Author Archives: karenjvjohnson

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Carmilla

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The narrative surrounding “Carmilla” invites a fascinating exploration, as it is often regarded as a precursor to Bram Stoker’s “Dracula.” Some interpretations suggest that Carmilla herself embodies a female counterpart to the legendary vampire. This work is celebrated as a masterpiece of erotic gothic horror, rich with elements of mystery, suspense, forbidden desire, and a palpable sense of violence that lingers in the atmosphere. Blood, in its various connotations, plays a central role in the story, heightening the themes of obsession and transformation.

The pacing of the tale varies significantly; it unfolds slowly in certain passages, allowing for character and tension development, while racing through thrilling moments in others. This ebb and flow of narrative energy reflects the cultural context of the time in which it was penned, showcasing the anxieties and fascinations of that era.

The story is narrated by Laura, an 18-year-old girl who recounts her experiences with her enigmatic and strikingly beautiful houseguest, Carmilla. After a carriage accident in the depths of a forest, Carmilla is taken in by Laura’s widowed father, a kind and considerate man. Initially, the two young women strike up a close friendship that gradually blossoms into a deeply passionate and intimate bond. However, Laura remains blissfully unaware that their connection is rooted in a darker reality—one of predator and prey.

Through Laura’s perspective, readers are drawn into the intoxicating yet perilous world crafted by Carmilla, where sensations of pleasure intermingle with pain and dread. This psychological interplay forms the crux of their relationship, encapsulating the tension between desire and danger.

The audiobook adaptation is brought to life by Rose Leslie, who elegantly voices Laura, while Phoebe Fox embodies the seductive and mysterious essence of Carmilla. David Tennant delivers a captivating performance as Dr. Hesselius, and James Wilby portrays Laura’s father. Together, they guide listeners on a haunting foray into the shadowy realm of vampires, enveloping them in a chilling yet enthralling experience.

My rating: 🌟🌟🌟

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Not Dead Enough

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This book deserves a solid 4.5 stars, without a doubt.

I found myself thoroughly enjoying this story, marking it as my first experience with this particular author. I’m genuinely excited to explore the other books in this series in the near future. While there were a few minor instances of sentences feeling slightly out of order, these issues were not significant enough to detract from the overall narrative. The pacing commenced a bit slowly, but it quickly gained momentum, particularly with the entrance of the main female character. The plot was well-structured, providing a refreshing and engaging flow that made it easy to follow along and immerse myself in the story. The character development was commendable, with each individual embodying their roles in a way that felt authentic within their contexts. I found myself rooting for all the characters, even the antagonists, as they were portrayed in a way that made their actions believable and, honestly, relatable.

The protagonist, Brett Perkins, was a soldier whose life took a tragic turn at the hands of a mysterious entity known as the Project, which ultimately led to his death. However, his story does not end there—he was resurrected, only to discover that life after death was far from a dream. Following the destruction of their base, which resulted from a daring escape by its inhabitants, Brett and his team are now tasked with hunting down and eliminating a group of rogue vampires. These cunning creatures have evaded capture since the chaos of the base’s demise. When they begin abducting human women, Brett and his companions quickly realize that the situation is dire and cannot bode well for the victims involved. Their urgency escalates when they arrive on the scene just moments after the latest victim has been snatched away.

Julia Collier, the female lead, is navigating her own turbulent life, recently separated and in the throes of a divorce from her husband. Her ex-husband is a well-regarded figure in their town, which has unfortunately resulted in a campaign to tarnish Julia’s reputation, turning friends and acquaintances against her. Adding to the tension, her ex has dispatched thugs to follow her, issuing threats that leave her feeling cornered and vulnerable. When she discovers men lurking outside her home, she fears that her ex is finally poised to act on his threats, prompting her to muster the courage to fight back. What she fails to realize is the true nature of the individuals who are actually after her.

I was particularly drawn to Julia’s character; she embodies strength and resilience in the face of adversity. Instead of crumbling under pressure, she stands her ground, showcasing a remarkable fortitude that is often lacking in female characters within the genre. The male characters are equally compelling, portraying soldiers who transcend typical stereotypes and embody camaraderie and friendship that go beyond mere battlefield bonds.

Overall, I believe this story will captivate anyone interested in the paranormal, offering a blend of suspense, strong characters, and vivid storytelling that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.

My rating: ★★★★½

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The Chronicles of Riddick: Ghosts of Furya

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This captivating piece of fiction presents a compelling origin story for the iconic figure of Riddick, weaving a narrative that feels both credible and engaging. The characters introduced throughout the story are not only intriguing but also offer unique perspectives that delve into the complexities surrounding Riddick’s transformation into the formidable figure we know. The vivid portrayal of Furya is particularly striking; it resonates with anyone familiar with the evolution of Riddick’s mythology. This connection enhances the narrative, making it feel like a significant addition to the overarching lore.

The plot centers on 1st Sergeant Jade Waters and her elite squad, who are tasked with investigating the remnants of Furya, a planet devastated by the ruthless Necromongers. These invaders left Furya in utter ruins, and Waters is driven by an unwavering determination to uncover the truth hidden within the desolation. Her mission is not just about exploration; it’s about arming humanity with any knowledge that could be pivotal when the Necromongers inevitably turn their gaze toward Earth.

Upon arriving on Furya, the squad discovers the planet eerily deserted, its landscapes scarred by violence and neglect. As they navigate the ruins, they stumble upon a remarkable find: a lone child who has mysteriously survived on his own amidst the remnants of destruction for years. This encounter takes a surprising turn when they realize the boy holds crucial information about the past and the events that led to Furya’s downfall.

Faced with the decision to bring this boy back to Earth, the soldiers are forced to confront the depths of his experiences and what they mean for their understanding of Riddick’s origins. This story serves as a poignant exploration of Riddick’s backstory, providing fans with a deeper glimpse into his early life and the circumstances that shaped him into the man he would become. The narrative flows seamlessly from one point to another, maintaining a brisk pace that continuously engages readers, making the journey through Furya’s tragic history all the more compelling.

My rating: 💪💪💪💪

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The Augg

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I have been reading this book off and on for the past 12 days. I started this book hoping to really like it. I liked the idea behind the story but have been unable to find my way into the story fully. The characters are not resonating with me on any level at this time, and I cannot say that will change any time soon. I don’t care about them or their lives because I still have not learned anything much about them. The VR world that they describe is interesting, and I have a feeling that it will become more as time continues, but at this time I do not feel I can give more to it. The writing style is somewhat disjointed for me since I am used to paragraphs that are a little more linear than what I get here.

In the not too distant future, the populace will live inside their heads thanks to the magic of technology. Their fantasy lives will be superimposed over the dreary lives they truly live by the work of a group who live their own version of reality every day. They have given themselves over to artificial intelligence that may be running amok. But what is reality, and can we even distinguish the difference?

There is a nice use of technology as the driving force behind everything, but it just cannot keep me wanting more. I am going to take a vacation from it for a while and come back later to see if it can do more for me. But it is possible it might work better for someone else.

My rating: ★★

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Homicidal

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This gripping true-crime drama delves into the chilling and complex 25-year saga of Lonnie Franklin Jr., a man accused of the brutal murders of at least ten women in Los Angeles, though many believe the actual number could be much higher. Known as the “Grim Sleeper,” a moniker given to him by the media, Franklin’s infamy is partly due to a striking 13-year hiatus in the murders, which led to unsettling questions about his motives and methods.

Franklin’s approach to luring his victims often involved chance encounters, where seemingly ordinary interactions would spiral into horrific outcomes. Many of his targets were vulnerable women, often struggling with addiction or homelessness, making it all too easy for him to prey on them. As he navigated the city’s streets, his life took on a disturbing normalcy, with neighbors unaware that a serial killer lived among them.

What’s particularly alarming is the role of the Los Angeles Police Department, which mishandled investigations into these crimes for years. Their repeated failures allowed Franklin to evade capture, the result of botched leads and missed opportunities that left families without answers and the community in fear. Shrouded in darkness, Franklin managed to collect a government pension, a stark reminder of the monstrous man hiding in plain sight.

The narration style of the documentary is quite dry and clinical, reminiscent of the iconic ’50s and ’60s cop show Dragnet, where the focus is squarely on presenting the facts in an unembellished manner. While I don’t always gravitate towards true crime stories, this particular narrative captivates the audience by exposing the chilling reality of a killer living just around the corner, making it far more engaging than many other tales in the genre

My rating: ✯✯✯

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Cut and Run

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I typically don’t gravitate toward this genre of listening or reading, but on a whim, I decided to give it a shot, and I must admit it exceeded my expectations. The story unfolds as a dark comedy set against the backdrop of contemporary society and revolves around the disturbing theme of urban myths interwoven with the shadowy world of black market kidney theft. The characters are not only intriguing but also well-developed, each infused with enough complexity to make their unfolding stories captivating.

The narrative moves at a brisk pace, taking readers through various locations that enhance the overall experience, adding a layer of richness to the tale. While I recognized only two of the voices in the ensemble cast, I suppose it highlights my lack of familiarity with a broader range of actors. The performance featured a robust cast of 16 talented individuals, with the delightful Meg Ryan lending her voice as the narrator to guide us through this unusual plot.

The main characters, Samantha Dugan and Abe Lally, are portrayed as best friends and partners in a morally questionable venture—stealing kidneys for the black market. Each character has their own unique motivations driving them down this perilous path. Samantha positions herself as a modern-day Robin Hood, proclaiming that the organs she pilfers are redirected toward medical research and that she only targets those who are unscrupulous. Her persona as a seductress and con artist comes with a twist; beneath her cunning exterior lies a genuine heart and a desire to make a positive impact.

On the other hand, Abe Lally brings an interesting dynamic to the partnership. As a legitimate doctor and the skilled surgeon of the duo, he isn’t inherently criminalistic beyond their kidney-thieving escapades. His involvement stems from a noble aspiration—to find a cure for diabetes, a mission that adds a layer of moral complexity to their endeavors.

However, as the saying goes, even the best-laid plans can go awry, especially when one does not exercise the necessary diligence. The story follows their escapades as unforeseen complications arise, leading to challenges that test their resolve and friendship.

In summary, while this narrative may not dazzle in the way some grand epics do, it certainly provides an entertaining ride that held my attention from beginning to end. It’s a playful and thought-provoking romp that serves as a perfect distraction for a few hours of relaxation and amusement.

My rating: 💘💘💘

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The Rule of Three

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I thoroughly enjoyed the Kindle World books as they offer a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the narrative from the perspectives of various authors. Specifically, the setting of the Extinction Cycle series takes a dramatic turn in New Zealand, providing a stark contrast to the familiar landscapes of America. This geographical shift introduces readers to a distinct terrain that significantly influences the story, and the author does a commendable job of vividly describing the environment, allowing us to visualize the challenges the characters face in this rugged landscape.

The characters, however, felt somewhat underdeveloped, lacking the depth often found in more intricate stories. While we gain a clearer understanding of the couple at the center of the narrative, their personalities and backgrounds could benefit from greater elaboration to enhance emotional investment in their journey.

Jack Gee, the protagonist, finds himself hiking through the breathtaking New Zealand mountains, blissfully unaware of the catastrophic events unfolding globally as the deadly virus approaches his remote location. His peaceful trek is abruptly interrupted when he receives a frantic call from his wife, Dee, pleading for him to return home immediately. This moment serves as a powerful catalyst, forcing Jack to abandon his adventure and rush back, only to face unforeseen detours along the way. His capture adds an intense layer of suspense, leaving him to devise a precarious escape plan that could jeopardize his very life.

Meanwhile, Dee Gee is not having an easy time either. She has barricaded herself within the confines of their home in Hamilton, retreating to the safety of the basement. Resourceful and determined, she has managed to mask her presence from the terrifying Variants that roam outside. When she witnesses a terrified group fleeing from the creatures, her instinct to help overrides her caution, leading her to invite them into her already precarious refuge. However, as the days pass and her supplies begin to dwindle, she faces a chilling reality: Jack has yet to return. Faced with the grim prospects of starvation, she realizes the necessity of leaving the basement behind, armed only with her Katana for protection. Her hope is twofold: to survive the treacherous outside world and, against the odds, find her husband amidst the chaos.

The series unfolds across three parts, allowing readers ample time to connect with a broader array of surviving characters. Throughout the narrative, there are numerous pop culture and movie references that enrich the storytelling experience. Additionally, I noticed a range of parallels to familiar zombie-themed media, encompassing various shows, films, and literature. While these similarities are apparent, they do not detract from the intrigue of the storyline but rather add layers of enjoyment for fans of the genre. Overall, this is a captivating read, and I find myself eagerly anticipating how the complete story will unfold in subsequent installments.

My rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟

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The Dispatcher

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I enjoyed listening to this very much. I have never read anything by John Scalzi, but I am definitely willing to take the time and read more. I like that things are not completely spelled out and some things are left a bit ambiguous. The characters themselves are very well developed, both major and minor. The story flows and is coherent from start to finish, making it very easy to follow.

In the near future, it becomes almost impossible to murder anyone. Those who are murdered or killed intentionally come back 999 times out of a thousand. No one knows why or how this happened, and it changes everything about the way the world operates.

Tony Valdez is a Dispatcher, a professional and licensed assassin who is sent out when someone is known to be about to have their life taken. This means that they monitor places like hospitals where people die at the hands of others, even though it is not intentional. When Tony’s friend is kidnapped, he is drafted by the detective on the case to help find him before anything happens to him.

I remember Zachary Quinto on Heroes and was not thrilled with his character, and when he was cast as Spock in the Star Trek reboot, I was likewise less than thrilled. The thing is, I have become a fan and think he did a great job here in his characterizations of the people populating this story. A really big recommendation!

My rating: 🌠🌠🌠🌠

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Deadlocked

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This marks my first encounter with the author A.R. Wise, and I must say, I am thoroughly impressed with this debut. Wise expertly crafts a gripping narrative filled with intense zombie scenes and resilient characters navigating this tumultuous world. From the very first pages, where we are introduced to the protagonist, David, I found myself immersed in the story, right up to the poignant conclusion that reveals his wife’s unexpected strength and determination.

The setting is a classic portrayal of a sprawling urban landscape, surrounded by water and filled with the remnants of civilization. The city’s infrastructure has crumbled, leaving cars as unreliable modes of transportation, which adds another layer of tension to an already perilous situation.

David’s harrowing journey unfolds as he finds himself trapped in his office when the zombie outbreak erupts without warning. Meanwhile, his wife and daughters are stranded atop their home, anxiously waiting for his return, hoping against hope that he will reach them before it’s too late. The narrative follows David as he traverses the chaos-stricken city, battling not only the relentless hordes of zombies but also the sinister individuals who exploit the apocalypse for their gain.

Brian Sutherland deserves commendation for his skillful character development, bringing to life a diverse cast of individuals, both male and female. Each character is vividly portrayed, adding depth to the story and eliciting empathy from the reader. This thrilling tale is sure to resonate with a wide audience, offering a captivating mix of suspense, emotion, and human resilience. It’s a journey worth experiencing, and I believe many readers will find it deeply enjoyable.

My rating: ☠☠☠☠☠

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The Bone Collector

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I have always been an enthusiastic fan of the Extinction Cycle series, so I was eager to dive into this new installment that enriches the series’ mythology. The character at the center of this story is one who remained underexplored in the original books, making it all the more intriguing to finally gain insight into his life before and after his transformation. Initially, the narrative didn’t captivate me right away, but as the plot unfolded, I found myself engrossed in the journey that reveals how events transpired not only for him but also for his companions.

The story revolves around Blake Chambers, a man who had wished for death just six weeks before the world around him crumbled. Ironically, in the wake of apocalyptic chaos, Blake struggles to recall the dark thoughts that once plagued him, as his mind has suffered too many injuries—each blow resulting in lost memories and relentless pain. The stakes heighten when Dwight shows up at his door, delivering shocking news: the world as Blake knew it is gone, everyone he once knew is dead, and terrifying monsters now roam the land. He can’t grasp the full weight of Dwight’s words, as he has been lost in a deep sleep for an extended period, wrapped in his own personal turmoil.

For avid readers of Nicholas Sansbury Smith’s novels, this book is a seamless integration into the established timeline, spotlighting significant events that align with the existing narrative. I appreciated this entry immensely, as it not only reconnected me with beloved characters but also deepened my understanding of their relationships, particularly with the enigmatic Bone Collector—a figure who looms large in the series. Overall, it was a rewarding experience that added layers to the tragic yet compelling universe of Extinction Cycle.

My rating: 💀💀💀💀