Prelude For a Lord: A Book Review

Hello everyone! Today I'm reviewing Prelude For a Lord by Camille Elliot. I received this book free through BookLook Bloggers in exchange for my honest review.

Back cover copy: Bath, England 1810

At twenty-eight, Alethea Sutherton is past her prime for courtship; but social mores have never been her forté. She might be a lady, but she is first and foremost a musician.

In Regency England, however, the violin is considered an inappropriate instrument for a lady. Ostracized by society for her passion, Alethea practices in secret and waits for her chance to flee to the Continent, where she can play without scandal.

But when a thief 's interest in her violin endangers her and her family, Alethea is determined to discover the enigmatic origins of her instrument ... with the help of the dark, brooding Lord Dommick.

Scarred by war, Dommick finds solace only in playing his violin. He is persuaded to help Alethea, and discovers an entirely new yearning in his soul.

Alethea finds her reluctant heart drawn to Dommick in the sweetest of duets . . . just as the thief's desperation builds to a tragic crescendo . . .
 ~
 Okay, so I love the regency era. I love to read about all the rules, and protocols, and fascinating tidbits. I believe when I chose this book I wasn't planning on ordering many books (ha!) but the fact that it was regency, involved music, and the plot line drew me in and I wound of choosing it to review. The author was also named Camille Elliot, which seems perfect for a regency book. How could someone named Camille Elliot NOT write a good book? To my relief, I wasn't disappointed. I took a while to read this book, but that fact mustn't be blamed on the book or its author. The truth is, when I was reading this I was still trying to get into the college groove, so my reading was neglected for the important, but less interesting task of learning. I finally finished it, though.

 First, the characters. The characters were my favorite part of this book I think. From Alethea, to the tortured Dommick, to Dommick's serious friend Raven, and goofy friend Ian... to her severe aunt, and her mischievous cousin Margaret... well, I could go on. There were such a wide variety of interesting characters, each with something special to share. No two were alike, or similar, really, and I really appreciate that in a book. It impresses me greatly when an author creates unique characters.

 Next, the plot. I found the plot to be intriguing. With every attempt of thievery, kidnapping, and deception, the more I was interested. At times I could hardly put the book down. There was actually quite a bit of action in this book, which might seem strange for a regency story, but I think it just adds to the appeal. There is less time to find boredom as you read about arranged marriages, and men with guns. I want to say more about the plot and what it contains, but I'm afraid that would reveal too much.

 It's a good story. It has a thread winding throughout, and at the end, the thread is cinched tight, collapsing the story into a neat little package that makes perfect sense. I recommend it for any who enjoy regency era stories, historical fiction, and sweet romance.

Buy it here or any bookstore/site.

~ a rambling author

The Word Changers: A Book Review

Hi everyone! Two months. Wow. That is unacceptable. I have been focusing a lot of my time on college homework, but it's time to get this blog back to life, at least once a week. While I haven't been able to keep up my blogging in a way I would like, I've been trying to work on the books I need to review, so I have some books ready to review! Yay! Tonight, I'm reviewing The Word Changers by Ashlee Willis. I received this book for free in exchange for my honest review.

From the back cover: Escaping from the turmoil of her home, fifteen-year-old Posy finds herself at her usual haunt ... the library. When she chooses an unfamiliar book from the shelf, she does not devour its words as she usually does...

Its words devour her.

Posy is pulled into the pages of a fairy tale in turmoil. Characters whisper of rebellion against their Plot. And Posy must find a lost princess whose role in the story is crucial, before her own role in the book comes to a horrible end.

With the haughty Prince Kyran as a reluctant companion, Posy ventures past the Borders of the Plot, into the depths of the treacherous Wild Land forest that lies beyond. Secrets are buried there, dangerous and deadly.

Yet the darkest secret of all is the one Posy carries within herself.

Soon it's clear that finding the lost princess is the least of Posy's concerns. The Author of the book must be found. His Plot must be put to rights again, his characters reminded of who they were first created to be. Only then will the True Story be written, both for Posy, and for the tale she has now become a part of.

 
  I really enjoyed this book. It was reminiscent of stories like Narnia with a journey into another world. I loved that the journey was through a book. The plot was great. I wasn't sure what to expect from it since I believe it is the author's debut novel, but I was pleasantly surprised. Miss Willis succeeded in drawing me into a world full of beauty, mystery, and the magic of a story. I love the idea of a person being drawn into a literary work and think it would be an interesting thing if it were to happen to myself. The plot had a good timeline, and everything was written in a way that made sense, though some romance stuff between characters I shall not name might have been a tiny bit quick for my taste, but it all worked out well in the end. There were some slight allegorical references like the Author. 

 As for the characters, well, I liked them very much! Posy was not your average heroine, and Kyran, well, there was more to Kyran than one might think, more that I liked. These two were basically the leads who pushed the story forward. Every other character from evil *shiver* to good had their place. The main villain was really creepy, and shows that you cannot trust things no matter how they might seem. 

 Overall this book was great for readers who like stories with tones like Narnia or something similar with a classic approach to fantasy many no longer attempt to write. I smiled, thinking of C.S. Lewis as I read. 

 You can buy the book here. Or almost every place books are sold online. Enjoy! :)

~ a rambling author

 

And Another Audition

  Hi there. Long time no see, huh? My life is CRAZY right now. I basically have something happening every day of the week. Tomorrow I'm going to try to get a book review up. No promises though. I have a boatload of homework. UGH! :P So let's talk about the day that was my audition a couple weeks ago. It was bad people. Well, sort of.

 I auditioned for Shrek the musical. I had my song picked out. I was nervous about that because I was singing in a way I had never sung before. Instead of belting, I'd be using a lot of head voice. I'd been working with my music teacher on it and I hoped I was ready.

 No matter how many times I audition, the audition process is the worst for me. I get incredibly nervous and my gut clenches and my voice wavers. I usually do fine in other areas, but the audition often gets me, which is awful. But I hoped I was ready. (See a pattern here?)

 I was wearing a dress my parents had given me along with a couple others as a joint Birthday/graduation gift. It was pink and orange and white, very bright and very much my personality. I paired it with my favorite pair of heels: pinkish orange wedges.

 When it was my groups turn to come and sit down, my heart fluttered, but I tried to walk confidently. As I reached my seat I felt more than heard the rip. Glancing down at my foot I wanted to scream. The side of my heel had ripped out. There was no way I'd be able to walk in them. Feeling stupid, I dug around in my purse and pulled on my jazz shoes. They didn't match my outfit and I had brought them for the dance portion of the audition. Now I probably looked stupid in jazz shoes and a fancy dress.

 When it was my turn I thought I would die. I climbed the stage along with my pianist, a special girl who was kind enough to play for me. And I sang. And it so wasn't as good as when I practiced. My voice wavered but it sounded like vibrato I suppose. I belted a few notes I was supposed to sing in head voice, and I said the same line twice, but I had a pretty strong finish, so that made me feel a little less lame. Without God there to help me I would have flubbed it big time.

 After that it was time for the dance audition. It is no secret that I can't dance worth a lick. I had actually spent that morning practicing a few steps, some of which were used in the dance audition and I still totally failed. But I tried to smile and do what I could and I felt okay about it. I usually do better with individual instruction, so learning with a group takes me a bit longer, but I've always managed to accomplish it in other shows, thankfully.

 So then I went home, wondering if I'd get a callback and not being surprised if I didn't get one. I did get one. I went to callbacks, did a bit there, and they posted the cast list the next day. To my excitement, I will be playing Mama Bear, the maternal member of The Three Bears famous family. It's a good part, and I can't wait to get started.

 I guess the lesson on this is do your best, don't be too hard on yourself, everything will turn out best in the end. Thank the Lord He is in control of such things.

~ a rambling author

Busy busy college life

 Hey everyone! I'm so sorry for not posting for the last couple of weeks. I've been incredibly busy with starting college and other things. Tomorrow I audition for a musical. College so far has been an interesting experience. I'm used to indenting paragraphs because you do that in novel writing, but in essay writing you are not supposed to indent, so I've had to get over that habit. I'm still working on a studying schedule to fit everything in, but I'm doing okay. It's Thursday, and would normally be a book day, but I'm not going to post a review today. However, next week, or sometime this week, I'll be posting a review to The Word Changers a really impressive fantasy that reminds me of Narnia. So we'll talk about that then. Hopefully I can figure out a way to schedule my blog posts into my new schedule!

~ a rambling author

You Ask Rathelm: The Answers

 Hey everyone! I'm late again... but I shall try to post Friday instead of yesterday. Of course... tomorrow I'm starting college, so hoping I'll get my blog post up. Here's hoping!

 Anyway, I think we have waited long enough for Rathelm's answers to the questions we asked a while back. I guess there is a reason he didn't get as many as Elric. (I see that glare, Mr.) But here they are. May he have mercy on your heads.

Your majesty is too kind to answer the questions of us mere peasants. I would ask if you two things: the first, how many people have you executed in your illustrious career, and what is your preferred method? (William Cloud)

 I see you have a smooth tongue. Many with smooth tongues have had a sharp blade beneath it. In my time of king, the execution rate could be varied. There are certain crimes which are punishable by death that could be done without my knowledge, and taken care of. For personal execution... perhaps less than fifty... perhaps more.

 For my preferred method, the method with a message is the most suitable to get the word across to others in the kingdom. Therefore, often the most violent way is the most practical. For example, leaving traitorous generals high on towers in the sky to be dehydrated, and eaten by our lovely death birds.

 How long has he reigned as king and did he ever want to do anything else besides be king? (Victoria Grace Howell)

 I have been king for almost twenty-five years. Why do you wish to know this information? I never wanted anything else. It was what I was groomed for. It was what I always wanted to be, whether it was my choice or not.  Me: That totally makes sense...

What is his highness' favorite color, meal, and, if he were to have free time, what would he do? (Anna Three)

Purple for royalty. Roast duck stuffed with green peppers and cheeses. I used to hunt, but no more. The hobby has lost its appeal. A game of fencing gets the blood flowing. But if you think I'll tell you my schedule so that you can attack, you are gravely mistaken.

Is there a particular reason his highness is such a grouch? (Anna Three)

Insolence! If we were in Linaeus you would be executed at once. A maid should not speak to her king in such a familiar and disrespectful manner!

Me: Eesh. Moving on...

What was your childhood like? (Athelas Hale)

 Like any other who is destined to be king. Tutors in all practical things such as swordplay and strategy and some less needed areas. I played alone, but that was how things had to be. When you are special, you are apart. You must stay special.

When you became King, what did you feel? (Athelas Hale)

 Like a king! The moment I had trained for twenty years for had arrived. I was excited, ready to make my kingdom the best.

 What do you consider an offense worth death? (Athelas Hale)

 Betrayal above all other things. This encompasses all things like speaking about the king in a derogatory manner, talking to the king in a disrespectful manner, etc.

What did you feel like when you first killed someone? (Athelas Hale)

I have never killed a person myself, but on my first ordered execution I felt in control. No one could undermine me.

What do you think of your son, Elric? (Athelas Hale)

 My weakling son? He wastes time. If he is to be king he must show more interest in the position. He must be more serious. Dreams are for the lower royalty to attain. Everyone wants to be king so I don't know why he resists it so. He needs a backbone.

Why does his highness not value book learning? (Imogen Elvis)

 There are a certain few books that can be advantageous, but there is only a degree of book learning that can help you rule. The rest must be learned with iron fist and attentive ears.

What does his highness value instead? (Imogen Elvis)

 I value decisiveness. Knowing your own mind. That is the thing about my son. He never shows he has strength of will. I value strength. My son Aren. He is a sight to behold. A talented, likely young lad. Unfortunately he was born last.

In his highness's opinion, are kings are allowed to have friends, and if so, does he have any? (Imogen Elvis)

 Friendship was a commodity I never was allowed. I have never needed it. 

 Who does his highness care about the most? (Imogen Elvis)

 Can I say myself? In this world you have to look out for yourself. But if not, my son Aren. He is no failure.

And finally, cats or dogs? (Imogen Elvis)

Cats. They are brooding and unpredictable. A somewhat intriguing match up.

 Me: Yes... I can see that... I wonder who that reminds me of...

 Well, I guess that wasn't actually a bad amount of questions. Thanks guys! I hope you enjoyed this interview! See ya later!

 ~ a rambling author


  

A Novel Idea: Past Influences

 So I'm terrible. I haven't posted in over a week, and that's bad. But this is the life of a soon-to-be college freshman. GULP. Thankfully, my college is a car ride away from home so for at least the first two years I'll be here, but still, so much stuff is happening! Crazy crazy. So, I'm going to participate in the Novel Idea thing I did last time.

 

 Today it is on past influences of a character. Once again I'm going to use Elric. 

 1. What do they consider the most important thing they’ve done so far in their life? That's the problem. He feels he hasn't done anything truly important. The most important would be spying for his father.

 2. What is their greatest regret? Spying for his father and betraying some people he cares about.

 3. When was the last time they were really, really frightened? When he was attacked by bearwolves and then bandits.

 4. What was the most embarrassing thing that ever happened to them? Being ridiculed for who he is is a constant embarrassment. One thing would be difficult to pin point.

 5. If they could change one thing about their past – and only one thing – what would that be and why? That his brother hadn't died, and he hadn't become the heir to the throne. He would have more freedom and not be more scrutinized. And he would have his brother back. 

 ~ a rambling author

A Novel Idea Linkup: Character Background

 I didn't post yesterday because I was gone for most of the day, so I'm posting today. And since I don't have a book I want to talk about specifically today, I'm going to try this fun little linkup that Ashley set up. It was supposed to be done Saturday last week, but... So you may get another one tomorrow. :P

 

 So the questions she posted this week have to do with character backgrounds. Because he's often my go-to, and his story is still in the works, I'm going to pick Elric Kingson from The Prince's Quest.

 

1. Where were they born? In a hospital, in their home, what city?

   

 Elric was born in his family's palace home in the city of Lorelin. 

 

2. Where do they live now? 

 

 He still lives in the palace at Lorelin. 

 

3. Who are the people they are closest to? Family, friends?

 

 He is closest to his mother, Queen Eloine, and his manservant, Winston. 

 

4. Where do they go when they’re angry and need to get away?

 

 He prefers the gardens and the safety of a good book. 

Okay, that was fun! I love these little linkups. :)

~ a rambling author