The Walking Dead Hardcover Ruled Journals

Based on AMC’s hit original series, The Walking Dead ruled journals embody the thrills and excitement of The Walking Dead. Each journal is themed around a popular character, including Rick Grimes, Daryl Dixon and Michonne, and the Walkers who threaten the survivors’ existence. Along with debossed covers, the journal interiors also feature full-color photography from The Walking Dead. 

Along time ago before people put their thoughts on social media. There was something we did in the 90's and and years before that. We used something that is rarely used today and that's journals. Insight Editions is bringing back the journals in a big way with The Walking Dead. The cover and material is amazing in great detail. I got the Darryl Dixon journal which comes with pics of the character and  great design of his signature logo on his vest. The journal has a pages to make you're own story book. At a fair price of 18.00 dollars this is a great gift for kids, family and friends. Great things you can do with a journal. Practice creative writing, put your innermost thoughts instead on social media, even use as a data entry log. With The Walking Dead you can even think of making your own fan fiction. This is a great journal to pick up. 

Frozen: The Poster Collection Review

The heartwarming story of two sisters who save their kingdom through their love for each other, Frozen has gained unparalleled popularity and acclaim worldwide. Based on the award-winning animated film, Insight Editions in collaboration with Walt Disney Animation Studios proudly presents Frozen: The Poster Collection (Insight Editions / $24.99 /2015).

Fans of Frozen this is a great collectible for you. Frozen: Poster Collection is a collection of movie posters, character posters and key scenes from the movie. The book contains 40 pages of removable posters filled with epic scenes, characters and artwork. My favorite one has to be the original poster with the three main leads in the front. The poster size are 12 x 16 which is great if you want to frame it for the house or office. With 40 posters to choose from you can definitely get enough for the price of $24.99. This is a great deal for Frozen fans and people who want good artwork.  Check out some of the posters below.

Frozen: The Poster Collection

Reprinted from Frozen: The Poster Collection published by Insight Editions. Copyright © 2015 Disney Publishing Worldwide. All rights reserved.

Final Grade A-/9.5

Lenni Reviews - "Lisa Simpson's Guide to Geek Chic"

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These adorable little books are kinda hard to review. They're not a full story or anything but they make good collectibles or coffee table books for an avid Simpsons enthusiast. There are pullouts, quizzes, and some amusing geek facts as told by our favorite geek girl, Lisa Simpson. There's even a little pocket in the back so you can write your future geek self a letter and see how far you've come with your geek lessons and compare them to your past self. 

If you're like me and are super scared to so much as scratch a page in a book with your fingernail much less write all over it, this book is still a worthwhile purchase if you love Lisa. It even includes vegetarian recipes you can try. It seems a little pricey to me for such a small book at $24.99, but I'm sure if you're a fan, it's worth every cent.

(For more of Lenni's writing, click here)

Lenni Reviews: Soda Pop Soldier by Nick Cole

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In this dystopian future, companies hire gamers to battle it out for the rights to advertising space. After my initial hesitation and brief fit of hysteriucal laughter at the thought of eHarmony, Match.com, Christian Mingle, and Farmers Only battling out in a cage match for the right to inundate us with their insipid nonsense (Three-way battle between Papa Johns, Little Caesars, and Dominos? Would CiCi's buffet be an unexpected challenger? Man, I laughed for DAYS!), I started this book with a bit of guilt that I'm not a huge gamer and a healthy load of disbelief this concept would be pulled off in an enjoyable way.

The book is written well. You follow professional gamer PerfectQuestion as he struggles to win for his company, broke, cheating girlfriend, drinking a lot, and at the end of his rope; willing to join an illegal online gaming universe referred to as the Black. Things get out of hand and the online battle for his life spreads into the real world.

By no means is this a 'bad book.' Nick Cole has the writing chops to pull off the gaming action and PerfectQuestion's desperation, so the reading is nice and smooth. Cole's work reminds me of Jeff Somers' work (but Cole is MUCH less depressing). My only complaint perhaps would be it's 100+ pages in before PerfectQuestion is directly threatened. It was cool and all to see PerfectQuestion in action and get to know how his job works and how sick and twisted the Black is, but it seemed to me our protagonist should have met with the main conflict sooner.

Although, I certainly wasn't bored. I was pulled right into the world and loved every second. My hands were twiching for controller buttons and the descriptions left me fiending for some playtime with my consoles. I truly cared about PerfectQuestion, even without knowing his name. I clicked instantly with what Cole is saying about what the anonymity of being online does to people's behavior and how easily the consequences of that behavior can leak into your offline life. I had fun reading this; it was an unexpectedly enjoyable romp. If you're into tech heavy scifi, first person shooters, and the trials of just a normal guy trying to survive, I think you'll enjoy this book.

Can't get enough of Lenni's writing? See more here.

Make Comic Books Like The Pros By Greg Pak and Fred Van Lente (Book Review)

"Make Comic Books Like The Pros" is a guide for any inspiring writer, wanting to learn how to write the style of comic books. Greg Pak and Fred Van Lente give enough information in this 84 pages to get you started. The book has a total of six chapters which covers basic story structure, putting your ideals on panels, building a team and even how to pitch your comic book.

One thing I found the most useful is the proper way to write a script. There is many ways to write a script but Greg Pak and Fred Van Lente give a very easy breakdown on how to write one. Everything is discussed from adding sound effects, formating the actual page and a breakdown of terminology. I also found helpful that the book takes time to describe to each job and role. Did you ever want to know the role of the inker, colorist and what it takes? It is explain in this book. The book is easy to read and the pacing of the writing keeps you reading till the end. One more honorable mention is the book explains a breakdown of cost for an indie publisher. The steps it might cost to get the book made, publish and even staff inquiry. In addition the amount of money you might make from sales is very helpful. Overall if you're looking for a guide to write comic books this book does very well. It's a quick read but it hits all the important points and information.

Final Grade: B+/8.5

Lenni Reviews: Thorn Jack by Katherine Harbour

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More dark fantasy! And with a heroine that I didn't get annoyed with! YAY!

*achem* Sorry about that. I think publishers know my weakness now.

Thorn Jack  by Katherine Harbour is a sad YA fantasy romance starring Serafina Sullivan - adorably called 'Finn' - who has relocated to her father's hometown of Fair Hollow after her sister kills herself. Right from the start, the town is surreal, populated by people who love to dress in gothic clothing and have memorized more poetry than I've probably read in my whole life. Right away, Finn catches the eye of a boy from the town's most powerful family - The Fantas -  Jack; who is of course much more than he seems.

I enjoy this story because the mystical creatures are tricky and dangerous. I have not read the old Scottish tale called Tam Lin, upon which this novel is based and I still haven't to make sure my review is about the book itself; which I can say I did very much enjoy. The characters are sharply built, the story is deep for a YA novel (I don't normally read those, as you may recall from my other reviews), and I can see Harbour took care with the pacing and development of the story. I can see where her talent will continue to grow as this series goes on if it does because the ending does imply more story to be told. There are some strange sentences, sometimes the story meanders a little; but once it's back on track the narrative doesn't disappoint. 

I do have to take a moment to talk about Serafina. It is gratifying to see a loyal strong woman in a YA novel who knows when to fight, knows when to retreat, and stands by her friends even at her own peril. She's still reeling from her sister's suicide but she squares her shoulders, even if they're shaking in fear, and does what needs doing.

Despite the small growing pains Harbour's writing has yet to go through (and don't take this as a harsh criticism, every writer goes through this. Including myself) I enjoyed this book. If you're into dark fantasy with a sweet love story where you're hip deep in Scottish mythology, I say give this book a try. If anything, the ending was completely satisfying and worth every page getting there.

Can't get enough of Lenni's writing? See more here.

Gods In The Grey City By Lenni (Book Review)

Title - Gods In The Grey City
Author - Lenni
Illustrator/Book Cover- Melody Herbert
Pages - 49

Otakus and Geeks very own Lenni is a published author, if you didn't know. Lenni has written a total of four books in the course of the last three years. They can be picked up on Kindle and various other locations. I will be giving a non biased review on all four of Lenni's books all this month.

Story - Ciro buys more than he bargained for when he purchases a slave capable of bypassing the brand on her magic. He drags her on a journey with him to learn her secrets, but his own may kill them both.

One of the strongest things "Gods In The Grey City" has going for it is the characters. As previous stated in the story synopsis, the story is focused on a man named Ciro. Ciro purchases a slave by the name of Tia. Tia is a member race that is looked down upon called the Muri. Together they have have to complete Ciro's which I won't spoil for you. If you're a fan of fantasy then "Gods In The Grey City" is something you want to check out. The two main characters Ciro and Tia are enjoyable to read. What makes them the driving force of the book is how different they are. Ciro is a man that lives by a strict code and guidelines. He's a loner, a man who you tell by reading the story has a lot of layers in his past. Tia is a woman who very protective and cutthroat. Being a slave and having faced a lot of adversity has harden her. As the story progresses you will find out how she became that way. Finding out the backstories of the character is where I had the most fun. Lenni did a very good job flushing out Ciro and Tia's identities. Lenni also did a great job of setting up an entire world for Ciro and Tia to interact with. Some places in this world are not friendly to Tia's race the Muri. In addition some there a places that are not friendly to Ciro's. Seeing how the two characters have to interact with these hostilities, while trying to stay alive was a pleasure. 

Overall if you like fantasy, magic and strong female characters, give "Gods In The Grey City" a shot. It's filled with two compelling characters and a great supporting cast. The story has action, some heartbreaking moments My only complaint is that the book is short with only 49 pages. Once it's done you would want more from Tia and her world. 

Final Rating 8.5/10

Gods In The Grey City is available on Amazon
http://www.amazon.com/Gods-Grey-City-Lenni-ebook/dp/B005IRPURI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1406117936&sr=8-1&keywords=gods+in+the+grey+city

Lenni Reviews: The Stolen: An American Faerie Tale by Bishop O'Connell

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Caitlin comes home to a parent's worst nightmare, her child being kidnapped. What's worse, it's by fairies. A chance encounter at an art gallery brings the one person best suited to help get her daughter back; a berzerker warrior named Brendon. With him, a wizard named Eddie, and the magister of the Rogue Court, Dante; they embark on a multi-world mission to rescue Caitlin's daughter, Fiona, from the dark fae.

Again, another author spots my weakness; dark fantasy. There's a bit of a ramble getting the adventure started and small dragging moments in the narrative, but not a character is wasted here. You feel for all of them; Brendon's heartache, Caitlin's panic, Eddie's resolve, and Dante's sense of responsibility and loyalty. Learning and interacting with all the different kinds of fae as they journey to save Fiona, is handled in context and quickly. There isn't any long exposition or chapter breaks to describe each type of creature. You learn what you need to know at the time and the rest of the time is spent on the adventure itself. I don't personally mind such things but some do.

How it all worked out was unexpected and I was very pleased with that. The way everything was connected at the end wasn't so much as a surprise but it seemed fitting. It wasn't neat, it wasn't pretty, it wasn't happily ever after; but it fit. This counts for a lot in these days of cookie cutter paranormal romances flooding the market. An ending in a fantasy grounded in reality (somewhat) is a breath of fresh air.

I certainly hope this book has a sequel. The writing is efficient and crisp; I dived right into this world and I'm curious to see where things go from here. I would love to see this expanded and with such efficient writing, it leaves me wondering what O'Connell could do with this world next. 

Can't get enough of Lenni's writing? See more here.

TMNT: The Ultimate Visual History Review

Title: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Ultimate Visual History
Author: Andrew Farago
Pages: 192 + 23 inserts
Price: $50

Beside from being a gamer, a huge anime lover there is one other property that I hold close to my heart. A franchise I grew up with from the early 90's. I remember bugging my mother for anything that was associated with these heroes on the half shell. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles has been part of my entertainment life as long as videogames, anime and the WWE. I had turtle toys, turtle bedsheets and even turtle underwear (of course as a kid). My elementary school picture had the Ninja Turtles as the background (see our Facebook page later). Needless to say I was a turtle maniac just like so many eighties babies who grew up in the 90's. I was infamous for eating nothing but pizza and turtle cereal, and when I went to get ice cream from the ice cream man it was Ninja Turtles (bring back those ice cream bars Mr. Softy). Now that my nostalgic geek trip of turtle mania is over. I can proudly say that the new book "TMNT: The Ultimate Visual History" is a must have for turtle fans. If I would describe this book in one word, the word would be appreciation.

Author Andrew Farago and his team has put a lot of work into this book. This book covers nearly every single aspect of TMNT existence. The book covers from the humble beginnings of Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird to the new reboot filmed produce by Michael Bay. For non turtle maniacs the chance to learn about the creators and their inspiration on the turtles was one of the highlights of the book. With Andrew Farago delivery of words and visual pictures of concept art to go with it you really gain respect and admiration for Eastman and Laird journey.  However this isn't just a book that tells the story of how the turtles were created. The book also packs a K.O. punch full of content covering each generation carnation of the ninja turtles, from the early comics, to the hit 90's show and movies to the reboot franchise with Nickelodeon. It also includes
special removable items include:

•Fan club letters
•The first press release from Mirage Studios
•A complete reprint of the very first TMNT comic book
•A poster of the book cover, specially created by Kevin Eastman and legendary TMNT artist Ryan Brown

Not only is the information provided by Farago very valuable, but the inclusion of concept arts, actual television, comics and film scripts only sweetens the deal. There is one picture in the book that nearly had me in tears. It's a picture of the staff of the 90's turtles cartoon and seeing James Avery and Rob Paulsen was overwhelming me with nostalgia. Each chapter is detail with information and stories that I even didn't know about it. I would love to see a TMNT documentary next with this book used as a reference or inspiration. Overall this is a book that you must own if you're a turtle fan. It truly is a love letter to the creators, fans and staff who had taken part in this legendary franchise. Get your pizza, put on the classic 90's tunes or ost soundtrack sit back and relax. This book really kicks some shell it's turtle time!

Buy it Here

Final Grade: A+/9.5

Lenni Reviews: "Queen of Dark Things" by C. Robert Cargill

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If you recall my review of the first book, I kinda fangirled all over the place. I'll try to control myself this time.

That being said? Holy CRAP, I love this book! I haven't fallen this deep in love with a morally ambiguous character of unknown potential since Cal Leandros! Queen of Dark Things has everything I love about dark urban fantasy; sorcerers, spirits, demons, magic, and STRATEGY! The character having a stratagem that, while not bringing a Lord of the Rings-esque conquering of evil, shows cunning and forethought by both the character and the author.

This book picks up where the first book left off, with Colby Stevens still dealing with the loss of his friend, Ewan. He's a drunken mess, bouncing from drink to drink til his fame comes around to kick him square in the ass. An old friend from the past shows up with world ending trouble in tow leaving Colby no choice but to face down his mistakes and deal with creatures of such darkness, they're even scared of one another.

Colby is shaping up to be one heck of a character. His growth (or lack there of) from the first to the second book is believable and holds frightening implications within the world of this series. As with the first book, the narrative is broken up with excerpts from Dr. Thaddeus Ray and the Pseudomonarchia Daemonum which kept me leaping from chapter to chapter wondering how the heck Colby was going to deal with the entities being described.

While the whole book feels more rushed than the first outing, Dark Things is a completely satisfying continuation. I look forward to seeing Colby reach even further heights. My only complaint is having to wait for the next one.

Can't get enough of Lenni's writing? See more here.

The World According to Spider-Man Review

Every wonder what it's like to be Spider-Man? Ever wonder what it's like to be a superhero. The World According to Spider-Man does just that. Written by author Daniel Wallace, the book takes you a guide on how to be a superhero according to our favorite neighborhood webslinger. Wallace has written a book that is witty, fresh and does justice to Spider-Man. The World According To Spider-Man also contains some cool facts such as Peter Parker's report card. I found it ironic that Spider-Man would get C- in gym. However I guess that was to not bring any suspicion onto him that he is Spider-Man.

The highlight of the book is when Spider-Man gives the reader tips on how to be a hero. He gives you insight on proper costume choices, breaking down the difference between super villians and regular crooks. He even gives you tips on balancing a love life when one is a superhero. Check out this hilarious conversation he has with M.J. below to see what I mean.

Superhero Problems

Overall if you love Spidey you will love this witty look into his world. Author Daniel Wallace does a great job of giving you Spidey's persona in this book. If you're a fan of the webslinger than this will be great to add to your collection. It's short, sweet and straight to the point. There is even a surprise cameo by a nemesis giving you his views on superheroes. This book is a winner. Suit up spidey fans.

Lenni Reviews: Homer Simpson's Little Book of Laziness and Bart Simpson's Manual of Mischief

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These two books (which are kind enough to completely date me as the old lady who remembers when this show first came out) are a Simpson's fan/collector's dream. They are chock full jokes, stickers, one liners, inside jokes, mini comics, and faux advice on how to live like your favorite character. But if you're not a huge fan, I can't see reading these more than once.

As a collectors item, these are awesome. Books like these - character specific and with a ton of pullouts - are perfect to leaf through with the reverence of a true fan, then put them back on the shelf for the next time you get the urge to read them. As for me, I got a good chuckle, a deep sense of nostalgia, then put them away lest I lose one of those free flying pieces of paper.

As a total aside: The librarian in me is horrified by the loose parts in these books. They are circulation and shelving nightmares as we are not getting half of those little inserts back the first time that book is borrowed. I know these books are for collectors but those are gonna disappear from the book in no time.

To sum up; these are cute but fleeting and designed to not be opened very often. Reserve for true fans everywhere. You know who you are.

Lenni Reviews: Dr. Sleep by Stephen King

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As a fan of Stephen King's work, I am certain my fangirl-ish squeel of glee could be heard far and wide when I heard Dr. Sleep came out. As a sequel to The Shining, I was super excited to find out the fate of Daniel Torrence, the child with the Shining gift now all grown up.

A recovering alcoholic; Danny works as an orderly in a hospice, using his gifts to help comfort the dying and earning the nickname Dr. Sleep. As he gets his life together, he starts to receive messages from another with a talent like his own; a young girl named Abra Stone. Abra's abilities are so strong, she attracts the attention of a group called the True Knot; who feeds off children with the Shining. The two of them must battle to stop them from devouring Abra and continuing to hunt these special children.

This book is best read if you have read The Shining first; although it stands alone as a perfectly thrilling book. Unless you read the first one, you won't get the REDRUM and Daniel's alcoholism provides much more of an emotional punch when you read in the first book about his father.

Simply put, I could not put this book down. I am such a fan of King and his writing that I have actually avoided reading his books for awhile because then I'd have to go and read 10 more; some of which would be the second or third time I've read the book. Abra is an amazing little girl; a character I wouldn't mind reading more about in the future. The True Knot are pretty damn terrifying and I had a white-knuckle grip on my tablet, anxious to read what comes next. (see here why I read this book on a tablet because the physical book was too big to carry around)

Dr. Sleep really gets to the point even though it comes in at a whopping (well, not whopping for King, anyway) 544 pages. I am thankful for this because King can really delve into detail which is great sometimes but... Let's just say I never made it through the extended cut of The Stand. There was so much back story, I hadda give it up. And while I won't spoil the ending, this King fan can safely say it is a very satisfying conclusion. This book is a very worthy successor and I do truly wonder if we will hear more of Abra in the future.