Dive in - it's worth it!
920898
This is a great read. Takes a while to get into, but once the story takes over it becomes very difficult to put down, Not only is it great fun and really entertaining, but the premise for the story - the lost sister in childhood and the devastating impact that has on the narrator's life and family - is utterly compelling. I went from thinking the protagonist not particularly likeable at the beginning to REALLY caring about him and the entire cast of colourful characters who support him on his various sojourns into the past, and being desperate to see if things turned out OK. Nick Jones handles the suspense very well indeed, keeping you guessing and turning the pages as the fuller picture gradually emerges - and some of the twists and plot turns are genuinely unexpected. I thoroughly enjoyed this book - it cheered up a goodly number of dreary winter bus rides into work and kept me up late into the night. I heartily recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good story and characters they can make friends with - no need at all to be a science fiction fan or time travel buff. Really looking forward to the sequel!
4617301
I downloaded this today on the flight from, of all places, Atlanta to LA.  Figured I'd take a chance with an unknown author.

I happily discovered that the book skillfully interwove a fast-paced mystery thriller with many of my old Atlanta "haunts" (I grew up there).  Emory, Manuel's tavern, Virginia Highlands, etc. all get good coverage.

Some of my favorite quotes from the book: (sorry you will have to read it to find the context and I don't have page numbers)

"Fodey Doe" -- 20% mark

"The beans won." -- 25% mark

"Don't ask, don't tell.  Keep your head down. Don't lie -- just keep them talking about themselves and pretty soon they'll see their reflection. It's easy to be liked that way:  people love themselves"  55% mark.

Eventually, during a rather technical conversation about interrelated gravitational fields, the characters explain some pretty complicated physics by using SINGING as an metaphor for gravitational attraction.  And it actually clarifies the theory!  I was amazed by this.

I took a chance on this book but was not disappointed; would recommend.  Worth the price, worth the time.
2659033
I picked up Sharknife on a whim unsure of whether I wanted to drop ten bucks for it or not....but I decided to go for it after I read a few pages and laughed outright! Corey's artwork is also very alive and fluid, and it embodies everything I had hoped to achieve with my own style (mixing manga, graf, and action). The characters in shark are hilarious, and one feels as if they're watching an anime while reading the book. It's a short read, but trust me, if it doesn't earn it's $10 price tag with cool points alone, then nothing will. It's the Pulp Fiction of manga esque titles! I'm really glad I picked this one up. If you've ever seen FLCL and like the art of the Gorillaz, give shark knife a try. I cant wait till volume 2 comes out, it's made a fan out of me. Hell, I'm even downloading the songs from Guan Gong's jukebox!. Why September?
416678
I really need to get and read the first of this series! And all subsequent, of course! Im definitely hooked.

Incredible depth of language. Thats how I can sum up this work in one sentence. The authors use and mastery of description, dialogue, and story is amazing. The characters are given more and more facets with each scene, which brings amazing depth to this cozy mystery  a genre where many authors often focus on the plot and only scratch the surface of their subjects.

The author also does a great job of setting the time period through character dialogue and actions  one of the best show, don't tell examples Ive read in a while. It is very easy to become immersed in the story!

Ill admit, it would be fun to hang out with Dee, and have adventures, but she definitely needs a partner, someone to go with her and keep her out of the worst of her dangerous investigations. Perhaps there are hints this will come in future books? We shall see!

I received a review copy of this work from the publisher through NetGalley
1554543
Let me say that this is an entertaining read starting off and worth your leisure reading time.  Since the book is larger than normal at 600 pages, you need to be amused, astounded, enthralled and REALLY enjoy reading this book....which is very possible IF YOU STICK with it.  The book's storyline really does hop, saunter, and leap around a large part of the time, which makes it challenging to connect with and really get into on a deeper level to allow the reader to feel like part of the plot from a distant viewing perspective.  Some of the plot points are predictable, yet there are many more unique and pleasurable scenarios to justify your continued effort moving forward with your read.  The combat and hand to hand fight scenes are not written as well as many other books I have recently read such as Hoffman's The Left Hand Of God.  Yet, the story kept me interested to see how the main character changed, developed, failed, learned, and progressed through the transformation of a cowardly fearful little street thug guild rat to become a master hired killer.  One strange element is the writer's choice of using the term WETBOY, which seems to be taken from old Russian crime lore as well as the Dungeons & Dragons games.  Although this term has some elements of historical relevance, it does tend to make your mind jump now and then to some other, graphically explicit images not related to the actual book content especially if there is an attractive young woman anywhere near you as a distraction.  Hey folks, just being blunt honest as I always am in my reviews.  With that being said, and returning from the VIVID psyche of bad 70's music horizontal cardio...this book is worth reading.  It is tough to stick with, but in the end it SHOULD provide some redeeming entertainment value.  Now on to book 2!
2192024
So glad I finally had a vacation long enough to catch up on some overdue reading. Just had a chance to finish Uncommon Stock: Version 1.0 in anticipation of the release of 2.0 and what perfect timing, as the first book leaves you dying to know what happens next. In fact, if I had any criticism of the book itd be that the action really ramps up just as were finishing it, leaving you wanting more. Thats not to say that the book is lacking in interest or action up until then; in fact I really enjoyed it almost as two books. The first book is probably the most entertaining primer on founding & funding a start-up that's been written, both because of the volume of actually useful advice and also because the narrative structure allows for different kinds of advice to come from different corners of the start-up world. All of this is under the guise of a tech thriller, which really kicks off in earnest in the final third and which makes it a much more interesting read than most how-to guides. Peper is a visceral writer and his heroine is rich & complicated. As a first-time author, hes done a great job of painting a vivid portrait of her character. Shes both inspiring for her courage & drive and maddening for her stubbornness & impulsiveness. My hope is that the latter is a function of her youth and that well see her character grow as the series develops. Regardless, Version 2.0 looks to be a real nail-biter. Cant wait to see what happens! Great book for anyone looking for a strong if flawed female character or for anyone thinking about starting a company. Very promising start for a young author & publishing innovator.
1893335
Together with his best friends, Archer and Miguel - who are more like family, Tosin owns and works aboard the Divemaster; a luxury mega yacht which is their home, and home base to the Banks Foundation. Though he is living out his wildest dreams and finally has a place to call home, Tosin can't help but wonder if he'll ever be able actually settle down.

Kahori has worked hard to build a name for herself with her jewelry line and has sacrificed her wanderlust to stay with her family on Aitutaki. Not willing to risk her heart or break someone else's, she toes the line of both when she meets Tosin and sparks begin to fly.

Because the back-story and relationship of Archer, Miguel and Tosin has already been established, I love how this book just jumps right to the good stuff. It's fast paced and action-packed, though I feel like this may have been the shortest of the series... and as always, I wanted MORE!

This is book 3 in the Divemasters series and similar to 1 and 2, this book DE-LIVERED!! This whole series is an amazing escape to paradise with excitement, danger, passion and no shortage of intensity.  Part of what makes this particular series so fantastic is that Jayne's love of scuba shines throughout, giving the settings and descriptions a more natural feel. It's not forced and that just seems, to me, to be more enjoyable.

I would have liked to see the scuba activities play a larger role in book 3 than it did, that's one element that I found lacking.  I was also hoping, really hoping, that there would be cameos from some of our favourite Men in Blue after the tantalizing teaser that was dropped at the end of book 6!
2537920
After just receiving my open water certificate, the next step was to read this book! It helps you on your way to websites for checking equipment and covers what to expect with your next upcoming dive specialty. Do yourself a favor and put this reference in your library. Easy to read, hard to put down, written by someone with a love of what the book is about- Getting into the water!
570511
Greetings,
  I'm not even sure how I found out about the "Yesterday's Gone" series, but I ended up with Episode 1 on my Kindle, and once I started, I devoured the entire episode in a little more than an hour.  After that, I went a' googlin' and found that I was two seasons behind, a situation I remedied quickly by puchasing both the season one and season two collections.  Once I'd finished those, I had a brief moment where I was about to start puchasing the season three episodes one at a time as I didn't think I could wait for the "box set" release of the entire season, but thankfully my timing was right on, and the entire season was released the very next day.

  When I first started reading this experiment in serialized story telling, I wasn't sure how well I would like it, but not only did it grow on me in a hurry, I actually have become a huge fan of this type of storytelling.

  The storyline, plot, characters and the way the authors churn out great twists and turns on a weekly basis is frankly amazing.  If you're a fan of creepy mystery driven "what if" stories, then this set of books is for you.  I can't believe what a great bargain these stories are.  After reading season one, I would have gladly spent quite a bit more to keep on with this adventure.

Thanks,
Brian
4668783
I am so pleased that I took this book to review. It was the breath of fresh air that I needed to get my interest in reading back up to where it should be after a dry spell. I was hooked after the first page, and didn't pull my nose out until the last word.

Stealing the Marbles contains the things I enjoy most when reading:; suspense, adventure, mystery, romance, and smattering of humor. This is a combination that works well, and will hold the reader's attention. Of course it sure doesn't hurt that the writer author has major skill!

I found the characters to be diverse as well as unique. Daniel is like an onion;: you have to peel away the layers to figure him out. In the beginning, I found myself unsure of him or his motives; however, yet while the story progresses, I came to an understanding of his inner -workings. He is memorable, and his story is one not to be missed.

I felt as if I got a glimpse into a lifestyle that I know nothing about and came out rooting for a thief because I understood the "why" of his job choice and I liked the way his mind worked.

I truly enjoyed the relationship between Daniel and Kaz. It gave me a sense of deep satisfaction, because, . Eeven though they have troubles, their love endures. It wasn't over-the-top like so many other romantic encounters but. It had a complete air of reality.

The secondary characters are strong, and add a wonderful depth to the story. I found myself enjoying them just almost as much as the main characters.
4333521
I really enjoyed this book. It can help someone decide whether or not they want to attempt this style of life themselves. The constant pressures and realities of the live aboard life are brought out, not glossed over or ignored. Quite an adventure!
856286
I'd taken the time to read one of her short stories, involving a character in this book, and that alone was sufficient for me to buy the whole series (a total steal at the price) and one of her shorter pieces.

I'm a character reader and this is a character-lover's dream, real type people, whatever their quirks, thrust forward without the needless glitz and even brutally in-your-face reality without feeling hopeless or lost in misery.

There's a lot going on, both in the scenes and behind them, but the depth of one of our main characters (Valdis) and his newly acquired squire (Dinghus) captivated me from their first entries. The relationship is powerful because it's real, because it's genuine and that sense of the genuine carries throughout the whole book.

If I had one complaint, it was that it didn't end neatly, usually a deal killer for me, but, since I already have the whole set (and I'm in love with these characters), I"m going to give it a pass.

Is it worth every second of every time you read it? Yeah.
3147521
Taking a trip with a self-centered nineteen year old is not on the top of anyones "to do list", especially if you want to have a relaxing, good time.  That is exactly what I am proposing for book lovers to do this summer!  And you will have a fabulous time!  When Simon starts his adventure he is a person you would love to leave behind but very soon his wonderful metamorphus begins to evolve.  His character grows exquisitely,and captures the reader with lots of humor, zesty conversation, and enjoyable storytelling.  Simon gains a depth of spirituality along his way that is enticing to the reader.  Other characters in Simon's world are so rich that you would love to pick up your next book and learn about them as well...I ask the author to please give us more stories about these well manicured characters...Simon's father, sister, grandfather, and girlfriend...I for one was not wanting the book to end!
2286348
This episode really ramps things up a notch, and the last lines are sigh worthy. I love this pairing.

I have been in heaven, working through the The Kraken King serials, and I have to say though that even with the week between parts, I wouldn't want to wait for the all in one volume instead - some of my favorite authors have been training me to like serials so I am in the right frame of mind for The Kraken King.  The wait isn't as hard as I thought it would be, and it is always exciting to get a new installment, and it's nice not to wait a whole year for *more*.

In the Kraken King so far, there is a good touch of adventure, a bit of humor, and the detailed world building that made me a fan of the Iron Seas in the first place and which makes these new stories so entertaining. But the leads are really what seal the deal for me. Zenobia and Ariq (the Kraken King) are both such great developed characters and the way their relationship is unfolding - despite a few stumbles - is really really good. *happy sigh*

With only four more episodes to go, part four ends the first half solidly but with promises of a wild and steamy ride to come.

(I got an early peek at this, but I also purchased a copy of my very own for my 'keeper shelf' - the gorgeous covers look very nice there by the way:)
2028365
Here's the type of story I like to see! Book One: The Jump of the Time Change series starts the story with great footing, a quick pace, and a dubious, wry sort of voice. You can't really go wrong with The Jump - if you're an avid reader with a lot of experience, you'll get pleasantly lost in Myers' storyline that races on like a roadster.

As a reader, I was pulled in by the mystery and the bits of information that popped around like a ball in a pinball machine. As a writer myself, I appreciated the fact that the author never gave away too much - he always held on to his cards, and revealed each at just the right time.

My only concern is that those with little experience in reading, or who don't read very often, might have some trouble keeping up. For those of you who enjoy a good book pretty frequently, however, you'll love the meat and juice of the story.

Without revealing too much, I'll say that the storyline reminds me of a Japanese anime - starts in a normal, average sort of life with usually a twist here or there... and then turns completely on it's head into something completely fantastical. We follow Jack - a high school teacher recently caught cheating on his girlfriend with one of his students. Worse, he's been entangled in a complicated "terrorist" plot involving a bomb. That's where the normalcy ends, however, as Jack and his girlfriend get into a car accident... and Jack finds himself in a completely unfamiliar world. The intensity ramps up even higher after that, and doesn't stop it's pace.

Needless to say, my favorite aspect of this book was the speed. As both a reader and writer, I value how well-crafted the pace of the story was. It's not easy to keep a reader distracted, entertained, and "fed" with exactly the right amount of information and thrill. Time Change: Book One: The Jump is akin to watching a high-speed race. I won't lie that I caught myself panting a few times. I've read a good deal of books, and read a lot of books consistently... and yet it's been a long while since I've had my blood run this fast due to a story. Kudos to the author for thrilling his audience - I'm looking forward to reading the second in the series as soon as possible.
2417469
I picked up this book, read the first two pages, and didn't put it down until I was done. Necking is a clever, witty, and romantic page-tuner.  I can wait for the next book from Salvatore.

Gia is a publicist with some very strange, albeit attractive, clients.  Although she has flirted with her author's agent, Johnny, for a long time, the attraction has recently come to head.  It can be a bit complicated to get involved with a vampire! For Gia, it's time to sink or swim.  Through Gia's eyes, we get to enjoy the fireworks as their relationship stops and starts. Throw in a few details of the underworld and you have book worth the trip.  Salvatore's writing is funny and to the point - no long-winded rhetoric here.  Give yourself a treat and devour this book!
1532029
For those of you new to the adventure game genre, this is a wonderful place to start.  For those of you like myself who are long-time adventure game fans, you're in for a real treat.
A simple glance at the screenshots (see [...]) will be enough to convince you that the graphics are superb -- and run exceptionally well even on my 4-year-old 450MHz PC.  The music is engaging and appropriate.  The interface is extraordinarily intuitive; it's one-click easy (like LucasArts' The Dig) but the cursor changes depending on whether you can speak, look at, pick up, or use an item.  Every now and then I found myself running the cursor hopelessly across the screen in an attempt to find anything I could interact with, but frankly this is more of a tribute to the game's excellent graphics than a comparison with the days of "pixel-hunting."  The inventory remains uncluttered, with a separate division for documents, and Kate (the protagonist) gets rid of objects you'll never need again in a natural way throughout the game.  The voice-acting is generally exceptional, although in all fairness I did get tired of several canned phrases ("No need to go down there!") by the end of the game.
One last note on the graphics: I'm used to games like the Monkey Island series where you click on things to look at them and have the protagonist tell you something about the object ("It's a rubber chicken with a pulley in the middle").  At first I was confused when I couldn't "look at" many things on the screen...and then I realized that the graphics are so good, there's just no need.  If you don't understand what something does, chances are Kate doesn't either.  Finally adventure games have reached this stage!
All this is well and good, but is the game any FUN to play?  I gave it 5 stars because of its fun-factor, and in many ways that's due to Syberia's engaging story.  The story is as realistic as anything you're likely to see in a game; it starts off very simply, with Kate in a world that you and she both understand, and as the worlds you experience get more complex and the story progresses, you agree that it all makes sense -- never is the rug pulled out from under the story's feet.  All this means that you can identify with Kate throughout, and that helps you get further absorbed in this exciting world.
The puzzles are decent -- a little on the easy side (I finished it without a walkthrough, and in all fairness I'm the type that's tempted to cheat two or three times per game when I get really stuck), and with a minimum of running all over the place like a chicken with your head cut off just to solve a single puzzle (there's one exception in the University town, but it's forgivable).
I wish it had been longer -- I didn't time it, but I'm guessing it gave me 10-15 hours of enjoyment -- not exactly "Longest Journey" stuff, but worthy of $'s.
Are you still wondering if you should get it?  You should.  Trust me.  It's worthy of its Adventure Game of the Year status.
Download the demo at: [...]