The Complete Guide to Self-Publishing Comics

"Taking Control of Your
Comics-Writing Destiny"

 

Bookworm's Ranking - 4.5 Worms

 

About - From concept to marketing, everything changes when writing and self-publishing. Many books cover the ins and outs but how about for comics? Comfort Love and Adam Withers, wife and husband team having written and self-published their own comic book series, present a guide on self-publishing comics, giving their advise for writers, artists, colorers, and letters on creating their story.  With advise from top members in the industry and step-by-step details on creating a comic, this book delves into all areas of the creating process and marketing and selling process, giving a complete guide to self-publishing your comic.

Authors - Comfort Love and Adam Withers

Publisher - Watson-Guptill; an imprint of Crown Publishing Group
 
Personal Opinion - It doesn't matter where you are in your comic creating process, conceptualizing, crafting, or marketing, or who you are in the team, writer, artist, colorer, or letterer, this book will help. Each chapter not only gives insight into not only each persons area but also so each member of the team knows what is needed and problematic for everyone, preparing all members for the challenge ahead. Reading not only their experiences and advise but also the industry experts really revealed the world and business of creating a comic. Even though this is a non-fiction, how-to book, it was not dry, but used images and side bares that makes comics special within the book to illustrate and expand on their lessons. Some of the chapters go really into detail that isn't needed if you don't do Photoshop or Illustrator but those chapters do provide great insight into what members of the team are going through and expected of them. One thing I wish they had gone more in depth on was setting up the script. As they mentioned, they didn't have the time nor was it the point to give advice on the writing process (other books exist for that) but they did cover on setting up the script's format. Yet, I felt it was really general and could have had more details especially considering the details given in the artist, illustrator, or letterer chapters. Anyone interested in creating comics, even if they are just beginning, would find this book helpful and a great resource.

Video - Okay, so this isn't a trailer but fun, right?

Buy - Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Publisher,

Disclaimer - In exchange for an honest review, I received this book for free from the publisher through Blogging for Books.

To read or comment on this and other reviews, stop by Bookworm

 

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5 Enchanted Roses

"Rediscover the Enchantment"

 

Bookworm's Ranking - 4 Worms

Storyline - A rose to mark the enchantment that turned men into beasts and only a woman can free them. The second collection of fairy tale retellings from Rooglewood Press takes the traditional tale of Beauty and the Beast and sets in in various and strange settings. Sailing on the high seas is a pirate ship curse by mermaids. A castle is threatened by the underworld and stone. A ballroom is filled with stone guests while the cursed master and lady-in-waiting must find who did this. Deep within the jungle, a Jaguar watches over one in danger. A Wulver in Scotland is running out of time to break an enchantment done out of jealousy. With each is unique, the collection brings back the story of healing love when all that is seen on the outside is an ugly beast.  

Editor - Anne Elizabeth Stengl

Author - Kaycee Browning
               Savannah Jezowski
               Jenelle Schmidt
               Dorian Tsukioka
               Hayden Wand

Publisher - Rooglewood Press

Age Group - 16 and up
 
Content - *May Contain Spoilers* Almost each story had some jerk trying to attack the main female protagonist. The women were strong in their morals and stance on the situation and stood their ground, loving and, sometimes, forgiving the beastly men who were cursed. Defending the innocent and doing what was right was popular in the stories.

Personal Opinion - A great collection of five retellings of Beauty and the Beast told by some up and coming authors. The range of these stories followed the traditional tale to unusual. My personal favorite was a paranormal take of the tale which surprised me because I usually don't go for that genre. Even though they each told the same story, each was unique in who was a beast, why they were cursed, and how it was broken. They were beautifully brought together and gave new light on the situation and message a traditional fairy tale. A couple of times I felt some content in the story was reflective of Disney's movie more than the original tale. Also, guys were leering (or even came close to attacking) the heroine almost in every novella. That was a bit irritating and unnecessary in my opinion and makes these retellings for an older teens and up. Those are perhaps my biggest dislikes about the collection. Yet, this is a great read especially if you want to read a whole story in a day and read multiple versions of a fairy tale.

Buy - Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Publisher,

Other Reviews Concerning These Anthologies - 5 Glass Slippers

To read or comment on this and other reviews, stop by Bookworm

 

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Lateness

Hey Bookworms,

I can't believe my lack of posting. Personal stuff came up and, before you know it, two months go by with almost no posts. I even didn't get a new release post together for December (then again, I haven't found any books for this month either. Strange). Well, that is going to change. I am getting ready to get back to posting reviews and sharing book information on here so I hope you all get to hear about some great reads soon.

Since I haven't found any book releasing in December and today is the first, I am planning on putting together a list of Christmas books that might be a good read this month for the holidays. I will be trying to get that up either later today or tomorrow.

Also, since I have missed how many Sunday reviews now (don't answer that), I will be working on and posting a review tomorrow. It might be a bit "beastly" but I hope you will also find some "beauty" to it too (get the hints?).

Within the coming weeks, there will also be some reviews of some great non-fiction titles so check back soon and chew on a good book today!

Books Releasing in November

Hey Bookworms,

Getting cold, Halloween is passed and today is all Saints Day. And more good books becoming available. There are at least four books becoming available.


How to Train Your Dragon: How to Fight a Dragon's Fury

Lets begin with my top book because this is the last one! The How to Train Your Dragon book series by Cressida Cowell is coming to an end. I am so sad and, considering how the last few books were, it will probably be a sad book. But, I look forward to seeing how it all comes together.

It will release on the 3rd.










Daniel and the Sun Sword

I can't even remember how I heard about this book (it might have been from a blog that I follow and they were featuring it a few months ago) but it was a beautiful cover and an interesting concept. This is the first book by this author so it will be new in all ways. Looking forward to this fantasy adventure

Releases on the 3rd










Star Wars: Journey to Star Wars: The Force Awakens: Shattered Empire

Long name but love Star Wars. This story takes place after the last of the movies and starts to lead up to the new movie coming out later this year (which I am also looking forward to but a bit worried that George Lucas isn't involved). It is also a comic and I have been reading the monthly comics that have been releasing this year so this will be fun. The Force is with it.

Releasing on the 17th.








The Golden Braid

A new fairy tale retelling by Melanie Dickerson. I have reviews of her previous novel retellings which have been good. Just like most of her books, it takes place in the middle ages and has a Christian element and is an engaging read. Those who love fairy tale retellings would enjoy her book.

Releases on the 17th.










Wow, great choices. All of them are either releasing on the 3rd or 17th but I'm sure there are others on different dates. I would like to read all these books but I'm really looking forward to the final How to Train Your Dragon book and the Star Wars comic. The Golden Braid is also going to be fun, especially since I just read a different retelling of the Rapunzel fairy tale.

What about you? Sometimes the best way to here about a good, new book (or comic) is there recommendations from others, which I need as well as anyone else, so please leave a comment with what books you are looking forward to this month. And remember to...

Chew on a good book today!

Bookworm

Back to the Future Day!

Great Scott! Marty McFly, Doc Brown, and Jennifer fly into the future, October 21, 2015, today at precisely 4:29 PM. I have been enjoying the day by sharing stuff on my Facebook account and even found this video of Doc Brown sending out a little message for everyone today.

Isn't that cool. It also sums up the great story that is Back to the Future. Speaking of stories, one you can get today, was just released, is the comic book on how Doc and Marty met and some other great stuff. It is published by IDW publishers and written by Bob Gale, the original writer and creator of the trilogy.

(Picture copied for publishers website)

 

Awesome right? While I'm still waiting on flying cars, self sizing clothes, and trials that take two hours to complete, I don't have to wait for this. If, you are looking for more of a... book... type of read, maybe We Don't Need Roads: The Making of the Back to the Future Trilogy is what you are looking for. A behind the scenes look at the making of the movies. This is heavy.

 

(Picture copied from Amazon)

 

So I suggest making like a tree and getting out'a to your local book, or comic book, store. Or newsstand apparently. Still looking for this one myself.

 

(Picture copied from Entertainment Weekly) 

 

While this does not cover all that is available on the Back to the Future trilogy, it is some good stuff.

Is there something else that has to do with this trilogy? Please share in the comments below. Me and everyone else would love to hear about it.







Winter's Child

"'Once Upon a Time' is Timeless."

 

Bookworm's Ranking - 4.5 Worms

Storyline - Deirdre was just a child when she became the Winter Child, destined to right a wrong not of her own making that would take her across the world. Ky and Grace grew up together as close friends even though Ky is open to possibilities and likes to fix things while Grace focuses on reality and dreams of journeying to the horizon. When these three cross paths, it will take strength, determination, and faithfulness to their task to find love and their place in the world.

Author - Cameron Dokey

Publisher - Simon and Schuster

Age Group - 14 and up

Content - *May Contain Spoilers* A couple of the characters lie to escape dangerous situations. The meaning of love and sacrifice and friendship are tried. The faithfulness to their missions are tested.

Personal Opinion - A fabulous retelling of The Snow Queen while keeping close to the original story yet being different and its own tale. All the characters struggle for what it means to love selflessly and sacrificially. Each is struggling with understanding this and has to live with the consequences of their choices and the choices of others. The author had several character points of view but also used the first person narrative for each person yet was able to keep who was speaking straight with chapter headings similar to those from the original story. Unfortunately, the ending was partially not set up so it felt like it came out of no where, making seem like it was just thrown into the story. This is a unique and beautiful tale of friendship, determination, and love that, while based off the same story as the movie Frozen, is its own story while still keeping close to the original fairy tale.

Buy - Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Publisher, 

Note: This book is difficult to find in paperback for a reasonable price in a good condition. You can find it cheaper for worse condition.

Other Reviews for this Author - Golden - Review
                                                    Wild Orchid - Review
                                                    The Storyteller's Daughter - Review

To read or comment on this and other reviews, stop by Bookworm

 

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Books Releasing in October

Hey Bookworms,

Another month of books releasing and it looks like a good batch. Three of the four I want to highlight are either from authors I've read before or part of a series I like. The only one on here I am not familiar with at all besides reading the summary is still in my usual favorite genre and published by Disney so I will probably like it. So, lets take a look at what is coming out.

DreamWorks Dragons: Riders of Berk Volume 6

This series is fun and the stories are original. They take place during the same time as the TV show of Dragons but are their own stories, not just a retelling of what is aired on the show (Also, has anyone else been watching DreamWorks Dragons: Race to the Edge?) No idea what is happening in this book but will be reading it. If you have been following my reading this year, you will see there have been a lot of Dragons in it.

It is releasing on the 13th.

A Thousand Nights

Here is that Disney book I was talking about earlier. From the title and cover, I have a feeling this is a retelling of Arabian Nights but not sure because I have to read or find (okay, both) a summary for this book. Yet I love the cover and would find this very miss leading if it didn't have something to do with Shahrazad.

It is releasing on the 6th.

War for the Waking World

This is book 3, and the final, in the Dreamtreaders series by Wayne Thomas Batson. This is a great author and book 2, Search for the Shadow Key, was awesome. I might still be in need of reading book 1, which is on my to-read shelf, but I can't wait to see how things come together after reading book 2. And this author is just great. You can read more reviews of his books here on Bookworm by searching his name.

It is releasing on the 27th.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone

Does this book need any introduction? Okay, so some might be saying, "Um, this book has been out for years," and yes, it has. But not the illustrated edition. Yup, the first Harry Potter book is being re-released with color illustrated images inside. The cover art is amazing and, when I first heard about this edition, I saw some interior art and it is cool. Can't wait to get this and will probably re-read it.

It is releasing on the 6th.







Wow, another great collection. I can't wait to get each book on here. Last months books might have broke the book shelf, but this months might break the bank. Yet, I think books are a good investments (as long as you don't go broke of course). They ignite the imagination and so much more.

Share what you are looking forward to this month book wise in the comments section.

Chew on a good book today!

Bookworm

The Knight of Eldaran: The King's Hand

"Any Man Can Deceive.
But There is a Price."
 

 

Bookworm's Ranking - 4 Worms

Storyline - Eamon has returned to the King after failing in his vow and received in return a miracle, forgiveness. But, finding the King and His grace once again will not make his path easy. Still spying for him under the ruse of serving the Master, Eamon has to return and do what he can for the people, being the King's hand, until he reclaims the city. But with the Master watching and the Right Hand ever so close to him and ever decision plagued by what might happen to those he has come to care for, can Eamon truly make a difference for other and not be found out or give up when the worst happens to the ones he tried to protect?

Author - Anna Thayer

Publisher - Kregel Publications

Age Group - 16 and up

Content - *May Contain Spoilers* Couple of times women were spoken of in a derogatory way. Gruesome deaths that are a bit detailed. Lost of spirituality and power in those in the side their lean upon. Determination to stay with the King despite difficulties and despair.

Personal Opinion - The return to Eamon and is struggles was a captivating and insightful event. While this volume didn't have many action scenes with battles and such, it delt with a great struggle, the spirit of man. Eamon struggles with staying strong and true to the King when one thing goes wrong after another and also needs to find a way to do the King's will, helping the people, while still hiding is allegiance and under the Master's watchful eye. It reminded me how we need to find a way to serve God and care for his people in out world when it seems so much of it has drifted away from him. Yet, the good works brings peace and glory to the One who truly deserves it. The only down side of this book is that it has some swearing in it and it can deal with some intense issues which makes it more suited for an older audience. This book deals with a great idea while also setting up and bridging books 1 and 3.

Buy - Amazon, Barnes and Noble, ChristianBook, Publisher,

Other Reviews for this Author - The Traitor's Heir - Book 1

Disclaimer - In exchange for an honest review, I received this book for free from the publisher.

To read or comment on this and other reviews, stop by Bookworm

 

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Golden

"'One Upon a Time'

is Timeless"
 

Bookworm's Ranking - 4 Worms

Storyline - Rapunzel has lived her whole life peacefully with a witch who has loved her like a daughter, despite her ever bald head, the one thing she wish was different. But, when things get difficult in town, it is the witch they blame and they have to run with the help of the Tinker and his assistant, their only friends. That is when Rapunzel learns the truth of what the witch wishes of her, to help her free her real daughter who is imprisoned in a tower. As time begins to run out, Rapunzel will have to dig deep to find the truth of love and beauty before the witch's daughter with the long golden hair is trapped forever.

Author - Cameron Dokey

Publisher - Simon Pulse; an imprint of Simon and Schuster

Age Group - 15 and up

Content - *May Contain Spoilers* Some magic spells and curses. Needing to over come jealousy and own self concerns. Accepting who oneself is and helping others.

Personal Opinion - This is a unique way of retelling the fairy tale of Rapunzel. I think it did a good job of examining love, what it truly is outside of the whimsical way we think of it, and even beauty. It really did a fine job of challenging those ideas into something real. I would recommend it for that reason. Yet, I found the beginning long to finally get to the tower and then not enough time spent there to truly develop clearly and perfectly the ideas that were being brought out. I also didn't like the lie the two girls made and never cleared up. That is an issue. But, this was a fun retelling and has a great amount of potential and beginning talking points on love and beauty

Buy - Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Publisher,

Other Reviews for this Author - The Story Teller's Daughter - Review
                                                    Wild Orchid - Review

To read or comment on this and other reviews, stop by Bookworm

 

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Books Releasing in September

Hey Bookworms,

Happy Birthday Month to Me! Yup, its my birthday this month which is one reason why it is my favorite. It coinciding with school was not much fun but now that I'm out of school, I can just enjoy. It is also the change of the seasons, ending of summer and beginning of fall, and there are always more books releasing in fall then summer it seems. So, this month, there are four books releasing that I would like to make note of. Yes, four! Anyways, here are the releases.

Never Never

A retelling of Peter Pan but from the point of view of Captain Hook, beginning when he was a kid. A very interesting idea to dig into why Hook dislikes Peter and even to make him sympathetic too. I found this book when I was checking out a different Peter Pan retelling that also emphasized Hook, called Hook. Both of these I would like to read but not sure which one first. Maybe I should read Peter Pan first to understand the significance of the story. :)

It is releasing on the 22nd.

A Whole New World

If the title reminds you of the movie Aladdin from Disney, good, because it is published by them and asks the question 'what if Jafar got the lamp first?' Being a fan of the movie, I would like to see how this story goes. Sounds like a fun adventure. It looks like Disney will also be doing this for more of their stories and this is the first one in a series.

It is releasing on the 1st.

Upside Down Magic

Okay, so saw this cover on Twitter from Scholastic and had to find out what it was all about. Kids are in school to learn magic and this book is about the ones who mess up (like the one on the cover who can turn herself into a dragon and cat but only at the same time). This books seems like a funny and charming read and I just really want to see what happens, hopefully the troublesome magic being what it takes to do something normal magic cannot.

It is releasing on the 29th.

William Shakespeare's Tragedy of the Sith's Revenge

If you have been reading my reviews, you know I have been reading and loving this series. This is the one where the Emperor rises and Anakin falls to the Dark Side (if you have seen the movies, this should not be a spoiler). While the stories have been fun and funny at times with the adaption of the lines from the movie into William Shakespeare play language, I am hoping story moves me to tears, or some sort of sadness because of how sad this story is (I also want it for my birthday).

It is releasing on the 8th.







Now that is a collect that could break my to-read bookshelf. But they wouldn't stay there for long. Hope to see some of these as birthday gifts this year, as well as some coming out in later months (don't mind waiting for a pre-ordered gift book if it is one I really want).

How about you? Any books coming out this month that you are looking forward to this month? Want to share in the comments?

There are some great books also releasing in October so I'm looking forward to sharing those with you next month. For now...

Chew on a good book today!

Bookworm

Comics - Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle - Volume 1 & 2, Issues 39-47

 

Bookworm's Ranking - 4 Worms

Storyline - The turtles are living in New York and falling into one dangerous event after another. Mysteries from feudal Japan and scientific troubles fill their days, putting them and their friends Casey, April, Angel, and more in situations where they have to fight back. While each character deals with their own personal issues, they come together as a time to protect their home and each other.

Creators - Kevin Eastman and Tom Waltz

Publisher - IDW Publishing

Age Group - 16 and up

Content - *May Contain Spoilers* Bloody fights and some swearing. Reincarnation. Abusive father situation early in the series and conflict because of it continues to cause tension. World domination later in the comics. Staying true to family and what you believe in. Following a code and protecting friends.

Personal Opinion - The turtles are fighting crime against old and new enemies while making friends and discovering their past. A lot of things have changed in the story with this new publication yet nodes to and brings in elements of the original tales and parts to the TV shows and movies. It all blends together seamlessly and continues being a tale of family, right and wrong, and fighting for what you believe in. Each month, a continuation of their adventure is released so readers only have to go a short time before a new story is published (by the time this post will publish, I will have read at least one new comic in the series). The art work is great too. There is some content that I could do without, swearing for one, it is still a great story and not as bad as it could be. It is pretty violent and bloody so not for young readers. If you are a turtles fan, start picking this comic up at your local comic shop and enjoy a new phase of the story. (If you are picking up in the middle of this series, there are books with the past comics available for purchase that have about four comics to a book. I am using these to catch up so I have questions that I hope will be answered from where it began to where it is now. Example: the art has changed a little.)

Also, check out the Casey and April comics which is a brief side story for only a few months.

Video -

Buy - Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Publisher,

To read, comment, or share your own opinions, stop by Bookworm

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Frostfire

"Hidden Deep in the Heart of a Snow-Covered Wilderness Lies the Secret Kingdom of the Kanin - A Magical Realm as Beautiful as it is Treacherous..."

 

Bookworm's Ranking - 3 Worms

Storyline - Having never been completely accepted among her kingdom because she is both Kanin and Skojar, Bryn dedicates herself in her work as a Tracker, who leaves the safety of the Trolls' home to find and return with the Changlings placed in our world as babies once they have grown old enough. But, when on a routine mission, she comes face to face with the man who tried to kill her father and stabbed her years ago, Konstantin Black. Unsure what he was doing following a Changling, Bryn tries to focus on events and duties at home but something is wrong. As Konstantin continues going after Changlings, she and the other Trackers have to keep the kingdom safe. Yet, while Bryn wants to bring Konstantin to "justice," there is something that isn't right. Mysteries and fantasy abound in this first installment of The Kanin Chronicles.

Author - Amanda Hocking

Publisher - St. Martin's Griffin

Age Group - 17 and up

Content - *May Contain Spoilers* Several characters have "romantic encounters" casually. Swearing every few pages. A diversity in gender preferences for relationships. Faithfull to country and protecting those in danger. Determination to do their duty. Wanting revenge but sees there might be more to the situation that can be seen.

Personal Opinion - Filled with intrigue, action, and mystery, Frostfire was one of the most engaging and captivating books I have ever read. Even though this is based off a fairy tale yet, it is so light and woven together so well, it is its own story. The life of Bryn is complicated and so are the morals and practices of the world, creating conflict. I like how it takes place in our world yet is hidden. The author is also Minnesotan, my home state, which is just cool and, in my opinion, give credibility for writing a world filled with snow and, later, a country with water, two major parts of MN. However, I did rate this at only 3 stars and my reasons for that is the morality presented in the novel. *May Be Spoilers* Within the first chapter, a character makes a video call and connects with another character who is just finishing a "nooner". While there was nothing explicit, all the while presenting this as no big deal, just their way of life, it felt like in appropriate material, this event and subsequent references or desires that were clearly hinted yet not detailed, for teens. People do have different ideas on appropriateness of this stuff but I was uncomfortable with it being in a book meant for this age group. That was my number one issue and is making me question if I will continue reading the books even though I want to know what happens next. Second, there were some laws broken in our world that the characters did in order to escape trouble and they have the philosophy of "the ends justified the means" going for them. There were lastly a few swear words every several pages which I can usually live with so this was not a make it or break it issue. I think I may continue reading the series, not only to see how the story goes and understand the mysteries set up but also to see how the morals of the characters and the practices of the society, the Changling practice which causes some friction between characters, is covered. I want to know if the world created still thinks these ways are still okay or if their way of thinking and seeing things change even though, right now, they are defending them.

Video -

Buy - Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Publisher,

To read or comment on this and other reviews, stop by Bookworm

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How to Train Your Dragon: How to Fight a Dragon's Fury Cover

Hey Bookworms,

Wondering around on Amazon today and came across the cover for How to Train Your Dragon: How to Fight a Dragon's Fury cover. I have been reading a lot of Dragon this year and this is the last of the book in the original series. Thought I would share with you all.

 

 

Great, yeah? I can't wait for this adventure but I'm sure it will be bitter sweet at the same time. This one I'll be crying during but I hope I'll feel the story complete once over, be at peace with when done. Are you in the middle of a series now? What series have you looked forward to? How did you feel about the last book?

 

Chew on a good book today!

 

Bookworm

 

The Little Paris Bookshop

"A Warm and Charming Tale of
Love, Loss,
and the Power of Reading"

Bookworm's Ranking - 3 Worms

Storyline - Monsieur Perdu calls himself a literary apothecary. From his floating bookstore in a barge on the Seine, he prescribes novels for the hardships of life. Using his intuitive feel for the exact book a reader needs, Perdu mends broken hearts and souls. The only person he can't seem to heal through literature is himself; he's still haunted by heartbreak after his great love disappeared. She left him with only a letter, which he has never opened.

After Perdu is finally tempted to read the letter, he hauls anchor and departs on a mission to the south of France, hoping to make peace with his loss and discover the end of the story. Joined by a bestselling but blocked author and a lovelorn Italian chef, Perdu travels along the country’s rivers, dispensing his wisdom and his books, showing that the literary world can take the human soul on a journey to heal itself.

Internationally bestselling and filled with warmth and adventure, The Little Paris Bookshop is a love letter to books, meant for anyone who believes in the power of stories to shape people's lives.

(Summary copied from Amazon)

Author - Nina George

Publisher - Crown Publishers

Age Group - 18 and up
 
Content - *May Contain Spoilers* Love making and such is a popular topic (weather or not someone was already married didn't matter). Regret is struggled with as well as guilt. Searching for love and belonging is what the characters want most, romantically and otherwise. Jean helps others and sees what they need to give them the book that will help them heal.

Personal Opinion - I decided not to finish this book 32% into it because of all the pretty detailed "romantic" scenes in it. I can do without all those details in a book (or movie or TV show for that matter); I get what the characters did and I don't need to be there for it. It is something that makes me personally uncomfortable. Besides my personal feelings, the story also tended to be direct in the information it shared with the reader and some of it was repeated (I don't know how many times it went over each neighbor he lived with in the apartment and what they read). It tended to make the story longer and was summary in a way. Yet, the best thing about this book was when it was on the Literary Apothecary and talked about books and their healing properties. It is why I wanted to read this in the first place and it was beautiful. It is exactly how I think of books, perfectly creating an image of what books are in our world. The cover flap said this book was also about love and loss as well as how books affect us and it was doing a superb job of creating characters that were involved in all of that but I just didn't need that detailed of the "love."

Buy - Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Publisher,

Disclaimer - In exchange for an honest review, I received this book for free from the publisher through Blogging for Books.

To read or comment on this and other reviews, stop by Bookworm

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A Wish Made of Glass

Releasing August 14, 2015

Bookworm's Ranking - 4 Worms

Storyline - Izzy's world is turned upside down, her once joyous life with her mother and evenings dancing with the mythical fey folk in the woods, is destroyed when her mother dies. Yet, her father brings back some of that happiness until he marries someone else. Determined not to share with her father with anyone else, Izzy deplores her stepmother and sister, even when a budding friendship with the woman's daughter. As tragedy continues to strike, she can find very little to be happy about and is alone. Can Izzy truly open her heart and trust someone else, especially the secret of her friendship with the fey, with someone else or will this be destroyed as well?

Author - Ashlee Willis

Publisher - Dewdrop Books

Age Group - 15 and up

Content - *May Contain Spoilers* Jealousy and vengeance is often on the mind of Izzy. Overcoming past hurt and regret is a battle within each person. Love for each other and finding happiness in other's joy is found.

Personal Opinion - After being a host for the cover reveal of this novella, I really looked forward to the release. Now, having read it, it is a magical retelling of Cinderella with a twist, SPOILER it is not from the view point of Cinderella but the stepsister END SPOILER. While dark and heartbreaking at times, this version explores the motivations behind the main characters, making the ones usually disliked sympathetic and human, not just evil and vindictive. The one thing I did not like about it was how much it was told to the reader. While it was in a first person point of view and revealed a lot of how this character felt and saw the situation, a lot of it was kinda straightforward. But, it had a beautiful message and an unusual, and interesting, take on a well known story which suggests a rethinking of how the reader understands the events and idea of unfairness while keeping to the original themes.

Buy - Amazon

Disclaimer - In exchange for an honest review, I received this book for free from the author.

To read or comment on this and other reviews, stop by Bookworm

 

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5 Glass Slippers

"One Beloved Story
Five Exciting Writers
A Collection to Cherish"

 

Bookworm's Ranking - 4 Worms

Storyline - The tale of Cinderella is timeless and beloved. In this collection of five novellas, her story is revisited and retold in surprising new ways: 1) she has no interest in the prince or going to the ball, 2) the slipper fits the wrong girl, 3) reclaiming the throne from an imposter prince, 4) drilling on an alien planet when a ship arrives with a famous captain, and 5) freeing those imprisoned in an enchanted circus. Each is unique yet faithful to the original. Enjoy the magic once again on these spellbinding tales.

Editor - Anne Elisabeth Stengl

Authors - Elisabeth Brown
                Emma Clifton
                Rachel Heffington
                Stephanie Ricker
                Clara Diane Thompson

Publisher - Rooglewood Press

Age Group - 15 and up
 
Content - *May Contain Spoilers*

Personal Opinion - This collection of Cinderella stories, all varying in style, mood, and even genre, really bought out the character and story in a variety of ways. She is shy, a dreamer, and even someone who faces her fear. She lives where magic exists, the real world, and even outer space. She is also loved, hated, and even disliked by her step-mother and sisters. Talk about a wide vision of Cinderella and, yet, each story was special, unique, and fun in its own way. I particularly loved A Cinder's Tale in this collection. Not only did I get to read great versions of this tale that goes in depth of the story with each one being able to read in about a day, but also get to know new authors, some of who it was there first story published. I will keep this collection and re-read the story for a while and am looking forward to the next collection by Rooglewood.  

Buy - Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Publisher,

To read or comment on this and other reviews, stop by Bookworm

Chew on a good book today!

Books Releasing in August

Hello Bookworms,

On the first of each month, I will share about new books releasing for that particular month. Since there are just too many books releasing each month to share them all, I will have to narrow the ones featured (a whole blog could be dedicated to that). There are at least two great books releasing during August and I am looking forward to them for different reasons. Hope you are also looking forward to them.

Mechanica

So I heard about this book on Goodreads I think and it is a retelling of Cinderella with a Steampunk twist. The cover is beautiful and curious and I think this would be a fun book to read. It will be available on the 25th.

The Wolf Wilder

I love wolves whish is why the cover of this book caught my attention. It is about a girl who helps her father "wild" wolves and takes them back to the wild, which causes some trouble. I know nothing about the author but still want to read because of the wolf part. The trouble with it I could see is that some books that feature animals on the cover or mentioned in the summary have very little part of the actually story which irritates me. Hope this book handles it well because it sounds like the wolves are prominent. It is releasing on the 25th.

Crystal Kingdom

This is the third book in the series and book 1, Frostfire, will be reviewed later this month. One thing that caught my attention when I first heard about this series were the covers (a picture is worth a thousand words) and the story is captivating (but there are some things making me uncomfortable). It is also based off a fairy tale. Can you guess which one?

It is releasing on the 4th.









All these new releases look fun and adventurous for their own reasons and I hope to get a chance to read them. I also hope I run into a few more books that will be releasing in August. My to-read shelf might be stacking up but I'm still reading and reviews are coming.

What book(s) are you looking forward to this month? Share in the comments below.

Be sure to chew on a good book today (and this month)!

Bookworm

 

How to Train Your Dragon Series: Books 9-11

Bookworm's Ranking - 4 Worms

Storyline - The dragon Furious has returned leading the Dragon Rebellion with one goal in mind, destroy the humans, especially Hiccup. As the dragons attack, the Vikings strike back, knowing only one can survive. Mean while, Hiccup has to survive and accept that he is to be the next king of the Wilder West. Yet everything is falling apart. He is losing everything, his tribe, his friends, and his family. Alone, he needs to find a way to stop the dragon rebellion before one side or the other is defeated forever. It is up to Hiccup to save the dragon and Vikings, and stop the wrong man claiming the throne. The dragon rebellion has begun.

Author - Cressida Cowell

Publisher - Little, Brown and Company

Age Group - 13 and up

Content - *May Contain Spoilers* Honor and loyalty is tested and choices are made on how to treat one another. Friends are determined as well as how far they are willing to go for each other. How faithful one will be is tested. Death even comes to one.

Personal Opinion - If the summary is a bit dark for this usually tongue-in-cheek series, that's because that is the turn the books have taken. Hiccup struggles with his calling and protecting those he loves as well as achieving his goals. He is devastated by the idea of losing dragons forever and is determined to save both them and the Vikings but as Alvin and his mother work on making Alvin king, they are determined to destroy the beasts. Right and wrong will be determined and loyalty as well as friendship will be discovered. Sacrifices are made, lives lost, and stakes are falling. There is only one book left in the series and I can only see a bitter sweet or a depressing (filled with tears and sadness) ending based off what has been hinted at Old Hiccup's writings. Yet, I'm looking forward to its release this fall. But, also sad at it ending. Here is to a great, crazy, funny, charming, and fantastic series of dragons, adventures, and growing up while becoming a hero.

Buy - Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Publisher,

Other Reviews for this Author - How to Train Your Dragon: Books 1-7 - Review
                                                   How to Train Your Dragon: How to Break a Dragon's Heart - Review

To read or comment on this and other reviews, stop by Bookworm

 

Chew on a good book today!

Books Releasing in July

Hello Bookworms,

Today I'm starting something new. On the first of each month, I will share about new books releasing for that particular month. I will have to narrow the books that are announced to ones I'm interested in because there are just too many books releasing to share them all (a whole blog could be dedicated to that). Anyways, there are at least four great books releasing during July and I am looking forward to each one for different reasons. Hope you are also looking forward to them.


Five Enchanted Roses

The second collection of fairy retellings by Rooglewood Press is releasing July 27 and is focusing on Beauty and the Best. The collection was created with a writing contest and contains the five winners. Five variations of the story will be in this collection and I can't wait to read it. I am currently in the middle of Five Glass Slippers, the collection of Cinderella stories published last year, and am enjoying it. If these stories are as good as the ones I'm reading now, this book will be a great read. If you are interested in writing your own retelling, you can learn about the current contest this publisher is running on here or visit Rooglewood's website.







William Shakespeare's The Clone Army Attacketh

Releasing July 7 and if you haven't read Ian Doescher's Star Wars books on the movies, written in the form of a Shakespearian play, you have been missing out. Not only are these books true to the original sources, but all dig deeper into the story and characters' thoughts and emotions. Plus, they are hilarious on how some of the original lines are presented in Shakespearian speech. They are brilliant and a must read, especially if you love Star Wars. There are two reviews for previous released books, Jedi Doth Return and Phantom of Menace, (no, I have not read these books in order) that you can read to learn more about the series.

Knife

The first book in a new series published by Enclave Publishing (previously Marcher Lord Press) who produce fabulous books. I actually have no idea what this book is about but it has a fairy with a knife on the cover and it is by one of my favorite publishers. It has to be noted. Upon farther research, it seems this series was previously published. This will release on July 21.











Go Set a Watchman

For those who love To Kill a Mockingbird will be thrilled to finally be able to read its sequel releasing July 14. This story follows the girl from the first book, Scout, who returns home where the events took place. My mom loves To Kill a Mockingbird and will be a book she will have to have as I'm sure many who also adore that book. A perfect gift for your book reader and To Kill a Mockingbird lover.











Well, those were all the books I found that interested me releasing this month (I'm sure there is more but I bet I haven't found them yet). I hope you have also found something new to read. If there is one you are looking forward to, already mentioned here or not, share in the comments and tell us a little about it. More release news next month, until then...

Chew on a good book today!