Comments on: Book Review: Heat

By: Carolyn Jewel

Carolyn Jewel — Thu, 03 May 2012 16:18:07 +0000

Pamela: thanks for stopping by! Smith is a very good writer. When she’s on her game, she’s great. Other books by her have been much less of a success for me. She appears to have written a lot of books under other names as well. I’d be interested in your reaction to Scholomance.

By: pamelia

pamelia — Thu, 03 May 2012 16:01:01 +0000

Great review. I am literally shocked at how well written Smith’s books are. Imagine how immaculate an editor could make them!!?
I loved Heat too and wish I knew how to determine which friends of mine it would be safe to say “read this now!” because talk about a book with triggers!!
I also read all the Lords of Arcadia books. I had the same feelings you did about book 1 being so good it was ridiculous and book 2 falling into Mary Sue ish everyone wants the heroine for no apparent reason territory. However, the wrap-up of book 2 was spectacular and had me reading with my heart in my throat, so it was redeemed. Books 3 and 4 follow a similar structure to the first 2 with Taryn’s sister now in the mix and even though she starts out whiny and self-pitying and annoying (for pretty darn good reasons) Rhiannon turns into a kick-ass heroine.
I’m giving myself another month or so before I pick up “Scholomance”.

By: Stephanie

Stephanie — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 08:05:21 +0000

Thank you! I’m going to lurk more at my local website! Would that be considered loitering if I do that? I’m imagining pop-up ads saying–buy something already!

By: Carolyn Jewel

Carolyn Jewel — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 15:02:43 +0000

Usually I hear about a good self-pubbed book from someone else. The website Dear Author has been a good source of tips. If you hang out, literally or virtually, where readers are, you’ll hear about books worth checking out. I’ve learned to be wary of Amazon reviews. If I’m on the fence about a self-pubbed book, I look at the reviews — there are some recognizable indicators of someone who is managing to post reviews that aren’t authentic. And, of course, the sample is crucial.

By: Stephanie

Stephanie — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 08:07:22 +0000

I’m curious to know where you go to find self-published books?

I know of a few sites but I’m always looking for more. I’m finding when I do find a good self-published book it’s more my style. I think your very right about these are the books NY ought to be publishing but isn’t.

Sometimes when I read traditionally published books I can’t help but feel that the author wanted a bit edgier tone but couldn’t because of trends or taboos or maybe it’s what doesn’t sell.

In any case, thank you for the review! I’m going to look into it.