SciFiChick.com

Angelology, by Danielle Trussoni

When Sister Evangeline receives a letter from a man claiming to be the heir of Abigail Rockefeller, she initially rejects his request to locate any letters between Abigail and the former mother superior of Saint Rose Convent. But after doing some research on her own, Evangeline discovers a mystery too tempting to pass by. Evangeline uncovers a secret society that studies fallen angels and their descendants (the Nephilim) in order to save humanity. As the Nephilim are corrupt angel and human hybrids that plan to dominate humanity. And Evangeline has a secret destiny that could bring about the rise or fall of the cursed race.

Trussoni has created a stunning world that blends Biblical teachings, ancient myths, and academic theories about the fall of angels and the Nephilim. Her angels and Nephilim are beautiful and tragic characters, with a rich history and conflict with the Angelologists.

The story is complex and skillfully plotted, told in a unique way that blends past and present. The tone and pace reminded me of The Historian by Elizabeth Kostova. With a dark mystery, believable characters, and a captivating plot, Angelology is a fascinating and ambitious debut novel.

The Breach, by Patrick Lee

Former policeman Travis Chase has just been released from prison when he decides to journey through the Alaskan wilderness. But when he comes across a plane that has crashed, his vacation abruptly ends. Aboard the plane, there are no survivors, and the President’s wife is among the victims. But before she died, the First Lady left a disturbing message that will lead Travis on a mission to find the remaining hostages and recover a dangerous artifact.

Travis Chase is a smart and tough hero with a past that haunts him. His detective instincts and skill lead him on the adventure of a lifetime. Lee’s characters are all vivid and well-developed. And this is no ordinary thriller, as the plot revolves around mysterious and advanced technology. As the complex plot unfolds, the massive conspiracy is not what it seems at first glance.

Thrilling action and suspense paired with elements of science fiction make for a fantastic combination. With characteristics of a good James Rollins adventure, this stunning debut blew me away. Non-stop excitement and danger, and I never saw the final climactic twist coming. The build-up of suspense, fascinating technology, a unique hero, and plenty of action, I couldn’t put this one down. This will certainly go on my list of favorites of the year.

On behalf of Eos Books, I have an extra ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) of the science fiction novel Song of Scarabaeus by Sara Creasy for one lucky winner!

To enter:
You must be a follower of mine on Twitter (http://twitter.com/thescifichick) and tweet a link to this post with the hashtag: #sfcgiveaway.

Contest ends at Noon EST on March 17. Contest is open to US Residents only. Random winner will be chosen and notified via Twitter.

Hunt for the Eye of Ogin, by Patrick Doud

While walking through the woods, thirteen-year-old Elwood Pitch and his dog Slukee find themselves transported to the foreign land of Winnitok with no way to return. He soon meets a young girl named Drallah and her talking bird Booj. The four team up on a journey to find Granashon, Winnitok’s protector and the only one who may know how to get Elwood home.

Winnitok is an interesting land that seems to be early Native America meets Narnia, with its large talking animals. Doud has created a vast world of fantastic creatures of mythical proportions where the good people of Winnitok are under attack by the forces of evil. Elwood and Drallahs travels take them on an epic journey through treacherous lands and unknown foes.

I imagine that children may enjoy this one more than adults. It just felt a bit slow for my taste and as if something was missing. The action and adventure was tame for a fantasy quest adventure. But there were some interesting characters and enough suspense to keep me reading. And a wonderful climactic ending with an unexpected twist, left me pleasantly satisfied.

On behalf of Scholastic Books, I have a giveaway copy of NUM8ERS by Rachel Ward for three (3) lucky winners!

Contest is open to US residents only. Please, no PO Boxes. To enter, just fill out the form below. Contest ends March 26. I’ll draw names on March 27, and notify winners via email.

Good luck!

VISIT THE BOOK’S WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO READ CHAPTER 1:

http://www.scholastic.com/numbers/

INFORMATION ABOUT THE RELEASE:
Ever since she was child, Jem has kept a secret: Whenever she meets someone new, no matter who, as soon as she looks into their eyes, a number pops into her head. That number is a date: the date they will die. Burdened with such awful awareness, Jem avoids relationships. Until she meets Spider, another outsider, and takes a chance. The two plan a trip to the city. But while waiting to ride the Eye ferris wheel, Jem is terrified to see that all the other tourists in line flash the same number. Today’s number. Today’s date. Terrorists are going to attack London. Jem’s world is about to explode!

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Great news that the CW announced Smallville is renewed and will be back next fall!

But to be honest, I’m kind of surprised that Smallville is getting renewed for a 10th season. Don’t get me wrong. I love the show. I think these last couple seasons have been the strongest in its entire run. But how long can they drag out Clark NOT becoming Superman? The red and blue shirt and jacket combo were better than this current black t-shirt with the well-known “S” symbol. Will Clark be middle-aged by the time he dons his primary colors in costume form?

For this story to make sense, people are going to have to forget what he looks like without glasses as well. It was cute the one episode he wore them, but why isn’t it a permanent fixture on his face?

I am glad that he and Lois are now an item. But at times it feels as if their relationship may be premature. But then, this is a re-imagining of the Man of Steel. Maybe the plan is to have Lois help Clark transition into Superman, and his identity won’t be a secret to her in the future.

Whatever the plan, please lose the black t-shirt and trench coat. The look is too dark for any version of Superman. And the name “The Blur” is only slightly better than “The Red/Blue Blur.” The ridiculous nicknames have got to go as well.

I guess what I’m saying is, make him Superman already! Nine years is a long time for Clark/Kal-El to discover himself. I know this is an “Origins” story, but he’s an adult now, and has been for some time. Does this decision hinge on the suit? Does the creative team behind Smallville not want to have to come up with a cool, updated Superman costume?

Enough ranting. I love that Lana is gone. Lois and Clark are heating it up. Zod finally has powers. And even Chloe is happy for once. I’m excited to see what else the future holds for the Smallville characters.