Blood Song – February 3, 2015

Blood Song (Raven’s Shadow) Paperback – February 3, 2015
Author: Visit ‘s Anthony Ryan Page ID: 0425281590

From Booklist

The first of a trilogy, Blood Song is this British authors first fantasy novel, and the first one to be printed. It was originally an e-book, as were three science-fiction novels Ryan has also written. The plot is standard: a young boys father abandons him at the door of the Sixth, or fighting, Order of the national faith. He is raised to be a warrior, and becomes one of the most effective in the forces of his king, Janus, of the Unified Realm. But a number of vital questions arise as the story progresses, starting with why his father cast him out of the family and into the Faith in the first place. While the plot is standard, it is deftly and originally executed, as are the characters. They are complex characters, not archetypes. The setting is medieval-based, but with a number of original differences (especially the religion!). Ryans style makes Blood Song a page-turner. Apt turns of phrase, descriptions that linger, questions answered at unexpected times all make the story definitely superior to much of the genre. It should please a wide audience, but those who do not care for gory fantasy adventure are hereby warned. –Frieda Murray

–This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

Review

“Ryan is a new fantasy author destined to make his mark on the genre. His debut novel, Blood Song, certainly has it all: great coming-of-age tale, compelling character and a fast-paced plot. If his first book is any indication of things to come, then all fantasy readers should rejoice.”—Michael J. Sullivan, author of the Riyria Revelations series

“Fans of broadscale epic fantasy along the lines of Robert Jordan’s Wheel of Time series and George R. R. Martin’s Song of Ice and Fire novels should find this debut much to their liking.”—Library Journal

“Just impossible to put down…I had to read it ASAP and to reread it immediately on finishing, as I could not part from the wonderful universe the author created.”—Fantasy Book Critic

“Ryan hits all the high notes of epic fantasy—a gritty setting, ancient magics, ruthless intrigue, divided loyalties and bloody action…[A] promising debut.”—Publishers Weekly

“Deftly and originally executed…A page-turner.”—Booklist

“Ryan’s style is somewhat relaxed and paced extremely well…[Blood Song is] like the love child of Patrick Rothfuss and Joe Abercrombie writing the story of Jon Snow (of George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire) in the Night’s Watch…A top contender for most impressive debut of the year. It is a thick, meaty novel of substance…A powerful epic that, while ending with a sense of closure, hints at more to come.”—SFFWorld.com

See all Editorial Reviews

Series: Raven’s ShadowPaperback: 592 pagesPublisher: Ace; Reprint edition (February 3, 2015)Language: EnglishISBN-10: 0425281590ISBN-13: 978-0425281598 Product Dimensions: 6 x 1.2 x 9 inches Shipping Weight: 1 pounds (View shipping rates and policies) Best Sellers Rank: #201,673 in Books (See Top 100 in Books) #14257 in Books > Literature & Fiction > Literary #15644 in Books > Science Fiction & Fantasy > Fantasy
So I just spent the entire day (starting at 10:00 am and now it’s 2:00 am) reading this book and it completely blew me away!! I’m not very good at writing comprehensive reviews, so I’ll just highlight two things that I really loved about this book that I think is missing from a lot of other really good fantasy works (the ingredients that make it go beyond five stars).

1) I really hate the endless pages of self-loathing that many fantasy authors feel compelled to write whenever heroes need to kill. It’s a very important point to carry across that killing, even in the name of "good", is sometimes necessary, but never without an incalculable price. Necessity cannot alchemize an evil act into something other. The heavy handed way in which this is usually done in fantasy fiction is when the hero rails ceaselessly against their own actions, decrying themselves as monsters, at which point they are embraced by some love interest who tells them that they are really a good person after all. It just always seemed to me that such self loathing is unbecoming in a hero since it’s purely a selfish feeling that doesn’t help anyone else. I can usually put up with this for like 20 pages but when it becomes a recurring theme, I get really annoyed. There’s none of this in this book. I’m not sure exactly how the author managed to convey it, but there’s a certain sense of dignity about Vaelin that tells you that he feels the weight of the lives he’s taken without him resorting to whining (so he actually whines for about 2 paragraphs before he essentially gets slapped and told to stop feeling sorry for himself).
This book is in a class of its own. Engaging, fast-paced, an epic that doesn’t bog you down with a hundred different point of views or side story arcs.

The story itself follows that of Vaelin Al Sorna, a scared young boy who grows up to be a natural born leader and strategist, feared and respected throughout the world. He reminded me of Inda from the Sherwood Smith books, destined from birth to be of great import to the realm, bonded to his brothers through shared hardships, denied satisfaction and relief to fulfill his duty. Cunning and intelligent, with enough compassion to walk the line between warrior and murderer, he fights with ruthless efficiency to make a difference, to try and do the right thing when all it seems his actions accomplish is more suffering, all the while battling his own inner demons and self-doubt. There are some strong themes present, of growing up and of lost innocence, of sacrifice and of betraying your morals and beliefs.

The structure of the book was reminiscent of "The Name of the Wind" in that it’s told from the perspective of a scribe/historian chronicling the deeds of our protagonist as he narrates his tale in the present. This device does not detract from the story and break the immersion, rather it serves to set the scene for each consecutive portion of Vaelin’s life, bringing the events that take place full circle; it does not in fact reveal the plot, but only adds to the suspense.

The world-building was solid. Never did I lack for any visual representation of the lands discussed, magical/religious/cultural systems mentioned, or felt confused about how things came to be.

The fact that this enormous tome could be purchased for the price of a soda astounds me.
NOTE: This is the same book which was earlier being sold for $2.99 however it was sold by the author. Now that it has been picked up by Penguin, they have set the price and its still not that much. This is still a 500-plus page story with a slightly different cover & of course the author mentioned this would be happening nearly 9 days ago on his blog.

ANALYSIS: Blood Song is another of those books that I discovered a few months earlier, thanks to ‘s cool algorithm for suggesting titles I might like based on my previous "Buying and Search" history. Previously I had stumbled upon Zero Sight by B Justin Shier the same way and the way that book turned out to be, I have learnt to keep an eye out for such recommendations.

Blood Song begins with a first person narrative featuring Lord Verniers Alishe Someren, a chronicler that has been chosen to write about the main character Vaelin Al-Sorna and about the journey that they both will undertake. The story then begins Vaelin’s past as when as a child he’s commanded to join the Sixth Order of the Faith of the Unified Realm. Thus begins Vaelin’s journey wherein he will learn to wield weapons and become a famed warrior of the unified realm that will also earn him many names all across various nations and regions. Friends and foes alike will be drawn to him in differing amounts. But when all is said and done, Vaelin’s journey has only begun as the reader will learn more about his past as well as that of his realm.

One searches for the next best thing in fantasy, often going through many books in search of the book that will enthrall you completely. I almost missed on this beauty by buying it but then never getting around to reading it.
Download Blood Song – February 3, 2015 PDF

PanglimaKamandaka842

Blood Song – February 3, 2015

Blood Song (Raven’s Shadow) Paperback – February 3, 2015
Author: Visit ‘s Anthony Ryan Page ID: 0425281590

From Booklist

The first of a trilogy, Blood Song is this British authors first fantasy novel, and the first one to be printed. It was originally an e-book, as were three science-fiction novels Ryan has also written. The plot is standard: a young boys father abandons him at the door of the Sixth, or fighting, Order of the national faith. He is raised to be a warrior, and becomes one of the most effective in the forces of his king, Janus, of the Unified Realm. But a number of vital questions arise as the story progresses, starting with why his father cast him out of the family and into the Faith in the first place. While the plot is standard, it is deftly and originally executed, as are the characters. They are complex characters, not archetypes. The setting is medieval-based, but with a number of original differences (especially the religion!). Ryans style makes Blood Song a page-turner. Apt turns of phrase, descriptions that linger, questions answered at unexpected times all make the story definitely superior to much of the genre. It should please a wide audience, but those who do not care for gory fantasy adventure are hereby warned. –Frieda Murray

–This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

Review

“Ryan is a new fantasy author destined to make his mark on the genre. His debut novel, Blood Song, certainly has it all: great coming-of-age tale, compelling character and a fast-paced plot. If his first book is any indication of things to come, then all fantasy readers should rejoice.”—Michael J. Sullivan, author of the Riyria Revelations series

“Fans of broadscale epic fantasy along the lines of Robert Jordan’s Wheel of Time series and George R. R. Martin’s Song of Ice and Fire novels should find this debut much to their liking.”—Library Journal

“Just impossible to put down…I had to read it ASAP and to reread it immediately on finishing, as I could not part from the wonderful universe the author created.”—Fantasy Book Critic

“Ryan hits all the high notes of epic fantasy—a gritty setting, ancient magics, ruthless intrigue, divided loyalties and bloody action…[A] promising debut.”—Publishers Weekly

“Deftly and originally executed…A page-turner.”—Booklist

“Ryan’s style is somewhat relaxed and paced extremely well…[Blood Song is] like the love child of Patrick Rothfuss and Joe Abercrombie writing the story of Jon Snow (of George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire) in the Night’s Watch…A top contender for most impressive debut of the year. It is a thick, meaty novel of substance…A powerful epic that, while ending with a sense of closure, hints at more to come.”—SFFWorld.com

See all Editorial Reviews

Series: Raven’s ShadowPaperback: 592 pagesPublisher: Ace; Reprint edition (February 3, 2015)Language: EnglishISBN-10: 0425281590ISBN-13: 978-0425281598 Product Dimensions: 6 x 1.2 x 9 inches Shipping Weight: 1 pounds (View shipping rates and policies) Best Sellers Rank: #201,673 in Books (See Top 100 in Books) #14257 in Books > Literature & Fiction > Literary #15644 in Books > Science Fiction & Fantasy > Fantasy
So I just spent the entire day (starting at 10:00 am and now it’s 2:00 am) reading this book and it completely blew me away!! I’m not very good at writing comprehensive reviews, so I’ll just highlight two things that I really loved about this book that I think is missing from a lot of other really good fantasy works (the ingredients that make it go beyond five stars).

1) I really hate the endless pages of self-loathing that many fantasy authors feel compelled to write whenever heroes need to kill. It’s a very important point to carry across that killing, even in the name of "good", is sometimes necessary, but never without an incalculable price. Necessity cannot alchemize an evil act into something other. The heavy handed way in which this is usually done in fantasy fiction is when the hero rails ceaselessly against their own actions, decrying themselves as monsters, at which point they are embraced by some love interest who tells them that they are really a good person after all. It just always seemed to me that such self loathing is unbecoming in a hero since it’s purely a selfish feeling that doesn’t help anyone else. I can usually put up with this for like 20 pages but when it becomes a recurring theme, I get really annoyed. There’s none of this in this book. I’m not sure exactly how the author managed to convey it, but there’s a certain sense of dignity about Vaelin that tells you that he feels the weight of the lives he’s taken without him resorting to whining (so he actually whines for about 2 paragraphs before he essentially gets slapped and told to stop feeling sorry for himself).
This book is in a class of its own. Engaging, fast-paced, an epic that doesn’t bog you down with a hundred different point of views or side story arcs.

The story itself follows that of Vaelin Al Sorna, a scared young boy who grows up to be a natural born leader and strategist, feared and respected throughout the world. He reminded me of Inda from the Sherwood Smith books, destined from birth to be of great import to the realm, bonded to his brothers through shared hardships, denied satisfaction and relief to fulfill his duty. Cunning and intelligent, with enough compassion to walk the line between warrior and murderer, he fights with ruthless efficiency to make a difference, to try and do the right thing when all it seems his actions accomplish is more suffering, all the while battling his own inner demons and self-doubt. There are some strong themes present, of growing up and of lost innocence, of sacrifice and of betraying your morals and beliefs.

The structure of the book was reminiscent of "The Name of the Wind" in that it’s told from the perspective of a scribe/historian chronicling the deeds of our protagonist as he narrates his tale in the present. This device does not detract from the story and break the immersion, rather it serves to set the scene for each consecutive portion of Vaelin’s life, bringing the events that take place full circle; it does not in fact reveal the plot, but only adds to the suspense.

The world-building was solid. Never did I lack for any visual representation of the lands discussed, magical/religious/cultural systems mentioned, or felt confused about how things came to be.

The fact that this enormous tome could be purchased for the price of a soda astounds me.
NOTE: This is the same book which was earlier being sold for $2.99 however it was sold by the author. Now that it has been picked up by Penguin, they have set the price and its still not that much. This is still a 500-plus page story with a slightly different cover & of course the author mentioned this would be happening nearly 9 days ago on his blog.

ANALYSIS: Blood Song is another of those books that I discovered a few months earlier, thanks to ‘s cool algorithm for suggesting titles I might like based on my previous "Buying and Search" history. Previously I had stumbled upon Zero Sight by B Justin Shier the same way and the way that book turned out to be, I have learnt to keep an eye out for such recommendations.

Blood Song begins with a first person narrative featuring Lord Verniers Alishe Someren, a chronicler that has been chosen to write about the main character Vaelin Al-Sorna and about the journey that they both will undertake. The story then begins Vaelin’s past as when as a child he’s commanded to join the Sixth Order of the Faith of the Unified Realm. Thus begins Vaelin’s journey wherein he will learn to wield weapons and become a famed warrior of the unified realm that will also earn him many names all across various nations and regions. Friends and foes alike will be drawn to him in differing amounts. But when all is said and done, Vaelin’s journey has only begun as the reader will learn more about his past as well as that of his realm.

One searches for the next best thing in fantasy, often going through many books in search of the book that will enthrall you completely. I almost missed on this beauty by buying it but then never getting around to reading it.
Download Blood Song – February 3, 2015 PDF

PanglimaKamandaka842

Inside the Titanic

Inside the Titanic : A Giant Cutaway Book Paperback – 1997
Author: Visit ‘s Ken Marschall Page ID: B000M47JPI

see image

Paperback: 32 pagesPublisher: Madison Press Book; 1st edition (1997)Language: EnglishISBN-10: 0316557730ISBN-13: 978-0316557733ID: B000M47JPI Product Dimensions: 10.6 x 8.3 x 0.4 inches Shipping Weight: 4.8 ounces Best Sellers Rank: #518,144 in Books (See Top 100 in Books) #18425 in Books > History > World

I have a fairly sizeable collection of Titanic books, but until now I had nothing written and illustrated specifically for children. Ken Marschall is a consummate illustrator and his artwork in this book is stunning. One of the important things is that the story is about two real children – one in first class; one in steerage – who were actually on the Titanic. While, even for kids, there can be no happy ending to this story, the book follows the main characters’ lives past the sinking and rescue, into adulthood, and till their deaths. The story is written with low-key emotion, and is more factual than overwhelmingly sad. The story of the Titanic is almost 100 years old but the lessons we learn from it today are as important as those learned back in 1912. It’s an important true story, well worth purchIDg to read with your kids.

I purchased this book for my 4 and a half-year-old son, which is now fascinated by all things Titanic. I felt the tragic nature of the story; the excessive text of most books and the content of the movies were not suitable for kids. When I found this book I knew it would be just right for a him.

The size of the book was the first thing that amazed my son. Then he was impressed with the dominant artwork inside. Marschall’s illustrations are simply wonderful. He’s indeed a great artist and an expert when it comes to the Titanic. The book illustrates the great ship, its interiors and it’s ultimate demise as it follows the story of two real-life children that were aboard the Titanic on her maiden voyage.

My son was so excited after we finished the book that he insisted to take it to school where his teacher had a reading for the whole class.

Although this book was meant for kids – everyone will certainly enjoy it! I bought it for my nephews this past Christmas. (11 and 9 years old) James Cameron’s film had just come out. The boys hadn’t seen it, but they were interested in the disaster. When I saw this book I knew they’d love it! I honestly thought about keeping it for myself! Beautiful illustrsations and a captivating story. You really get the feel of how immense this ship was to two very young boys. It may not be exactly accurate – but it was designed as a children’s book and not as a practical schematic for engineers. If you have kids who are interested in the Titanic disaster ( or if you’re a history buff) I highly recommend this one!

the of and to a in Microsoft Research based want download take change version project design those march ago office 40 index v php between book results 1997 words length inside impact hardware EUROPA Announcement server inaccessibility EUROPA Announcement server inaccessibility Europa provides an access to information press releases legislation fact sheets published by the European Union Alltop Top Music News Music news and headlines from s filling Inside Ozkhan developed Linda Huang discussed the creation of the paperback cover of Jenny Offill s novel Dept of

Download Inside the Titanic : A Giant Cutaway Book – 1997 PDF Free Download

PanglimaKamandaka842

Inside the Titanic

Inside the Titanic : A Giant Cutaway Book Paperback – 1997
Author: Visit ‘s Ken Marschall Page ID: B000M47JPI

see image

Paperback: 32 pagesPublisher: Madison Press Book; 1st edition (1997)Language: EnglishISBN-10: 0316557730ISBN-13: 978-0316557733ID: B000M47JPI Product Dimensions: 10.6 x 8.3 x 0.4 inches Shipping Weight: 4.8 ounces Best Sellers Rank: #518,144 in Books (See Top 100 in Books) #18425 in Books > History > World

I have a fairly sizeable collection of Titanic books, but until now I had nothing written and illustrated specifically for children. Ken Marschall is a consummate illustrator and his artwork in this book is stunning. One of the important things is that the story is about two real children – one in first class; one in steerage – who were actually on the Titanic. While, even for kids, there can be no happy ending to this story, the book follows the main characters’ lives past the sinking and rescue, into adulthood, and till their deaths. The story is written with low-key emotion, and is more factual than overwhelmingly sad. The story of the Titanic is almost 100 years old but the lessons we learn from it today are as important as those learned back in 1912. It’s an important true story, well worth purchIDg to read with your kids.

I purchased this book for my 4 and a half-year-old son, which is now fascinated by all things Titanic. I felt the tragic nature of the story; the excessive text of most books and the content of the movies were not suitable for kids. When I found this book I knew it would be just right for a him.

The size of the book was the first thing that amazed my son. Then he was impressed with the dominant artwork inside. Marschall’s illustrations are simply wonderful. He’s indeed a great artist and an expert when it comes to the Titanic. The book illustrates the great ship, its interiors and it’s ultimate demise as it follows the story of two real-life children that were aboard the Titanic on her maiden voyage.

My son was so excited after we finished the book that he insisted to take it to school where his teacher had a reading for the whole class.

Although this book was meant for kids – everyone will certainly enjoy it! I bought it for my nephews this past Christmas. (11 and 9 years old) James Cameron’s film had just come out. The boys hadn’t seen it, but they were interested in the disaster. When I saw this book I knew they’d love it! I honestly thought about keeping it for myself! Beautiful illustrsations and a captivating story. You really get the feel of how immense this ship was to two very young boys. It may not be exactly accurate – but it was designed as a children’s book and not as a practical schematic for engineers. If you have kids who are interested in the Titanic disaster ( or if you’re a history buff) I highly recommend this one!

the of and to a in Microsoft Research based want download take change version project design those march ago office 40 index v php between book results 1997 words length inside impact hardware EUROPA Announcement server inaccessibility EUROPA Announcement server inaccessibility Europa provides an access to information press releases legislation fact sheets published by the European Union Alltop Top Music News Music news and headlines from s filling Inside Ozkhan developed Linda Huang discussed the creation of the paperback cover of Jenny Offill s novel Dept of

Download Inside the Titanic : A Giant Cutaway Book – 1997 PDF Free Download

PanglimaKamandaka842

Lessons from the Golf Guru: Wit, Wisdom, Mind Tricks, & Mysticism for Golf and Life Kindle Edition PDF

Lessons from the Golf Guru: Wit, Wisdom, Mind Tricks, & Mysticism for Golf and Life Kindle Edition
Author: Visit ‘s Mike Dowd Page ID: B015HR1RD4

Done.
File Size: 2467 KBPrint Length: 358 pagesSimultaneous Device Usage: UnlimitedPublisher: Mike Dowd (September 22, 2015)Publication Date: September 22, 2015 Sold by:  Digital Services, Inc. Language: EnglishID: B015HR1RD4Text-to-Speech: Enabled X-Ray: Not Enabled Word Wise: Not EnabledLending: Enabled Enhanced Typesetting: Not Enabled Best Sellers Rank: #394,721 Paid in Kindle Store (See Top 100 Paid in Kindle Store) #249 in Kindle Store > Kindle eBooks > Health, Fitness & Dieting > Counseling & Psychology > Education & Training #288 in Kindle Store > Kindle eBooks > Nonfiction > Sports > Golf #385 in Books > Medical Books > Psychology > Education & Training

Who was to guess that a mystical golf guru resides in Oakdale, the Cowboy capitol of California, but Mike Dowd does, and he’s written a masterful book, full of enlightened counsel for playing and teaching the game with consummate joy. Mike’s wisdom, told in an easy-to-read writing style, challenges golf teachers/coaches to grow the game by embracing a self-discovery teaching style where enjoyment comes first. Lessons From the Golf Guru should be in every teacher’s library. And, based upon an extensive first class review of literature, science and anecdotes from players, each chapter offers guidance for an approach to practicing, playing, and teaching the game that will surprise you with its effectiveness.

Fun and refreshing look at a sport that at times feels very mystical . Mike Dowd looks at golf beyond just the green fairways and digs into the psychological aspect of the game. This book will remind you of one of those great days of golf with your buddies and the inevitable talk about your round and life on the car ride home. Great book to help understand why golf and life seem so similar… reminded me in ways of Golf in the Kingdom

Just purchased the book this morning. Don’t want to put it down! Intelligently written. If you are looking for a book that will help with that mental aspect while out on the course, this is it. I can’t wait to dig in and finish it…
Download Lessons from the Golf Guru: Wit, Wisdom, Mind Tricks, & Mysticism for Golf and Life Kindle Edition PDF

PanglimaKamandaka842

Lessons from the Golf Guru: Wit, Wisdom, Mind Tricks, & Mysticism for Golf and Life Kindle Edition PDF

Lessons from the Golf Guru: Wit, Wisdom, Mind Tricks, & Mysticism for Golf and Life Kindle Edition
Author: Visit ‘s Mike Dowd Page ID: B015HR1RD4

Done.
File Size: 2467 KBPrint Length: 358 pagesSimultaneous Device Usage: UnlimitedPublisher: Mike Dowd (September 22, 2015)Publication Date: September 22, 2015 Sold by:  Digital Services, Inc. Language: EnglishID: B015HR1RD4Text-to-Speech: Enabled X-Ray: Not Enabled Word Wise: Not EnabledLending: Enabled Enhanced Typesetting: Not Enabled Best Sellers Rank: #394,721 Paid in Kindle Store (See Top 100 Paid in Kindle Store) #249 in Kindle Store > Kindle eBooks > Health, Fitness & Dieting > Counseling & Psychology > Education & Training #288 in Kindle Store > Kindle eBooks > Nonfiction > Sports > Golf #385 in Books > Medical Books > Psychology > Education & Training

Who was to guess that a mystical golf guru resides in Oakdale, the Cowboy capitol of California, but Mike Dowd does, and he’s written a masterful book, full of enlightened counsel for playing and teaching the game with consummate joy. Mike’s wisdom, told in an easy-to-read writing style, challenges golf teachers/coaches to grow the game by embracing a self-discovery teaching style where enjoyment comes first. Lessons From the Golf Guru should be in every teacher’s library. And, based upon an extensive first class review of literature, science and anecdotes from players, each chapter offers guidance for an approach to practicing, playing, and teaching the game that will surprise you with its effectiveness.

Fun and refreshing look at a sport that at times feels very mystical . Mike Dowd looks at golf beyond just the green fairways and digs into the psychological aspect of the game. This book will remind you of one of those great days of golf with your buddies and the inevitable talk about your round and life on the car ride home. Great book to help understand why golf and life seem so similar… reminded me in ways of Golf in the Kingdom

Just purchased the book this morning. Don’t want to put it down! Intelligently written. If you are looking for a book that will help with that mental aspect while out on the course, this is it. I can’t wait to dig in and finish it…
Download Lessons from the Golf Guru: Wit, Wisdom, Mind Tricks, & Mysticism for Golf and Life Kindle Edition PDF

PanglimaKamandaka842