Premonitions by Jamie Schultz

Title: Premonitions
Author: Jamie Schultz
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Series: Premonitions #1 

Mass Market Paperback, 384 pages
Publication: July1, 2014 by Roc

Source: I received a review copy from the publicist in exchange for a honest review. 

Buy|Amazon|Book Depo|

TWO MILLION DOLLARS...

It’s the kind of score Karyn Ames has always dreamed of—enough to set her crew up pretty well and, more important, enough to keep her safely stocked on a very rare, very expensive black market drug. Without it, Karyn hallucinates slices of the future until they totally overwhelm her, leaving her unable to distinguish the present from the mess of certainties and possibilities yet to come.

The client behind the heist is Enoch Sobell, a notorious crime lord with a reputation for being ruthless and exacting—and a purported practitioner of dark magic. Sobell is almost certainly condemned to Hell for a magically extended lifetime full of shady dealings. Once you’re in business with him, there’s no backing out.

Karyn and her associates are used to the supernatural and the occult, but their target is more than just the usual family heirloom or cursed necklace. It’s a piece of something larger. Something sinister.

Karyn’s crew, and even Sobell himself, are about to find out just how powerful it is… and how powerful it may yet become.

Premonitions was a pleasant surprise, part Thriller-part Urban Fantasy but way darker and grislier than I expected. I loved it all. 

The book opens on a suspenseful note as Karyn and her crew does a B&E to retrieve an artifact of supposed power for a client. Karyn and her team are notorious in retrieving/stealing. There aren’t any locks or security they can’t bypass as Karyn is some sort of oracle, Johnny dabbles in the dark arts, and Nail and Anna are the brain and brawns of the operation. Premonitions is narrated by various POVs from Karyn’s crew to crime lord Mr. Sobell to zealous cult members.The multiple third person POVs was a little confusing at first because the narrative would some time jump mid paragraph and it was hard to differeciate who was speaking but after a few chapters I got used to it. 

I really like the cast of characters. They’re not your typical UF heroines, heroes, or villain. Everyone is motivated by different reasons for being in the type of business that they’re in. I like that they’re flawed characters, aren’t apologetic (much) for their actions and basically as real as it gets. There’s also no specific bad guys or good guys in this book, which is refreshing…well there are some characters that I’d say are more shady than the other but again everyone isn’t perfect and the world they  inhabit isn’t any better.  Another great thing about this UF is that there aren’t any werewolves, vampires, fairies, or shifters lurking about. Don’t get me wrong, I love them all but it’s nice to change it up once in awhile. The book has some demons being summoned and regular folks practicing black magic. What’s Interesting about practicing black magic is that if the person is using too much, it not only eats away at one’s soul but eventually a person becomes vulnerable to possession by a demon. 

The overall characters development wasn’t as strong as I’d like since readers are getting multiple characters POV and the magic system isn’t fully explained (at least I don’t think so); but I hope with a sequel the author will divulge more into the characters and world-building. Other than that the pacing was great, a lot of actions and suspense. Again, I’d remind the readers that the author is very detailed when it comes to describing the gory bits…definitely not for those who are squeamish. Lastly, if anyone was looking for some sort of romance in this book, look elsewhere. Premonitions is all about the main plot, and introducing us to the world and characters. There is a romantic connection between Anna and another of Sobell’s contractor but its plays a very very small role in the book. 

Premonitions is a great start to a new Urban Fantasy by Schultz. I highly recommend this to UF and Horror fans. If you’re looking for a new and refreshing Urban Fantasy, definitely check out this debut! I’m already looking forward to the next book! 

 

[Blog Tour] Guest Post: 10 Places to Visit When You’re in Atlanta by Alex Hughes + Giveaway

I'd like to welcome Alex Hughes, author of Marked, the third book in her Mindspace Investigation series to Short & Sweet Reviews blog today! It is her first time on the blog, yay! Today Alex is going to discuss some awesome places you can visit in Atlanta, which is the setting for her Mindspace Investigation series. Don't forget to check out the giveaway at the end and my review of MARKED here!

ABOUT THE BOOK

OUT NOW!

 FORESEE NO EVIL.

Freelancing for the Atlanta PD isn’t exactly a secure career; my job’s been on the line almost as much as my life. But it’s a paycheck, and it keeps me from falling back into the drug habit. Plus, things are looking up with my sometimes-partner, Cherabino, even if she is still simmering over the telepathic Link I created by accident.

When my ex, Kara, shows up begging for my help, I find myself heading to the last place I ever expected to set foot in again—Guild headquarters—to investigate the death of her uncle. Joining that group was a bad idea the first time. Going back when I’m unwanted is downright dangerous.

Luckily, the Guild needs me more than they’re willing to admit. Kara’s uncle was acting strange before he died—crazy strange. In fact, his madness seems to be slowly spreading through the Guild. And when an army of powerful telepaths loses their marbles, suddenly it’s a game of life or death.…

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 

10 Places to Visit When You're in Atlanta

by Alex Hughes 

Next time you’re in Atlanta, drop by some or all of these places recommended by me. Most of them exist in the world of Mindspace, and they’re all fun to see.

1. The Georgia Aquarium. Because fish. Also jellyfish, beluga whales, and one of the biggest ocean tanks I’ve ever imagined. Amazing. It’s close to the CNN Center and the Coca-Cola Museum, just for kicks.

2. Decatur Square. A key area in the Mindspace Investigations novels, it’s easily accessible by the MARTA subway system, and has a lot of fun shops and restaurants to see. Bonus points if you make it to the Decatur Book Festival.

3. The tunnel. A real tunnel under the railroad tracks on the same street as Twain’s, it’s how you’d walk from the Square to Agnes Scott campus, where I went to school. It’s also the location where Joey told Adam the critical clue in Clean.

4. Fernbank. Fun science, and the Martinis and Imax night is how deep space should be experienced.

 

5. The King and Queen buildings in Perimeter—though you can just drive by. They look like chess pieces, and I used to work in one of them. Also, a pretty courtyard around them, with a lake!

6. Little Five Points. Haven’t set something there yet, but it’s a really cool mix of cultures and fun shops. Check out the burgers at the Vortex.

7. Peachtree City. Take your bike and ride along dozens of miles of cartpaths under the trees. There’s also a triple lake where I used to go fishing as a child.

8. East Atlanta. There is no Thai restaurant as referenced in Clean, but there are dozens of small shops, restaurants, and old brick buildings you’ll love to visit. Do take a friend or two at night, however; some of the streets are safer than others.

9. The Varsity. You’ll either love or hate this classic Atlanta greasy spoon (I hate it), but many locals drive hours to come back. While you’re there, take a walk on the Georgia Tech campus, and perhaps see a play at their student center, swing dance in their ballroom, or drop by a football game.

10. Gladys Knight’s Chicken and Waffles. How chicken and waffles should be done—seriously, try it. Well worth the trip. While you’re in the area, stop by the Fox Theatre. They do plays, concerts, and they also show old movies in the summertime. Not far from the Varsity and Georgia Tech if you’re making a day of it.

 

 Alex has generously offered to give one lucky Short & Sweet Reviews reader a copy of either Clean (Book 1) or Sharp (Book 2) in the Mindspace Investigations series and the lovely Nita at Penguin is giving away the newest released third book MARKED.

So there will be 2 WINNERS!

(1) Winner's choice of either Clean or Sharp

(Print or eBook in the US, eBook ONLY in Canada/UK/S. Africa/Australia)

(2) Print copy of MARKED (US only)

To enter fill out the Rafflecopter Below! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Alex Hughes, the author of the award-winning Mindspace Investigations series from Roc, has lived in the Atlanta area since the age of eight. She is a graduate of the prestigious Odyssey Writing Workshop, and a member of the Science Fiction Writers of America and the International Thriller Writers. Her short fiction has been published in several markets including EveryDay Fiction, Thunder on the Battlefield and White Cat Magazine. She is an avid cook and foodie, a trivia buff, and a science geek, and loves to talk about neuroscience, the Food Network, and writing craft—but not necessarily all at the same time! You can visit her at Twitter at @ahugheswriter or on the web at www.ahugheswriter.com.

Marked by Alex Hughes

Title: Marked
Author: Alex Hughes
Genre: Science Fiction
Series: Mindspace Investigation #3

Mass Market Paperback, 352 pages
Publication: April 1, 2014 by Roc

Source: I received a review copy from the author in exchange for a honest review.

Buy|Amazon|Book Depo|

FORESEE NO EVIL.

Freelancing for the Atlanta PD isn’t exactly a secure career; my job’s been on the line almost as much as my life. But it’s a paycheck, and it keeps me from falling back into the drug habit. Plus, things are looking up with my sometimes-partner, Cherabino, even if she is still simmering over the telepathic Link I created by accident.

When my ex, Kara, shows up begging for my help, I find myself heading to the last place I ever expected to set foot in again—Guild headquarters—to investigate the death of her uncle. Joining that group was a bad idea the first time. Going back when I’m unwanted is downright dangerous.

Luckily, the Guild needs me more than they’re willing to admit. Kara’s uncle was acting strange before he died—crazy strange. In fact, his madness seems to be slowly spreading through the Guild. And when an army of powerful telepaths loses their marbles, suddenly it’s a game of life or death.…

Marked, the third installment in the Mindspace Investigation series was another great addition to the series! Like the first two books, Adam a level eight telepath helps with some interviews for the Atlanta PD and on occasions assist with Detective Cherabino on her homicides cases. Adam was kicked out of the Guild (Organization for people with special abilities) a long time ago for drug addiction but no matter how much he tries to distance himself, his job and the Guild always end up crossing paths.

I remember writing in my previous reviews for book 1 & 2 that I had hope to learn more about Mindspace, and how it worked overall but again readers don’t learn much more about the make-up of the world. That was somewhat disappointing. I mean I guess I understand the basics but I can’t help but wonder at the back of my mind more about Mindspace. However, Hughes did not leave readers completely hanging. In Marked, we get a more in depth look at the Guild and the people that run the organization. I thought that was interesting. What’s more shocking was that the Guild wasn’t as perfect as it made itself out to be; because behind all their laws and abilities, they are as corrupt and messed up as everyone else. Readers also saw more of the illegal tech and how it came into play with the cases and its ties to the Guild’s organization, and the Normal’s government. That was cool of course, but I felt like readers were just shown fancy expensive gadget. It didn’t really help or hinder the world-building. I again, rather learn more about Mindspace which I hope will be remedied in book four (there better be a book 4)!  It can come in any form, I don’t really mind as long as we get something…either from a flashback or Adam teaching Jacob about Guild history…now that he is required to have weekly lessons on controlling his teleportation.

I’ve always liked Adam’s character since I read Clean. A man who was at the lowest point in his life; being stripped of his Guild title, addicted to drugs that almost killed him and literally had nothing…yet instead of giving up he got clean and better. I admired his strength and determination. There may have been couple of times that he was tempted to do drugs but every single time he was about to fall off the wagon…he seek help and guidance from his sponsor Schwartz. There wasn’t much character development since the last book, but Adam is still trying to live on the straight and narrow…and for the most part he succeeded in this book. He never let anyone bully him into doing anything he didn’t want. Everything he did, he did because it was the right thing to do. He put his colleagues and the people he cared about above himself. What did change for Adam in Marked was his relationship with Detective Isabella Cherabino. Adam has always had a thing for his occasional partner (helped with her cases for years) but was too scared to act on his feelings. With a little push from his sponsor Schwatz, Adam ended up asking Cherabino on a date! I won’t go into any details but it was the cutest-sweetest thing I read. I liked that there was a little romance this time around. It was a nice balance to everything else that was going on in Adam’s life. He definitely deserved a happy moment, however brief it may be.

Marked was another well executed novel. I truly enjoyed the overall story and the wonderful characters that makeup the Mindspace Investigation world. I read the first two books about a year ago and found myself jumping back into Hughes’s World without any difficulty. I highly recommend this series to Scifi fans and even UF fans…I think Adam’s character will appeal to most people. I can’t wait to see what happens next for Adam, now that his relationship with both sides are better than where it was when we first met him in Clean.

 

Bronze Gods by A.A. Aguirre

Title: Bronze Gods
Author: A.A. Aguirre
Genre: Steampunk, Fantasy
Series: Apparatus Infernum #1

Mass Market Paperback, 322 pages
Publication: April 30, 2014 by ACE

Source: Purchased myself

Buy|Amazon|Book Depo|

Hy Breasil is grimmer than it used to be.

Before the Architect closed the door, there were regular crossings, and a great war decimated both humans and Ferishers. The native fae who refused to treat with the invaders faded; their bodies withered and died, stranding them as hungry, angry spirits that haunt the countryside.

That means there’s always trouble brewing in Dorstaad.

Janus Mikani and Celeste Ritsuko work for the Criminal Investigation Department, keeping citizens safe from things that go bump in the night. He’s a hardboiled cynic with an uncanny sixth sense; she’s determined to justify her promotion as the first female detective in her division. Together, they’re trying to keep a black tide from drowning the city.

But when the second body surfaces, murdered with the same type of infernal device, the entire CID must face the truth. There’s a madman on the loose, twining magic and blood… and only Mikani and Ritsuko can unravel the intricate, lethal conspiracy before the Royale killer completes his macabre plan, unleashing old, forbidden magic on an unsuspecting populace. If the maniac succeeds, it could mean the end of everything…

I bought Bronze Gods for primarily two reasons; the cover and because it is half written by Ann Aguirre. I have only read one of Ann’s series (Corine Solomon series, the first book) but it was enough to know that I’ll probably like everything else she writes. You’re probably wondering if I even read the synopsis…I probably did but truthfully I don’t even remember it because when I started Bronze Gods my initial reaction was there’s fae in this book?! But I am so glad I bought this book because it exceeded my expectations yet I am kicking myself for reading it a year after I bought it. What was I thinking? 

The world building was done beautifully. The authors created such a vivid world, with realistic characters that you can’t help but emotionally empathize and connect with. The writing was superb, there were no detail too small to describe; from a description of a small loose button to the dark and grim atmosphere of Dorstaad. I was fully immersed into this wonderful new word that Ann and Andres created. I never once found myself questioning the make-up of the world/or its foundation. There were times I was a bit confused as to what was what because there were flashback/dreams sprinkled throughout the book (the time before the gates were closed to the faes)­­­­­­­  but I was able to make sense of things as the book progressed. And more so when the book concluded with most of my questions explained.

While the world building was incredible, the best part is actually the two leads. Bronze Gods is centered around two CID: Criminal Investigation Department inspectors, Ritsuko and Mikani who are working on a murder case. Someone or something is going around murdering daughters from prominent/Ferishers houses. I was a little worried that our two lead characters would be bland and boring…the whole stereotypical idea of two detectives with the label ‘one is the brain, the other the brawn of the operation’ is used synonymously when it comes to the Steampunk genre (most of the time, when it has the crime noir element). However, a couple of chapters in; I was assured that Mikani and Ritsuko are nothing of the sorts. Stereotypical that is. Both characters have so much depth, with rich history/background that made them come alive on paper. I like that they weren’t perfect either. Ritsuko is clever, organized, always poised while Mikani is the complete opposite. It was interesting to see two completely different type of people counterbalance one another perfectly. I love how the two worked together, their friendship and overall admiration for one another. They always had each other’s back no matter the situation; they were even willing to die for each other. It went beyond just partners, it was more…It was sweet. As you can guess, their work/friendship-relationship evolves over the course of the book into something more, a slow burning sexual tension between the two. Both Ritsuko and Mikani feel something but are too scared to risk the special bond they already have.  I mean something is definitely there, they feel it and the readers feel it…it just a matter of if or when will they act on these new feelings. Ritsuko and Mikani’s work/friendship-relationship had me thinking of Hank and Charlie (Charlie Madigan series by Kelly Gay, an awesome UF series I love). I LOVE Hank and Charlie, they are one of my all-time favorite lead couple/duo and Ritsuko and Mikani are very reminiscent of them…so it comes as no surprise that Ritsuko and Mikani just landed a spot on my favorites list. They are definitely characters readers will fall in love with and will root for…I already am.

Overall Bronze Gods was an excellent debut by wife and husband team, Ann and Andres Aguirre. It is everything a Steampunk should be; excellent world building, characters, and mystery plot and a dash of romance. The ending wrapped up nicely answering questions to the current problem (for the most part) but also leaves an opening for the next book, SILVER MIRRORS which comes out next month! I am super excited and can’t wait to see what happens next with Mikani and Ritsuko! I loved this book way more than I expected, and would highly recommend this series to anyone who enjoys Steampunk, PNR and UF…not a series to be missed. Read it, you won’t regret it!

[Blog Tour] Guest Post by Amy Talkington

I'd like to welcome Amy Talkington, author of LIV, FOREVER to Short & Sweet Reviews Blog! On today's LIV, FOREVER blog tour stop Amy is sharing her top ten favorite classic, teen and indie movies!

Don't forget to check out my 5 stars review of Liv, Forever here! 



ABOUT THE BOOK

PUBLICATION: March 11, 2014 by Soho Teen

When Liv Bloom lands an art scholarship at Wickham Hall, it’s her ticket out of the foster system. Liv isn’t sure what to make of the school’s weird traditions and rituals, but she couldn’t be happier. For the first time ever, she has her own studio, her own supply of paints. Everything she could want.

Then she meets Malcolm Astor, a legacy student, a fellow artist, and the one person who’s ever been able to melt her defenses. Liv’s only friend at Wickham, fellow scholarship kid Gabe Nichols, warns her not to get involved, but life is finally going Liv’s way, and all she wants to do is enjoy the ride.

But Liv’s bliss is doomed. Weeks after arriving, she is viciously murdered and, in death, she discovers that she’s the latest victim of a dark conspiracy that has claimed many lives. Cursed with the ability to see the many ghosts on Wickham’s campus, Gabe is now Liv’s only link to the world of the living. To Malcolm.

Together, Liv, Gabe, and Malcolm fight to expose the terrible truth that haunts the halls of Wickham. But Liv must fight alone to come to grips with the ultimate star-crossed love

Buy the book  →|AMAZON|BOOK DEPO|

I’m a screenwriter and filmmaker so I cannot possibly just limit this to ten movies! So, how about three lists?

My 10 favorite all-time favorite classics

*Poster images via IMDB.Com
La Dolce Vita, Network, The Graduate, Chinatown, Tootsie, The Royal Tenenbaums, Lost in Translation, Being There, Trainspotting, and Sunset Boulevard

 

My 10 all-time favorite teen movies

 *Poster images via IMDB.Com

Mean Girls, Little Darlings, Romeo & Juliet (Baz Luhrmann’s version), Valley Girl, Sixteen Candles, Breakfast Club, Fast Times at Ridgemont High, Pretty In Pink, Easy A and (not exactly a teen movie but I can’t leave it out!) Almost Famous

Plus, a few of my favorite recent indies

  *Poster images via IMDB.Com

Beasts of the Southern Wild, Afternoon Delight, Her, Mud, Fruitvale Station, and of course I have to mention my own feature film: The Night of the White Pants!

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Amy Talkington is an award-winning screenwriter and director living in Los Angeles. Before all that she wrote about music for magazines like Spin, Ray Gun, Interview, and Seventeen (mostly just as a way to get to hang out with rock stars). As a teenager in Dallas, Texas, Amy painted lots of angsty self-portraits, listened to The Velvet Underground and was difficult enough that her parents finally let her go to boarding school on the East Coast. Liv, Forever is her first novel.

If you want to know all the latest on Liv, Forever or more about the author follow Amy on Twitter & Tumblr