Master of Demons by Jay Bower Master of Demons by Jay Bower Mike Vogel is a burned-out, washed-up janitor who turns to alcohol to quiet the voices of his failures. So did his father, and it ended up killing him. But one night, his drinking leads him to a hellish nightmare where he is forced … Continue reading “Robin’s Review of Master of Demons”
Master of Demons
by Jay Bower
Mike Vogel is a burned-out, washed-up janitor who turns to alcohol to quiet the voices of his failures. So did his father, and it ended up killing him.
But one night, his drinking leads him to a hellish nightmare where he is forced to confront his demons head-on.
Called by the adventure of a new life, Mike enters a landscape where he must face a new enemy determined to attack his very soul.
Can he survive this onslaught, or will he discover that there is a deeper place than rock bottom?
Robin's Review: Trigger Warning: Alcohol Usage
This story had a lot of fascinating details and implications about the demons associated with alcoholism. It's mind-bending, or should I say mind-blending, and opens up a whole new world. But is it time travel, a parallel universe, or just drunken madness?
I will let you figure that out for yourself. Nonetheless, this is a well-written, thought-provoking read that has stayed on my mind for some time. Mr. Bower has outdone himself with the writing and depth of this story. I highly recommend this book and its author. Mr. Bower did a great job with the writing and depth of this story. With that said, I highly recommend this book and its author.
The Future of Horror Literature is Now: The Future is Arcranium™ by Daemon Manx, and Mark Towse Arcranium™: The Future of Horror Literature is Now: The Future is Arcranium™ by Daemon Manx, and Mark Towse Four horror authors with four vulnerable egos, square off against one another, in the virtual world, to find out who … Continue reading “Robin’s Review of Arcranium™”
The Future of Horror Literature is Now: The Future is Arcranium™
Arcranium™: The Future of Horror Literature is Now: The Future is Arcranium™
by Daemon Manx, and Mark Towse
Four horror authors with four vulnerable egos, square off against one another, in the virtual world, to find out who is the scariest.
Welcome to Arcranium™, a powerful technology that fuses with the author's mind to stimulate their best possible creation, immersing other participants in the narrative. It's all in good fun, but with so much pride at stake, things are bound to get a little bumpy once the gloves come off. So, strap your headset on and don't forget the safe word. The future of literature is about to get an upgrade. The future is … Arcranium™
Robin's Review: This book chronicles the vicious power of selfish competition. The four authors, Alex, Mike, Noah, and Yas, have massive egos that approach cruelty. They each believe they are outstanding writers who are better than the others. It's time to end the debate: who is the superior writer? They agree to a "friendly" competition to prove their skills. However, it quickly becomes anything but friendly. The showdown is a competitive war that is destructive and evil, leaving everyone involved horrified. It's an intriguing book that explores the horrors of artificial intelligence.
Shampoo & Condition by M.L. Ortega Shampoo & Condition by M.L. Ortega If Janet Evanovich’s signature character were a single mom, she’d answer to the name Maggie Chessman. In Shampoo & Condition, Vivian, Maggie’s soon to be ex sister-in-law, drops dead in a beauty salon and Maggie’s brother becomes suspect number one – – creating … Continue reading “Robin’s Review of Shampoo & Condition”
Shampoo & Condition
by M.L. Ortega
If Janet Evanovich’s signature character were a single mom, she’d answer to the name Maggie Chessman. In Shampoo & Condition, Vivian, Maggie’s soon to be ex sister-in-law, drops dead in a beauty salon and Maggie’s brother becomes suspect number one –
- creating friction between our main character and her policeman boyfriend.
What can a girl do but pursue other suspects: Vivian’s shifty sisters, a smooth financial operator, and a secretive shampoo girl.
Meanwhile, Maggie’s best friend is matching corpses with missing persons on the Jane Doe website, eventually spotting a dead person in their midst.
Robin's Review: The main characters, Jane and Maggie are looking into a death at a beauty salon which turns out to be Maggie’s soon to be ex sister-in-law.
This was a light and enjoyable read. The story is of the cozy mystery genre, but with a whole lot of fun thrown in. It's a short book, so I won't go into detail, but suffice it to say that this was an entertaining and exciting story.
Series Order:
Turn Key Condition: a "Me Too" mystery
Shampoo & Condition: a “Me Too” mystery
In Mint Condition: a “Me Too” mystery May 2023
The Betrayed by Wesley Southard The Betrayed by Wesley Southard How well do you know the people around you? Your neighbors? Your coworkers? Friends? Family? Sidney Jameson, a young single father just trying to make ends meet, is being followed. They keep to the shadows, quiet and cloaked in dirty brown robes…and they’re getting closer. … Continue reading “Robin’s Review of The Betrayed”
The Betrayed
by Wesley Southard
How well do you know the people around you?
Your neighbors? Your coworkers?
Friends?
Family?
Sidney Jameson, a young single father just trying to make ends meet, is being followed. They keep to the shadows, quiet and cloaked in dirty brown robes...and they're getting closer. And what they have to tell Sidney is something terrible. Something he never knew about his past. Something he didn't want to know about his future.
Robin's Review: Just let go…
That is what you wrote in my book. He did. This is a well-written brutal creep fest. The main character, Sidney, is your average joe but with flaws, like everyone normal. Except for the part about saving the world. It has an interesting plot that draws you in, creative world-building, and a good vs. evil theme where you're rooting for the winner and dreading what will happen next. This is a great freaking book. I definitely will be reading his other books.
Resisting Madness by Wesley Southard Resisting Madness by Wesley Southard What drives a man mad? Maybe it’s the death of a loved one…or the petrifying fear of hands around your throat…the dread of rejection…or maybe it’s the black, soulless eyes of a child that shatters your sanity… Within these pages, delirium reigns supreme. You’ll discover … Continue reading “Robin’s Review of Resisting Madness”
Resisting Madness
by Wesley Southard
What drives a man mad?
Maybe it’s the death of a loved one...or the petrifying fear of hands around your throat…the dread of rejection…or maybe it’s the black, soulless eyes of a child that shatters your sanity…
Within these pages, delirium reigns supreme. You’ll discover how far a prisoner will go to be with his dying wife, and what lurks between the walls of that Louisiana jailhouse to keep him there. You’ll find out how deep a man can cut himself to dig out the past. You’ll meet a college professor whose fear of flying might be the least of his worries. And you’ll learn how a sister’s love for sweet treats can reunite a broken family…whether they want it or not.
Robin's Review: I was stoked to get my hands on a copy of this book at Living Dead Weekend! I was thrilled! It's imaginatively written, crosses multiple horror subgenres skillfully, and the stories are scary and deeply disturbing with twisty turns and incredibly details. The stories in this collection are also freaky as hell and deeply disturbing--in a good way if that sounds right. I found them fascinating, entertaining, and fun. I love his little tidbits, or as he calls them, Story Notes, which helped me to get to know him just a little bit more. I highly recommend this author and all of works. This is another author that I am now a fan for life. You just can’t go wrong reading any of his books. Seriously.
With Aliens and lot lizards…disembodied lips…the voice of God Himself…
Thirteen stories and a brand new novella from horror author Wesley Southard.
Within these pages, we all go a little mad…
With Many Thanks to Newark
Arrearages
He Loves Me Not
By the Throat
Minor Leaguer
Between Those Walls
God Bless You
Home Invasion (with Nikki McKenzie)
Confusion in Southern Illinois
King Cake
Now You Don't
Lip Service
Bust to Dust
Resisting Madness
Mayatte’s Catharsis by Jake E. Mohr Mayatte’s Catharsis by Jake E. Mohr The mythical Island of Mayatte was never meant to be discovered by anyone, and its natives are about to find out why… When a ship of foreigners crashes along the coast, everyone but Naña is wary of their inexplicable arrival. While others are … Continue reading “Robin’s Review of Mayatte’s Catharsis”
Mayatte’s Catharsis
by Jake E. Mohr
The mythical Island of Mayatte was never meant to be discovered by anyone, and its natives are about to find out why...
When a ship of foreigners crashes along the coast, everyone but Naña is wary of their inexplicable arrival. While others are suspicious and fearful, Naña is curious and even helpful, especially when one of the outsiders becomes gravely ill. But her goodwill might be a fatal flaw that puts the entire island in jeopardy.
Robin's Review: This book is set on a hidden island that is, in my opinion, the show's real star. The author does an excellent job of world-building in this book with the many interesting characters to meet., and there are so many interesting characters to meet. creating a rich and detailed landscape that feels real and alive. The characters are complex and interesting, and the plot kept me engaged throughout. I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a great read.
It was my pleasure to receive a free copy of this book but that does not in any way affect my opinions in this review of this entertaining story.
Hanging Corpses by Jay Bower Hanging Corpses by Jay Bower From demons to cannibals… Fifteen horrific tales explore vast landscapes of terror whether it’s the woods at the end of the street or the icy reaches of space. Nothing is off limits. Fear creeps through the tales and threatens to make the nightmares a reality. … Continue reading “Robin’s Review of Hanging Corpses”
Hanging Corpses
by Jay Bower
From demons to cannibals…
Fifteen horrific tales explore vast landscapes of terror whether it’s the woods at the end of the street or the icy reaches of space. Nothing is off limits.
Fear creeps through the tales and threatens to make the nightmares a reality.
Delve into Hanging Corpses and prepare to commune with the dead. They await your company.
Hanging Corpses
Tiny Piece of Soul
Remnants of the War
Flesh Hook
Damian
The Awful Gift
New World Hunger
From the Depths, Risen
Unstoppable Heart
Colony of the Damned
Roosevelt is for Lovers
Duardo (Roosevelt is for Lovers, Part 2)
Autumnal Thrill
Accepting
The Voice of America
Robin's Review: All of these stories are freaking amazing in a horrific kind of way. My favorite, of course, must be New World Hunger because, ah, zombies! These short stories are well written and easy to read if you don’t mind some gore. They are written so creatively that you feel part of the story. I don’t know if that is a good thing or bad. Just kidding. It’s good. Well Done, Jay Bower. I am a fan for life.
FRANKENSTEIN MEETS MOBY DICK: OR, THE MODERN PROMETHEUS MEETS THE WHALE by David Myriad (Author), Mary Shelly (Author), Herman Melville (Author), Mark Twain (Author) FRANKENSTEIN MEETS MOBY DICK: OR, THE MODERN PROMETHEUS MEETS THE WHALE “Call me Frankenstein.” 1 mad scientist. 2 nemeses. 3 manly intimate friendships. Forbidden secrets of life, death, and reanimation. Hiding under the alias Ishmael, young Ernest secretly is … Continue reading “Robin’s Review of FRANKENSTEIN MEETS MOBY DICK: OR, THE MODERN PROMETHEUS MEETS THE WHALE “
FRANKENSTEIN MEETS MOBY DICK: OR, THE MODERN PROMETHEUS MEETS THE WHALE
FRANKENSTEIN MEETS MOBY DICK: OR, THE MODERN PROMETHEUS MEETS THE WHALE
“Call me Frankenstein.”
1 mad scientist.
2 nemeses.
3 manly intimate friendships.
Forbidden secrets of life, death, and reanimation.
Hiding under the alias Ishmael, young Ernest secretly is the lost forgotten brother of the infamous Doctor Victor Frankenstein. He flees to the sea to escape the nemesis his sibling created from the graveyards of men. Yet unbeknownst to him, his closest sailing companion is the very creature assembled and abandoned, posing as the pagan cannibal harpooner Queequeg.
Robin's Review: This was such a fun read! It's a blend of two great novels that kept me entertained the whole way through. Even though it took a while to get through, it was worth it. I had such a wonderful time reading this. The project is beautifully crafted to combine the dark and tortured lives of Dr. Frankenstein and his Monster with those of Ishmael and Captain Ahab. It's creative, complex, and entertaining—well worth the time.
It was my pleasure to receive a free copy of this book but that does not in any way affect my opinions in this review of this entertaining story.
The Undertaker’s Daughter by John James Minster The Undertaker’s Daughter: A Novel of Supernatural Horror by John James Minster Don’t play with dead things. Anna Dingel is an introverted, socially inept 18-year-old raised in the family funeral home. And for some reason, her classmate Timmy—the one in the band—likes her too. After a makeover from … Continue reading “Robin’s Review of The Undertaker’s Daughter”
The Undertaker's Daughter: A Novel of Supernatural Horror
by John James Minster
Don’t play with dead things.
Anna Dingel is an introverted, socially inept 18-year-old raised in the family funeral home.
And for some reason, her classmate Timmy—the one in the band—likes her too.
After a makeover from her best friend Naomi, Anna breaks away to see him perform live, but the leader of a bad school clique attempts to assault Anna in the parking lot. Once the leader is released from jail, so begins an ever-widening maelstrom of cruel retribution, turning Anna and Timmy’s summer of love into a nightmare.
Robin's Review: This is a creepy tale about Anna who is a young adult leading a sheltered life as the Undertaker’s Daughter. It could be called a coming-of-age story but for the dark themes.
I enjoyed this story in part because it is set in my home state, Pennsylvania, but also because it is well-written, enjoyable, and fresh. The plot is well thought out, and full of twisty turns with so much clever detail, or should I say research that I could not put it down. It follows the main character, Anna and her friends Naomi, and Timmy. They go through some nasty times with some vengeful bullies out for some pay back. Things get dark when an evil force is awakened, and lots of people end up dead. It has a complete and satisfying end to the story. Well done John James Minster, I really loved this book and highly recommend it to lovers of all genres.
My favorite line is used more than once: “That’s a TP, not MP. Their problem, not mine.”
It was my pleasure to receive a free copy of this book but that does not in any way affect my opinions in this review of this entertaining story.
Deal With Toxic Family Members Difficult Relationships In The Workplace by Lucca Zeni Deal With Toxic Family Members: 7 Survival Secrets For Adult People To Set Positive Boundaries In Relationships With Parents, Siblings, And Relatives Within Five Weeks Without Cutting Ties by Lucca Zeni Have you ever wondered why you feel exhausted and frustrated when … Continue reading “Robin’s Review of Difficult Relationships In The Workplace and Deal With Toxic Family Members”
Deal With Toxic Family Members: 7 Survival Secrets For Adult People To Set Positive Boundaries In Relationships With Parents, Siblings, And Relatives Within Five Weeks Without Cutting Ties
by Lucca Zeni
Have you ever wondered why you feel exhausted and frustrated when gathering with certain family members?
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 5 out of 5.
Robin's Review: This book provides useful information about toxic family members and the behaviors or patterns you might see in yourself or your family members. It shows you how to acknowledge your possible triggers and emotions and how to deal with them. It also covers whether you should sever ties with the toxic person or family member and, if you can’t, what you can do to minimize their effect on you.
I found this book both interesting and helpful and highly recommend it.
Here are some thought provoking lines:
“Just like me, have you ever felt like you are the family’s “different one”? Do you have the impression that you’re not anything like other family members? It’s most likely because you are different from them, and there’s nothing wrong with it. However, when dealing with toxic people, it’s crucial to remember that you can’t change them; thus, it’s best not to push them too much. Instead, save your energy for something less stressful.”
“Nobody Can Drive You Crazy If You Don’t Give The Keys”
“Love them from a distance. Pray for them, wish them well, but don’t allow them to abuse you.” ~ Kimber Waul
Difficult Relationships In The Workplace: Manage Diversity And Politics, Improve Your Resilience And Strength Effectively, Gain Emotional Intelligence, And Prevent Burnout
by Lucca Zeni
Workplace toxicity is more than having a bad day at work or not getting along with your colleagues. Harmful behaviors get in the way of your performance. Some relationships can make you feel psychologically distressed, physically exhausted, or mentally depleted.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 5 out of 5.
Robin's Review:I wish I had this book years ago. This book goes over what is toxicity in the workplace, but it doesn’t stop there and leave you hanging. Instead, it gives you solid information into the some of the reasons a person might be toxic and how not to get drawn into their negative behaviors. It defines the seven personality types that you might come across in your job and how to work with them. It then dives into people’s perception of you and how you might go about changing it or not even trying. It talks about boundaries and how to set them. This is not a book of pointing fingers but teaches us we are all human with flaws and needs. I found this book both interesting and informative, and I'll definitely read his other book on toxic family members.
