Welcome to the book review page for Anything Or Everything.
If you have a book you would like to have reviewed please fill out the contact form on the bottom right of the blog. Some people in the mobile version may not see it, if that is the case simply switch to the desktop view or comment below and I will get ahold of you.
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Currently I am reading a book and have two other books in the ready to review as well. If you don't mind the wait then by all means get in touch with me.
I do not get paid to write reviews therefore they are completely, sometimes brutally, honest. Keep that in mind when you want me to review your book.
Wednesday, September 23, 2015
Thursday, September 17, 2015
An Interview With Richard A Knaak
Do you know World Of Warcraft, Diablo, or Legends Of The Dragonrealm? If so, then you know New York Times Best Selling Fantasy Author, Richard A Knaak. He has written over sixty books throughout his career. Some of the more popular ones include: Six novels for Blizzard Entertainments Diablo series, ten volumes for the Warcraft universe, ten volumes of The Dragonrealm books, five Dragonlance books (as well as a few short stories), and many more.I was given the opportunity to interview this iconic figure in the sci-fi/fantasy community. In this interview I got to ask some of the questions that his fans have been dying to know. The best part is, this is only the first insight I am giving you. Make sure to stay tuned to find out what else is in store for Richard A Knaak fans.Writing Questions1. What made you start writing?
From the first moment I was able to read, I wanted to create my own stories. I enjoyed leaping into worlds created by others, but soon began crafting new ones. I just enjoy storytelling.
2.Do you outline your books, or do you let the story create itself as it goes?
A combination of both. It's good to have some sort of synopsis or outline, but for the story to live, you have to let it guide you as work. Often, it'll head in a far better direction than you intended.
3. On average, how long does it take you to write a book?
It varies from a few months to a year, usually. Depends on the project and whether it's one of my stories or written for someone else.
4. Besides your upcoming book, Black City Saint, are you currently working on anything else?
My latest Dragonrealm novel --- The Horned Blade --- is just out. I'm working on a new Pathfinder novel, more Dragonrealm, plotting a possible sequel to Black City Saint, and other things I can't mention at this time.
Book Questions1. What inspired your novel Black City Saint, which is coming out March 2016?
I've always been fascinated by the legend of St. George and the Dragon and as someone who grew up near Chicago, I was also very familiar with the era of Al Capone and Prohibition. At some point, the two interests crossed and I began putting together the story.
2. Can You give us a small hint on what we can expect from Black City Saint?
Nick Medea plays ghostbuster in 1920s Chicago, but he is in reality the reluctant guardian of the gateway between the mortal plane and Feirie. That means making certain that elements from both sides of the gateway --- especially the Wyld, the worst of the Feiriefolk --- do not upset the balance and bring both worlds into jeopardy. Of course, that in some ways is among the lesser of Nick's concerns. There is the newest reincarnation of the woman he loves, the woman whose life he has failed to save each time she's reappeared. There's an old evil stirring in the midst of the bootlegger wars.
And worse, there's the dragon. The dragon Nick slew long ago, not realizing it was actually the guardian of the gateway. The dragon he slew when he was but the Roman officer who would later be known in legend as Saint George.
But wait! There's more...in the book.
3.You have many world within your books, some even hold multiple worlds. Which world is your favorite?
I can't really say I have any favorites, although obviously the Dragonrealm is dear to my heart.
Why?
It was there in the beginning and has been a part of my writing throughout. Fourteen novels and seven novellas thus far, with more on tap.
4.According to some websites, The Legends Of The Dragonrealm are your top rated books. Why do you think that is?
The Dragonrealm has really touched those readers who enjoy high fantasy. It has a number of characters who are fan favorites, such as Darkhorse, Cabe Bedlam, The Lady of the Amber, and the Gryphon, plus the Dragon Kings, naturally.
Informative Questions1.Do you plan on adding any more books that follow The Legend Of The Dragonrealm story line?
The third book in the Turning War, which actually deals with Cabe Bedlam's grandfather, is just out. Now I'm working on the beginning of KNIGHTS OF THE FROST, the first in the Dragon Throne Trilogy. This returns us to Cabe Bedlam's timeline. It features old faces, new faces, and unexpected threats that will change the Dragonrealm.
2. How many books are there all together?
As mentioned above, 14 novels, 7 novellas.
3.Do you accept fan art on any of your sites?
It's always interesting to see art based on my work. It's always good for readers to email me first, just in case.
4.Where can all your fans find you?
CONTACT
1. Do you personally respond to each fan?
It's not possible, but I try to answer many. I do read all my email, though.
2. Which book holds your favorite cover?
Too many favorites
3. Which book was your favorite to write?
Are you asking me to choose among my children? I'll admit that beyond the Dragonrealm, I'm definitely looking forward to Black City Saint coming out.
4. What advise would your younger self if you could?
Write harder, damn it!
A big thanks to Richard A Knaak for accepting my interview, and taking the time to answer all of my questions!!
If any of his fans have comments or questions leave them at the bottom, or follow the links above to talk to him directly. As stated before, make sure to stay tuned to this blog for more exciting information I will have on Richard A Knaak's upcoming novel- Black City Saint.
Friday, September 11, 2015
Review Of Online Book Club
I wasn't sure if this website was all I had read about. The fact was that I love to read. I also have an author friend that let me review some his books. That made me realize how much I would love to be able to review books, and even interview the authors who wrote them. That is the main reason I began to google" book reviewer" in the first place.
When I found onlinebookclub.org I was iffy to say the least. After all, I am an inspiring writer and not an official book reviewer. I learned real quick that almost everyone who posts on the forums aren't official book reviewers so to speak. They are regular people who have a love for reading and enjoy writing their opinions on said books.
After a little while I reviewed my first book-Holding Fire. I was nervous about the whole thing. I was hoping that after the first review I might actually be able to be paid to review more books. It wasn't until I read the entire website through that I realized it goes by a certain score.
This score is actually a brilliant idea. They don't want poorly written reviews, and they don't want anyone who isn't actively participating in their website to get money for it. They want professional standards and well written, HONEST reviews. If I paid someone to review a book, or even get a $5-$20 book for free, I would want the same thing. Otherwise it would be a waste of money.
I am currently "up-ing" my score so I can get better access to more books. I can't wait to see what else they might have in store for me. If you have any questions, or want to know how my journey with them is going, feel free to comment below and I will get back to you.
To check them out yourself go:
onlinebookclub.org
When I found onlinebookclub.org I was iffy to say the least. After all, I am an inspiring writer and not an official book reviewer. I learned real quick that almost everyone who posts on the forums aren't official book reviewers so to speak. They are regular people who have a love for reading and enjoy writing their opinions on said books.
After a little while I reviewed my first book-Holding Fire. I was nervous about the whole thing. I was hoping that after the first review I might actually be able to be paid to review more books. It wasn't until I read the entire website through that I realized it goes by a certain score.
This score is actually a brilliant idea. They don't want poorly written reviews, and they don't want anyone who isn't actively participating in their website to get money for it. They want professional standards and well written, HONEST reviews. If I paid someone to review a book, or even get a $5-$20 book for free, I would want the same thing. Otherwise it would be a waste of money.
I am currently "up-ing" my score so I can get better access to more books. I can't wait to see what else they might have in store for me. If you have any questions, or want to know how my journey with them is going, feel free to comment below and I will get back to you.
To check them out yourself go:
onlinebookclub.org
Saturday, August 15, 2015
PTSD
PTSD, (Post Traumatic Brain Disorder), holds a special place in my heart. Over the course of eight years my husband has gone through the good, the bad, and the extremely ugly parts of that condition. I can be difficult to handle it, and all the many trials that come with it.
That is why I wrote this article I am sharing at the bottom of this post. I hope it can help a lot of people the way it has helped him. There are few things that people should know about PTSD, and this article tells you what that is.
Like it, Share, it, Send it to someone who might benefit from the information.
http://www.top10listland.com/top-10-things-you-should-know-about-ptsd/
That is why I wrote this article I am sharing at the bottom of this post. I hope it can help a lot of people the way it has helped him. There are few things that people should know about PTSD, and this article tells you what that is.
Like it, Share, it, Send it to someone who might benefit from the information.
http://www.top10listland.com/top-10-things-you-should-know-about-ptsd/
Thursday, August 6, 2015
Official Review Of Holding Fire: Short Stories Of Self Destruction
Holding fire: Short Stories Of Self Destruction
I rate this book 3 out of 4 stars
My rate of 3 is based off the fact that the number four rating is saved for books I feel are perfect. Shakespeare, Charles Dickenson, Harper Lee, are saved for a four star. This book got a 3 because I believe it was a very good book with very good stories.
I rate this book 3 out of 4 stars
My rate of 3 is based off the fact that the number four rating is saved for books I feel are perfect. Shakespeare, Charles Dickenson, Harper Lee, are saved for a four star. This book got a 3 because I believe it was a very good book with very good stories.
This book has ten short stories compiled together. Each with its own story, but all with a common theme- self destruction. "The self destructiveness of vengeance and hate", was a contest where hundreds of writers sent in their stories in the hopes of winning. This book holds the top ten favorite stories that were hand picked by a panel of volunteer judges.
Short stories are great for people who want to read, but don't have the time to dedicate a lot of time to do it. I know so many people who have told me that they want to read, but often leave a book half finished. The problem with that is often times they have to reread something that they let sit because they don't remember what the book was about. With a book comprised of short stories you can get to the end of the story much quicker.
These short stories, for me, were pretty good. Most of them gave me an "ah ha!" feeling at the end. By some twist of luck, most often the fate for another was destined for themselves. I personally like those sort of stories. It really boils down to common things we all can identify with. Stones at glass houses, reap what you sow, and treat others the way you want to be treated.
Now not all of the stories inside the book were like that, they were just the ones I preferred over the others. Now that, again, is my personal preferences. All the stories in Holding Fire were very good, and the information after each story gave me a brief insight into the author that wrote it. You will find that you like some stories better then others as well, but that is to be expected. Everyone is as different as the stories they read.
If something like this sounds like something you might like the follow this to find it:
http://forums.onlinebookclub.org/shelves/book.php?id=11070
Wednesday, June 17, 2015
Letter To My Future Self-writing promp
Dear Published Author,
I addressed this letter to published author because I am certain that at some point in the future you will be. I am determined to learn what I can in order to become what I hope to be. I am not foolish enough to believe I am as good as any of the greats, but I know eventually I might be at least good enough to be published. My dream is to have at least one book on the New York Best Seller list, BUT I am NOT getting my hopes up.
When you read this I know you will be thinking back to the day you sat in the living room during naptime. You think about hollering, and being interrupted by the latest sibling rivalry as the laundry by Tim's chair reminds you that there is other work to be done. Times like this I really wonder how I can keep my train of thought. It can be frustrating trying to remember what was in my head right before one of the kids asked me something.
If I could picture you now, I would see a woman with a notebook and computer sitting in a coffee shop ignoring the world so she can write a whole chapter in one day! The children will all be in school, and you will get a call from your agent saying that your third book was a hit! You will smile and continue writing so you can get your work done in time to start dinner for when your family gets home.
(OKAY SO IT MAYBE A LOT OF WISHFUL THINKING HERE!)
I don't want much in life, and thankfully Tim doesn't expect much from me. There is something special to be said about a guy who lets me try to pursue my dreams. Especially considering I make $0.00 unless you count the $50 a month when I do random articles for someone. He doesn't hold the lack of income against me, and he doesn't run out of patience. His support is why I know I will be published one day.
I know I am not the perfect writer. I make mistakes, and my writing needs some work. I also know that one day that will change. The more I write the better it will get. The harder I try, the easier it will become. I will never give up on the one thing that I could do for the rest of my life. I don't just write stuff. I am a writer, and one day I will be an author.
Dragon wish is going to soar! I can feel it. That story has so much potential. The story line, the romance, and the magic gets you sucked into it constantly. No matter how many times you read, rewrite, and change it your still immersed into the book. This is your story. The story you have always pictured in your head. It will go places. Don't give up on it.
I hope you are where you want to be in the future, but if you aren't then don't worry. You will be happy as long as you keep writing. I know I will be okay because I don't write for money or fame. I write for the stories. They deserve to be written. It makes me happy. It makes you happy.
Sincerely,
wanna-be writer
I addressed this letter to published author because I am certain that at some point in the future you will be. I am determined to learn what I can in order to become what I hope to be. I am not foolish enough to believe I am as good as any of the greats, but I know eventually I might be at least good enough to be published. My dream is to have at least one book on the New York Best Seller list, BUT I am NOT getting my hopes up.
When you read this I know you will be thinking back to the day you sat in the living room during naptime. You think about hollering, and being interrupted by the latest sibling rivalry as the laundry by Tim's chair reminds you that there is other work to be done. Times like this I really wonder how I can keep my train of thought. It can be frustrating trying to remember what was in my head right before one of the kids asked me something.
If I could picture you now, I would see a woman with a notebook and computer sitting in a coffee shop ignoring the world so she can write a whole chapter in one day! The children will all be in school, and you will get a call from your agent saying that your third book was a hit! You will smile and continue writing so you can get your work done in time to start dinner for when your family gets home.
(OKAY SO IT MAYBE A LOT OF WISHFUL THINKING HERE!)
I don't want much in life, and thankfully Tim doesn't expect much from me. There is something special to be said about a guy who lets me try to pursue my dreams. Especially considering I make $0.00 unless you count the $50 a month when I do random articles for someone. He doesn't hold the lack of income against me, and he doesn't run out of patience. His support is why I know I will be published one day.
I know I am not the perfect writer. I make mistakes, and my writing needs some work. I also know that one day that will change. The more I write the better it will get. The harder I try, the easier it will become. I will never give up on the one thing that I could do for the rest of my life. I don't just write stuff. I am a writer, and one day I will be an author.
Dragon wish is going to soar! I can feel it. That story has so much potential. The story line, the romance, and the magic gets you sucked into it constantly. No matter how many times you read, rewrite, and change it your still immersed into the book. This is your story. The story you have always pictured in your head. It will go places. Don't give up on it.
I hope you are where you want to be in the future, but if you aren't then don't worry. You will be happy as long as you keep writing. I know I will be okay because I don't write for money or fame. I write for the stories. They deserve to be written. It makes me happy. It makes you happy.
Sincerely,
wanna-be writer
Tuesday, June 16, 2015
Manipulation
You Know Who You Are,
Your girlfriend works tirelessly to ensure she is the only one there for you. Your family is at a distance, your children are gone, and your so-called-friends are a serous let down. Have you ever sat there and wondered why that is? Does her voice ring in your head telling you she is the only one who cares? Do you feel as if you would be alone if you didn't have her? Is she REALLY the only one who gets you, or is that what she has made you believe?
There is a word for what she has done- Manipulation. The definition- to manipulate is to control or influence (a person, or situation) cleverly, unfairly, or unscrupulously. The definition of psychological manipulation is a type of social influence that aims to change the perception or behavior of others through underhanded, deceptive, or abusive tactics. As an overview, there are two things that primarily contributes to psychological manipulation. Concealing aggressive intentions and behavior, and knowing the vulnerabilities of a person well enough to know what tactics are most likely to be the most effective weapon against them. This is most often accomplished through carefully veiled and subtle acts that are not easily detected by the person.
Manipulators often have significant disturbances of character such as little to no conscience and sensitivity. They can be deceitful, controlling, compelling, self-conscious, paranoid, enjoys a good fight, holds grudges, and are emotionally unpredictable or numb. They can use tactics similar to playing the victim, shaming, anger, denial, diversion, confusion, evasion, gaslighting (a form of psychological abuse used to manipulation events in order to confuse, and cause a person to second guess themselves and others), lies of omission ( telling the truth but withholding parts in order for something to seem other then what it was),sexual gratification, projecting the blame, loss, and rationalization mostly coupled by guilt tripping to wind up evoking sympathy.
As I am sure you have realized that most of that sounds familiar. The type of people they tend to prey on are people who like to see the good in everyone, people who forgive others, and who give the benefit of doubt. The core reason they prefer these people are because they can easily be forgiven using the tactics above. This ensures their place with the one they want to manipulate. When there are other people who influence the person they quickly devise ways to get rid of them. They give things (children, gifts, love, security, ect.) to a person and take it away making the person believe they alone are essential to that persons happiness.
The more you think about everything the more you will see that you wouldn't of chosen the path you are on now. You wouldn't be where you are now. It explains why you are different when you are in jail, a place she can't get to manipulate your choices. Would you have forgiven anyone else for the things she has done? Who are you when she isn't around? Who are you when she is? Is there a difference? Truly think about it, and make your decision without her input.
This is your life, and no one else can live it but you.You know deep down inside what she really is. The only thing that has ever stopped you from getting rid of her was because she somehow made you feel like you needed her. As if without her you would have no one, but that not at all true. You will have your entire family back, and most importantly- freedom.
Don't let her tell you this letter is anything other then what it is. Information is all I am providing you. A true manipulator will try to discredit, or destroy this so you won't believe it. The number one thing a psychological manipulator does is convinces a person of the choice they should make without the person even knowing. Don't let her make your choice about this letter.
Your girlfriend works tirelessly to ensure she is the only one there for you. Your family is at a distance, your children are gone, and your so-called-friends are a serous let down. Have you ever sat there and wondered why that is? Does her voice ring in your head telling you she is the only one who cares? Do you feel as if you would be alone if you didn't have her? Is she REALLY the only one who gets you, or is that what she has made you believe?
There is a word for what she has done- Manipulation. The definition- to manipulate is to control or influence (a person, or situation) cleverly, unfairly, or unscrupulously. The definition of psychological manipulation is a type of social influence that aims to change the perception or behavior of others through underhanded, deceptive, or abusive tactics. As an overview, there are two things that primarily contributes to psychological manipulation. Concealing aggressive intentions and behavior, and knowing the vulnerabilities of a person well enough to know what tactics are most likely to be the most effective weapon against them. This is most often accomplished through carefully veiled and subtle acts that are not easily detected by the person.
Manipulators often have significant disturbances of character such as little to no conscience and sensitivity. They can be deceitful, controlling, compelling, self-conscious, paranoid, enjoys a good fight, holds grudges, and are emotionally unpredictable or numb. They can use tactics similar to playing the victim, shaming, anger, denial, diversion, confusion, evasion, gaslighting (a form of psychological abuse used to manipulation events in order to confuse, and cause a person to second guess themselves and others), lies of omission ( telling the truth but withholding parts in order for something to seem other then what it was),sexual gratification, projecting the blame, loss, and rationalization mostly coupled by guilt tripping to wind up evoking sympathy.
As I am sure you have realized that most of that sounds familiar. The type of people they tend to prey on are people who like to see the good in everyone, people who forgive others, and who give the benefit of doubt. The core reason they prefer these people are because they can easily be forgiven using the tactics above. This ensures their place with the one they want to manipulate. When there are other people who influence the person they quickly devise ways to get rid of them. They give things (children, gifts, love, security, ect.) to a person and take it away making the person believe they alone are essential to that persons happiness.
The more you think about everything the more you will see that you wouldn't of chosen the path you are on now. You wouldn't be where you are now. It explains why you are different when you are in jail, a place she can't get to manipulate your choices. Would you have forgiven anyone else for the things she has done? Who are you when she isn't around? Who are you when she is? Is there a difference? Truly think about it, and make your decision without her input.
This is your life, and no one else can live it but you.You know deep down inside what she really is. The only thing that has ever stopped you from getting rid of her was because she somehow made you feel like you needed her. As if without her you would have no one, but that not at all true. You will have your entire family back, and most importantly- freedom.
Don't let her tell you this letter is anything other then what it is. Information is all I am providing you. A true manipulator will try to discredit, or destroy this so you won't believe it. The number one thing a psychological manipulator does is convinces a person of the choice they should make without the person even knowing. Don't let her make your choice about this letter.
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