REVIEW: Catching a Man (Valeriel Investigations, #1) / Elizabeth Corrigan

In celebration of her recently released fantasy mystery, Catching a Man, I'm dedicating this week to author Elizabeth Corrigan. The first post in this series is my review of Catching a Man, the first book in the Valeriel Investigations series.

TITLE: Catching a Man (Valeriel Investigations, #1)
AUTHOR: Elizabeth Corrigan
PUBLISHER: Self-published
AVAILABILITY: Purchase links on author's website (click here)

GENRE
Fantasy - Mystery/Noir

REVIEW
Kadin Stone wants what every young woman in the 1950s-style kingdom of Valeriel wants: to find a husband. Not because she's a particularly domestic sort (her java-brewing skills prove the opposite, in fact) but because in this society, it's the only way she can move out and stop burdening her brother (women in Valeriel can't live alone). So her primary goal in becoming a detectives aide is to get in with the young investigators and snag one for herself.

As is made clear from Day 1, Kadin's job is to make java and look pretty. But after someone murders the queen, she finds herself unable to ignore the clues. And an unexpected encounter with the primary suspect leads her down investigative alleys the lead detective missed. When her boss dismisses her attempts to help, she finds herself with no choice but to solve the murder herself.

Catching a Man is a unique and entertaining fantasy mystery full of colorful characters and fascinating twists. The world is an interesting and somewhat satirical twist on mid century America, highlighting issues of gender inequality as well as the downsides of over privatization (in Valeriel, criminal investigations are privatized - which means if you can't pay, no one will solve your crime). The setting is full of flavors from the era, evoking bygone days in a different world. Who said all fantasies have to be medieval anyway? And of course, there's a touch of magic and hints of greater things to come (Catching a Man is the first in a series, though it is a self-contained story).

Kadin is an awesome protagonist, instantly relatable and fun to watch. Though she wants to fit in, she has an independent streak at odds with her repressive society. And her sarcastic commentary is an absolute delight to read (I found it hilarious). Other memorable characters include Baurus, the king's bad boy cousin who is Suspect #1 in the queen's murder, and Ollie, Kadin's spirited, gossip-loving friend.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it to anyone looking for an atypical fantasy. Especially since Kadin is also an atypical protagonist. She defies the cliche "Strong Female Character" trope while carrying the story with her own kind of charm. A fun and fast-paced read, Catching a Man takes readers to a wholly different kind of world.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Elizabeth Corrigan has degrees in English and psychology and has spent several years working as a data analyst in various branches of the healthcare industry. When she’s not hard at work on her next novel, Elizabeth enjoys singing, reading teen vampire novels, and making Sims of her characters. She drinks more Diet Coke than is probably optimal for the human body and is pathologically afraid of bees. She lives in Maryland with two cats and a purple Smart Car.

To Hell and Gone in Texas - Behind the Book

by 

Russ Hall

Some books take a winding path to become what they are. To Hell and Gone in Texas is one such edgy thriller. I had read Muriel Barbery’s book, The Elegance of the Hedgehog, and thought to myself, “Someday I’ll write my hedgehog book.” That’s the sort of memoir book I set out to write, a tale of two brothers who had gone quite different directions until they were estranged and hadn’t spoken to each other in twenty years. One was a womanizer and the other had recently retired as a detective for a sheriff’s department. The working title then was The Half-Life of Love, a tale to see if two brothers were able to reconcile. As I wrote, the thriller/suspense writer in me rose to the surface and the book became a tale of disrupted lives by forces far more evil and sinister than the woes of their lives.

The author (left) and his real-life brother

So, I painfully set aside ten thousand words of backstory that was quite fun to write and set the pace for page-turning action. Events conspire that force the brothers to depend on each other, to get to know each other all over again, and to relearn trust.

Texas was an ideal setting for the story since it remains on a frontier where just across the border are cartels making billions and they are confronted by U.S. law enforcement people able to spend only millions. It’s an easy place for two brothers and their friends to get swept up into a situation that is way over their heads in danger. Add blistering heat in a drought year and tensions and tempers mount.

My background lends itself to this sort of tale. Years ago I worked on a police force. Before that I sold, tested, fixed, and bore-sighted guns, learned how the various models perform. My journalism days took me to many strange places, such as autopsies, explosive quarrels, and worse. But it was an active interest in the threatening societal changes that led to my researching the drug cartels, the way law enforcement agencies have responded, and the brutal levels that the war between the forces have taken. Other than the research on weapons and procedures, I rounded up everything I could in the libraries and on the internet, interviewed officers in the various departments and agencies, and did a few ride-alongs, where—believe it or not—every perp isn’t found with his shirt off as in the TV series Cops. I found a very dark world out there, one creeping its way toward more innocent people each day.

So, instead of a gripping memoir, the story galloped off, with me hanging on, to deal with good guys who might be as rough and bad as the bad guys, and people caught in the middle who have no business being there. It’s a tale with which most readers who wish to be safe in their own homes can relate. As for the brothers with disrupted lives, anyone who has ever been in a family may get a head nod or two there as well. And I suppose there’s a lesson too, that just when people think life has gotten bad, they can find it can get a whole lot worse.

To Hell and Gone in Texas

By Russ Hall

Trouble big as all hell.

Retired sheriff’s detective Al Quinn hasn’t spoken to his brother, Maury, in twenty years. When Maury lands in the hospital under suspicious circumstances, though, Al reluctantly abandons his quiet country seclusion to look into the matter. A second attempt to take Maury out drives the brothers back to Al’s lakeside home, where Al knows the territory, but they’re not alone for long. ICE agents demand that Maury rat on his silent partner, city cop Fergie Jergens comes investigating the murders of Maury’s lady friends, and someone takes a match to Al’s house.

Al soon learns his problems are only getting started—his brother’s in trouble on both sides of the U.S.-Mexico border. Caught in a ruthless power struggle between the ICE and Los Zetas, a vicious Mexican mafia bent on ascendancy, Al learns the hard way who he can trust—and who’s willing to do whatever it takes to succeed.

With everything he loves on the line, Al will find out just how far he’ll go to protect his own.

Purchase links on publisher's website: http://redadeptpublishing.com/to-hell-and-gone-in-texas/

Excerpt from Tell Me My Name

Not too long ago, I did a reading of my YA high fantasy novella Tell Me My Name, and despite being totally terrified, I actually had a lot of fun. So I decided to recreate the reading for YouTube... Check it out!

I can't count the number of takes it took to get through that little 2-3 minute segment without tripping over my words. It's still not perfect, but at least there's no st-st-stuttering. And because I could, I popped in a little background music (a bit from A Thousand Faces, which I composed back in 2009). The melody from that song actually has lyrics, which play a role in Windborn, the first full-length novel in the Fated Stars series (coming 2016 from Glass House Press).

Chessiecon is this weekend!

Hey everyone! I'm going to Chessiecon this weekend! Chessiecon is a sci-fi/fantasy convention in the Baltimore area. From Friday after Thanksgiving through Sunday, I'll be peddling books in the vendor's hall and discussing sci-fi/fantasy. Fellow Red Adept Publishing authors Stephen Kozeniewski and Elizabeth Corrigan will be there as well. So if you're in the area, come by the North Baltimore Plaza Hotel for what promises to be an awesome con.

Below is my schedule of panels (and yes, the "Pierce" referred to in the panelist listings is Tamora Pierce!). Hope to see you there!

FRIDAY

2PM-3PM The Appeal of Dystopia in Young Adult Fiction - GS1 (Greenspring Ballroom)

The popularity of books such as The Hunger Games and Divergent shows that contemporary teens (and adults who read teen books) are hungry for tales of post-apocalyptic futures and oppressive societies. Outcasts, rebellions, and the horrors of stringent laws have all become common themes. This panel will explore some of the reasons why dystopian YA fiction has seen such a surge in popularity. Ackley-McPhail, Aire, Crist, Fan, Friedman

4PM-5PM Diversity in Science Fiction - GS1 (Greenspring Ballroom)

We will discuss why there is so little, how to improve, which works notably have it, or notably miss the mark. Aire, Cipra (M), Fan, HR Jones, Liebe

5PM-6PM The Evolving Landscape of Publishing - GS1 (Greenspring Ballroom)

With the rise of small presses, e-books, self-publishing, and online platforms, publishing has changed a lot in the 21st century. Both seasoned authors and aspiring writers have more options than ever before. This panel will discuss how to navigate the evolving landscape of publishing - and avoid the pitfalls. Corrigan, Demchick, Fan, Kozeniewski

SATURDAY

10AM-11PM How Not to Get Published - GS3-5 (Greenspring Ballroom)

A discussion of the mistakes and pitfalls common in publishing SF/F. Demchick, Fan, Kozeniewski, McLaughlin

3PM-4PM Why Do Adults Love Young Adult Fiction - GS3-5 (Greenspring Ballroom)

Everyone holds close YA stories they read when they were young. But some of those stories garner fans who first find them well over the age range they're marketed for. Is this a result of selective nostalgia for the “good old days” of their own teen years? Or is there something timeless about YA fiction that appeals to a wider age range? Ackley-McPhail, Corrigan, Edghill, Fan, Pierce

SUNDAY

10AM-11AM Reaching Readers (Timonium)

"Whether a writer is self-publishing ebooks, serializing fiction online, or promoting traditionally published books, modern technology is rife with opportunities (and pitfalls) for connecting with readers. The old advice about writers remaining aloof is outdated--especially in marginalized communities. Aloofness is a privilege that writers can't afford, but should writers participate in ""readers only"" spaces like Goodreads? What are the do's and don'ts of serializing as part of a web presence? What do readers want from authors online and how can authors benefit from that relationship?" Corrigan, Demchick, Fan, Kozeniewski

2PM-3PM Designing a Magic System - GS1 (Greenspring Ballroom)

Fantasy authors often create new worlds (or slightly bend this one) to include magic. What counts as magic? What are the things that can go wrong when including magic in your work? How much do you have to explain how the magic works? How do you keep it consistent and satisfying? Crist, Fan, Friedman, Hammond (M), Pierce

REVIEW: Slam (A Psionics Novella) / Tash McAdam

TITLE: Slam (A Psionics Novella)
AUTHOR: Tash McAdam
PUBLISHER: Glass House Press
AVAILABILITY: Purchase links available on the author's website (click here)

GENRE
Young Adult - Sci-Fi/Dystopia

REVIEW
Danger and superpowers and rebellion, oh my! SLAM is the high-octane introduction to Tash McAdam's upcoming YA dystopia series, The Psionics, and follows the tough-as-nails teen rebel Serena - who possesses the psionic powers akin to telepathy plus telekinesis - on her first mission for the Anti-Reprogramming Collective (ARC), an opposition group fighting the powerful and evil Institute. In this bleak future, children with telepathic powers are kidnapped and enslaved by the Institute, which seeks to use their powers to exert absolute control over the populace.

Serena's little brother is one of these children, and she'll stop at nothing to save him. But her only chance at saving him is to prove to ARC that she's capable of fighting for them. And so she undergoes a grueling training and testing regime before embarking on her first official task: an extraordinarily dangerous mission into the enemy's territory. And she doesn't even know what she's looking for there, only that if the enemy gets it first, all could be lost.

McAdam's stark and striking writing style boldly bring this action-packed adventure to life. Every line barrels into the next, taut with suspense, and keeps you wanting more. I ended up reading the whole novella in one sitting because I literally couldn't put it down! But not only is the suspense high - the characters are thoroughly engaging. McAdam manages to delve deep into Serena's psyche, allowing the reader to see what she sees and feel what she feels, while keeping up the rapid pacing. It's almost as if the author's a psionic herself, projecting the character's emotions and experiences into the reader's mind. 

The supporting character Leaf - a young gutterpunk who aids Serena on her mission - was a real standout. He's only present for the middle third or so, but sparkles in each moment. A chameleon with a mysterious power and bold attitude (and not to mention a unique accent!), he springs to life from his very first appearance and is probably one of the most memorable characters I've encountered in a while.

And then there's the world all this takes place in. The stark contrast between the struggling slums and the gleaming sci-fi civilization run by the government behind the Institute sets an excellent stage for a post-apocalyptic battle between the underdogs and the almighty Powers That Be. It's got everything - scrappy heroes, dark enemies, high tech... This is seriously catnip for dystopia fans.

All in all, SLAM is a highly enjoyable action/adventure tale, and I can't wait for the rest of the Psionics series!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Tash McAdam’s first writing experience (a collaborative effort) came at the age of eight, and included passing floppy discs back and forth with a best friend at swimming lessons. Since then, Tash has spent time falling in streams, out of trees, learning to juggle, dreaming about zombies, dancing, painting, learning Karate, becoming a punk rock pianist, and of course, writing.

Tash is a teacher in real life, but dreams of being a full-time writer, and living a life of never-ending travel. Though born in the hilly sheepland of Wales, Tash has lived in South Korea and Chile and now calls Vancouver, Canada home.

Maelstrom, the first book in The Psionics, is Tash’s first published work. Visit the website or facebook for news, gossip, and random tidbits about Tash’s adventures. 

Enter here to win a copy of the SLAM e-book!

REVIEW: Way Walkers: Tangled Paths (Tazu Saga, #1) / J. Leigh

TITLE: Way Walkers: Tangled Paths (Tazu Saga, #1)
AUTHOR: J. Leigh
PUBLISHER: Red Adept Publishing
AVAILABILITY: Purchase links on publisher's website (click here)

GENRE
Fantasy - Epic/High Fantasy

REVIEW
First, the disclaimers: I am a fellow Red Adept Publishing author. However, neither Red Adept nor J. Leigh asked me to write this review. The opinions that follow are mine alone. 

Now that we've gotten that out of the way, let the raving begin! Way Walkers: Tangled Paths contains one of the most interesting and intriguing fantastical settings I've seen in a while. Thought it falls firmly in the "epic fantasy" genre - the genre of Lord of the Rings, Game of Thrones, and The Sword of Truth - it contains many unique elements that set it apart. For instance, the world isn't a firm recreation of medieval Europe. There are elements of that, of course - kingdoms and magicians and the like - but, for instance, the architecture is glass instead of stone, and the characters travel via airship.

The plot of Tangled Paths is a classic Odyssey-style journey. The young hero is Jathen, a prince born to a kingdom of dragons. But unlike everyone else, Jathen is unable to shift into dragon form - a handicap that makes him the subject of derision. Bitter and angry, he sets out to find a place where he might belong, encountering many colorful characters and locations along the way.

This book is catnip for high fantasy fans. It pulls you into a rich, immersive world, complete with its own mythologies, political systems, and rules of magic. This universe feels lived in, real. And I just wanted to crawl inside and join Jathen as he explored new lands.

Tangled Paths is really a "slow reading" type of book. You don't flip the pages to find out what happens next like you would in a crime thriller or something. Rather, the best way to enjoy this novel is to absorb the sentences one by one and let them draw you into Jathen's world. As far as the plot goes, there are a few twists, but for the most part it's a straightforward journey of self-discovery, with many elements of a coming-of-age tale. Anyone who delights in discovering new worlds will enjoy this novel and all the richness of its universe.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR
J. Leigh wrote her first novel at the tender age of eleven, delving deep into the extensive fantasy world she entitled Way Walkers. Since then, she has never really left, though occasionally does emerge to enjoy the company of friends, family, horror movies and the ever-popular sushi dinner.

She currently lives in southern New Jersey with a chow-chow, several cats and fictional cast of hundreds.

Leigh’s published works include a ‘choose your own’ type interactive novel Way Walkers: University with Choice of Games.

AUTHOR INTERVIEW: John Matthews

An interview with John Matthews, author of A Game of Greed and Deception.

 

Hi! Welcome to Zigzag Timeline. Can you tell us about your background as an author?

I'm a University Professor teaching English and have a background in creative and technical writing. As an avid movie lover, I started my creative book ideas as screen plays. Then I decided to put my writing experience and creative ideas together to develop novels. I also am working on some non-fiction books.

What got you into writing?

I have always loved written language and have a passion for story telling.

What was the first idea you had for your book, and how did the story grow from there?

I loved the idea of a young, beautiful woman planning to murder her husband for money, but then having him find out and plot revenge. So I decided to have this take place in an isolated cabin in the dead of winter time, with her and his daughter trapped inside. But I did not want to be cliche and developed several more layers to the plot, and nothing is as it seems. I love twists and making the reader guess in a novel. I planned the ultimate game of deception.

Among your characters, who's your favorite? Could you please describe him/her?

Tammy, the main character. She is something....psychotic, manipulative, yet charming and very clever.

What's your favorite scene from your novel? Could you please describe it?

When Tammy serves some tea to her stepdaughter, Maria, with evil intentions. It's quite intense....

What's your favorite part of writing? Plotting? Describing scenes? Dialogue?

Coming up with a story that will blow the readers mind.

How long does it take you to write a book? Do you have a writing process, or do you wing it?

Six months. My process is: write, edit, review. Write more, edit, review. Repeat 20 times.

What is it about the genre you chose that appeals to you?

I love suspense and thriller that is unpredictable

Are there any books or writers that have had particular influence on you?

Yes, but too many to list here. I could put Stephen King up on the top.

Did you ever surprise yourself when you were writing your book? Characters who took on lives of their own? Plot elements that took unexpected turns?

Yes. The hidden hoard of gold in the underground tunnels. That whole "puzzle" kept developing as the story unfolded.

BOOK DESCRIPTION:

She was young and beautiful, and recently married to a very wealthy middle-aged man who considered her to be the ultimate woman for him and who held her out as a model for his beloved 10-year-old daughter. They had traveled to a mountain hideaway to celebrate their first year together as a family when things began to unravel. Her husband goes missing after a treacherous car accident, and the wife and daughter are seemingly trapped and isolated, and being stalked while inside the cabin. 

What ensues is the story of a woman driven by her soulless greed and self entitlement, and a man who was wronged and is apparently out to get revenge. This deadly game of cat and mouse will keep you on the edge of your seat. The macabre scenes include deadly traps and medieval torture devices, hidden doors and rooms, and an underground labyrinth of torture chambers built beneath the cabin. Add in the legend of a buried hoard of pure gold bars, and it becomes clear that someone has a much bigger plan in mind and will let nothing get in their way. But who? This is the story of a plot so devious that it is set up to fool the State police investigation. But can it fool you? Keep guessing until the final scene as to what is really going on and let your intuition guide you.

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00OHQA4HW

AUTHOR BIO:

John Mathews is a tenured University Professor of English and living in Rome, Italy. As he moves toward retirement after a long and somewhat stressful career, he feels the desire to break out of the mold and delve into thriller fiction novels which focus on the dark side of human nature, both that which is unfeeling and indifferent to the fate of others and that which derives pleasure and a feeling of power from pain inflicted on them. With a background in dealing with all kinds of people and personal growth and development, he also writes non-fiction books that will inspire, aid, and promote happiness, success, and prosperity for anyone in their life. He believes that every human being has the potential for greatness.