The Reapers are the Angels by Alden Bell

Another book finished last night, I was really looking forward to this after reading a couple of good reviews inc SFX and got to say I was slightly disappointed especially with the ending.

Set in a post apocalyptic world (US) complete with the obligatory undead (who surprisingly take a bit of a back seat) it follows the lead character Temple (young teenage girl) and never fully explains her - to me anyway.

I think the major reason I was disappointed is that I like my books to be series and I don't think this will be, so purely a stand alone story which needed exploring and explaining more. Perhaps we may get more but I don't think so.

Saying all that its worth a read, even if for a few examples of terrain alone.

The Fort by Bernard Cornwell

Finally finished reading this today, which is the reason for my lack of posts, so here are my thoughts on it.

This is Bernard Cornwell's latest novel which is set in a brand new period of history for him, I am slightly biased as I really enjoy most of his books so was anticipating this for some time.

Based around the American War of Independence and specifically the Penobscot Expedition. Not one of my favourite parts of history (especially as we - the Brits - lost !! ) I hadn't heard of this, although reading about the events after the book, there is quite a history to it.

Not spoiling it, the book is all about the Americans attempting to take a fort that the British are building at Majabigwaduce (still not 100% sure how to say that.) Like most of his books it is very well researched and the characters (nearly all real people who were actually in the conflict) are excellently portrayed on both sides of the conflict.

It has opened my eyes to this period of history and I may well read some more about it.

My favourite book from him since the Grail Quest Trilogy, I do hope he returns to some of the characters at a later date. I definitely recommend it.

Anthony Giangregorio's Dead Water Series

Having just finished Anthony Giangregorio's latest Dead Water Series book - Dead Salvation, I thought I would share it with everyone as he is a relative unknown. 

For anyone unfamiliar with this series it follows a group of survivors following the Zombie Apocalypse. Similar in tone to the Walking Dead comic by Robert Kirkman. 

The unusual aspect of this series is that he self published them under his Undead Press label, although there a number of minor errors this doesn't detract from the story at all. I read the first eight or nine in about a month and thoroughly enjoyed them. 

I haven't tried his anthologies, of which there are many but I may get them when my current reading list drops to less than 50 !! 

This is the cover to the first in the series, don't be fooled by it !!

Kevin Dallimores Painting and Modelling Guide

Received this great book yesterday -

Full of useful tips for beginners like myself and I am pretty sure there is even enough for more experienced people to find interesting. Failing that, its worth the coverprice (£25 RRP but cheaper online) alone for the excellent miniatures painted or diorama scenes.  

Kevin is head painter at Wargames Foundry and has an excellent website of his own kevindallimore.co.uk which features many of his works and links to other great artists, an enjoyable hour or two spent thinking how do i get that good......