Casey Hagen

I bought this story collection when it was on pre-release sale. It hit my radar because an author whose work I've enjoyed has a story in it. It seemed like a good opportunity to read more of her stuff and get an introduction to a bunch of new authors.

Sadly, it turned out to be quite disappointing. The stories were a 3/5 at best. I just finished reading the collection and going through the titles, there's probably close to half that I could barely give you any description of the titles or characters. They didn't suck me in at all. In the end, I only finished it out of a fading sense of hope and some weird determination.

But at a certain point my judgement was probably affected by the fact that this collection was so poorly edited. Incorrect punctuation, missing punctuation, spelling errors, homophone errors, just plain wrong words - and a lot of them. I don't know whether these authors normally skip editing or if there was some rush behind getting this collection out, but either way it's terrible. There's a lack of professionalism shown that is hugely disappointing. To be fair, the stories aren't all bad and aren't all in desperate need of editing, but sadly there are more in that camp than not.

Overall, I just really can't recommend this one at all.

This review was also posted on my website: http://editrix.ca/review-18-illici…mance-collection/… (mehr)

Review of Love You Long Time by ES Carter

I am a huge fangirl when it comes to stories from Ms. Carter. Her storytelling keep you glued to the pages as you watch her characters tumble into their happily ever after.

If you are a fan of her Love By Numbers series, you will have met Nicola in Thirteen. Well, now this virgin doctor has literally fell into the path of her often thought daydreams. Little does she know, he has the same daydreams of her.

This is a funny and touching story of finding that you do have the time to find love and look in front of you.… (mehr)

That first chapter may not seem like much to most people, yet to me it's the most important part of a story. Why? It sets the tone for the rest of the book and introduces the major players. It determines if the story will be worthwhile or a waste of valuable time.
Casey Hagen left an impression. I received an ARC of Heartstrings in exchange for an honest review.

First impressions played an important role in the dynamic between Slade and Ryan. On the outside Ryan appeared to be a broken shell. but her most powerful asset proved to be her courage. It took bravery to leave her former life in the rear view mirror and fight for the ability to make her dreams come true. To leave behind the wealth, abuse, shallowness and routine to strike out on her own. This woman didn't know her own strength. Slade may have been the white knight Ryan needed but he is nobody's hero. His own baggage is shielded behind a wall of hurt and mistrust that is just as impenetrable as Ryan's. So much is stacked against this relationship but with a little bit of faith, the love of a child and an open heart - anything is possible. Heartstrings by Casey Hagen brought me to tears and I am not a crier. It's that moving of a novel.… (mehr)