the local authorities are willing to provide, Maggie calls Trace’s office to set up a meeting. She hopes that he will be able to help her; that somehow he can make this nightmare that has become her life go away.

Trace Rawlins is an attractive, ex army ranger who has retired and now works as a private investigator. Trace’s instincts are sharply honed and while he can tell Maggie is genuinely fearful about her predicament he can also sense that she’s hiding something from him. If the threats and letters Maggie showed him are real then Trace isn’t sure why the police aren’t more helpful. Against his better judgment he agrees to take Maggie’s case…apparently he’s a sucker for beautiful redheads.

I don’t want to give anymore of “Against the Storm” away; suffice it to say that what follows is an extremely believable and well-written story. Definitely a five-star book and a “must read” for anyone who enjoys sitting down with a great book.