Vampires take Vacations Too!

It seems that these days supernatural themes are very popular. That, and I really enjoy reading about monsters and that kind of thing. So today we're looking at a short piece that seemed to hold promise.

101 Tips for Traveling with a Vampire
Joleene Naylor
24 pages

This short piece has a highly humorous tone to it. I'm guessing though, that rather than being a stand alone short, it was intended to be a supplement to the authors other work. Which annoyed me slightly. I had no idea when I added it to my reading list that it was going to give me more questions than answers. Yes, I am being honest when I say that it annoyed me slightly.

On the bright side there's enough cute funny tidbits to make it worth reading. For example:

"Before you buy your vampire friend an undead rubber ducky, make sure they have a sense of humor."

All in all it honestly wasn't bad. But previous exposure to the authors works may be beneficial in order to fully appreciate the piece. Though I can't give a rating for her other work, this piece is appropriate for a general reading audience.

^_~

A Female Lead

I'm sure by now you've started to notice a trend. I tend to read a lot of fantasy. It's just something that I highly enjoy, and all things considered there's nothing wrong with it. I love the fun and sometimes the insanity in it.

Honestly, years ago I started writing a book of my own that would be classified as fantasy. The sad thing is, I haven't finished it. I always get distracted. But at least most of the distractions are good. Like the one I'm sharing with you today.

Spooks and Magic
Jack Sorenson
458 pages

Here we go, looking at another book about a magic school. Seems a shame that many people would brush it off as nothing more than a Harry Potter hopeful. But most readers that are choosing what they read themselves, as well as what they purchase to read, grew up reading about Mr. Potter, so they're likely to forever compare new books to those.

Honestly though, this is a decently written piece. It's not perfect, but it flows well on the most part, and has many entertaining moments. The main characters are a bit different than some that we would be familiar with, though there are still characters we can imagine easily. A cranky professor, a confused student, an ancient wizard headmaster. But any of these familiar elements should not give a new reader a reason to write the book off as pointless.

Because although it does contain many familiar elements, there are some fun twists and delightful use of imagination. The author uses an evil book, helpful ghosts, demons and trolls, presented in new ways to create his own new believable world.

I enjoyed the fact that the main featured character is female. There are a number of stories where girls have been written off as damsels in distress, or as nothing more than support characters. This female lead, is not cut and dry on that matter, though it becomes clear quite quickly that she is the focus of the story.

This story seems to be suitable for most readers, although there are some fairly gruesome moments. I doubt most seasoned fantasy readers would bat an eyelash though. If you read it don't be afraid to share your opinion.

^_~ have fun reading.

Fantasy Christmas Tale

Children have a habit of creating worlds that they escape to, where they are powerful and respected. Places where nothing can hurt them, and every action has some sort of consequence that may be unexpected. They never plan to grow up and forget these things, but many of them do. Honestly, I'm afraid to say that even I fell prey to the curse of the grownup.

But that doesn't mean that I don't believe in the fantastical anymore. Quite the contrary in fact, I believe that there is good in everyone. I know that there will always be another day, and that there's no reason to rush things that can be finished then. But I also have learned how to evaluate deadlines, and utilize my creativity to come up with unique solutions to problems. So let's get on with the story then.

Christmas in NeverEarth
Sylvan Scott
22 Pages

This is an open ended piece, but it is quite effective. The language evokes a type of majestic fantasy realm like that of C.S. Lewis. But instead of a child entering the realm, we see an adult. Although it states that the main character Anthony is only 19, I will say adult due to the feel of the character. He's described well, and you really like him.

The second character, as well as a number of the beginning descriptions are what evokes the Narnia feel to me. The support character is a satyr named Wiste. He acts as a catalyst agent in order to provoke the buried memories of NeverEarth that Anthony had forgotten. He also helps to give a more thorough explanation of the past, even if it is only revealed in small snippets to the reader.

The writing is very clean, and although there are hints at GLBT issues, the only one that really is covered is the concern about telling people. Hopefully by saying that I do not ruin the story for you. The story itself is clean, so I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to teens or adults. Children might enjoy some of the scenes, but the true magic of the piece might be lost on them.

I also really enjoyed the writers use of a labyrinth type world crossing concept. It seems well thought out, and brings to mind other fables and stories that use the idea. It makes me think of the fairy hills. and the stories people have told about them, as well as tales that include the use of ley lines. I enjoyed this piece as a whole.

I do agree with some of the others who have read it, that it would have been awesome to have a longer piece. But I think part of the authors point is to let the readers wonder and create their own "adventure", and leave them wondering until the next installment is available. A good choice really, because I've noticed that good authors leave their readers wanting more. And I know taht I'll be waiting for the next NeverEarth tale.

If you read it do let me know what you think of it, as I'm sure the author would also like to hear your thoughts. So remember to review what you read at the download site. It helps the author, and it helps other readers to decide if the piece is something they might enjoy, or if it is a waste of their time.

Just a Thought on Bullying

The girl you just called a Mudblood? She spends hours practicing spells hoping people will like her. The boy you just stupefied? His parents use the Cruciatus Curse on him regularly. That kid you just pushed? He is trying to use the killing curse on himself. That guy you just made fun of for crying? His mother was killed by a Death Eater. Put this on your status for an hour if you are against bullying in the Wizarding World.

You never know what it’s like until you fly a mile on their broom.
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I didn't write this, and I'm not entirely sure who did, but it was drifting around on FB and seemed to be something that was worth sharing, even though it's not a full book.

Hope you're reading something great!