{REVIEW} THE DEVIL'S METAL (DEVILS #1) by KARINA HALLE

Series: Devils #1
Publisher: Metal Blonde Books
Publication Date: Sept. 21, 2012
Format: ebook (Kindle)
Pages:
Source: Received from author for review.

It’s the summer of 1974 and 21-year old Dawn Emerson has only three things she wants to do: compete one last time in the Ellensburg Rodeo, win back her ex-boyfriend Ryan, and become the best damn music journalist at Central Washington University. But all her plans are left in the dust when she’s contacted by Creem magazine to go on the road with one of her favorite groups, the up-and-coming metal band, Hybrid.

At first the assignment reads like a dream come true. Not only will Dawn land some much-needed credibility as a female music journalist, but she’ll finally get to experience life from the other side of the stage, and maybe crack the drunken, enigmatic code that is guitarist Sage Knightly. Instead, Dawn finds herself on an aging tour bus filled with ego-maniacs, band politics and a whole lot of sex, drugs and rock n’ roll. When monsters start showing up in dressing rooms and some of Sage’s groupies become increasingly strange and dangerous, Dawn discovers the band is not only going places – they’re going straight to Hell.

And Dawn has a backstage pass.

***

The Devil's Metal is the first book in a two-part New Adult Horror/Paranormal Romance and very (very!) loosely based on the author's exploits as a music journalist. Hell comes in different forms.

 

A Twisted Tale of Sex, Drugs, and Rock and Roll

Aspiring music journalist Dawn Emerson is offered a once in a lifetime opportunity: Tour with her favorite band, Hybrid. Wanting to earn a credible reputation, Dawn strives to get her story, but stay above the scandalous adventures the band has behind the scenes. The lure of drugs and seduction is hard to resist, particularly when it's offered by your idols. Day by day, Dawn becomes closer to the band, and even begins to join them in the fun. But soon enough, the demons come out to play, and people begin to die. Turns out, someone made a dangerous deal to secure Hybrid's place in the music industry, and it's time to pay up.

The best way I can describe The Devil's Metal is... Almost Famous with demons. Sounds incredibly strange, yes? Much like that iconic movie, you have a young protagonist (but in this case, older and female) touring with her favorite band, in an effort to get the "big" story, and make a name for herself as a music journalist. Because I consider Almost Famous one of the best movies ever, and because I'm obsessed with music, this story held automatic appeal for me. If The Devil's Metal had been simply that story, I would have been fine with that.

But, this isn't simply that story. This is also the story of a band that paid a steep price for success. A price that is now being collected. Karina Halle is fantastic at delivering the creepy. I'm a huge fan of all her books, surprising since I don't typically read or watch horror. But I find her style works for me. It's scary enough to give me the heebie-jeebies, but not so much that I'm tempted to sleep with a steak knife under my pillow.

I tend to like my books with a contemporary setting. I usually find myself annoyed by the constant references that are meant to remind me of the specific time in which the story is set. The exception are books set in the 1990s (THE BEST!!) and 1980s. The 1970s are my hard limit. This era is doable; any further back and I'm done. The fact that The Devil's Metal is set in the 1970s means that you  get tragic fashion and decor, but rad music. Due to the very thorough inclusion of the era's lingo, trends, and pop culture, Karina Halle gives the reader an authentic look at at that place in time.And truly, from a rock history stand point, the story is fascinating.

From beginning to end, I found The Devil's Metal to be a very good book. The story had a fairly solid resolution. The Prologue, however, delivered another big dose of WTF, and you better believe that I'll be on board for book two.

The Devil's Metal is another solid, unique story from the very gifted Karina Halle.



Favorite Quotes:

"During that show I forgot all about the talk I had with Robbie earlier, or the unexpected sass I delivered to Sage. I was just a fan, always a fan, a worshipper who talked to God in her head but fell to her knees at church." (eARC, 31%)

  "He patted the top of my head gently with his hand, his expression melancholic. 'Are you here? Right now? There are different ways to run away and I know them all. Whatever you run from will always find you.' " (eARC, 36%)



You can purchase The Devil's Metal at:
Amazon  |  Smashwords 

Giveaway

Karina Halle is offering one lucky winner:

• A print copy of The Devil's Metal
• A Hybrid v-neck shirt

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

 

 

Blog Tour ~ The Dex Files (Experiment in Terror #5.7) by Karina Halle

Welcome to The Bookish Babe's stop on The Dex Files Blog Tour. The tour is being hosted by Emmy at Sinfully Delicious Book Reviews. You can find the complete tour schedule here.  I had no business signing up for more tours right now, but with this being Dex, I couldn't resist. There's just something about that man...

The truth is out there...

The Dex-Files is a compilation novel that accompanies the Experiment in Terror Series and is not to be-read as a stand-alone. In the Dex-Files we find a variety of scenes and chapters from the enigmatic Dex Foray's POV from books #1-6 in the series. Some of these scenes have been previously published, albeit from Perry's POV, while other scenes are completely new.

In addition to it not being a stand-alone, the novel also contains some major spoilers and should be read only by those who have read all the published books in the series.

Book #1 - Darkhouse
*Lighthouse Meeting *Pie Scene *Jenn and Dex

Book #2 - Red Fox *Bar Scene *Playing Nurse *Up a Tree

Book #3 - Dead Sky Morning *Strippers *Truth or Dare *Tent Scene

Book #4 - Lying Season *Lunch With Friends *The Big Question *The Xmas Party

Book #5 - On Demon Wings *A Phone Call *Off the Road

Book #6 - Into the Hollow *Bailout

"And With Madness Comes The Light" 

Oh, wow, am I ever so happy that I signed on for The Dex Files Tour. When I learned that an actual book from Dex's point of view was coming, my heart did a snazzy high-kick. There are few, if any, characters as maddeningly frustrating, evasive, startling, and yeah, sexy as Declan "Dex" Foray. And with this book, author Karina Halle proved once again why he's one of my favorite characters.

The is comprised of snippets of Dex's life, beginning with his childhood, which was touched on in Old Blood (Experiment in Terror #5.5). I always wondered what made Dex, well...Dex. But after reading the Prologue and "After School Special", things become shockingly clear and I can't help but wonder how he isn't even more messed up. I was speechless.

As the stories progress through Dex's life, you learn more about Abby and Maximus. Then Dex meets Perry and once again, I was shocked. The phrase "everything is not what it seems" applies to everything I thought I knew about Dex. I was saddened, thrilled, and amazed by Mr. Dex. And I can honestly say, that I love him now more than ever.

Now, the writing. I shouldn't be surprised that Halle did such an amazing job with Dex. She did create him after all. But I can honestly say that I am in awe of her. For those who've read the series, you know Dex is one weird/quirky dude. She didn't bring him down a notch in an attempt to make him go down easier (Minds out of the gutter, people! Ohh..who am I kidding.) This is full-throttle Dex and his mind is a filthy dirty place. And I liked it. I actually read a lot of the book to my husband to see what a man would think (because this was too good not to share!), and his response was "Yep, pretty much."

Also, serious questions were raised in The Dex Files. Serious, life-altering questions. Questions that make me look at Halle in a whole new light because, you guys, this changes everything and it's pretty effing EPIC.

The Experiment in Terror series continues to get better with each installment. I can safely say I have no freaking clue what will happen next, but as long as I have Perry, Dex, and Little Fifteen, it's all good.
Favorite Quote:

" 'I just want you to enjoy all the pies in life, Perry,' I said, gazing at her, trying to get her shy eyes to meet mine. 'That's all.' " (eARC, 31%)


"I didn't want to be Red Fox's savior, but I wanted to be hers." (eARC, 46%)
Expected Publication: August 13th, 2012

GIVEAWAYS

There are two tour giveaways.

Sinfully Delicious Book Reviews (US/Canada)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Escapism from Reality (International Giveaway)

a Rafflecopter giveaway Source: Received eARC from author in exchange for an honest review.

Review ~ ON DEMON WINGS (Experiment in Terror #5) by Karina Halle

When the life you wanted has crumbled beneath your fingers, there’s nothing left to do but pick up the pieces and soldier on. You’ve done this before. But what happens when you no longer feel like yourself anymore? When fires spontaneously start-up around you, when you hear growling coming from underneath your bed, and you no longer recognize your face in the mirror. What happens then? Ghost-hunter Perry Palomino doesn’t have much time to find out. Now, the evil she used to hunt is a lot closer to home. It’s inside of her, taking over her life bit-by-terrifying bit, and there’s only one person who can help her. If part of her doesn’t kill him first. ~From GoodReads

I must, must start this review by saying HOLY EFFING BLEEEEP!!! Whew. I feel better.

Seriously? Whoa. Author Karina Halle has always held the ability to creep me out. Each book in the Experiment in Terror series has gotten progressively freakier. And now, in ON DEMON WINGS, I feel nearly ready to piss myself with fright. I'm telling you, if you grew up in the 80s, with a parent who liked to scare the shizz out of you, then surely you've watched Poltergeist. That is the freaked out, crazy-scary vibe I had while reading this book. The day I read this, I was poolside in Atlanta, in June. I should have been hot, right?! Um...no. I had freaking chill bumps running along my arms and legs. I kept looking behind the potted plants, in the pool drains, and jumping when shadows crossed over. So if Karina was aiming to freak me the eff out, mission accomplished. Two thumbs up.

Alright. The big questions. Perry? Dex? Perry and Dex? What happened after LYING SEASON? I have to say, it hurt to see Perry without Dex. At first. But really, it was nice to see Perry make a new life for herself after the fallout. She proves her inner strength, her ability to deal with everything, even though it hurt. But then...Perry's life goes to south in a major way. This poor girl has handled more than most characters ever go through. I'm just waiting for Perry to completely crack.

The ever-infuriating, yet hopelessly sexy and intriguing, Dex Foray is largely absent in much of the story. I say largely and not completely because though he's not physically present, he's always near the front of Perry's consciousness. His past actions still play a tremendous and devastating part of Perry's life. But don't fear, Dex lovers. I am one of you and I will say that when Dex does make a return, it is PERFECTION. For once, Dex does and says the right thing. I have never loved that man as much as I did in this book.

I would be a total loser if I did not mention Perry's sister, Ada. How this girl has grown on me! She was a brat in the first few books in the series. But along the way, she has morphed into a ridiculously funny, surprising astute, and fiercely loyal sister. She was Perry's thread to sanity in much of this book. I can't tell you how many times this girl made me snarf. Especially when she's telling off the men in Perry's life. You can always count on Ada to dish out the truth, in her unique way. Here's her discussing the weird events happening with Perry:

"Look, I don't know, Perry. You've been through a lot. You just watched a whole bunch of Tyra Banks. Combined, those things can create nightmares." (ebook, 21%)


ON DEMON WINGS was all I had hoped for and more. It had the traits I've come to expect from Halle's books: quirky, fun, scary, exciting, tense, and full of "WTF?" moments. So many lingering questions were answered. But I have to say that the ending made me shriek and thrash, much like possessed-Perry. The story was utterly imaginative. I have truly been taking places I never dreamed possible when I began this series nearly a year ago. Karina Halle is a fearless author and I am anxiously (understatement) waiting for book six, INTO THE HOLLOW.


Favorite Quote:

"I pictured Dex, his deep eyes, his smirk, his stark determination that blew me over from time to time. He was a strong man and a weak man all at once. A friend once, a lover last. A father in another lifetime. Now nothing. But he was going to try to save me all the same." (eARC, 90%)

Published May 13th 2012 by Metal Blonde Books

You can purchase ON DEMON WINGS at:
Amazon Kindle  |  Smashwords  |  Paperback


Source: Received an eARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.

WAITING ON WEDNESDAY

Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week's WoW selection is...

The hol­i­day from hell just got ugly. As if get­ting dumped on his vaca­tion wasn’t enough, British jour­nal­ist Chris Warner finds him­self stranded on the Mediter­ranean with a des­per­ate boss push­ing dead­lines down his throat all while facing an uncer­tain future. Enter Jamie Cooper, a free spir­ited and slightly unsta­ble travel writer whose arrival only seems to make mat­ters worse. All Chris wants is to get back to Lon­don, win back his ex and start climb­ing up the cor­po­rate lad­der. Unfor­tu­nately, Jamie has dif­fer­ent plans for him and the may­hem that fol­lows turns both their lives upside down and up again. “Lost in Wanderlust” is a rowdy roman­tic com­edy about two memorable char­ac­ters who embark on a jour­ney through hell, high water and a lot of wine, in order to find them­selves, each other and a mis­placed diary that holds the key to their happiness. ~From GoodReads

Why I'm Waiting ~  I am a big fan of Karina Halle's work. Her Experiment in Terror series is creepy and exciting. I am curious to see what she does with a contemporary romance. But if I know Karina, there will be nothing typical about this book!

(PS- This cover is stunning.)

Expected publication: June 20th 2012 by Metal Blonde Books         

Blog Tour ~ LYING SEASON, by Karina Halle

Welcome to The Bookish Babe's stop on the LYING SEASON Blog Tour. This tour is hosted by A Tale of Many Reviews. Today I have author Karina Halle's picks for her LYING SEASON Dream Cast, followed by a giveaway.




Perry Palomino


Perry Palomino is actually a very funny girl, so for someone to play her right on the big screen, they have to have comedic chops. Alison Brie as Annie on Community not only combines the comedy, but the heart and sex-appeal as well. She’s sweet and innocent yet has a past that says the opposite. She’s a giant spazz and an ex-pill popper. Perfect. Sure, Brie is a bit skinnier than Perry is, but the boobs are there.



Dex Foray

Dex has always been a pain in the butt to cast (in my head) because though I can see a million different people and faces which I draw from, there really isn’t anyone out there that represents him as a whole. The man is an enigma and he’s handsome in a very unconventional way. Not too tall, not too muscular, and with an eyebrow ring and, what the hell, a mustache, Dex is disarmingly sexy to many, and easily overlooked by others.

I compared Dex to a young Robert Downey Jr in Darkhouse, and I think a young Mike Patton would play quite him well too.



But if I were to stick to who actually acts and is current (and young), I’d take a chance on Taylor Kitsch.



He needs a good role after John Carter tanked, and he’s got the looks (and reported acting skills) to pull off Perry’s mysterious, manic and moody partner-in-crime. In other words, he’s the guy that has everyone throwing their copy of Lying Season across the room when they’ve finished the book.




Jennifer Rodriguez

To play Dex’s deceptively sweet, gorgeous latina girlfriend (and co-host of the popular webseries Wine Babes), I can’t think of anyone better than Jessica Alba. Probably helps that I despise Jessica Alba and I despise Jenn, so it works out pretty well. UGH.








Bradley



Hmmmm. Who can we cast to play a playboy douchebag called Bradley? WE HAVE A WINNER.






Ada Palomino



The sullen, snarky teenage fashion blogger (and Perry’s sister) Ada Palomino has bleached blonde hair, edgy style and heavy-handed eye makeup. Casting Taylor Momsen here is a no brainer!






Jimmy Kwan



Ah, Perry and Dex’s boss, the formidable Jimmy Kwan. I couldn’t help but picture Francois Chau as I wrote. I miss Lost.





Rebecca Sims



The "Wine Babe" Rebecca has always been described as being impeccably groomed with a black bob and retro-fashion sense, the perfect on-and-off screen foil to bodacious, annoying Jenn. Who better to emulate this on screen than Dita Von Teese? She’s got the glamor down (though Rebecca’s style is admittedly more restrained) and the saucy, take no prisoner’s attitude that wins Perry over.



Emily

Cute, funny, moon-faced blonde? When I spied Sara Paxton, she matched up perfectly for what I had in mind for Rebecca’s partner. What a hot couple!





Having read the EXPERIMENT IN TERROR series, I have to say these are excellent choices!

DARKHOUSE, book one in the series, is currently FREE at all online markets!
You can get your free copy at:
Amazon  |  Barnes & Noble  |  Smashwords


Karina Halle is also offering one winner the ENTIRE EXPERIMENT IN TERROR series.
The books are:
RED FOX  |  DEAD SKY MORNING  |  LYING SEASON



a Rafflecopter giveaway

Review ~ LYING SEASON (Experiment in Terror, #4) by Karina Halle

Ama­teur ghost-hunter Perry Palomino has bat­tled ghosts, fought off skin­walk­ers and skirted the fine line between life and death. But can she sur­vive bunk­ing down in Seat­tle for a week with her partner (and man she secretly loves) Dex and his perfect girl­friend, Jennifer? And can she do so while being tor­mented by a mali­cious spirit from Dex’s increas­ingly shady past? With love and life in the bal­ance, Perry must dis­cover the truth among the lies or risk los­ing every­thing she's ever cared about. ~ From GoodReads

LYING SEASON, book four in the Experiment in Terror Series, centers around the ever-freaking-adorable Perry Palomino and her partner (and would-be love) Dex Foray. In this installment, Perry and Dex are investigating a reportedly haunted mental institution in Seattle.  Scary, huh? Turns out, that scenario is not nearly as scary as the fact that Perry is spending the week with Dex in his apartment... oh, and his longterm girlfriend, Jenn, too. Let the fun begin.

Damn. That pretty much sums up my feelings at this moment. When I finished LYING SEASON a few hours ago,  I thought I should probably sit on my thoughts for a day or two and let everything settle. But I don't think waiting will change anything.  So here goes...

LYING SEASON. What a perfect name for this book. Perry and Dex have never been wholly upfront to one another, about their complicated and turbulents pasts, certainly not about their feelings towards one another. But the level of dishonesty is ratcheted up to a new, disturbing level in this book. Like I said, Dex has never been totally honest about his history. In LYING SEASON, though, Dex's protective shell begins to chip away, and he begins to reveal pieces of himself to Perry. It's haunting, disturbing, and quite heartbreaking. I've never seen Dex this vulnerable. I don't think he'd ever been this open with anyone before, even Jenn. Only Perry does he trust. But then he reveals these secrets he's been keeping from Perry. Things that don't seem to be a huge deal to an outsider, but have a tremendous impact on her and show her how truly selfish he can be. He just... I don't know. I love Dex, I honestly do (cue the Olivia Newton-John music), but sometimes, I want to slap the literal sh*t out of him.

And Perry, sweet Perry. This girl, she keeps going, no matter what life (and Dex) put her through. She's starting to gain some much needed confidence now. And I love that. And she always acts with the best of intentions. But she turns a dark corner in LYING SEASON. What she does...it made me so disappointed in her. I still love her. I totally get why she does it, and know that she does have good intentions. But I wanted to climb into my book and shake the girl. You cannot mess with people's minds and bodies like that, Perry!

And Jenn. I gave you a fair chance. I was determined that there must be something worthy in you if Dex loves you. Screw that. For all the fans of the series who've wanted to know Jenn better. Here's your chance.

Even though the series is called Experiment in Terror, LYING SEASON is the first book in the series that made me nearly pee my pants from fright. The other books did have tense, scary moments, but nothing that compares to this scenario. What is more terrifying than a mental institution? A haunted one at that? Compound that with a ghoulish blast from Dex's past and you have a true Experiement in Terror.

LYING SEASON definitely left me with more questions than answers. The last few chapters had me reading with my eyes bugging out and my hand over my mouth so I wouldn't swear in front of my kids. The chemistry between Dex and Perry has never been hotter. The stakes have never been higher. The dialogue, internal and verbal, has never been sharper or as laugh-out-loud funny. I must give Halle some serious credit. She is a master at bringing the characters and story up to the very cusp of happiness, then pulling the rug right out from under them. She has never given Dex and Perry an easy road, or an easy out.  And I suspect that will be the case until the very end. The ending to LYING SEASON...I'm still shattered. The fact that I'm still shell-shocked is a compliment to Halle's writing. I am excited, anxious, and terrified to read book five in the series ON DEMON WINGS.


Favorite Quote:

" 'What are you saying?' I asked softly.
'I'm saying that you're like my best friend,' he said. 'You are my best friend, and I could never let pills take away what makes you, you. Your heart. And your beautiful soul.' " (pg. 213, ARC)


Published December 13th 2011 by Metal Blonde Books

My review of DARKHOUSE (Experiment in Terror, #1).

My review of RED FOX (Experiment in Terror, #2).

My review of DEAD SKY MORNING (Experiment in Terror, #3).

You can purchase LYING SEASON at:
Barnes & Noble  |  Book Depository  |  Amazon

Source: I received an ARC of LYING SEASON from the author, for review purpose.

Exclusive: The Dead Sky Morning Book Trailer Release and Giveaway!

With the Experiment in Terror show finding some success, amateur ghost hunters Perry Palomino and Dex Foray embark on their most terrifying investigation yet. A tiny, fog-shrouded island in the rough strait between British Columbia and Washington State has held a dark secret for decades: It was a former leper colony where over forty souls were left to rot, die and bury each other. Now a functioning campground, Perry and Dex spend an isolated weekend there to investigate potential hauntings but as the duo quickly find out, there is more to fear on D’Arcy Island than just ghosts. The island quickly pits partner against partner, spiraling the pair into madness that serves to destroy their sanity, their relationship and their very lives.

The Dead Sky Morning Trailer

The Making of the Trailer

Book trailers are popping up everywhere these days, from high-budget, cinematic versions to simple title cards and public domain music. It’s a dicey experiment, one that some authors believe translate into book sales, while others think they are a waste of time and money. After making trailers for my first two Experiment in Terror novels, Darkhouse and Red Fox, I think book trailers are somewhere in the middle. Anything you put out there helps to market and create exposure for your novel – but whether it generates actual sales, well that remains to be seen.

Regardless, for my third book, Dead Sky Morning, I wanted something a little different. The novel is set off the coast of British Columbia – where I happen to live – on an actual island you can sail to. Well, sort of. See, D’Arcy Island is as inhospitable in real life as it is in my novel, so I had to settle for a quick jaunt to a closer, safer island. But I’m getting ahead of myself here…

I treated Dead Sky Morning’s trailer like a mini horror movie and a great way for a bunch of my extremely creative friends to showcase their talents and gain experience in the process. Kelly has a degree in film and has worked on various student projects and decided to take on the dedicated task of directing. Molly works as a PA and editor down in Los Angeles, and flew up here with equipment to act as director of photography and the editor. Kelly’s husband Alex is a chef…he handled the lights. And tent set-up! The gorgeous Talar (playing Perry) is a theatre actress, looking to take on more film roles. Scott (playing Dex) is a singer and musician who had just moved to Vancouver from Montreal and thought the project would be a great way to meet people (it was). And Bret, well EIT artist Bret thought playing Ranger Bill would make him the most badass ranger in town (it did).

As for me? Well, aside from locations and script, I honestly didn’t do too much. I mean, my work was done when I wrote the book. But I can tell you I did a good job of running down the dock and scaring away seagulls whose loud cries were interrupting the shoot.

Speaking of the shoot, I enlisted the help of my father, Captain Sven, who took us out on his sailboat to a small, remote island to spend a few hours shooting the majority of the scenes. Fortunately, unlike the island in the book, this one did not have zombies and rabid raccoons running around. We’re all very gracious for his time and energy, and unlike the time we shot Darkhouse, no one lost their lunch over the side of the boat.

The second day of shooting was also quite interesting. I scouted a beautiful grove in Vancouver’s Stanley Park to act as the island’s interior scenes. Little did I realize, we were actually filming in some sort of secret sex spot where gay men go to hook up. I’m not kidding. That was the most interesting couple of hours ever, as man after man could be seen wandering amidst the trees, wondering when we were going to wrap up filming so they could get back to their “activities.”

After the shoot was done, Molly and Kelly went through the long and challenging task of editing. Then came the music, courtesy of Raissa who is currently doing a music degree in New Zealand. As you can see, the Dead Sky Morning trailer is a collaboration of many different creative individuals from many different countries, all of whom I am proud to call my friends.

 And now for the GIVEAWAY!

 

To celebrate the long-awaited release of the trailer, I’m teaming up with Bookish Babes to offer a giveaway of four signed Experiment in Terror paperbacks to any reader within North America, as well as this exclusively-designed tank top in any size (don’t worry, the graphic will make sense when you read Dead Sky Morning).  

*aside from Andrea: It makes PERFECT sense.*

Also, Darkhouse is now FREE on Kindle for January 3- 4^th till midnight! Pick up your copy on Amazon HERE (link to http://experimentinterror.com/2012/01/02/darkhouse-free-on-kindle-jan-3-4th/ )

So, you ask, how do you win all of this awesome. Easy. Fill the form below and tweet your little hearts out.  Good Luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Review of Dead Sky Morning (Experiment in Terror #3), by Karina Halle

With the Experiment in Terror show finding some success, amateur ghost hunters Perry Palomino and Dex Foray embark on their most terrifying investigation yet. A tiny, fog-shrouded island in the rough strait between British Columbia and Washington State has held a dark secret for decades: It was a former leper colony where over forty souls were left to rot, die and bury each other. Now a functioning campground, Perry and Dex spend an isolated weekend there to investigate potential hauntings but as the duo quickly find out, there is more to fear on D’Arcy Island than just ghosts. The island quickly pits partner against partner, spiraling the pair into madness that serves to destroy their sanity, their relationship and their very lives. (From GoodReads)

My Review

If I had to describe Dead Sky Morning with one word, that word would be Intense. Intense on every level.  Author Karina Halle continuously ups the ante with each book in the Experiment in Terror series, bringing her “A-Game” every time.

Perry Palomino (ah, how I love that name), is still the endearing, absorbing protagonist that made anyone who has read this series fall in love with her. She’s an Everywoman. She doesn’t have the perfect body, career or guy. She’s just another person, trying to get by the best way she can.  I don’t know that I’ve ever read a character that I could relate to more than Perry. And that’s not to say that I am just like Perry or that you have to have the same issues she does to be able to relate to her. But when you are in her head, living the moment with her, you can’t help but be sucked in, all the way. The author puts you so soundly in Perry’s head that when she is angry or sad, you are so there with her.

Dex Foray, Perry’s partner, friend and object of affection is back in all his twitchy, weird, and extremely hot glory in Dead Sky Morning. Luckily, in this book, Halle gives more insight into who Dex is, the events in his past that shaped him. Perry’s poor heart. The look back just makes Perry embrace him all the more. Really, as a reader, I should hate him sometimes. He pulls some really insensitive, asinine stunts. The kind of stunts that make Perry, and me, want to knock the hell out of him. But when he looks up with those damaged eyes, filled with an unspoken pain, you want to try to make it all better.

As expected, once Dex and Perry are stuck on a (possibly) haunted island together, sparks fly. And I do mean FLY! Between drinking games, such as “I Never” and “Truth or Dare”, and copious amounts of Jack Daniel flowing, the emotional barriers between the two come tumbling down. Dex and Perry begin revealing bits of themselves, alternating between surprising, funny, and poignant. The revelations only serve to endear the characters more, to each other and the reader. Dead Sky Morning left me torn. Torn between hoping and thinking that Dex will be the man Perry deserves. And the fact that although I love Dex, he may never become that man. And Perry Palomino deserves the very best life and love have to offer. But, believe you me, I have me fingers crossed for these two. 

I’ve tried to think of an eloquent statement regarding the dialogue. Here’s what I kept coming back to: the dialogue in Dead Sky Morning just plain Rocks!  The moments between Perry and Dex alternate between wistful or poignant, to laugh out loud funny, especially when Perry and Dex are antagonistic towards one another. And when Dex finally meets Perry’s little sister, Ada? Snarkiness at it’s best! Halle pulls no punches with her characters’ words. I don’t know if anyone writes “Smart-Ass” better.

Karina Halle’s talents also excel in her insane ability to write the nonverbal communication, as well.  The manner in which she can portray an exchange of looks or the observations on a facial expression just takes her work to a whole other level. So if I can’t get Perry and Dex out of my head, I blame her!

On the whole, I can say at this point I honestly have no idea where Karina Halle will take Perry and Dex in the subsequent books of the series. Their world could spin in a hundred different directions and I have a feeling that she will put this captivating pair through a lot more strenuous, funny and passionate times. I can’t wait to journey each one with them.

Favorite Quotes

“Sometimes it felt like looking at his face and just accepting the way things were between us was the hardest thing in the world.”

“He was staring at me. There were so many intense looks flowing across his eyes and lips, waxing and waning with each passing second. He looked deep into my eyes, trying to get something out of me.”

Paperback
Expected publication: October 13th 2011 by Metal Blonde Books  
 

You can find Dead Sky Morning at:

GoodReads  |  Experiment in Terror website.

You can find my review of Darkhouse (Experiment in Terror #1) here.

You can find Darkhouse (Experiment in Terror #1) for only $0.99 at:

Smashwords  |  Amazon  |  Barnes & Noble  |  ITunes

You can find my review of Red Fox (Experiment in Terror #2) here.

You can find Red Fox (Experiment in Terror #2) for only $2.99 at:

GoodReads  |  Smashwords  |  Amazon  |  Barnes & Noble

You can find author Karina Halle at the Experiment in Terror website.

*I received an ARC of Dead Sky Morning from the author, in exchange for an honest review."*

In My Mailbox

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme created by Kristi at The Story Siren. It is a great way to put a spotlight on books received during the past week. 

Check out Dead Sky Morning (Experiment in Terror #3) at GoodReads.

Darkhouse (Experiment in Terror #1) is currently $0.99 at Amazon & Smashwords.

Red Fox (Experiment in Terror #2) is only $2.99 at Amazon & Smashwords.

Check out Death Whispers (Death Series #1) at GoodReads.

Leave a link in your comments so I can check out your mailbox.

Waiting on Wednesday...

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week's WoW is...

Dead Sky Morning (Experiment in Terror #3) by Karina Halle

 With the Experiment in Terror show finding some success, amateur ghost hunters Perry Palomino and Dex Foray embark on their most terrifying investigation yet. A tiny, fog-shrouded island in the rough strait between British Columbia and Washington State has held a dark secret for decades: It was a former leper colony where over forty souls were left to rot, die and bury each other. Now a functioning campground, Perry and Dex spend an isolated weekend there to investigate potential hauntings but as the duo quickly find out, there is more to fear on D’Arcy Island than just ghosts. The island quickly pits partner against partner, spiraling the pair into madness that serves to destroy their sanity, their relationship and their very lives. (From GoodReads)

Why we're waiting on Dead Sky Morning: The first two books in the Experiment in Terror series, Darkhouse and Red Fox, completely blew me away. The suspense level is always throught the roof and Perry and Dex are the hottest duo anywhere!

Expected publication: October 13th 2011 by Metal Blonde Books

Find Dead Sky Morning on GoodReads  or at the Experiment in Terror website.

In My Mailbox {My 1st Vlog}

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme started by Kristi at The Story Siren as a way to share books received. The books can be purchased, won, borrowed, etc. It's a great way to spread the word about books!

Hey there! This is my 1st foray into vlogging. So, please be gentle...

Hope it wasn't too traumatic to watch!



Darkhouse (Experiment in Terror #1) by Karina Halle at GoodReads.
Starcrossed by Josephine Angelini at GoodReads.
Between Here and Forever at GoodReads.
Blood Bound by Rachel Vincent at GoodReads.

Be sure to leave a link so I can see what's in your mailboxes!

Review: Red Fox, by Karina Halle

Red Fox (Experiment in Terror #2)

With Book Two of the Experiment in Terror Series, Perry Palomino and Dex Foray trade in the stormy Oregon coast for the unforgiving deserts of New Mexico.

In the for­got­ten town of Red Fox, a Navajo cou­ple is tor­tured by things unseen and by motives unknown. Wild ani­mals slink through their house in the dark, a bar­rage of stones pound their roof nightly, and muti­lated sheep car­casses are turn­ing up on their prop­erty. Armed with a cam­era and just enough to go on, Perry and Dex travel to the des­o­late locale, hop­ing to film the super­nat­ural occur­rences and add cred­i­bil­ity to their flail­ing web­cast. Only their show has a lot more work­ing against them than just grow­ing pains. Tested by dubi­ous ranch hands, a ghost from Dex’s past, and shapeshift­ing decep­tion, the ama­teur ghost hunters must learn to trust each other in order to fight the most ancient of myths…or die trying. (From GoodReads)

My Review

I’ve made it abundantly clear that I loved Book 1 in the Experiment in Terror series, Darkhouse.  Because I felt so strongly about that book, I was a little nervous to get started on Book 2, Red Fox. Crises averted, because I loved Red Fox even more (if that’s possible)!

In Red Fox, New Mexico, Perry and Dex, struggling to save their show, search amongst old Navajo traditions and legends to find the truth. Karina Halle did an amazing job giving the visualization for the scenery. The arid desert, the harsh climate, all felt impossible alive.  I felt a part of the story, as if I should be swiping the dust and grime off my own self.  The tension between the characters was palpable. I found myself squirming through the tense moments right along with Perry.

In Red Fox, author Karina Halle expanded beautifully upon the characters she created in Darkhouse. We,the readers, are given more insights into what makes Perry and Dex tick. In this book, Dex becomes a more vulnerable, open character. Through Max, an old friend of Dex’s, Perry learns about his past, the tragic history that made him who he is today. Dex is still the same funny, slightly strange guy who we learned to love in Darkhouse.  He has an alluring quality that draws you in, hoping you can “fix” him. Then in the next moment, says something so bizarre or off-putting, it sends you hurtling straight back to Earth.
Perry, the same self-deprecating, sarcastic, and captivating girl we met in Darkhouse. Besides dealing with her strange new path, she must also contend with her condescending parents, who have little faith (or knowledge) in what she’s doing. But, as a character, she comes more into her own in Red Fox. She becomes more assertive, gaining confidence and assurance in her abilities and decisions. She still has an insane ability to get herself into ridiculous situations. And now she is stuck in the middle of the desert with Dex, hoping he won’t come unhinged.

As suspenseful as the paranormal activity they are dealing with is, that has nothing on the sexual suspense between Dex and Perry. The magnetism between them is bananas. In Red Fox, they are pushed closer than ever before. Sharing a room, sharing a bed. Not only must they fight for the survival of their lives, I’m not so sure their hearts will survive. This couple is driving me insane, in a good way. I am praying for a spectacular payoff in the end! I truly expect them to just literally attack each other one day, hopefully soon.

I don’t think, short of being completely ridiculous, I can encourage you more strongly to read this series. It has quickly moved to the top of my favorites list. This book left me dying. I want to read Book 3, Dead Sky Morning, now. Lucky for me, I get an ARC of Dead Sky morning within the next month.  This blog will also be hosting a giveaway for the first three books in the Experiment in Terror series, courtesy of Karina Halle, the astoundingly cool author of the series. 
You can find my review for Darkhouse (Experiments in Terror #1) here.
You can learn more about the Experiments in Terror series and Karina Halle at the series website.
You can find the book (and add to your TBR list) at GoodReads.

*I received Red Fox from the author, in exchange for an honest review.*

Review: Darkhouse (Experiment in Terror #1)

Darkhouse (Experiment in Terror #1)



There’s always been something a bit off about Perry Palomino. Though she’s been dealing with a quarter-life crisis and post-college syndrome like any other twenty-something, she’s still not what you would call “ordinary.” For one thing, there’s her past which she likes to pretend never happened, and then there’s the fact that she sees ghosts. Luckily for her, that all comes in handy when she stumbles across Dex Foray, an eccentric producer for an upcoming webcast on ghost hunters. Even though the show’s budget is non-existent and Dex himself is a maddening enigma, Perry is instantly drawn into a world that both threatens her life and seduces her with a sense of importance. Her uncle’s haunted lighthouse provides the perfect catalyst and backdrop for a mystery that unravels the threads of Perry’s fragile sanity and causes her to fall for a man, who, like the most dangerous of ghosts, may not be all that he seems. (From GoodReads)

My Review

Have you ever heard the expression "book hangover"?  Well, for me, a book hangover happens when you find a book that completely consumes you. It is all you can think about, and you walk around in a stupor for a few days. Guess what? That happened to me when I read Darkhouse.

Darkhouse, when you read the synopsis, seems like a typical thriller. But it is so much more. It is creepy, funny (believe it or not), very suspenseful and yes, thrilling. While much of the book is about Perry, her new partner Dex, and their haunted encounters at the lighthouse, Darkhouse is just as much about the perplexing relationship between the troubled duo.

Perry, from the get-go, is easy to love. She's doesn't have the perfect body or life. After struggling with low self-esteem and drug use throughout her teenage years, she has gotten her life in order, for the most part. She still struggles with her self-esteem and then there's the fact that she sees ghosts. Is Perry "off" mentally or is it that she's able to see what most can not?

Then there's Dex. Almost every book I read has a guy who is a complete hottie. Very tall, very muscled, defined abs, etc. That's all great, but Dex feels more like a real man to me. He's described as having a very "90's" look. He's on the thin side, not especially tall. A slight moustache, dark eyes, arched brows and a eyebrow ring. His voice is low and smooth or growling, depending on his mood. He has eyes that seem able to see inside a person. He is quick with a smirk. Perry says he "reminds me of Robert Downey, Jr. in his strung-out drug days". Believe me, it works for him. Besides the looks, there's Dex's odd personality. He's just, strange. His thought are often all over the place, confusing Perry. His words often lull her into a sense of trust and security, then he says something to totally screw the moment up. But, underneath the smirk and harsh words, there's a hint of a fragile man with a troubled past of his own.

Honestly, the driving force of the story is the relationship between Perry and Dex. The paranormal aspect of the story is gripping. Truly. But the collision of the two forces is what is electrifying. The relationship is antagonistic. Perry and Dex each seem determined to get under the other's skin. Say what will set the other on edge, or off the edge. They are cut from the same cloth. In many ways, each is a mirror of the other. I'm dying to see where the author, Karina Halle, takes their relationship in the future.

Speaking of Halle, the lady has knocked my socks off! She took Darkhouse, what could have been your typical scary book with snarky characters, and breathed life into it. This book has heart. Characters you want to see through to the very end. There are going to be a total of eight books in the Experiment in Terror series. I will most definitely read each and every one. I will be reviewing Book Two, Red Fox, later this week.

I love when a book has phrases that capture my attention. Darkhouse has many. Here are a few I want to share.

"Somehow, by dealing with the dead, I had never felt so alive." Chapter 11

" "How come you aren't afraid?'... 'Because I find life to be scarier to than death,' he replied matter-of -    
    factly." -Chapter 12

"A handsome, beguiling man whose eyes read your very soul and whose smirk held you in contempt."
 Chapter 16

You can learn more about the Experiment in Terror series, (including links to buy the books, info about author Karina Halle) at the Experiment in Terror website.


*I was given Darkhouse by the author, in exchange for an honest review.*

Teaser Tuesday

Teaser Tuesday is a weekly bookish meme hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along, just do as following:

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share two (2) "teaser" sentences from somewhere on that page
• Be careful not to include any spoilers so as not to ruin the book for others!

Make sure to share the title and the author so other TT participants can add the book to their TBR piles!

My Teaser is from Red Fox, Book 2 in the Experiment in Terror series, by Karina Halle. When I was asked to read/review Red Fox and Book 1, Darkhouse, I had no idea my world was about to be rocked. I can't tell you how much I love this series and can not wait to read book 3, Dead Sky Morning.

Red Fox (Experiment in Terror #2)

With Book Two of the Experiment in Terror Series, Perry Palomino and Dex Foray trade in the stormy Oregon coast for the unforgiving deserts of New Mexico.

In the for­got­ten town of Red Fox, a Navajo cou­ple is tor­tured by things unseen and by motives unknown. Wild ani­mals slink through their house in the dark, a bar­rage of stones pound their roof nightly, and muti­lated sheep car­casses are turn­ing up on their prop­erty. Armed with a cam­era and just enough to go on, Perry and Dex travel to the des­o­late locale, hop­ing to film the super­nat­ural occur­rences and add cred­i­bil­ity to their flail­ing web­cast. Only their show has a lot more work­ing against them than just grow­ing pains. Tested by dubi­ous ranch hands, a ghost from Dex’s past, and shapeshift­ing decep­tion, the ama­teur ghost hunters must learn to trust each other in order to fight the most ancient of myths…or die trying. (From GoodReads)


A little background: the main characters Perry and Dex, have serious chemistry. Dex is technically Perry's boss and has a girlfriend back at home. Perry is way into Dex, but they both have tons of baggage. Dex has just patched Perry up after she was injured and they've had an intense few moments.

Here's my teaser:

"And with that he was gone, I was alone again in the bathroom, my wounds cleaned but my mind more infected than ever."

This series has quickly become a favorite. Check back later this week for my reviews of Darkhouse and Red Fox.

You can learn more about the Experiments in Terror series and author Karina Halle here.