Autumn's Intro

Hello! 

My name is Autumn and I LOVE to read and write. My favorite genre is fantasy because I like to imagine the different characters or animals or whatever it is, in my head. I must say I really do hate the stuff they give us to do in school like read this or read that. For example, they made us listen to the worst book in the world, write about it(in the point of view of one of the stupid characters), then turn it in for a huge part of our reading/language arts grade, UGHHHHH!!! 

I also play sports, am a girl scout, participate in a leadership group for school, craft and sew. Most people think I am sarcastic and funny and probably a few other things. I am passionate about animals; I LOVE all species and hope to become an exotic veterinarian when I grow up. 

The final thing I would like to tell you is that when I write a blog I am going to give my true and honest opinion. If you don't agree with it, I would like to know what you think about the book in the comments. Wait! Ok, this is the final FINAL thing - we may have spoilers in some of the blog posts, so please skip over any segment labeled "SPOILER ALERT" if you don't want us to ruin any surprises. 

That is all I have to say about it, so, BYE!!! :)

Book Review: A Crown For Cold Silver

I’m excited to talk about one of the best books I’ve read in ages. A Crown for Cold Silver by Alex Marshall is the beginning of an epic adventure with kick a$$ women and heart-pounding action. In a sea of epic fantasy novels, Crown stands out for its bold sociopolitical statements and intriguing theologies. Author Alex Marshall does not hold back in this tale of General Cobalt Zosia and her quest for vengeance. The description on the cover is catchy but the real hook comes with the opening scenes, the catalyst for General Zosia to leave behind her peaceful retirement and return to a life of war. 

Gender bending, sexual exploration and excessive drug use are common themes for Zosia and the other characters, some of whom fought by her side years before as her “Villains.” Truly, these people are all villainous though more than a few cling to remnants of personal honor codes. Though you want to find redeeming qualities in each of them it becomes increasingly difficult as their stories unravel.

Descriptions are vivid and complete without being drawn out or excessive. I can feel the rage and excitement, smell the sweat and blood, hear the screams and moans as characters rise and fall. Motivations are generally complex, even when they would seem simple. As with any good tale, people are misled by others and by their own misguided actions and dreams. There are several interpersonal relationships that threaten to implode and derail the entire quest. From estranged families to lost loves, Crown covers the gambit as this incredible cast of carries claws their way back to each other for what can only lead to a battle for the ages.

I can’t say much more without giving things away and I do so loathe spoilers. All I can say is “I strongly advise you read this book if you fancy yourself a fantasy fan.”

Questions? Comments? Books to tack on to our To-Read List?? Email us at kharmicchaos@gmail.com.

Happy Reading!

Book Review: If You Ask Me (And of Course You Won’t) by Betty White

I’ve been trying to mix up what I read lately. Though I generally prefer books in the fantasy realms, I know it is imperative that I branch out. This was the second biographical type book I’ve selected and it just made me love Betty White even more. She is brilliant. She works hard. She’s hilarious.

If You Ask Me (And of Course You Won’t) motivated me. I laughed out loud and even teared up a bit. There’s nothing overly complex about this book, just a writer telling stories, doling out lessons learned from her life experiences. It reminds you that there are people behind the cameras, people who suffer love and loss like the rest of the world. Betty White has been a part of my life for many years (yeah, I grew up watching Golden Girls) and she continues to amaze me. Her work ethic and general outlook on life are inspirational.

There really is not much more to say about If You Ask Me(And of Course You Won’t). I wish I could go into detail, to explain how each story affected me on a personal level. But I can’t. This is a book that you should experience on your own. Pick a rainy (or snowy) afternoon, curl up with a cup of tea (or coffee if you’re like me) and let Betty White instruct and entertain.

Book Review: The Art of War by Sun Tzu

This book has been on nearly every “To Read” list I have ever seen. I’ve heard much debate regarding whether or not it is deserving. On a visit to my library I saw a new translation (a lovely traditionally bound copy) and decided it was time to make my own decision.

This translation of TheArt of War was a rather quick read but I found it interesting. There are references that have been attributed to actual armies and battles though most of the book seems to be general rules based on the author’s experience. It reads like an instruction manual for those wishing to wage successful campaigns. I confess, I am not well versed in military strategy but the author supports his theories with examples. Be sure to read the footnotes as they add to the overall experience.

Again, the material was interesting and unique with historical significance. I am pleased to say I can mark it off my “To Read” list but I’ve got no desire to purchase a copy or read it again.