The Shadowhunters Review?!

Hey ya'll,
So as you know Freeform, formerly known as ABC Family, has brought back the box office miss The Mortal Instruments, now under the new name Shadowhunters, to become a new headlining television show for their network.

 

I remember the day that I got my hands on The Mortal Instruments (City of Bones) novel by Cassandra Clare. During the time like any teenager finals came up and sadly I did not get a chance to finish this amazing series. However, I do remember a lot from what I did read and I enjoyed how much Freeform has stuck to Clare's original concepts for her break-out series.

First off, I have to say that I love this series! The same love that I had for the original film and books has transcended to this show. I believe that Katherine McNamara who plays Clary Fray is doing an awesome job picking up the torch from actress Lily Collins. Once this show has gone half way through the season I am sure she will be fully settled into this role and will truly make it her own.

As far as creativity goes I feel that for this to be a television show it really is truly imaginative with its graphics of this unforeseen world hidden from the mundane. I love how Shadowhunters is edgier and has this dark element to it that is both alluring and frightening in a good way.

I am definitely craving to see more of Harry Shum Jr. as Magnus Bane. It is going to be so interesting to see his character finally come forward in future episodes.

Overall this show has some growing to do and I implore all Cassandra Clare fans to give this series a shot on Freeform! I love it and I know that you will too. Be sure to catch it on Freeform every Tuesday so that we can gush about it together!

 

Have you seen the Shadowhunters series? Have you read the books? Tell me, I want to hear what you have to say!

Until Next Time ;*

 

*I own no rights to the image above. See disclaimer below!

Book Review #20: Four Days to Fusion by Lira Brannon

Hey ya'll,
So there are only a few books that I believe can capture dystopian settings very well and Brannon's novel, Four Days to Fusion does just that! I loved how appropriately detailed Four Days to Fusion was. The most entertaining part of this novel for me was being able to imagine this world being ripped apart by alien invaders and a small brave group of teens trying to overcome the dangers being plagued by Earth aka Tellus.

I enjoyed how majority of the main characters were women. The seven sisters reminded me of girl power which is something we as females have been lacking this generation. I loved seeing how united they all were at the beginning when it came down to protecting their older sister Maia.

However, I also felt as if some of the sisters lacked personality. I wished that Brannon had made them more bold or at-least made it to where there were only four sisters. In this case I felt that less is definitely more especially since this novel was sci-fi based.

I really didn't believe Brannon did anything original. There are slight changes to the same old story of humans versus aliens, but it was nothing outrageous to where it made me overwhelmingly shocked. Nevertheless, for those of you that love novels that give you new characters with the same themes then this is for you. Other then that the way the aliens invaded Earth is very unique.

The main character is very relatable. Her name is Seren and she is a princess who is made to forget who and what she really is and so she is brought to Tellus where she is hiding out from galactic enemies that want her dead.

I feel that teens of all ages including young adults would love to read this novel! It's fun, thrilling, and it keeps you filled with suspense. This is a classically good sci-fi novel!


Rating: ****

Have you read this book before? Did you love it as much as I do? Tell me, I want to hear what you have to say!

Until Next Time ;*

Giveaway #1: Dark Lands: Requiem by Lyn I. Kelly

Hey ya'll,
I know that it has been a hot minute since I have made a blog post due to college keeping me busy. However, I am back and ready for a lot more gossip, book reviews, and editorials about some major topics happening in the publishing world. And to kick start my revamping I am doing a giveaway for Lyn I. Kelly to showcase his latest work Dark Lands: Requiem! I have already began to read Kelly's novel and it has this wow factor that amazes me.

Prize:
The winner will receive one paperback copy of Dark Lands: Requiem is a new twist on a tale of good versus evil. The book is a culmination of Lyn I. Kelly’s lifelong love of writing and quest to bring unique stories to the public.

Dante Alighieri, in his Divine Comedy, colored a view of Purgatory that has long reigned in the imagination. To some, Purgatory is a place where purification happens and redemption can be found. To others, it is a space for tortured souls living in limbo. All agree, though, that Dante is the definitive source for that world.

In his new book Dark Lands: Requiem, author Lyn I. Kelly offers a new twist on a tale of good versus evil in a setting seemingly nearby Dante’s Purgatory. A culmination of Kelly’s lifelong love of writing and quest to bring unique stories to the public, the story follows a brother and sister as they wake to find themselves in a land existing between life, death, and time, where the fate of the universe hangs in the balance.

“I started contemplating the idea of this other world of which we are completely ignorant, where the fate of our world is eternally in play between the most benevolent and most wretched souls to have ever lived,” Kelly said. “I began to flesh out the idea, and Dark Lands: Requiem was born.”

While Kelly has been creating unique stories his entire life for comics and other periodicals, Dark Lands: Requiem is his first novel. He feels strongly that the fantasy genre has enough witches, zombies, werewolves, and vampires to go around, but there is always room for something new. He set out to find a fresh take where everything previously known is suspended in constant turmoil.

“Independent authors like myself have creativity to add to the marketplace. Dark Lands: Requiem is different in that it does not offer warring factions of vampires and werewolves or an authoritarian government determined to crush all resistance, nor does it take place during any kind of apocalypse,” Kelly said.

For more information, visit lynikelly.wordpress.com.

Dark Lands: Requiem
By Lyn I. Kelly

ISBN: 978-1-4834-3423-0


Available in softcover, hardcover, e-book

Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and LULU


About the author

Lyn I. Kelly is a graduate of the University of Texas in Austin. Writing since the age of eleven, he has been published in Diamond Comics, Newsweek and more. When he’s not writing or spending time with his wife and four children, he is also a marathoner. Kelly resides in Keller, Texas. Dark Lands: Requiem is his first novel.

To enter to win this novel: Like and share this post with your friends and family. Also, for additional entries: Comment below why you would love to have Kelly's latest novel, Dark Lands: Requiem or Tweet me @AuthorKMJ with the #DarkLandsRequiem &  #KMJBookReveals and you will be entered to win. The winner will be randomly chosen and announced February 1st right here on KMJ Book Reveals.

Also, to sweeten the pot I am giving away two books to add to this wonderful novel. One is my children's book, Duck's First Day of School and my young adult novel, Laws of Passion.

So what are you waiting for?! Like, share, comment and tweet me for your chance to win these three amazing books.

Until Next Time ;*

#MLKDay Novels that take you through time?!

Hey ya'll,
in celebration of Martin Luther King Day I have some amazing novels that tell what truly happened in our nations history along with other novels that will captivate you and bring you into the world of black culture.

#1. The Diary of An Ex-Colored Man by James Weldon Johnson

Synopsis

One of the most prominent African-Americans of his time, James Weldon Johnson (1871–1938) was a successful lawyer, educator, social reformer, songwriter, and critic. But it was as a poet and novelist that he achieved lasting fame.
Among his most famous works, The Autobiography of an Ex-Colored Man in many ways parallels Johnson's own remarkable life. First published in 1912, the novel relates, through an anonymous narrator, events in the life of an American of mixed ethnicity whose exceptional abilities and ambiguous appearance allow him unusual social mobility — from the rural South to the urban North and eventually to Europe.

#2. The Blacker the Berry by Wallace Thuman

Synopsis

"The tragedy of her life was that she was too black," declares the narrator at the start of this powerful novel of intraracial prejudice. Emma Lou Morgan lives in a world of scorn and shame, not because her skin is black, but because it's too black. No one among her family, teachers, and friends has a word of consolation or hope for the despised and rejected girl. With nothing to lose, eighteen-year-old Emma Lou leaves her home in Idaho, seeking love and acceptance on a journey that ultimately leads her to the legendary community of the Harlem Renaissance.

#3. Coming Home: From the Life of Langston Hughes by Floyd Cooper

Synopsis

Young Langston Hughes was a dreamer. He dreamed about heroes like Booker T. Washington, who was black just like him. When he heard the clackety-clack of train wheels, he dreamed about the places it had been. But most of all, he dreamed about having a happy home. And so, one day, he began turning those dreams into beautiful prose. As he did, he discovered where his home really was?in the words and rhythms of his poetry that reached people all over the world.

#4. If I Only Had a Horn: Young Louise Armstrong

Synopsis

Roxane Orgill’s vivid words and Leonard Jenkins’s dramatic pictures combine to tell the story of a boy who grew up to be a giant of jazz—the legendary and beloved Louis Armstrong. As a poor boy in New Orleans, where music was everywhere—dancing out of doorways, singing on street corners, crying from the cornet of the great Joe Oliver for all to hear—Louis longed for a horn so that he too could sing, bring home pennies, and, most of all, tap happy-feet blues till the sun rose. It wasn’t going to be easy. Many things, not all of them good, had to happen before he got his horn. But when at last he did, he sent music spiraling up into the New Orleans night sky like a spinning top gone crazy.

#5. Death of a King: The Real Story of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s Final Year 

by Tavis Smiley & David Ritz

Synopsis

The real story about Martin Luther King Jr.'s final year has been buried by time and revisionist history. In DEATH OF A KING, bestselling author and award-winning broadcaster Tavis Smiley recounts the final 365 days of King's time on Earth, revealing his tribulations and trials-- denunciations by the press, rejection by the president, dismissal by the black middle class, and assaults on his character.

Smiley conducted new interviews with King's family and associates, but he also wrote from a personal place, painting a vivid, narrative portrait. Here is an exceptional glimpse into King's world--adding both nuance and gravitas to his heroic legacy

I believe that all of these novels will most definitely bring you into the world of black history. Each of these novels will give you a different aspect about black culture that will leave you informed and aware of the bondage that was placed on people of color. In celebration of Martin Luther KIng Day I hope you all rejoice with your family and remember the steps that were taken in order to gain equality for all.

Have you read any of these novels? Tell me, what did you think? I want to hear your thoughts <3

Until Next Time ;*

Book Review #19 & #20: Journey to Chaos Series by Brian Wilkerson

Hey ya'll,
So as always I promise to tell the truth in my reviews of books that I receive. And the Looming Chaos series really wasn't my cup of tea. I initially did a review of this series and I deleted it shortly after so that I could reread this story along with the second installment to see if it would appeal to me more—It did not.

I believe that both of Wilkerson's novels are truly imaginative! They really immerse you into the fictional world of Tariatla. There were no grammatical errors or anything that didn't allow me to smoothly read both books. However, each of the novels were both lacking passion and the characters were too juvenile which made their tone of voices blend together.

Don't get me wrong this book is very detailed! Maybe I am not mature enough to appreciate the descriptiveness of these novels. However, due to the fact that I am a young adult I tend to like books that are appropriately descriptive, but also give me something to root for and I was missing that element in Wilkerson's series. This book in my opinion lacked heart.

The Journey to Chaos series reminds me of The Hobbit franchise in many ways. However, in the Hobbit franchise I can see the characters emotion because it's on screen, but with the Journey to Chaos series I am left to grasp the characters emotions by what the author is telling me and that's where this series fell short.

I felt like the whole magic element he incorporated was fairly unique. A lot of times authors tend to mimic J.K.Rowling when using magic because they believe that's what all readers want when readers like myself are really just looking for a different stance on magic that is still entertaining.

Though this story surrounded Eric, a man who is tuned back into a teenager, I really found Tasio to be the highlight of my urge to read this franchise. This is definitely the first story where I kind of love everything about it, but at the same time it's as if I have to reread a part of Wilkerson's novels to make sure my love is genuine for this series.

I will most definitely revisit this series later on in 2016, but as for now I will give Wilkerson's novel two different ratings.....

Description & Grammar: *****

Heart & Entertainment: **


P.S. The first book in my opinion is better than the second installment of this series.

Have you read this book? If so, what did you think? I want to hear what you have to say!

Until Next Time ;*

The Librarians (TV Show) Review?! Season 2

Hey ya'll,
So how incredible was the season finale of #TheLibrarians!

It was so awesome seeing how many close calls they had, but if we know anything about the Librarians it is that they will always fight through whatever comes their way. This season most definitely amped up the action and twisted plots.

I am a long time fan of this series dating back to Flynn Carsen's (Noah Wyle's) solo days as the lone Librarian. However, these new additions to help cultivate this series even more have been fantastic in every way. And their huge battle against Prospero allowed me to see more of who the Librarians truly are individually.

The character that has by far grown the most this season is Ezekiel Jones (John Kim)! I enjoyed his character particularly this season because viewers get to see a softer and more compassionate side of him that combatted his bad boy lifestyle that had been displayed in the previous season.

All around #TheLibrarians I feel took things to another level as far as who the villains were. The imagery displayed this season is very consciously and well placed thanks to the amazing writers and producers behind this series.

My favorite episode of the entire series would have to be the current finale due to all the strategically placed plots that in the end came together in a very organized way that was easy enough for fans of the show like myself to follow. As always Noah Wyle, who is one of the producers of the show, never ceases to amaze me! In addition, my favorite episode by far this season would have to be episode "And the Point of Salvation."

If you are not hip to this show yet, then you need to watch it now!!! If you or someone you know has seen this show then write in and tell me your thoughts. I want to hear what you have to say!

Until Next Time ;*

Latest Post: The Latest Books Of 2016

Latest Librarian Post: The Librarians Show Review (Season 1)

*I own no rights to the image up above.

The Latest Books That Will Be Hitting The Shelves In 2016?!

Hey ya'll,
So 2016 has officially settled in and so have the release dates for the latest books written by our favorite authors. Check it out! These books have caught my eye in a big way.

#1. Darkness by Karen Robard

Release Date: March 29th

Synopsis

New York Times bestselling author Karen Robards continues her penchant for “fantastic storytelling” (RT Book Reviews) with this next heart-pumping romantic suspense novel, the tale of a brilliant ornithologist trapped on the remote Attu Island in Alaska, fighting for her life—and that of a handsome stranger—before they’re swallowed up in darkness forever.

#2. Close Enough by Jack Parker

Release Date: February 19th

Synopsis

Marilyn Hughes was seventeen when she disappeared.

Who can solve the patterns and clues Marilyn left before she vanished?

#3. Waiting For You by Catherine Miller

Release Date: March 10th

Synopsis

All Fliss wants is to see two blue lines telling her she is pregnant with her much longed for second baby. But as the negative tests stack up, dreams of completing her perfect family feel more hopeless every day.

After years of disappointment, Fliss’s husband Ben is spending more time at the office than in their marital bed, and Fliss finds herself wondering who could be responsible for their inability to conceive another child. Yet, where do you lay the blame when it comes to having a child – and can anyone really be at fault…

As Ben becomes increasingly distant, Fliss begins to question whether her desire for a baby is just a sticking plaster to save her marriage. Because in the end, how well can you ever know another person…even the man you’re married to?

#4. Hidden In Lies by Emily Austin & Leen Elle

Release Date: January 2nd

Synopsis

Allynah is a single mother who has just managed to create a stable life for her son. Despite appearing to be a normal woman she is haunted by a dangerous past. A past that has suddenly resurfaced and threatens to force her into a world of lies.

#5. Through The Door by Brenda Hickey

Release Date: February 6th

Synopsis

After watching her parents’ marriage crumble into oblivion, seventeen-year-old Macy Maitland never wants to fall in love. She wants her parents’ attention, even if she has to do something criminal to get it.

Stealing an expensive bracelet form the most prestigious family in Brookings on the night of their annual gala will only get her labeled a thief and possibly a mug shot in the local Crime Daily. Anticipating ridicule from her friends, Macy leaves the party and the bracelet behind. On her walk home, she stops to investigate a commotion on Judge Adam’s property. Trespassing isn’t the crime of the century either, but she inadvertently becomes a witness to a serious crime.

Later that night, she is pulled out of bed by a police officer with a pair of handcuffs. How the bracelet got back into Macy’s possession is a mystery. But it’s the catalyst for a sequence of devastating events that land her in a prison ripe with anarchy, corruption, and a ruthless gang. Finding Ryder, an inmate with secrets of his own, might be her only hope for survival.

If Macy wants her freedom, she’ll have to prove her innocence and bring down a judge who wants nothing more than to see her disappear—permanently.

#6. Unhinged by Tabitha Sharpe

Release Date: January 21st

Synopsis

Lilly, a woman constantly running from the men in her past, vows to give up on men. That is until she meets Malachi, a surprising breath of fresh air. Malachi is the man every woman wishes they had. So why is he single?

When the two of them get together, lust, destruction, and murder will follow these two till the very end.

#7. Find Her by Lisa Gardner

Release Date: February 6th

Synopsis

Flora Dane is a victim. Seven years ago, carefree college student Flora was kidnapped while on spring break. For 472 days, Flora learned just how much one person can endure.

Flora Dane is a survivor.

Miraculously alive after her ordeal, Flora has spent the past five years reacquainting herself with the rhythms of normal life, working with her FBI victim advocate, Samuel Keynes. She has a mother who’s never stopped loving her, a brother who is scared of the person she’s become, and a bedroom wall covered with photos of other girls who’ve never made it home.

Flora Dane is reckless. 

. . . or is she?

I am so excited for these books to be released! Are you? If not, tell me why?

I want to hear what you have to say!

Until Next Time ;*

Check out my latest post: 5 Book Trailers I Wish Were Movies?!