Louise Nicks's: "Soren: the angel and the prize fighter" (5 stars)

"Soren: the Angel and the Prize Fighter" is an impressive debut. I absolutely loved every character, the UK setting and the strong narrative voice.

Beau Tolson is a main character you can really empathize with. Her daily struggles are heavy indeed, even for someone as stalwart as she. Readers will fall in love with this character. She is a versatile, compassionate individual with a gladiator’s fighting spirit. She is haughty without being belligerent and always comes through for her loved ones, no matter the cost: even if her sacrifices threaten to make a martyr of her.

The introductory chapters bring readers up to speed with Beau's hardships, how she plans on surmounting them and how her proactive attitude affects those in her inner circle. Paranormal aspects present themselves soon after, presenting questions of Beau's origins and how that knowledge will change her life forever.

Action, suspense, romance and intrigue are pumped into the novel through Beau's characterization: much like a heart propels blood through our veins. Louise did a phenomenal job of making Beau feel essential and alive. I feel anchored to her life, invested in the plot and wanting to experience more of it because of Beau Tolson alone.

The action scenes were well written but felt terse at times, but it's just because I'm an action junky more than likely. Louise is more than capable of captivating readers with her action scenes, and shouldn't be afraid to extend them, especially the important ones.

Louise has a good handle on integrating romance into her paranormal drama as well. Beau's budding relationships did not feel cheesy or trite. They expand her character and what is at stake in the novel.

All and all, "Soren: the Angel and the Prize Fighter" is fantastic. If you love paranormal romance, read it. If you are looking for a unique universe populated by warring angels and demons, read it. If you enjoy well sculpted main characters that grip you by the wrist and demand your attention and your readership, well, you know what to do.

I see a bright future for this series. Five stars.

I received a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.

Aleks Srbinoski’s: "Destiny Defining Success" (5/5 stars)

            Success is a word that is often defined by the eye of the beholder. You can look at someone and see they are supporting themselves, or their family, sitting comfortably in the middle-class and say that is the image of “success” and imagine how happy that person is. But, what if they aren’t? What if such comfort is not what success is at all? Aleks Srbinoski’s “Destiny Defining Decisions” explores not only how to become a successful entrepreneur, but how to find the courage to discover yourself and a career that truly fits you. Such a discovery marries success and passion: true, fulfilling bliss.

            He relates his message with fervor and purpose. He is straightforward, easy to comprehend and well organized. His work includes eleven interviews conducted by Aleks himself centered around one integral question: what was the thought process behind the best life-changing decision you have ever made?

            These eleven success stories involve people that fought through factors in their lives to find the inner strength to sacrifice, turn a deaf ear to naysayers (sometimes including themselves), and look beyond an ocean of turbulence and failure to live those life-changing decisions. Readers will see that even these business leaders, best selling authors, freelancers, executive gurus, and fearless leaders of persuasion, speaking and marketing all had something in common to overcome: themselves.

            A few pages into the book I had the distinct impression that it was not written just for those interested in business. Finding your passion and the confidence to execute it is a concept everyone needs to learn about. “Destiny Defining Decisions” was inspirational for me on many levels. As an author, a father, and a hopeful entrepreneur I feel like I have gained volumes of insight from the 129 pages Srbinoski has provided.

            This is a must read for everyone who hopes to be something more than they are now. Indie authors, this includes you. Take the time to read what Aleks has compiled here. The information contained in “Destiny Defining Decisions” is nothing short of life changing. Five stars.