Sunday, October 28, 2012

TV Review: Nashville

Around the House
I am nearing the end of my vacation and I didn't accomplish everything I hoped to do during this time off.  I have not gotten any writing done.  I am feeling a little disconnected from it at the moment.  I need to finish this last edit of Pandora's Last Breath and Part 3 of  For the Love of Brimstone.  It doesn't help that I am in the middle of two other books right now.  I am just feeling separated.  I could use a little support from you guys out there.  So let me know what you all think!

My Thoughts
At the Bar last night Lady B. brought up that she started watching Nashville and really loved it.  I have been watching the previews for it on TV (since I am an ABC addict) so I decided today to see if it was on demand.  It is, so I started watching it.  I have to say I was excited by it.  I was worried it was going to be campy like GCB, but instead it is deep, heartfelt, and fun.  The story line is strong and great.  This is a show I can see going for many years.  So my luck is that I am going to completely fall in love with it and it will end up getting cancelled like every other show I love.

I enjoy the dynamic of watching a new up and coming star and a struggling star trying to regain her footing in the world.  Rayne, is a dynamic and fun character that has a sordid history that is coming back to bite her in the ass.  Her husband has a dark secret the threatens to destroy their family.  And her father is a dark individual that is always trying to get his way in the method possible to help but really he hurts.

Rating: 4/5

Return to Body for Life


Around the House
Wow last night was fun.  Going to Boystown for Halloween was a great surprise.  I hung with Lady B., Kev, Dave, and Lauren.  We hung out at a little bar which actually isn't that small called D.S. Tequila.  It is a great little place that I am so going to head back too.  It has been a long time since I have been on that part of Boystown in the bars and I find that I actually missed the fun.  It is changing again, so I think I will be hitting that up once in a while to see what is going on.  Of course I spent most of my night thinking of my date.  I was so gushy I even showed his picture around to my friends and they agree that is absolutely adorable.  It is sad that I am sitting here waiting for him to text me.  I look forward to each time he texts me.  I so can't wait.  I have never had a boyfriend from
 Halloween to Valentines Day.  Maybe this year is the year.

My Thoughts
Well it is time for another Body for Life Challenge.  I want to get certain things accomplished, mostly I want to fit back into my cute new clothes.  I just need to finish sending this stomach of mine down river.  Wish me luck and shoot me all of your support.

Week 1 starting- The Numbers: A New Beginning

Start Week 1 Change
Weight 220.8
BMI 29.7%
Hips 43.5 in
Waist 41 in
Midsection 43 in
Chest 43.5 in
Arm (R) 13 in
Arm (L) 13 in
Neck 16 in
Pants 33

Total change in inches: Well positive change is always a good thing!

Saturday, October 27, 2012

Book Review: The Crimson Crown

Around the House
See my other post from today.

My Thoughts
I just closed another book during my vacation.  I at first just wanted to read old favorites until I saw that Cinda Williams Chima put out the next and last book in her Seven Realms Series, The Crimson Crown.  We reach the end of the twist and turns that is the love story of Raisa ana' Marianna and Hanson Alister.  I must say I am sad to this series come to an end since there is so much more to their growing story.  While this book closed the start of their love story and brought the Queendom together, it leaves the reader wondering what will happen next to all of the people currently living in the Fells.  While Cinda does an excellent job of cleaning up the loose ends of the Bayars, Hanela and Alger, and the fight of the Clan and Wizards it leaves us wondering how her reign will shape up.  Will they repeat the love story of their ancestor or will they manage to unit the Queendom and stop the Fells from being encroached on my the enemies of Arden.  If you have not had a chance to read this series I highly recommend you pick it up.  It will bring the fun and excitement to a new world.

Rating: 5/5

Fall TV Review

Around the House
Oh what to say around the house.  I have been extremely lazy with the writing and working out recently.  These are items that I plan to correct ASAP.  I am reaching the end of my vacation which has been a nice change of pace since it gave me some much needed down time to see my friends and rest/recover.  Tonight I am actually suppose to head out for Halloween.  Not sure what I am going to be doing besides making it to Boystown, but I am looking forward to it since I will be with friends.

I just finished with the Letter of Intent for College.  I plan on going back to school.  It never hurts to increase your education.  I always want to be doing better than I was.  I miss being back in school and being exposed to new ideas and thoughts.  I am looking forward to experiencing this process again.  Plus it is always nice to meet knew people.

People, oh people.  What can I say about the weirdness in my love life.  I have been on a couple of dating sites over the years and recently it has gone nuts with the amount of people talking to me.  Of course it is just usually a quick conversation and then they move on which is highly annoying, but it is the standard in the gay community.  I actually met a guy a few weeks ago.  It turns out Jay and I have a lot of mutual friends.  We met at a local bar, passionate kissing ensued.  We had a first date where I then went with him to bowling where I meet more of his friends that I know.  Unfortunately I have barely heard from him since.  I only push the contact level so much with out getting it in return. 

Now I have been talking to this new guy.  He has the same name as my sister's, two of my aunts, and my cousins name.  It is slightly freaking me out.  We have been talking online then in text.  I am suppose to meet him on Monday.  I can't wait.

My Thoughts
I had some annoyance with the fall line up this year.  First was that Biggest Loser is now a Winter/Spring show which sucks.  At least the fact the Jillian Michaels will be back makes me smile.  I look forward to hearing her yell at the contestants again.  I still remember her yelling "You know what I see when I look at you, Dead Daddy."  God I have missed her.  Then I had to deal with loosing to of my new favorite shows, Ringer and Secret Circle

ABC Shows
Castle: So far this season has not been a show stopper.  We are starting in the next chapter of Castle and Becket's life, now together.  I am curious where the show is going to go, but it seems to be missing something since the sexual tension is now gone.  I really hope putting them together hasn't caused a jumping of the shark. Rating: 3/5

Private Practice:  I am very excited by the change in the series.  For a while I was worried that it was on its way out.  The characters had grown static and the stories seemed repetitive.  Now with the the last season and this one having a cast change and more dramatic story lines I am looking forward to seeing how a proper ensemble cast works.  Rating: 4/5

Greys Anatomy:  I am heart broken with the death of some of my favorite characters, but the cast changes are a great turn of events.  The show is feeling fresh and vibrant yet familiar with old friends and new faces.  Rating: 4/5

Scandal:  This is the most surprising show from the creator of Grey's Anatomy.  I generally do not like legal or political shows, but the way the show operates is engaging and fun.  The level of drama and mystery in each episode not only tells an individual tale but each builds to a greater story.  This type of the writing I find makes the best shows.  Rating: 5/5

Revenge:  The drama and mystery of this show continues to surprise me.  The in depth level of writing shows a deep and dark twisted path towards placing the pieces of the puzzle together.  I find it rather curious how this larger story line makes for a fun romp that you can't get enough of each week.  The way Emily's past continues to grow and haunt her is great when mixed with how the other characters lives continue to screw with her plans towards revenge.  Rating 4/5

Once Upon a Time: This show was a surprise to me.  1. A Disney Show, 2. Jumping on the Fairy Tale Bandwagon, and 3. The Time Slot.  I didn't expect them to be able to weave all of our favorite fairy tales into one tales of how characters grow and change.  These writers have taken a fun look at fairy tale world.  You never know what twist and turn to expect, and yet the characters are so dynamic you fall helplessly in love with them.  It is a must watch show! Ratings: 4/5

666 Park Avenue:  I like to give new shows a few days before I latch on to them.  I have found this interesting, but I am not sure if I am in love with it yet.  I enjoy the cast of the show, and the story seems interesting.  I have even gone so far as to buy the books associated with the show.  I was also pleasantly surprised how they put the supernatural element into the show with out making it seem campy or overdone.  Rating: 3/5 to be determined.

CW Shows
Vampire Diaries:  This show continues to keep me happy.  While it does not follow the books it does hold the elements of the books so that readers can appreciate it as well as those who have no experience with the story.  This show is fun and exciting.  I look forward to see where it is going and how it will continue.  Rating: 4/5

Arrow: This show is a break away hit in my mind.  It takes the comic world and brings it into real life.  While I know little of the comic series, I have found I can not stop watching.  I was also very happy to see that it fits with how the Batman movies were handled.  I think DC has finally found the correct way to handle their comics.  Rating: 5/5

Supernatural:  The boys are back for another season.  Why is that Sam gets locked in the cage and Dean gets to have his own like, but Dean goes to purgatory and Sam gets judged for doing the same.  I really hope this show speeds up and gets its edge back or comes to its end. Rating: 2/5

Beauty and the Beast: To be Determined.  I am recording but not watching yet.

New Finds
Cooking Network: Bitchin Kitchen:  Nadia G. is insane.  I love her.  She is engaging, fun, and surprisingly educational.  She has a fun take on how to use food in a health way.  I have actually made a few of her recipes and I have yet to be disappointed.  I am in love with Nadia. Rating: 4/5

Showtime: Gigolos: Well this is a surprising series I stumbled onto.  While it is a highly sexualized show it is refreshing to see the males as the sexual objects and not the women for a change.  While it is not a break away hit or anything it is fun romp to keep a quiet night interesting.  Rating: 3/5

Coming Soon reviews on Beauty and the Beast and American Horror Story Asylum.

Friday, September 14, 2012

Deeper Wells

Around the House
Sitting at home watching Buffy the Vampire Slayer.  Thank god for Logo to remind me of an inspiration that I missed.  I have always loved everything that Joss Whedon has created.  He has always been an inspiration to me.  The way he writes a story that is quirky, heart felt, and fun while adding tons of dramatic movements.  I think my favorite part of his series is that you can watch just one episode and have a good time or watch the entire season and get a fuller richer story.  It is a hope that I will one day be able to craft stories in just the same way.  I know have added all of the comic paper backs to my order list.  I just need to start buying them to get all caught up on the world of Buffy.  Can you tell I am being all nostalgic for a more fun time of TV shows before the writers strike.

My Thoughts
I am a fan of Charlaine Harris works.  So I read her blogs often.  She has a fun way of pointing out what is wrong with the world in a safe way that makes the reader feel embraced.  She was talking a lot recently about what was going on with people commenting on her Facebook, Amazon, and just general emails.  She made a very good point that I just can't seem to grasp.  She commented that she does not read reviews on websites and dislikes hearing individuals telling her how they wanted her characters to be.  I know the feeling, only I am sitting here craving responses from people.  I want to know what they think of my work and how it makes them feel.  I get how reading reviews can make you crazy just like waiting for reviews can do the same.  I can only hope I have the ability to reach her level of separation from the comments of the individuals and focus on her work of crafting a story she loves.

Sunday, September 9, 2012

Book Series Review: The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

Around the House
Oh hell what do I say about this week.  I have family issues from a divorce, a wedding, an engagement, and trying to juggle life.  It is a bit rough trying to figure everything out at times.  My aunt says I should take a lot of the more interesting family stories and make them my own.  Let the events of my family inspire stories for the world.  She is convinced that I will make something special.  I am not sure if this is something I want to do, but if I was to do it I know how I would start it.

"It started with a lie.  It was a simple innocuous little lie, but that lie is what started a series of events that made everyone think this life is fiction."

What do you think?  Would you like some family inspired stories to follow.  It actually reminds me of the crazy relationships in the Hunger Games.  I don't know if it is something I want to venture into.  Inspire me that you want to read about a family gone wrong because of the lies of one, and I will start putting it all together for you.

My Thoughts
So in just over the last week or so plowing through the Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins while dealing with a two corporate visits.  As of this afternoon I finally closed the final pages of Mockingjay with a slight bit of sadness to let go of a fun  and moving series.  The first book of the series and the movie held to each other so that I was constantly riveted by new information of her father and the pin while neither were turned down by falling short of expectations.  By the end of the book I wanted to reach out and hug Peeta and Prim for everything they had experienced in the arena.  By the end of Catching Fire I was screaming with rage and terror by the unexpected horrors that Katniss and Peeta where continued to force to endure.  Finally my excitement over flowed when I ripped open the pages of the Mockingjay.  The series itself was masterful written, but the ending left me with an unsatisfied finished.  The series ended on a slightly anticlimactic note.  I wish the final book had held the fun, intensity, and emotion of the first two book.  Definitely a must read series, with just a hint at disappointment.

Rating: 3/5

Tuesday, September 4, 2012

Book Review: The Last Apprentice Lure of the Dead by Joseph Delaney

Around the House
I can't help thinking about Hunger Games AHHH!  I also learned recently that the Ronin Warriors have dvd set that is out of stock everywhere cause it is older.  I loved that cartoon series, and now I can not find it anywhere.

My Thoughts
I alway get distressed as a series reaches an end.  I tend to fall in love with characters and Alice and Tom are no exception.  I was surprised after the last one that I fell in love with Grimmalkin as well.  I am surprised as the realist way this work shows the undercurrent of magic that the normal person fails to see while he still manages to address the other "Old Gods" that could have been loved by people in England.  Now we have only two books to go, one from Alice's perspective and the last one from Tom.  I am interested to see how Joseph will tie up all the loose ends of this world.

This portion of the tales focus on the Spook's need to revive his ruined library while the dark are working to restore the head of the Fiend.  This book is the complete set-up for the end of the series,
while most authors that touch this subject to close a series this author as always makes a fun tale that allows you to learn the information while just waiting to get to the next book.  I look forward to seeing how Tom will now deal with the aftermath of dealing with the Vampyre God and stepping into his new role as the Spook of Chippendale.

Rating: 4/5

Book Review: The Demigod Diaries by Rick Riordan

Around the House
Not much to say.  I spent th'is weekend plowing through the first two books of Suzanne Collins' Hunger Games.  I must say I am completely in love.  I just can not put the books down.  I am sitting here staring at the last book in the series.  It is taking everything not to grab another cup of tea and curl up in bed.  I am hoping that Project Runway will distract me.

My Thoughts
I am wondering where Rick Riordan is going next in his mythogical series.  We have all heard the rumors of a Norse Book down the line and Egyptian Book has reached its close.  I am curious were we are going to end up next.  So when I ran across a Percy Jackson and the Olympians and Heroes of Olympus cross over book of Short Stories I was excited.  After going through the table of contents of this short fun book I was shocked to see that he allowed his child to actually write a story that fits into his world.  This is always something that worries me since it takes a leap that the reader will loose the voice they love.  Surprisingly enough while the voice is differnent the perspective is perfect for a new voice to speak in the world, and this story was actually the perfect tie in to bring the series together.

I spent a fun afternoon reading this group of stories as we get ready for the release of the Mark of Athena.  While this collect did not have the fun of Demigod Files, it held the dark tones of the other Heroes of Olympus books.  I look forward to the day when I can sit down and spend the afternoon reading both series front to back including the fun short stories and the dark shifts of the new stories.  Finding more of the backstory of Annabeth is perfect as we lead into the next book.  While this is not a show stopping book it is a great teaser for the rest of the Heroes of Olympus series.  While this book is not a must read to follow the series it does enhance the feeling of the Heroes by reminding you of where all the characters came from.

Rating 3/5

Wednesday, August 29, 2012

Passing Time till Pandora

Around the House
I am passing time around the house while I wait for Pandora to hit the shelves.  I have been working and writing and editing.  Nothing overly exciting.  I did have a brief romance that hurt me a bit.  I met him at a bar and he fell for me.  Yet, no matter how much he could have been a good match he just wasn't right for me.  I just did not feel the burning passion for him that I want to feel for someone.  I just want the gut twisting urge to be with someone and curled up in their arms night after night.  This is not the only disappointment I have felt in the last month, but at least I understand that one step at a time to get what we want out of life.  I have barely heard from him.  I miss him, but I never fell in love with him.  Which is worse?  Caring about someone and not giving them what they want/need, or not loving someone and waiting for it to happen.

My Thoughts
Well I am watching Katrina get ready for her trip to Dragon Con along with the publication of the complete edition of SKYN.  It is an interesting read, so I am interested in see how she does in the world.  So like I said, I am passing the time until the debut of Pandora in a few weeks time.  Instead I have watched Total Recall ( no need for a review it was a good adaption of an original movie.  I would love to see if they make a sequel since it has lots of potential).  I have started round two of my Body for Life Challenge.  I am not on week two.  My work outs are still not what they should be but they are getting better each week. 

In passing the time I have picked up a couple TV shows recently: Polyamory which was tragical fantastic, Gigolos which is trashy, and L.A. Complex which is just the right mix of drama, comedy, and seedy good times.  I am actually loving it.  I have reach a couple good books.  I will be reviewing them in the next couple days.  The Demigod Diaries and Lure of the Dead.   I can't wait for their sequels.  At least Rick Riordan's book is due out in October.

Friday, July 20, 2012

Movie Review: The Dark Knight Rises

Around the House
Not to much to say around the house.  My sister and her husband just got approved for a house.  I am so excited to them.  They should be moving at the end of the month.  I am looking forward to seeing the new place when it is all pulled together.  Also, if I haven't mentioned this I am also looking to buy a place in the suburbs of Chicago.  I have been looking around for a couple of months or so.  I am planning to buy a place by November, but I am not at a rush.

Katrina Rue's birthday was yesterday.  Now you never tell a ladies age, so I won't tell you how old she is.  You should check out my new book covers that she painted for me.  Well anyway, we spent her birthday seeing the new Batman movie.  Despite the fact that we prebought the tickets, parking was a nightmare, and we got stuck in the very front row.  Can you say back pain!

My Thoughts
Batman makes his return after the death of Harvey Dent.  The Dark Knight Rises takes place 8 years after the fatal events of the Joker which led to the death of Harvey, Rachael, and Batman's reputation.  Despite all of this you would not be surprised to find that there are still believers around the corner to help them.  This installment of the dynamic series shows us a reclusive Bruce Wayne being cared for by Alfred, the introduction of the cat burglar Selena Kyle, and the dark force of Bane.

I rather enjoyed the tales this movie spins.  A few spoilers to show how much I loved this movie.  This installment gave Christian Bale the ability to return to the role or bow out while giving us a potential replacement.  Selena Kyle is not Catwoman, but her pre-Catwoman burglar self.  No whip, claws, or ears.   This choice is a great one of the history of the Batman.  It opens the door for her return while giving us the in between good and bad parts that make the character so lovable.  Anne Hathaway turned out to be the purfect Selena Kyle.  I was excited and worried that her in the role would be problematic since she is loved as the good girl, but she was amazing and the perfect foil to the strong will of Christian Bale's Batman.

Rating: 4/5 - One of the best series of DC Movies EVER done.

Hope for the next installment: Robin/Nightwing, Catwoman, and more of his dark villains.  PLEASE COME BACK Christian Bale and Alfred!

Tuesday, July 10, 2012

Movie Review: The Amazing Spiderman

Around the House
Vacation is good!  Family, Friends, and Dates have kept me busy.  More on that another day. 

My Thoughts
Oh where to start on this interesting little remake.  Number one I have a strong detest for remakes that do not do something new, different, or engaging for the audience.  I dislike when a remake is done so quickly that the watcher and freshly reference the previous movie (since it is on Stars or HBO or some movie channel).  I also consider a change in lead characters a remake with certain exceptions like the death of the original Dumbledor who will always be missed as the best actor to grace that role.  So back to the Topic at hand.  I was disappointed that Chris Evans was Johnny Storm and Captain America, but I do not think there is another actor that could have been that amazing of a Captain America.  Now we have 2 Spidermen.  My complaint about the original run of the series is that they kept killing off the villains.  Spiderman's villains don't die they always come back for more which makes it fun not knowing who could be the villain coming up to ruin his day.  It is always nice that they made the villains lovable in their own way by truly fleshing out the stories of who they were to the world.

Now The Amazing Spiderman blew me away.  I loved everything related to the Avengers and the new Spiderman fits in perfectly with them.  Even Emma Stone as a Blonde Gwen Stacey was perfect.  The story was engaging, heartfelt, and strongly written.  It definitely set the movies up to have an Avenger's feel by having one movie with the ability to build on another.  I can't wait to see the follow up.  It made me forget all the differences between the comics and the original movie run.  It was the perfect story to open the return of a long running series.  I recommend everyone run out and see this movie, throw out your "OLD" Spiderman movies, and buy the new one to add to your Marvel Collection.  I hate to say it, but Disney owning Marvel has done it right.

Rating: 5/5

Saturday, June 30, 2012

Movie Review: Madea's Witness Protection

Around the House
Well I am in the process of working on the next installment of the Preludes of Illumination Series, Finishing Part 3 of Brimstone, and starting vol.3 of the Preludes Series.  Wow that makes me sound really busy doesn't it.  I always wondered how authors like Meg Cabot, Rick Riordan, and Kelley Armstrong could turn out books so damn fast.  I see how they have no lives.  Otherwise, not to much is going on around the house.  I am getting ready for my vacation which starts on the fourth of July.  I am looking forward to spending some time with family.  The next installment of Brimstone will be hitting shelves at that point to help with the fun summer reading schedule.  My work outs are still going well.  I am not hitting the gym 6 days a week like I want to, but I am making progress with keeping up on them.  I am averaging 4 days a week right now.

My Thoughts
Tyler Perry's Madea movies are not known for great plots, but they are known for fun romps.  We return to Madea's house, her nephew Brian, and her crazy brother Joe who are about to take on a rich family that have gotten themselves in trouble with the Law and the Mob.  While the character of Madea is never the point character of any of her movies she is always the comedy that keeps you falling out of your seat.  Tyler Perry did not disappoint with the non-stop laughs, push at family values type morals, and a fun fast paced movie.

Now looking at the actual plot of the movie, their of course were some holes.  Okay, a few mile wide ones, but that isn't why we watch the movies.  There are also plot points that are mentioned that never come into existence.  What happened to the Ex Wife? Is that really Joe's kid? Did the family find happiness in their new life?  All things I would have loves to see.  As expected though Madea was a fun, heart warming movie that doesn't require you to follow the whole lineage, but is great if you do!

Rating: 4/5

Friday, June 22, 2012

Where is Your Pride?

Around the House
Not to much besides writing and talking to Katrina Rue about her new book SKYN that just came out.  I am actually getting ready for a fun and festive weekend with friends.  I have no intention of looking at any emails or even being too sober.  It is one of the few weekends a year I completely cut loose.  Guess what, its okay because it doesn't happen very often and gives me a chance to watch some great social interaction.  That always helps the writing and give me great fodder for future stories.

My Thoughts
I don't get to political, I don't scream and rant about my religious beliefs, I actually don't talk to much about me personal life.  Well today I think that it is time I did.  For those of you that don't know I am not just a crazed author in Chicago, I am also a proud gay man.  Yep I am!  I am getting ready for a weekend down for in the City for Chicago's Gay Pride Parade and saw a special on Showtime On Demand about pride parades around the world.  It really made me think about equality and the protesters that are anti gay rights.

First, I am a Catholic; mostly non-practicing do to the belief structure, but a Catholic none the less.  It comes from having an Italian Family.  I have spent time a lot of time over the years very angry with organized religion.  Christianity has a commandment of Love Thy Neighbor.  Christ talks of acceptance and love.  No where in the bible do you see Jesus screaming down with the gays.  So why is it in Modern society we see Christians and the group that spreads more hate than anyone else in the world?  Why do they stand on the side of the road during pride parades screaming that we are all going to Hell?  Why do they demean us for being different.  Some of the greatest advances in Military, Arts, and Sciences have come from the gay community.  Just look at your clothes.  So tell me, as a Christian how do you stand on the side of the road condemning people for following their heart?  How do you hate someone for the way God made them?  I do not understand this and it hurts me to think about this.  We as a society have come so far and yet we have so far to go.

Additionally, I have a thought on our society and marriage, so hold on and read before you get the pitch fork and hunt me down.  I do not believe in gay, straight, or other marriage that is upheld by the government.  Sorry I don't.  To me marriage is a religious institution and it is up the church to decide if they will allow their follows to marry and how they are to marry.  Now I have an issue with the government which has a strong separation of church and state honoring these religious ceremonies.  I believe that it should all be Civil Unions.  If individuals want to contractually bind themselves to each other they should be allowed to do regardless of the pairing.  For a government to give rights to one group and not another is no different that segregation of schools in the south.  Separate but equal was not equal back then and it sure as fuck isn't equal now.  So I ask each of you to write, email, blog, and petition to have equal rights for all people regardless of Sex, Gender, Nationality, Religions, Age, Health, or Sexuality.  We need an equal right amendment to show the world the discrimination of any kind is wrong.  Everyone should have the chance to purse Happiness, and those who wish to stop others from that should feel the fire of a witch trial not those who just want to be accepted.

Sunday, June 17, 2012

Swift Changes and New Projects

Around the House
So I have recently been obsessed with house hunting.  I am in the first stages of looking to buy a place, and it is a royal pain.  Yet, I spend most of my time at home looking at the same properties or type of properties over and over again.  Also, my work outs have gone to hell this week.  I have just hand so much going on that getting to the gym has not been a priority, and I am feeling the aftermath of it.  I need to go out and get more active.  Additionally, some of you I know are already on this band wagon but I have started to read Fifty Shades of Grey.  I am not very far into it, but I can see the spark that is drawing women across the world into the tale.  My sister (I have two) has been talking about this book nonstop on her Facebook page so I had to see what it was all about.  I was just going to download the sample, well I bought the whole damn thing yesterday.  I am dying to see how it all turns out.   Also, I am in the middle of reading Dance with Dragons.  I am looking forward to finishing that book which completely reminds me I have a book review to write this week AWK!

My Thoughts
So I have started a new project, For the Love of Brimstone.  Katrina has been pestering me for years to take my love for gossip and turn it into a full story.  Well I have never known how to do it.  So finally I have begun writing this new book as an installment series.  I will be publishing installments for everyone to read as I get through sections of work on it.  It is about two people in their late 20's early 30's and the dark seedy sexual encounters they get themselves into and the aftermath of playing in the world after dark.  Of course this is me so I had to include dark parts with demons and other magical creatures.  I am not sure how long this full novel will take to be done, but as soon as it is I am sure you will love the show.  I am just surprised how much fun I am having taking stories I have heard from people in my life and twisting them into a dark tale of lust, love, and hardcore fun.

Tuesday, June 12, 2012

Body for Life Week 12 - The Finals

Around the House
Well, Katrina Rue has pushed me into writing a new piece for fun, as you all can see from my post yesterday.  It is coming out in a serial format like they used to run in newspapers and magazines.  At this point I don't know how long or large For the Love of Brimstone will be but I am rather enjoying writing it.  It is a dark twisted Paranormal Romance.  I hope you enjoy it.  Just so you know today it is Free on Amazon so check it out.

My Thoughts
My First 12 weeks on the Body for Life Challenge are over!  Yeah.  I had a party to celebrate the end of the challenge with a group of friends.  We had a great time, but now it means I have to start my second challenge because I am not entirely happy with all of my results.  Well here goes on the final numbers and pictures.  It took a little too long during this challenge to get my eating to where it needs to be so I am expecting better results in the stomach area this time around.  Hell it was only the first time I ever completed it, so I am excited to go again.




Week 12 Ending- The Numbers: Its over
Start Week 9 Change
Weight 235.6 225.0 -10.6
BMI 32.7% 30% -2.7%
Hips 44 in 42 in -2.0 in
Waist 42.5 in 40.5 in -2 in
Midsection 47 in 41. in -6 in
Chest 46 in 43.5 in -2.5 in
Arm (R) 14 in 13.5 in -0.5 in
Arm (L) 14 in 13.5 in -0.5 in
Neck 17in 15.5 in -1.5 in
Pants 36 33 - 2

Total change in inches: 15inches and not at my goals.  I was fat!

Monday, June 11, 2012

Friday, June 8, 2012

Free Book

Just a quick note.

My new book is free today on Amazon

http://www.amazon.com/Hunted-The-Chronicles-Illumination-ebook/dp/B008832ZD6/ref=sr_1_10?ie=UTF8&qid=1339192725&sr=8-10

Check it out and let me know what you think!

Thursday, June 7, 2012

A little something I am working on!

Around the House
Well I am thinking about the next two installments of the Preludes of Illumination Series and it crossed my mind that I may actually have the formula for Chronicles 2.  While I have always known the basic plot, I have never been very sure on how to get there.  I think I know and I would love to here you comments.

My Thoughts
The steady tick of the clock filled Damian's mind.  The world was quiet despite how full his home had become over the last couple months.  Now the damn tick tock of the grandfather clock was slowly driving him insane.  He was the only one home.  He rolled over away from his bedroom door and the voice returned to him.
"Tick, Tock, you loved that clock."
Damian filled over in his bed towards the sound of the voice.  His open door glowed with psychic energy.  He could see into the depths of the astral plane.  Again the was yanked into the dreamscape of the astral plane by that voice.  Again he would hunt that voice depriving himself of the sleep him mind needed to grow with his growing powers.
"Tick, Tock that clock was your rock."
He stepped through the door way and long psychic claws formed on his left hand and his burning psychic sword erupted on his right.
"Show yourself demon!" Damian yelled.
"Tick, Tock a scream and a knock.  The mind is the power not the voice in the dark."
Damian's mood darkened and the landscape around him burned from pink to purple.  A dark figure began to form in front of him swirling with energy.  He could feel his power slowly draining as the figure took form, so he lunged with his sword.  The laugh echoed around and in him before the creatures power shoved him across the realm and back into his bed.  Damian shot up from his sleep coated in sweat.

Tuesday, June 5, 2012

Body for Life Week 11

Around the House
This has already been a crazy week for me.  The new book has hit newsstand as a ebook first.  We are trying this out to see what this does before the paperback is released.  Also, we are doing a great promotion on Amazon.com for Free Book Fridays.  Every other Friday my new book will be done.  I am looking to buy a house this year; my first house.  It is a long and daunting experience, I came to realize yesterday that I am running low on time.  Now by the end of the week I need to get a couple things cleaned up to get ready for this process.  I so can't believe that it is already June.  Work is getting busy, so that means I am juggling six projects right now with extended hours.  Wish me luck!

My Thoughts
I think I have finally gotten my eating right.  It has taken long enough to figure this out.  I am actually seeing the weight start to move off which is great, but I am afraid it is a little to late.  I have also come to realize that I need to fix my sleep schedule.  I have completely screwed it.  6 hours a night is not enough for me.  I need to get back on an 8 hour schedule.  I find on my days off I am so wiped out that I don't have the energy to work.  Also, I am not seeing the muscle growth that I wanted, but with the layer of fat on me that might be the problem.  So let's look at the numbers.

Week 11 Ending- The Numbers: Almost Done
Start Week 9 Change
Weight 235.6 225.0 -10.6
BMI 32.7% 30% -2.7%
Hips 44 in 42 in -2.0 in
Waist 42.5 in 41 in -1.5 in
Midsection 47 in 41.5 in -5.5 in
Chest 46 in 43.5 in -2.5 in
Arm (R) 14 in 13.5 in -0.5 in
Arm (L) 14 in 13.5 in -0.5 in
Neck 17in 15.5 in -1.5 in
Pants 36 33 - 2

Total change in inches: 14  HOLY COW!  Okay so I now feel a lot better about pictures next week. Especially since this is only challenge one!

Friday, June 1, 2012

Movie Review: Snow White and the Huntsman

Around the House
Well tomorrow is going to be Hell.  I have to attend our first fair of the season, and I do not feel like being up in just a few short hours.  AWK!  It was not the smartest thing in the world for me to go see a movie, but I had to see it.

My Thoughts
I am going to be blunt, and before Katrina pipes up, yes their are moments when I do sugar coat my thoughts.  The movie was horrific.  I expected and dynamic well written master piece to bring the tale of Snow White into a new non-Disney era.  Guess who did a better job with that?  Disney with their amazing show Once Upon a Time.

The Characters where extremely static with glimpses of a true back story to give them motivations.  The magical elements are the story such as the magic mirror has an original take yet where very quickly tossed to the wayside.  And the building of a tragic love story was left out for a sub par battle scene where the most interesting parts where Dwarves playing in the sewer.

I was expecting from the previews to see the Queen as the lead character with some great development and growth to explain her motivations.  It seems from watching this cinematic train wreck that a fantastic script existed but was tossed into the trash.  The part the boggled my mind was that if she could suck the life out of a young girl to stay young why did she have to go out of her way to kill Snow White, because the Mirror said so? 

Rating 2 out of 5

Book Review: Grimalkin the Witch Assassin by Joseph Delaney

Around the House
I am listening to Katrina and her rants about "Making Sex" with the Guy who moved to Portland, her next date, and work.  Yea we have really excited lives over here.  I am taking time out of my editing (and before my workout) to update my blog on the next book I have read.  I am getting a bit sad knowing that my favorite series are starting to make their way to an end. Sookie Stackhouse has only one book left. The Last Apprentice (The Wardstone Chronicles) has only three books left which is only about another year.  The Kane Chronicles are over.  At least I still have four more Percy Jackson related books to look forward too!  I am actively looking for suggestions and what to read next.  I like to be ahead of the curve, unfortunately I am not when I start adding the Hunger Games to the shelves this summer.

My Thoughts
I was not expecting this book to fall into the narrative of the main series The Last Apprentice (The Wardstone Chronicles) by Joseph Delaney, but the change of perspective by following Grimalkin was refreshing and fun for the reader.  It actually lent itself to giving the reader a chance to follow what happened behind the scenes.  Additionally, I know that the main character Tom has the last name of Ward, but I have to wonder what the title of the series Wardstone has to do with the ending.  I am wondering if this something to do with the end of the Fiend.

Grimalkin is on of the most interesting characters that Joseph Delaney has introduced into the series.  While I am still surprised I love this series since I have a love for witch mythology and most true witches in his world are evil, I find the character of Grimalkin has enough of the good to counterbalance the darkness in the character.  You can't help but love her, feel for her, and wish her well in her endeavors.  This book while a fast read opens the gates to the end of the series.  It will make you think deeply of Tom's relationship to the dark from his mother, Alice's role in Tom's life, and what will happen after the end of the Fiend - if they are able to fully end him.  You won't be able to put this book down!

Rating: 5 our of 5

Thursday, May 31, 2012

Book Review: Deadlocked by Charlaine Harris

Around the House
You know they say in Chicago you can have all the seasons in one day.  Well that is how yesterday and today felt.  It started out blissfully warm and has turned into cold and rainy.  The upside is that their is no snow in the forecast.  And yes it has rained out here in May before.  Last week sucked so I didn't most of my work outs in.  I let life get in the way.  That is not happening this week.  Actually after this I am going to head out for cardio.

My Thoughts
I have been worried about how the tales of Miss Sookie Stackhouse were going to find their way to an end.  The last two books have lost some of the fun and mystery, like Charlaine Harris was just trying to tie things up, so when the second to last Sookie Stackhouse book was published, Deadlocked, I was not excited to read it.  Now I could just kick myself.

Deadlocked by Charlaine Harris brought back the joy and the mystery to the Sookie Stackhouse series.  While you can feel the wind down to the final conclusion of this fantastic series you get that old joy of twists and turns that you can and can't expect to happen.  Every reader has been dying to know how the Eric and Queen of Oklahoma situation was going to turn out, what the aftermath of victors death was going to be, and why the hell are their so many fae in Bon Temps.  You will get all those answers and few more to the body count that you didn't expect.  Now where is that next book?  It is supposed to be called Dead Ever After.

Rating: 5 out of 5

Sunday, May 27, 2012

Book Review: The Shadow of the Serpent

Around the House
Nothing to say!

My Thoughts
The Shadow of the Serpent is the last book of the Kane Chronicles by Rich Riordan.  I have been looking forward to this growing fun tale of Sadie and Carter Kane as they learn to be Egyptian Magicians in the modern world.  They have reached the final battle in there quest to restore the Gods, House of Life, and Ma'at to the modern world by sending the Serpent of Chaos on a permanent vacation.  Who would have thought we got  a few more back handed Percy Jackson references at the end?  I can't wait to know head back to long Island to see what my favorite Greeks are up to.

Unfortunately, I was disappointed.  While the series as a whole was great with the entertaining spin on Egyptian Mythology in the modern world I feel that it lost something at the end.  Everything worked out a bit to perfectly.  I came into this novel expecting them to win, I expected Carter to take over, and I expected a few deaths, but when no one died it almost seemed like it was too easy of a battle.  It was missing the true sense of danger that his books usually have for the reader.  It felt safe which is not what I have come to expect from Rick Riordan.  Now is that because this really isn't the end of the series?  I am not sure, but I have the distinct feeling we are going to eventually see a Kane, Jackson, and Norse combination series showing on Hell of a God War.  I just hope he keeps the danger real, so the reader is expecting everything to get tied up nice and neatly.

Rating: 3/5

Movie Review: The Avengers

Around the House
I hate playing catch up!

My Thoughts
As a long time fan of the Marvel Franchise, I have been impatiently waiting for this movie.  I have seen all the movies leading up to this movie including Iron Man 1 & 2, Hulk, the Incredible Hulk, Captain America: the First Avenger, and Thor.  They way Marvel has worked to weave all of these into individual stories as well as part of a larger story arch was amazingly well done.  I was worried about how this movie would play out since the actor for the Hulk has now changed three times, Hawkeye and Black Window are mortals, and the forming of a team can make for characters lost and a very hap hazard story line.  Instead we got an amazing movie with continued character growth, and a smooth story.  The best part of each of the movies and The Avengers movies is that you can watch each of the individually and not feel like you have been left behind.  The only sad part was I missed not seeing the Scarlet Witch, Quicksilver, and Vision.

Joss Whedon has a talent for crafting a story on an epic scale that still drives home the team atmosphere.  This movie could have easily been just Captain America, Thor, Iron Man movie, but each character was given love with fun romps and catchy lines that will live on.  Marvel would be smart if they tied down Joss Whedon to the entire Avengers related franchise.  It definitely reminded me of his work with Buffy and Angel where you get a team dynamic and not one character over shadows the other.  I really masterpiece of directing and writing.

Rating: 5/5

Movie Review: Dark Shadows

Around the House
I hate holiday weekends.  My workout are so screwed up, I am exhausted from family, and I am not eating the best.  You can tell that by the fact I am sitting here ate work with a protein bar and a Venti Carmel Machiatto.  Yum!  Work is dead today, so I figured I wouldn't get a better opportunity to update my movie reviews.  What did I do after an all day family event in the sun (which was after work)?  Did I finish my edits?  Nope I went to a movie.  At least that was a good time.


My Thoughts
Dark Shadows is a remake of an old soap opera from back in the day.  Unlike most things, I haven't done any research on the original since I wanted a fresh perspective when I saw the movie.  While the reviews where not great, the previews looked campy, and the box office number dismal I knew I had to see it for myself.  Knowing that this was a Soap Opera vampire movie, I expected the situations to be extremely campy and fun.  I have to say I was not disappointed.  It help enough of the twisting turns of a Soap Opera that it met my expectations, while building a fresh story.  The movie was fun and full of life. 

I enjoyed the twisted dark seventies themed environment.  The fresh look at a vampire risen in the mortal world was well done.  The back story of the characters teased you enough to want to know more without long drawn out exposition.  It felt very much like flipping on a Soap Opera you have watched for years and catching up with old, odd, friends.  The only complaints is that majority of the characters motivations where a bit fuzzy.  I have a feeling from the flow of the movie that these developments ended up on the cutting room floor.  I would like to have learned more of the Matriarch of the Collins Family and the last minute twist of her daughter should have developed more throughout the movie.  The Supernatural battles where a bit much at the end, when I was hoping for more campy love and drama.

Rating: 4/5


Friday, May 18, 2012

Book Review: The Demon's Surrender

Around the House
Okay, so I am half way through reediting my last notes on my manuscript.  I don't have much else to say on that except I think I need a very large drink which I plan on getting tonight.  I will be heading into the city for a weekend of fun with my buddies.  I miss my time out and about.  I am going to drink, flirt, and have fun.  Wanna join me?

My Thoughts
The Demon's Lexicon Series by Sarah Rees Brennan came to an interesting conclusion with her new book The Demon's Surrender.  While this series originally interested me because it was acquired by the Nelson Literary Agency.  While I am not a fan of the series on a whole I found the concept very interesting.  The concept of the series is that power is corruption and to gain power magicians make deals with Demons.  They even allow Demons to possess humans as a method to gain additional power.  This final installment of the series does manage to tie up the loose ends of the book in just a twisted enough way that it allows the author the ability to twist the ending into a new series.  Will I read the new series if their is one?  Not sure, but with each additional book she wrote she has improved in style and story telling.  I look forward to seeing wonderful happy endings for Nick, Mae, Alan, and Sin.
\
Rating: 3/5

Thursday, May 17, 2012

Body for Life Week 9 and the IML Assistant

Around the House
Oh what to say about around the house?  There is a lot to say right now, and I do not know where to begin.  I made a world class mistake by hiring my own assistant a couple weeks ago.  Because of the amount of time I have spent training him things have gone a bit wrong with my book launch.  My lovely assistant was more concerned with getting the funds to attend IML; that he neglected doing anything he was trained to do, so now my book has been pushed back several weeks because he lost all my edits.  The weird part was I didn't even know what this IML was until he quit last night.  I found out by googling what it was and found out it is an interesting gay event hosted in the city of Chicago every Memorial Day weekend.  Do you want to know how I found out?  Yes you do!  It was that crazy woman Alina that I have watched on occasion on Youtube.com.  If you want to know what IML really is you should listen to her.  Anyway, I should have just continued sharing an my assistant with Katrina Rue.  Thankfully, I kept Ida on payroll, so she is helping me get all the edits finished for my book.


My Thoughts
Grrr why can't this even go right?

Week 9 Ending- The Numbers: Moving to a new beginning
Start Week 9 Change
Weight 235.6 229.0 -5.9
BMI 32.7% 31% -1.7%
Hips 44 in 43.5 in -0.5 in
Waist 42.5 in 41 in -1.5 in
Midsection 47 in 42.5 in -4.5 in
Chest 46 in 44 in -2.0 in
Arm (R) 14 in 14 in -0.0 in
Arm (L) 14 in 14 in -0.0 in
Neck 17in 16.5 in -0.5 in
Pants 36 34 - 2