The Ears Have Eyes~ Review of AudioDropCentral.com
- Can you feel the beat? With Audiodrop you can see it!
Last month Angry Viking Productions launched a new audio entertainment site called AudioDropCentral.com. This isn’t your mama’s books-on-tape site. AudioDrops™ are short-form dramatic audio presentations with full casts, immersive sound effects, original scores and engaging stories. You can actually follow series in genres such as westerns, science fiction, superheroes, drama and comedy. All of the stories are told in a quarter of an hour.
For those of you who have to travel underground like me, Audiodrops (which are just 89 cents) are downloads like iTunes. When you purchase them you are sent a link where you can download them to your computer or device. Another great part is that they all come in one compressed file, so if you buy five, you only get one file to download and the link is good for thirty days.
So you would need to “load” your device much the same way you would with iTunes and be able to listen to them on the subway. Just be careful with the 3D sound effects you’re sure to be swept into the story and just may miss your stop!
Get your head up. Visit AudioDropsCentral.com to sign up.
J*
Book Reviews~ The Island of Lote
An amazing read!
I highly recommend it as a fantasy book for adults. The quality of writing throws out the belief that just because a book is written for a younger demographic (or indie) it is allowed to have holes in the plot and one dimensional characters.
Young adult novels are stories that reveal and examine those moments in our adolescences that everyone has. This is why I believe them to be so popular. No matter where you were born everyone goes through puberty.
In The Island of Lote, Milo’s journey from childhood to young adulthood is physically bench-marked. She experiences emotional turmoil and growth in each setting. from the realization that she is just experiencing a tiny part of the world while in the new neighborhood to being thrown into an even more unfamiliar environment in which she has to navigate and adjust to. This is where the experiences of both the young and old meet.
I think it is wonderful that a book so fantastical can still be filled with realism and basic human emotions. That is the most important quality of a good story and the defining moment for a good storyteller.
You can find Emily Kinney here & here.
The Island of Lote is available on Amazon
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Book Review~Bittersweet Revenge
I just finished reading Monroe Scott’s Bittersweet Revenge this weekend. It’s a quick read, a novella at about 26K words. The plot makes up for the brevity. If you didn’t gather the premise of the book is revenge. something that I’ve recently become a fan of with my Sundays being spent watching Revenge on ABC.
But the book is more along the lines of Fatal Attraction, 50 Shades of Grey and Basic Instinct. Very twisted. Speaking of twisted the plot has a big one at the end of the book which will leave you morally satisfied.
Alison and Rick’s relationship begins innocently enough especially given the fact they were introduced by a mutual friend. Your friends may miss the mark on compatibility but you expect them to atleast keep the crazies away from you. No such luck for Rick. But I have to say his behavior and treatment of Alison does call for a bit of payback.
But does Alison go a little too far? I’ll let you be the judge.
Book Review~ Elsa
Christina Ricci in The Man Who Cried
Elsa by Simon Gandossi reminded me of Anne Frank and The Man Who Cried. I could definitely see Christina Ricci playing Elsa Baum, a Jewish woman who finds love with the daughter of her enemy.
Tragic and beautiful is how I would describe this story of hope, pain, love, and endings. A very accurate historical novel that doesn’t lecture but rather enlightens.
To quote the character:
“I don’t want my story to inspire people nor make them sad; I want it to educate them because hate, homophobia and racism still exist today, and although the chance of another event like the Holocaust is rare; the world will never be rid of the foundations that cause hatred among us”
Though I did tear up I had to continue to read. The plot is dramatic and suspenseful leaving you wanting to read more, even though you have to wake up and go to the gym in the morning.
Forget the gym. Read Elsa instead.
J*
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Book Review~ Michael Did What?
Not The Most Interesting Man in the World. Michael is.
It’s been a while since a book has made me laugh-out-loud. I’ve giggled, haha’d, chuckled and evened grinned at a sentence, but haven’t really cracked up. My non-laughing streak was broken over the weekend by “Michael Did What?” by Michale Cavallo.
A mix between Big Fish and the The Most Interesting Man in the World advertising campaign.
The book of Michael details his astonishing feats and accomplishments. From scoring infinite on his IQ test, learning to walk before he crawled and the fact that he was the one that gave Hugh Hefner the idea to wear pajamas full-time.
Apparently Jesus would ask himself W.W.M.D. What would Michael do?
I think Michael would recommend that you check out his book.
So do I.
You’re welcome in advance.
J*
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Who Would You Cast As Memphis in Rise of The Wadjet Witch???
Several readers have said they could see Rise of The Wadjet Witch as a movie trilogy. They offered a few suggestions on the cast. Let's begin with Memphis!
Memphis grew up in foster care and never received love and support from her foster family. Her looks and her intelligence were often criticized but instead of falling into depression she rose above it.
Free Book Weekend~THAT GIRL STARTED HER OWN COUNTRY
Yay! Free book weekend kicks offs with a new favorite read from Holy Ghost Writer.
That Girl Started Her Own Country was amazing. I honestly didn’t know what to do with myself after I finished reading the The Girl Millennium Trilogy. (I actually read the books not just watched the movie.) TGSHOC filled the void. I had a 5 hour flight ahead me this past labor day weekend and I really didn’t want to swipe my credit card to watch a bunch of bad TV. This book saved me! Zaydee is a force to be reckoned with. More feminine than Lisbeth in The Girl Millennium Trilogy but just as bad-assed. Have you ever thought to yourself, “What if women ruled the world?” This book answers your questions and I have to tell you it’s going to a wonderful world indeed.
J*
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I Love Space Cowboys & Sci-Fi Westerns
Image~ toplessrobot.com
Taking a much needed break from writing and happy to discover some great Sci-Fi reads. Last month I read The Flames of Perdition by Adam Said.
It was a nice change from the usual fantasy novel. The suspense of a western, the unusual elements of a Sci-Fi novel with a touch of mystery; this book has it all. The plot is filled with interesting twists and the characters aren’t flat and one dimensional. They have actual substance and though they live in a fictional world they are relate-able. Any fans of the show Supernatural and Space Cowboys will love The Flames of Perdition for sure.
J*
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Finding My Religion~Bein Harim Tours
Cairo
If you’ve been reading my blog for the the past few months you know that I’ve been busy researching Egypt and its history for my the next book in the Written in the Sky fantasy series.
I think I really need to step away from the computer and actually take a trip out there. A good friend recommended Bein Harim Tours. She took her entire family on a tour of Old Jerusalem for a reasonable price. And apparently it was a life changing experience because her younger son, who once had behavioral problems, is now the perfect child. This intrigued me because that kid was a serious pain!
City of David~ Old Jerusalem
Their Christian Gems tour packages are very popular and range from $630 for 4 days and $1500 for 10 days. No bad for a little behavioral modification.
I took a look at their Egyptian tour offerings and got pretty excited. They have a flight and hotel tour from Tel Aviv for only $525! I would have to create an itinerary before had but they have travel agents on staff to assist you in booking and putting together the different packages.
Bethlehem
I would be able to visit Jerusalem, see the Dead Sea, pay homage in Bethlehem and explore Egypt all with the same company so I save alot of time and money.
I will keep you updated on my plans. In the meantime check out Bein Harim Tours!
J*
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Discovering Exodus Lost
As a writer I also have to read to improve my work and also for inspiration. Because I write fantasy I tend to read alot of science, occult and history books. My bookshelf seriously had my parents worried and scared dates away at the end of the night. All for the sake of my art! It’s fine because while in search for that spark I discover great books that fill me with knowledge and force me to ask questions which leads to answers which then leads to writing.
I’ve recently discovered or should I say found Exodus Lost by SC Compton. Before I get into the book I want to tell you a bit about the author, because his made me appreciate the book even more.
As a child, living in the rainforests of Peru with his grandparents, he spent time exploring Incan ruins in the nearby Andes. As an adult and a scholar he has traveled to archaeological sites in Egypt, Mexico, Greece, Israel, and Turkey and to relevant museum and library holdings across Mexico, Europe, and America. He has dedicated fourteen years to the research and writing of this book!
I thought to myself “This had better be good.”
Well it certainly was! Actually it was amazing. I can not believe this is a nonfiction book. Of course the author offers footnotes and reference notes to prove support his research. If you have ever wondered about the mysteries of Ancient Egypt and how they related to the civilizations that resided in Mexico then this book is definitely for you.
The author’s writing style is smooth and less academic than a text book this allows it to be read as a story. A mind-blowing story because of the fact that it’s true and it actually happened! I’m trying to find another book to compare it to but I can’t really think of one. Exodus Lost is unique not only because of the thought and effort put into it but because of the way it presents information and mysteries that you may always wondered about.
Discover Exodus Lost
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Three Inspirational Things To Do In New York City
As you all know I love New York, but not the New York that you find in commercial travel guides. I love the New York that most people would ignore and don’t really recognize. I mean I completely understand that someone traveling from another continent and finally arrives in New York City does not want to visit a graffiti wall.
But for those of you wish to veer off the beaten path and explore the lesser known landmarks here is a short list of inspirational things to do in New York City- Greenwich & West Village edition.
For more inspirational itineraries download a copy of Writer’s Retreat New York City.
1. Hudson Tunnels
Entrance Into Hudson Tunnels
Actually the Christopher Street PATH station which opened on February 25, 1908. It has the original name ‘Hudson Tunnels’ on the front and the hallways are filled with original artwork.
2. Christopher Park
Though Alyne and I are having a bit of fun, this bronze group sculpture made a serious statement and honors the gay and lesbian rights movement.
3.BookMarc
Titles by famous foreign authors and super-sized covers of super models along with Marc Jacob accessories makes this the ultimate art or fashion lover’s bookshop.
Cheers,
J*
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Best Pressed Sunday~My Favorite Posts From Fellow Pressers
Photography Project 52: Week 16 – Creating Collages from Murals and Other Street Art
Things I’m currently reading- August Edition
Cheers
J*
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I’m Author Of The Day On BookPinning.com!
I’m author of the day on bookpinning.com. A great new site for avid readers. Check out my book Written in the Sky and other great reads on their website.
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Home Office Essential~ Air Purifier from Air Purifier Source
You’ve probably noticed that I haven’t been updating the blog as frequently as I should. This is partly due to the fact that it’s summer and I’ve spent a lot of my time at the park or beer garden. But when I return to my apartment I’m greeted with smoke filled air from you know who and it gives me a serious headache. I do take advantage of all the cafes with Wi-Fi in the city, but I don’t pay all that rent not to use my home office.
Enter the magical invention called the air purifier. I discovered and ordered the solution to my problem on Air Purifier Source. I’m naming them specifically because I ordered and return a purifier from another company and was about to give up and shell out the extra $50 at a store before I discovered their website.
They have the machines organized by need and brand. They also have a learning center for us dolts who didn’t major in environmental technology.
As I write this post from my very own desk headache free, I’m sending super positively energized mental hugs to the folks at APS.
Visit them at http://www.airpurifiersource.com.
J*
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Write On~ Cafes That Inspired Famous Writers
Made popular by the fact J.K. Rowling wrote in their back room Elephant House has also established itself as one of the best tea and coffee houses in Edinburgh.
Rowling wasn’t only author to find inspiration at the bottom of one of their aromatic cups of coffee. Ian Rankin and Alexander McCall-Smith also parked their pens on Edinburgh’s tables.
Elephant House
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Barnes & Noble Is A Little Late To The Indie Party But We’re Happy To Have You
Received the usual opt-in junk mail from Barnes & Noble this week. I decided to open in it because of this interesting title “Get This Week’s Best Reads + Indie Titles for Under $5″.
Say what?
Barnes & Noble is actually advertising their indie titles?
Color me surprised!
Guess after well like forever they’re finally getting it. But I don’t think it was all the articles written by the publishing community about the lack of the support from B&N. I really believe it’s due to the last quarterly sales report.
There’s the saying in sales that the only important color is green. Apparently in publishing the most important word is money.
J*
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Carl Sagan~Books Are Awesome
Discovered Zen Pencils Cartoon Quotes for Inspirational Folks and I’m addicted. Each print I find “is just so me”. Especially this one in particular.
J*
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Body Language Cheat Sheet For Writers
Body Language Cheat Sheet for Writers
(Source:IMGFAVE
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In Search of Inspiration
Lately I’ve been suffering from writer’s block. Creatively I’m fine thanks to my new Canon, but I’m a word-girl and I miss being able to put my thoughts onto paper.
This past weekend I had the opportunity to take a break from my writing (or not writing) to go sailing in South Jersey with a few friends. It proved to be exactly what I needed.
During the boat ride we discussed various topics ranging from men (of course) to car maintenance. By the time we docked my head was swimming with ideas.
Of course I should have known that some time spent in the company of like minded people would help, that is the basis of my Writer’s Retreat City Guides. Working in funky indie cafes with great service and the chance to interact with other writers or bloggers.
I spent the rest of the weekend working on the second book for the Written in the Sky Trilogy and writing content for Chic Travel. Now I’m taking a few moments to pat myself on the back ; )
Where do you feel most inspired?
J*
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Writer*New Favorite Website
Have a new favorite website that has made writing so much easier. A difficult part of writing is to keep it flowing, trying to find another word to describe a person place or thing. When I discovered Synonym Finder it was as if the heavens sang.
Now you can “Speak and write with confidence.” The site also offers antonyms and definitions. “This will help you avoid using the same word too repetitively, redundantly, recurrently, incessantly, etc., etc”
Just thought I’d share.
J*
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Writer* 50 Problem Words and Phrases by Mark Nichol
Oh, what a tangled web we weave when first we practice to conceive written communication. So many pairs or trios of words and phrases stymie us with their resemblance to each other. Here’s a quick guide to alleviate (or is it ameliorate?) your suffering:
1. a while / awhile: “A while” is a noun phrase; awhile is an adverb.
2. all together / altogether: All together now — “We will refrain from using that two-word phrase to end sentences like this one altogether.”
3. amend / emend: To amend is to change; to emend is to correct.
4. amount / number: Amount refers to a mass (“The amount saved is considerable”); number refers to a quantity (“The number of dollars saved is considerable”).
5. between / among: The distinction is not whether you refer to two people or things or to three or more; it’s whether you refer to one thing and another or to a collective or undefined number — “Walk among the trees,” but “Walk between two trees.”
6. biannual / biennial: Biannual means twice a year; biennial means once every two years.
7. bring / take: If it’s coming toward you, it’s being brought. If it’s headed away from you, it’s being taken.
8. compare to / compare with: “Comparing to” implies similarity alone; “compare with” implies contrast as well.
9. compliment / complement: To compliment is to praise; to complement is to complete.
10. comprise, consist of / compose, constitute: Comprise means “include,” so test by replacement — “is included of” is nonsense, and so is “is comprised of.” The whole comprises the parts or consists of the parts, but the parts compose or constitute the whole.
11. connote / denote: To connote is to convey (“Air quotes connote skepticism or irony”); to denote is to specify (“A stop sign denotes the requirement to halt”).
12. continual / continuous: Continual events are frequently repeated, or intermittent. Continuous events are uninterrupted, or constant.
13. credible / credulous: To be credible is to be authoritative; to be credulous is to be gullible.
14. deserts / desserts: If you eat only cake, pie, ice cream, and the like, you eat just desserts. If you have it coming to you, you get your just deserts as well. (However, the connotation is negative, so hit the gym.)
15. different from / different than: The former phrase is preferred in formal writing; but “differently than” is always correct usage.
16. discreet / discrete: Discreet means “subtle”; discrete means “separate.” (“He discreetly reminded them of their discrete meanings.”)
17. each other / one another: “One another” is preferred in formal writing when more than two of something are being discussed.
18. economic / economical: Economic refers to the science of economics; economical suggests frugality.
19. elemental/elementary: What’s elemental is essential or integral to nature; what’s elementary is basic.
20. ensure / insure / assure: To ensure is to guarantee, to insure is to indemnify, and to assure is to comfort or convince.
21. epidemic / endemic / pandemic: An epidemic is the outbreak of disease in a limited place and time; an endemic disease is a recurring one peculiar to a place or population; a pandemic is pervasive over a wide geographical area.
22. forgo / forego: To forgo is to go without; to forego is to go before (and is generally used only in the forms foregoing and foregone, which are themselves rare).
23. gibe / jibe / jive: To gibe (soft g, as in gym) is to taunt or insult (though jibe is an alternate spelling), to jibe with is to coincide or fit, to jive is to deceive.
24. historic / historical: Something historic is remarkable for its impact on history; something historical is simply an event in history.
25. home in / hone in: To home in is to close in; to hone in is to confuse one word for another. (“Hone in” has no meaning.)
26. jealousy / envy: Jealousy is resentment; envy is covetousness.
27. lay / lie: Lay is transitive, associated with a direct object — “Lay that pencil down.” “Yesterday, I laid that pencil down.” “That pencil has been laid down.” Lie is intransitive, not so associated — “Lie down.” “Last night, I lay down.” “It was my plan to have lain down already.
28. leach / leech: To leach is to dissolve by percolation; to leech is to remove blood with a leech or to exhaust; as a noun, it means a parasitic worm or the human figurative equivalent, or the edge of a sail (also spelled leach).
29. libel / slander: Libel is written defamation; slander is the spoken equivalent.
30. may / might: May refers to factual or possible; might is appropriate for the hypothetical or counterfactual.
31. nauseous / nauseated: To be nauseous is to cause sickness. To be nauseated is to feel sick.
32. notable / noticeable / noteworthy: Something notable is worthy of note. Something noticeable is capable of being noticed. Noteworthy is a synonym of notable, though the former implies the unusual and the latter the commendable.
33. partly / partially: Partly means “in part”; partially means “incomplete” or, rarely, is an antonym for unfairly.
34. peak / pique: To peak is to reach the pinnacle; to pique is to arouse interest or to bother.
35. people / persons: People has assumed primacy; persons is reserved mostly as a synonym for bodies (“those belongings carried on their persons”).
36. persuade / convince: To persuade someone is to motivate them to do something; to convince someone is to lead them to understand or believe.
37. predominantly / predominately: Both forms are correct, but predominantly predominates.
38. purposely / purposefully: What’s done purposely is done on purpose; what’s done purposefully is done with a purpose.
39. regrettably / regretfully: Regrettably is a synonym for unfortunately; regretfully means just that — full of regret.
40. repetitive / repetitious: Both terms have acquired a negative connotation, but the former retains a more neutral meaning.
41. sensual / sensuous: Sensual has an erotic connotation; sensuous refers more neutrally to what is pleasurable to the senses.
42. since / because: Informally, these terms are interchangeable, but in formal writing, since should be used only to refer to time.
43. stationary / stationery: To be stationary is to stand still; stationery refers to letter-writing materials.
44. that / which: That is used restrictively (“The pencil that is sharp” — among more than one pencil, the one with that characteristic); which is employed nonrestrictively (“The pencil, which is sharp” — one pencil alone, possessing that characteristic). The distinction is rarely observed other than in American English.
45. tortuous / torturous: A tortuous experience is a winding one; a torturous one is painful.
46. transcript / transcription: A transcript is a thing; a transcription is the process of creating it.
47. verbal / oral: Verbal refers to both written and spoken communication, but oral is useful for distinguishing the latter from the former.
48. while / although / whereas: Informally, while is a synonym for the other two terms, but in formal writing it should be reserved for temporal connotations.
49. wreak / wreck: These terms do not share etymological origin; you wreck a party, but you do so by wreaking havoc.
50. whether / if: Both words are correct in expressing a choice, but the former is more appropriate in formal writing (“I can’t decide whether to go”), whereas the latter is better reserved for reference to possibility or probability (“I’ll go if you do”).
