Dracula – Dab of Darkness Book Reviews

Soundbooth Theater Sale plus Review of Dracula by Bram Stoker

Soundbooth Theater is celebrating the one-year anniversary of the launch of their app! To honor this occasion, SBT is throwing a stellar anniversary sale.

➜ Details about the anniversary sale:

The sale will start on October 31st, the one-year anniversary of SBT’s distribution platform, and will run for two weeks
This will be a sitewide sale — all audiobooks and Audio Deep Dives will be $5 or less
SBT will be unveiling some new titles on the platform, including Kaiju: Battlefield Surgeon by Matt Dinniman and Monster Hunt NYC 2 by Harmon Cooper

🎉SOUNDBOOTH THEATER’S BIRTHDAY PARTY WILL TAKE PLACE ON SUNDAY, OCTOBER 31ST AT 8:00 PM ET. IT WILL BE STREAMED ON YOUTUBE, FACEBOOK, AND TWITCH.

Author: Bram Stoker

Narrator: Jeff Hays, Annie Ellicott, Gary Francis Furlong

Released: Oct. 30, 2020

Genre: Gothic Horror

When Jonathan Harker visits the castle of the enigmatic Count Dracula at the behest of his employer, he has no idea of the horrors lurking within and poised to spread across Europe. But after narrowly escaping the castle – and the vampires dwelling within – Harker knows what true evil looks like. Now, with the help of everyone’s favorite polymath turned vampire hunter, Abraham Van Helsing, and a small band of dedicated do-gooders, Harker must find a way to destroy Dracula and save the world.

Soundbooth Theater is proud to release our rendition of one of the most popular tales in western literature. Jeff Hays, Annie Ellicott, and Gary Francis Furlong effortlessly breathe life into this 123-year-old text. No matter how familiar you are with Dracula, we guarantee this Audio Deep Dive will send shivers down your spine.

WARNING: Our script is a faithful adaptation of a century-old story. As such, some language and themes depicted reflect outdated attitudes that in no way reflect the views of Soundbooth Theater.

Buy on Soundbooth Theater

Founded by prolific narrator and producer, Jeff Hays, Soundbooth Theater is a full-service audio production company that specializes in multicast audiobooks and Audio Deep Dives, which are enhanced with sound effects and music.

Website

While I have read this tale before, it has been many, many years and it was great to experience it as a full-cast audiobook. The story does have a slower pace than many modern vampire tales but I find that gives the author plenty of time to develop the characters and build the suspense. All that, makes Dracula one of my favorite classics.

The various settings are so well done that they are almost characters in the tale as well. I loved the dark mystery of Transylvania and the surrounding areas especially. When I first read this book, I was quite taken with the multiple descriptions of food too. I even hunted down some recipes and made several of them myself. This time around, I still enjoyed that element, but I was more focused on the character development.

Renfield. Ha! I think we’ve all known a Renfield at one time or another. He’s the epitome of the brown-noser, albeit with some psychological issues. My secret theory is that Stoker had to deal with a brown-noser or three and got fed up with them and got his sweet revenge by wrapping them all up into the character of Renfield.

Once again, I do love that the ladies take a more active role than one might think for the age of this classic. They aren’t as dominant as many modern tales, but they still play pivotal roles, and not always as romantic interests. They have their own hobbies and goals, which Dracula and his minions wreck. I especially like how organized Mina is.

The ending is always satisfying but in a way that also makes you wish for a sequel set 10 or 20 years later just so you can see what all the surviving characters are up to. 4.5/5stars.

The Narration, Sound Effects, & Music: Soundbooth Theater has put together a great full-cast narration. There’s regional UK accents as well as international accents. The range of voices kept all the characters easy to identify, the men sounding like men and the women sounding like women. The sound effects and music were well done and well timed. Not once did I feel that the narration was drowned out by the extra sounds. All the sound effects were easily identifiable, which is a must for me when listening to audio dramas. Soundbooth Theater has a choice in narrations when you buy from their site directly – narration only or what they call a Deep Dive (with all the sound effects and music). I think this is a most excellent thing to offer listeners. All around, it was a great performance. 5/5 stars.

I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Soundbooth Theater. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.

Click here to view the full tour schedule!

Plugging you into the audio community since 2016.

Sign up as a tour host here.

Ebook Giveaway & Interview: Essel Pratt, Author of Secession

Folks, please give a warm welcome to Essel Pratt, the author of such books as Secession and Sharkantula. I really enjoyed the audiobook version of Sharkantula. Scroll to the bottom for the giveaway, a chance to win an ebook of the dystopian literary fiction Secession.

What was the first major news story you remember as a child?

This is a great question! I can remember staying home from school when I was a child. I’m not sure why I stayed home, but I don’t remember being sick. However, I do remember sitting on the floor in front of the television watching the Challenger space shuttle getting ready to launch. I was nine at the time and it was the first shuttle launch I saw. I can remember being excited that the individuals on the shuttle were going to do something I would never get the chance to do. Then, shortly after launch, the shuttle blew up. I don’t think I fully understood how impactful the tragedy was at the time. Yet, I knew it was a significant event that I would never forget. I can remember thinking about how the people in the shuttle must have felt, if they even knew what was about to happen to them. I still think back to that from time to time, as I write about characters in the final grips of their lives.

Have you ever made a decision based on a fictional character or book?

I think that it is human nature that all of us do, from time to time. It is sort of the “what would Jesus do” mentality. C.S. Lewis was a huge inspiration for me growing up. There were times that I was in situations that were tough, even as a youngster, that had me asking how the Pevensies would react to situations, or get through them. When I was younger, and even now, my imagination was overactive. So, I would often play out scenarios in my head, from the point of views of different characters I’d read about or watched on television. I think I still do this today, as new obstacles of life veer their ugly heads.

If you could have a signed copy of any novel what would it be and why?

Hands down, this would be a signed copy of The Chronicles of Narnia. C. S. Lewis is my all-time hero in the realm of writing. If I were to be greedy, I’d have a signed copy of each book in The Chronicles of Narnia.

If you could give any literary villain a happy ending who would you chose?

This is a tough one. So many villains in literature are either misunderstood or would be heroes from another’s point of view. I think this would be a toss-up between Captain Hook and Dracula. In my eyes, Captain Hook was not a bad person. Instead, he was plagued by jealousy and desire. There really was no financial gain in the realm of Neverland for him, as is the catalyst of most pirate adventures. I think there is a happy ending there, it just needs to be found. As for Dracula, the basis of his character is a vile historical leader. Yet, after a limitless life, I would imagine that all the power and control would eventually wear him down, causing him to rethink his existence. It would be great to take on a novel that explores the transition from evil to wanting to help others.

What scent brings back great memories?

As strange as it may seem, I can’t think of any scent that brings back great memories. I can think of some that bring back less than desirable memories, but none that are great. This question got me thinking, though, that it really doesn’t matter if the memories are good or bad, as long as they are used to make us better people. As a child, we moved a lot for many different reasons. So, a smell that is not so great is the smell of bleach. When we’d move, my parents would clean the house with bleach and water. To me, this signaled the end of hanging out with friends and the fear of making new friends at a new school. It wasn’t until later in my adolescence that I was able to stay at the same school after a move. So, bleach reminds me of ‘the end’ in a weird sort of way. Yet, I’ve learned from those times of constant moving and made sure that as an adult, my family is more stable.

If you could, what book or movie or TV series would you like to experience for the first time all over again and why?

There are so many out there, but I’ll say it would be a tie between The Boxcar Children and The Chronicles of Narnia. Both show a transition from struggle to betterment, in some fashion or another. This is a theme I try to keep in mind in a lot of my writing now that I’ve been in the business for a bit. When I first started, it seems no one ever survived a short story. But now, that isn’t entirely true. So, experiencing the two book series over again from a fresh new perspective is something I would love.

What has been your worst or most difficult job? How does it compare to writing?

Yikes, this is a tough one. I can’t say that I’ve ever had a job that was too difficult or horrific that would be the making of a horror story. But, I worked for a small company that was being managed by a woman that felt she owned the company. I wouldn’t say it was the worst job, because I eventually replaced her. However, it was difficult because she made a huge mess of things in many unethical ways. Yet, there were a lot of story plots developed there, so my writing often compared in various ways.

What book should be made into a game (card, PC, board, etc.) and why? Is there a specific character who you would want to play in this game?

A book of mine or of another author? If one of mine, Final Reverie or Sharkantula would translate well into a video game or a board game. Each has a cast of characters that one could play as and immerse themselves into the world. If a book of another author, I think it would be interesting to delve into the world of the cenobites and outwit Pinhead from Hellraiser.

Would you prefer to visit Earth in 2100 or travel back to 1900 for a short visit? Why?

This is another tough question. However, I would rather go back in time to 1900 and experience the past. The past is known, so it would be an amazing history lesson. Going forward would be quite scary, because it is unknown. Would I be traveling to a dystopian landscape or a fruitful future that I do not belong in? I would feel much more comfortable in the past.

What is a recurring or the most memorable geeky argument or debate you have taken part in?

There are so many! As a fan of the oxford comma, I’d have to say it is my favorite geeky debate that often leads to a much more in depth conversation about writing in general. However, these debates are better left to be face to face, rather than online.

More about the Author

Essel Pratt is a purveyor of horror and fantasy, conjuring tales that haunt souls and inspire imagination. As a student of psychology and teller of tales, Essel writes to share the complex nature of his imaginings with the world. His ever-expanding catalog of short stories spans multiple anthologies and collections, ranging from whimsical fantasy to bizarre horror, including everything in between. Dedicated fans have praised his creations, labeling his talents as prolific in substance.

Hailing from Mishawaka, Indiana, his passion for writing began in the early years as his imagination taunted from within, begging for a release. Dabbling in art at first, he found that the stories that pleaded to be told could not be imprisoned by ink and paint alone. His most notable and prevalent accomplishments include Final Reverie, Sharkantula, and the multiple short stories that have garnered a following of their own, such as the adventures of Detective Mansfield.

Where to Find Essel Pratt

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Instagram ~ GoodReads

Book Blurb for Secession:

Not with an iron fist, but with nuclear words.

Upon scripted words of unification, the American President delivers an ultimatum for the citizens of the United States of America. Remain loyal to The Great Experiment that is America or relocate to Texas and Louisiana, former states that President Barry Bigly forced to secede from the Union.

The New Sovereign Nation of Texiana begins as a sanctuary for those that predicted President Bigly’s tyrannical rule, only to become a desolate wasteland shut off from the rest of the world by a massive border wall. As the Texianans struggle to adjust to their new lifestyles, The American President has other plans to keep their lack of loyalty at bay; raining down deadly chemicals upon the Texianans while preaching propaganda across the airwaves. Unknowingly creating a horde of Victims within the wall’s borders.

Not willing to stand by as the American President methodically eradicates all that do not believe in his ideals for the next evolution of The United States, three young adults join forces to rise up and restore peace and true unity once again.

Amazon

GIVEAWAY!!!

Essel Pratt is offering up 5 ebook copies (in either mobi or PDF format -winner’s choice) of his dystopian literary fiction Secession. Open world wide! Do the Rafflecopter thing below or answer these questions in the comments: 1) What book would you like to experience for the first time all over again? 2) Leave a way to contact you (email, Twitter, etc.). Ends January 17th, 2018, midnight.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Ebook & Interview: Jessica Gomez, Author of Infected

Heya folks! Please welcome Jessica Gomez, one of the authors of the Undead Worlds anthology. They have pitched in to have a big book giveaway with multiple winners. Audiobooks, signed paperbooks, swag, and ebooks! Yay! Just scroll to the end for the giveaway! And check out the Master Post for more interviews!

If you could be an extra on a TV show or movie, what would it be and what would you be doing?

I always thought it’d be awesome to be a Zombie. It wouldn’t matter what TV show or movie; the makeup would be well worth it.

If you could have a signed copy of any novel what would it be and why?

Romeo & Juliet, by Shakespeare. This was the first book I really enjoyed reading.

The apocalypse is here! Which 4 apocalypse/prepper authors would you want with you in order to survive the first big upheaval?

I don’t think I can only pick 4. I’d have to go with my entire Reanimated Writer crew. We each have a unique take on the Zombie apocalypse that we’d all have a lot to bring to the table.

What makes you cringe?

Gnomes. They’re little devils.

If you could pick a fictional character to officiate at your wedding or renewal vows, who would it be?

I’d go with Daffy Duck. I love the way he talks. I’d have a tough time not laughing during any speeches.

If you could give any literary villain a happy ending who would you chose?

Dracula. His story would be the best to tell. Full of life, death, and hundreds of years of history.

The public library of your dreams has arrived! What special collections does it hold?

I don’t really have one set of books I’m fond of. I enjoy a plethora of books, by different authors. There are a few that I stick to, but I love to read books by new authors.

If you had to choose someone to rescue you from the jaws of certain death would it be a superhero, supernatural creature, or a space alien?

Hmm… The superhero doesn’t interest me much. Never been into them. Supernatural creature and space alien are in a close tie. Both are equally interesting, but one has the tendency to stick probes where the sun done shine. So, that leaves Supernatural creatures by default. Most of the books I’ve read in this genre work out well for the main characters.

Reality in my fiction: how important is it? Does your Forensic Science knowledge come into play?

Reality is my fiction is important, because you should twine truth with fiction to have a great interesting story. Not all the time is it require, but it helps. Take my Flash series for instance. I’ve based some of this story off truths. The cave systems that they live in really do exist in Oregon. The vegetables and fruit they grow are all native to this region, as well as the amount of snow fall they get each year. The best part of the story, is how I came up with the idea in the first place. I was watching one of those dooms day stories, where the world ends, they talked about these systems and how they’d work well for the end of the world scenario. One thing led to another and POOF Zombie apocalypse story.

Conventions, book signings, blogging, etc.: what are some of your favorite aspects of self-promotion and what are some of the least favorite parts of self-promotion?

I don’t have any signings schedules until next year. BUT I have a new Anthology that is out Oct. 10th Undead Worlds. 22 authors, 22 zombie stories, one great book! And book 3 in the Flash series, EVOLVED, is coming out at the end of 2017. The first book, INFECTED is FREE from Oct. 27th to Oct. 31st on Amazon.

My favorite aspect of self-promotion is meeting new people from all over the world. People helping people. It’s been an amazing journey. My least favorite part it TIME! I never have enough time to do everything. I’m one person, doing the work for a dozen. It never ends.

Book Blurb for Undead Worlds:

22 Authors. 22 Undead worlds. 1 Great Book.
Do you dare?

Alone Together by David Simpson: What do you do when there is nowhere left to run? Gone Fishin’ by Justin Robinson: When the dead rise, the living become the monsters. The Festival by Christopher Manhood: A city on lockdown as a nation awaits bloodshed, let the festival begin. Jimmy by Arthur Mongelli: Decades of meddling with the food we eat brings about the zombie apocalypse, ordinary people struggle to survive. The Fort by Michael Whitehead: When sanctuary becomes a prison, all you can do is fight. Adam by Sylvester Barzey: Some families aren’t worth dying for. A Peaceful Town by Jeremy Dyson. The Undead Pool: The Zombie Night by Derek Ailes. Zombie Exterminators by Grivante: Two brothers saving the world one job at a time! The Horror at Roswell Mills by Michael Peirce. Before Safe Haven: Losing the Battle by Christopher Artinian: There is no greater weapon than the will to fight for the ones you love. On the Rocks by E.E. Isherwood. Morning of The Living Dead by Mark Cusco Ailes. Defenseless: A Story of Death & Decay by R. L. Blalock: As the zombies rise, 6-year-old Dylan must face a frightening new world alone. To the Hills by T. D. Ricketts: A real live zombie apocalypse! When I Grow Up, I Won’t Be by Brea Behn: What if you knew you’d never make it to 18? Fallen by Jessica Gomez. Brain Waves by Julien Saindon. Damaged Goods by Samie Sands: There’s only one rule: don’t get bit! Avery by Valerie Lioudis: Trapped in a world with the undead, Avery looks to control it by filling her space with treasures, leading her to risk her life for useless garbage. In the Beginning, God by Charles Ingersoll: God made Man. Man made monsters. Evacuation by Adrienne Lecter: When the world is about to end, one man has to bring home the bacon.

GoodReads ~ Amazon

Jessica Gomez

Jessica Gomez is a best-selling author who enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and gardening. She was born and raised in Oregon, where she still resides with her family. She enjoys hearing from and chatting with her readers, who have the same passion for reading.

Jessica’s first book, After the Before, was independently published in 2014. Followed later by her second series, INFECTED in 2015.

Website ~ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Pinterest ~ G+ ~ GoodReads ~ Amazon

Here’s some of the prizes that you could win!

Signed paperbooks of Undead Worlds anthology (USA only) courtesy of T. D. Ricketts

Ebook copy of Aftershock Book 1 by Valerie Lioudis (International)

Ebook of Lockdown by Samie Sands (International)

Ebook of Red Dirt Zombies Book 1 by Michael Peirce (International)

Signed paper copy of Undead on Arrival & swag from Justin Robinson (USA)

Ebooks Undead On Arrival & Coldheart by Justin Robinson (International)

Signed paper copy of Harvest of Ruin by Arthur Mongelli (USA only)

Audiobook Mash Anthology via Audible UK courtesy of Grivante

Paperbook The Zee Brothers by Grivante (USA only)

Ebooks of Legion of the Undead & Legion of the Undead: Rise and Fall by Michael Whitehead (International)

Ebooks Infected and Immune by Jessica Gomez (International)

Any 2 books by Derek Ailes (paperbooks for USA or ebooks for International)

GIVEAWAY!!!

So these lovely authors have pitched in some great prizes, as you saw above. Here’s a quick list of them again:

2 signed paperbooks of Undead Worlds anthology (USA only)
Ebook copy of Aftershock Book 1 by Valerie Lioudis (international)
Ebook of Lockdown (international) by Samie Sands
2 ebooks Red Dirt Zombies Book 1 (international) by Michael Peirce
Signed copy of Undead on Arrival & swag (USA) by Justin Robinson
Ebooks Undead On Arrival & Coldheart (International) by Justin Robinson
Signed copy of Harvest of Ruin (USA only) by Arthur Mongelli
2 UK Audible Mash Anthology
Paperbook The Zee Brothers (USA only) by Grivante
Ebook of Legion of the Undead & Legion of the Undead: Rise and Fall (International) by Michael Whitehead
Ebooks Infected and Immune (International) by Jessica Gomez
Any 2 books by Derek Ailes (paper for USA & ebooks for International)

Enter the giveaway via the Rafflecopter below or answer these questions in the comments. Note that commenting on any of the Undead Worlds interviews or this master post gets you extra points! 1) Which prize(s) are you most interested in? 2) What is the best zombie story you have experienced? 3) What country do you live in? 4) Leave a way to contact you (email, facebook link, twitter, etc.). Giveaway runs from October 1 through November 27, 2017 midnight. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Audiobook Giveaway & Interview: Juli D. Revezzo, Author of Reign of Tarot Series

Everyone, please give a warm welcome to historical fiction author Juli D. Revezzo. She’s here to chat about her favorite historical fiction romance stories, beautiful art, and plenty more! Scroll to the bottom to catch the Giveaway!

If you could give any literary villain a happy ending who would you chose?

Elric. I don’t want to say why, but let’s just say his life has a lot more downs than ups.

What decade from the last century would you pick to have been a teenager in?

I think the 30s or 40s would’ve been fun.

If you could, what book or movie or TV series would you like to experience for the first time all over again and why?

Star Wars. I don’t think I appreciated it enough as a child, and I think I’d be a total fan girl if I could see those last two movies, as a younger girl. 😉

What has been your worst or most difficult job? How does it compare to writing?

I worked at a nursery for a short while. Writing’s better. If it’s too hot, or too cold, you don’t have to worry, as you’re inside most of the time anyway. 🙂 Plus, you don’t come home smelling like fertilizer.

If you could own a famous or historical art work, what would it be? Would you put it on public display or keep it privately?

The Nightmare, would be one, the painting by Fuseli. I worked that into Lady of the Tarot, a bit. (And my latest Gothic romance House of Dark Envy, actually). Either that or the Primavera by Botticelli, actually, I’m a fan of his so that probably wouldn’t be the only one. It’s probably just the better known. Keep it private or display it? Herm…That would depend on how well known it was. If it was, like Calumny of Apelles, not known well, I’d more like it loan it to a museum. (Come to that, I’d probably take the Calumny over Primavera. It has this quality to that I could easily see making its way onto a modern fantasy cover. (Or at least one of the ’90s/early 2000s. I’ve always loved the look of it for that reason.)

From your own writings, are there any characters you would like to cosplay?

Emilie. Hoop skirts and panniers aside, dontcha just love the dresses of that era? On the other hand, I feel sorry for the women too. Who in god’s name thought panniers were a good idea? *shakes head* I’ll take my jeans, thanks!

In my experience, some of the best fiction is based on facts and history. How do you build your research into your fictional works?

For Lady of the Tarot, the history is the setting for the story, so I took elements from accounts of various escapes from the city of Paris, at the time, and worked them in, as well as having it work into just how she was going to make it to London, and through settling it. I also had to make sure the cards and what Linton was doing were close-ish to period. Poetic license lets you get away with some things, but not all.

If you were asked to create the syllabus for a college class in Romantic Fantasy literature, what books would be on there as required reading? As passing discussion?

*rubs hands gleefully* Oh, this is a fun question! Required….? well, okay. It would depend on where you draw the line on the history of it. Myself, I count the line going all the way back to what literary experts call true Romantic tales, the Arthurian Legends. But in terms of the currently accepted definition of romance, I’d probably start with Dracula…then go through some of the Gothic novels, and for true romantic fantasy, I’d dig into the 90s novels like some of Melanie Rawn’s and Jennifer Roberson’s, and Patricia McKillip’s, then make my way up to CL Wilson, Sherilyn Kenyon, Ilona Andrews, Maggie Shayne and the newer crop of romantic fantasy authors. Of course, I’d have to drop Gloriana by Michael Moorcock in there too. 🙂

Care to share an awkward fangirl/fanboy moment, either one where someone was gushing over your work…..or one where you were gushing over another author’s work?

Awkward? I can’t think of any particularly awkward ones. I met the fantasy author Terry Goodkind, one night while I was perusing the shelves at Barnes and Noble, and bless his heart he (with his family waiting!) took a good fifteen minutes out of his night to talk to me. I thought that was kinda sweet.

Finally, what upcoming events and works would you like to share with the readers?

Well, I recently released my second audiobook, for my Victorian steampunk romance Watchmaker’s Heart, and I’m right in the middle of final preparations for releasing the next in my Celtic Stewards Chronicles, Druid Warrior Prince. That should be out…probably by the time you post this interview. In the meantime, if your readers would like to check out the audiobook of Lady of the Tarot, it’s available at Amazon, iTunes, and Audible.

About Juli D. Rezzo:

Juli D. Revezzo loves fantasy and Celtic mythology and writing stories with all kinds of fantastical elements. She is the author of the Antique Magic series and the Paranormal Romance Celtic Stewards Chronicles series, Victorian romance House of Dark Envy, Gothic fantasy romance, Lady of the Tarot, Victorian romance Watchmaker’s Heart, and more. She is also a member of the Independent Author Network and the Magic Appreciation Tour.

Places to Find Juli Rezzo

Website ~ Blog ~ Twitter ~ Facebook ~ GoodReads ~ Amazon

Book Blurb for Lady of the Tarot:

What the cards foretell may be real, after all

1793: Having escaped the Reign of Terror, Emilie Maigny took refuge in England, trying to come to grips with the life and loss she left behind. When her brother, Sinjon, returns, a terrifying evil swoops down upon her. Nightmares plague her now, providing strange clues…but to what?

Scottish-born Linton Morrison spent his entire life in luxury, whiling away the hours in intense study of the tarot and the cards’ hidden meanings, but until he met the lovely Emilie Maigny, he would never have guessed how important his study might be – to his life and Emilie’s survival when terrible evil strikes.

A Cypher is all Emilie needs, but what is it? Is Linton the key? He may charm her heart – and he may be her only salvation.

GIVEAWAY!!!

Juli is offering up 1 Audible.com Audiobook copy of Lady of the Tarot. Do the Rafflecopter thing below or answer these questions in the comments to enter the giveaway. 1) Do you have an Audible.com account? 2) What is your favorite historical fiction romance story? 3) Leave a way to contact you (email, Twitter etc.). Giveaway ends November 19, 2017, midnight.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Something in the Blood: The Untold Story of Bram Stoker, the Man Who Wrote Dracula by David J. Skal

Luxor kitty standing guard over this book.

Narrator: James Patrick Cronin

Publisher: HighBridge (2016)

Length: 21 hours 26 minutes

Author’s Page

Explore not only Bram Stoker’s life, but the Victorian era, contemporary authors, famous theater celebrities, and the various works of Stoker in this book.

I grew up watching all sorts of Dracula and vampire stories and as an adult I finally read Dracula by Bram Stoker. It remains one of my favorite horror stories, being full of suspense and the darker, often repressed, side of human nature. When I saw that a biography on Stoker was available, I jumped on it.

This book was so much more than I expected. It was educational and entertaining. Not only did I learn about Stoker but also about this writer and theater side of the Victorian Era. Then there was also Victorian viewpoint on same-sex relationships that played a big role in shaping Stoker’s life.

Here are some of the things I learned from this book but there’s plenty more so don’t feel like you’re getting the complete picture. Stoker was a sickly child, often bedridden until he turned 7. Eventually he grew into a strapping young man who excelled at athletics. I particularly found it interesting that during this era, it was common to dress both boys and girls as young girls until they reached a certain age. I think partly, this is to assist in potty training (a smock or tunic-like dress easier to lift up and do your business and perhaps easier to clean). Stoker did blossom from this stage into a boy and that’s when he became much more active. All sorts of psychology of both Stoker and his mother are explored in the book concerning this particular thing.

There was a very scary cholera epidemic when Stoker was a child. At one point, his mom had to fend off the sick from breaking into their house. Perhaps young Stoker saw more blood and violence than most kids at that age.

One of the key things I learned concerned Victorian views on same-sex partners. For men, it was against the law. For women, it was never against the law as there was this underlying cultural belief that for it to be real sex, a male member had to be involved. Yes, that idea had me laughing a little bit. Also, curiously there was not a real term for homosexuality until much later so Victorian folks would use colloquialisms and slanted looks to get their meaning across. The idea that people didn’t really have words to express their sexual orientation, even to themselves, was an eye opener as to how in the closet homosexuals were at this time.

There’s plenty stuff about the London and Dublin theaters in this book since Stoker worked for the famous actor Henry Irving. Most of this was lost on me. I don’t recognize the names and have never been to these famous theaters. I do think that for folks who have even a passing interest in theater stuff from this era would find these sections of the book insightful.

Stoker himself was a very private man and there’s very little written by him concerning his personal thoughts on things. So much of his motivations have to be inferred from his actions and the few bits we have written by him (usually communications to others). It was very interesting to learn about his fascination with Oscar Wilde. I have never read anything by Wilde but after listening to this biography, I am sorely tempted to do so. Since Stoker and Wilde had an on/off friendship of a sort throughout the decades, we learn plenty about Wilde in this book including his imprisonment for homosexual acts.

Syphilis comes into play more than once. According to some reputable data this book dug up, perhaps as much as 25% of London males during Stoker’s time had this STD. It being pre-penicillin days, there wasn’t a good treatment for syphilis, which can also lie dormant for years. This means you don’t know you have it but you can spread it around.

As the book winds down, taking us to Stoker’s death, I still had 2 CDs left. This biography includes what happened after Stoker was buried not only to his family but also to his works. I was fascinated by the number of knock-offs of Dracula, both in book form and on screen. Copyright laws were not present in some countries back then. There was also some interesting stuff about Bela Lugosi after he played Dracula – apparently it was hard for him to get any kind of role outside of the monster characters.

All together, this was a very thorough and complete accounting of Stoker’s life and the life of his most well known work, Dracula. I feel the author treated his life with an objective hand. Stoker wasn’t a saint but he was a very interesting man in interesting times.

I received a free copy of this book via LibraryThing.

The Narration: James Patrick Cronin was a great pick to narrate this book. He sounded genuinely interested in the subject throughout the book. The pacing was good and occasionally, a little bit of emotion is injected at appropriate times.

What I Liked: Plenty of interesting info; Stoker’s childhood days; the cholera epidemic; cultural info on the Victorian era views on same-sex partners; Oscar Wilde; info on syphilis during this time; what happened to Stoker’s family and works after his death; great narration.

What I Disliked: Most of the theater stuff was lost on me, but I am inspired to learn more.

What Others Think:

Open Letters Monthly

Kirkus Reviews

Audiobook Giveaway & Interview: A. J. Spencer, Author of The Thol-ra

Join me in welcoming AJ Spencer back to the blog! He’s the author of The Thol-ra, a short tale of epic fantasy, as well as the beloved SnowRaven Chronicles. Check out his previous interview on Dab of Darkness. GIVEAWAY!!! Scroll to the bottom for the chance to win an audiobook copy of The Thol-ra.

If you could give any literary villain a happy ending who would you chose?

Grand Admiral Thrawn (from Timothy Zahn’s Trilogy of Star Wars Books from the early 1990’s). He was one cool cat who was playing for the wrong team…..I wish he was on our side!

Is there a genre or literary niche that you feel hasn’t gotten it’s deserved amount of attention?

Sword & Sorcery – huge back in the day…..but has now faded away…..

The public library of your dreams has arrived! What special collections does it hold?

A book that has the meaning of life would be nice. The lost books from the library of Alexandria……I wonder what they were. One historian said civilization was set back 1000 years when all that ancient knowledge went up in smoke….I think he was right.

If you could pick a fictional character to officiate at your wedding or renewal vows, who would it be?

I always thought being married on a ship, by a sea captain was very romantic (and if you want to have a honeymoon on a cruise ship, two birds with one stone). How about Captain Picard onboard the Starship Enterprise…..The holodeck could create one hell of a theme wedding!

If you had to choose someone to rescue you from the jaws of certain death would it be a superhero, supernatural creature, or a space alien?

I’d have to say superhero (Is Batman available?) I think the supernatural creature and/or space alien would probably be causing the peril in question…….

What mystery in your own life could be a plot for a book?

I read somewhere that a ship was washed ashore during a big storm in the 1800’s, pushed right up on the beach and was just left there. People see the surreal image of an empty ship on a beach and say “Boy that was a bad storm…..or, isn’t that odd, kind of spooky”……Bram Stoker thought – vampire on board! This event became an inspiration for Dracula. That’s how inspiration works with a writer – could just be one little seed, one spark that can start a whole franchise. To answer your question – There are many, many mysteries I want to explore in my stories….but they are the BIG Mysteries of the universe (That run throughout all of Science Fiction, folklore and Mythology).

What decade from the last century would you pick to have been a teenager in?

Actually, I was a teenager in the 1990’s.…..I wouldn’t mind reliving that time knowing then what I know now (but doesn’t EVERYONE?)

What future invention would you like to see not only created during your life time, but readily available to the public?

DEFINITELY the food replicator from Star Trek…..just ask for something, ANYTHING and it just appears on your plate, I like that. I like that A LOT!

What has been your worst or most difficult job? How does it compare to writing?

I’ve had good days and bad days….and many days somewhere in between on every job. This question reminds me of an interview with Rod Serling – he said the hardest part of writing was being your own boss…..the discipline of writing a certain quota each day. I also heard a story about a writer who kept missing his deadlines, just had too many distractions in everyday life. So his agent (or publisher) set up an empty cubicle in his office building and had the writer come in 9-5 Monday through Friday and just write the rest of the book they had given the writer an advance for. The writer didn’t rebel – but thanked him for doing this! Saying he never would have finished without that structure!

If you were sent on a magical quest which other 4 fantasy authors would you take with you?

One of my favorite authors – Robert E. Howard (The creator of Conan The Barbarian); JRR Tolkien – if anyone knows about magical quests, its Tolkien!; George RR Martin (THE expert on Fantasy intrigue, and machinations); and JK Rowling, to school our team on conjuring a little magic of our own!

Finally, what can we expect from you next? I adore SnowRaven! Any chance for more stories about her?

Thank You – you are the SnowRaven’s biggest fan I don’t have writer’s block, but more of a writer’s OVERLOAD. I have LOTS of ideas, but am having a hard time pinning the story down. Getting the look and feel just right, and fleshing out the characters into 3 dimensional people. I am currently working on a big Science Fiction Anthology style book – having a REALLY hard time with it……but it could be one of the BEST things I’ll ever write (If I can pull it together that is…..) Some stories veer more toward fantasy, some are futuristic….some could be another SnowRaven story (The Thol-Ra was going to be a SnowRaven story but went in a different direction. The same may happen with the new anthology). However, I do want to put the same poetic flare into this story as the SnowRaven stories (the same style) and the main character of my big Sci Fi opus is very SnowRaven like…..very much a cyber punk SnowRaven!

Places to Follow AJ Spencer

Facebook

Amazon

Audiible

Book Blurb for The Thol-ra:

A city under siege…. An ancient book of forbidden magic…. A power that will save or destroy all!

The ancient desert city of Al-zora is under siege by a swarm of man eating insects – unleashed by a deposed queen’s vengeful curse.

But on the eve of total destruction hope for salvation comes…. In the form of Princess E’feena – the renegade princess who enlists the help of the noble swordsman Alcar, her sworn protector, and Jzemlek the alchemist and thief. To claim an ancient book of forbidden magic.

A book hidden deep in the very heart of the city – a vile swamp haunted by man eating plants every bit as ravenous and deadly as the attacking swarm.

But to save her beloved city from total annihilation E’feena will risk anything – ignoring the warnings of the sages, defying her father, the king -whose word is law! Defying all who fear the uncontrollable magic will bring a far greater calamity!

For E’feena means to unleash the most powerful force locked within the mysterious tome….a force with the power to not only destroy the insatiable swarm….but also create a true nightmare….a fate far worse then the horde encircling the city walls -For princess E’feena means to unleash the dreaded Thol-ra itself!

Audible ~ Amazon

Book Blurb for The SnowRaven Chronicles: The Shafra-Copian:

The lady Snowraven becomes entangled in a tempestuous industrial revolution that promises to liberate the bleak mountaintop kingdom of Arkel-nia from the dominance of the Vosharian – a race of cunning and cruel bio-luminescent insects who have drained the kingdom’s wealth for centuries. Nightmarish creatures whose taste for human flesh has decimated countless generations of Arkel-nian maidens – human sacrifices given in exchange for the glowing orbs that only the Vosharian can create. A vicious, unending cycle for the orbs, prized above all for the light and warmth they give. The only source of energy in the whole of the desolate snow covered mountains- until now…

Audible ~ Amazon

GIVEAWAY!!!

AJ Spencer is offering up 6 copies of his short epic fantasy, The Thol-ra. Yep, 6 winners! Do the Rafflecopter thing below or answer these questions in the comments: Do you have an Audible.com account? What authors would you take on a fantasy quest? Optional: Follow AJ Spencer any way you want and tell me in the comments how you follow him and under what name. Giveaway ends June 22nd, 2017, midnight. Giveaway is limited to those that have an Audible.com account.
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Audiobook Giveaway & Interview: Marcus Damanda, Author of The Devil in Miss Drake's Class Series

Everyone, please give a warm welcome to author Marcus Damanda. Don’t miss the GIVEAWAY at the end of this post – an Audible.com version of The Devil in Miss Drake’s Class trilogy, narrated by Jessica McEvoy, ebook copies of the same trilogy, and ebook copies of The Salvation State.

If you could be an extra on a TV show or movie, what would it be and what would you be doing?

On TV, I’d love to make an appearance on Game of Thrones. One of the principal villains of The Devil in Miss Drake’s Class, Maggie Lassiter, is a reference to the Lannister family, after all. What I would like to do is be in one of those tavern scenes drinking ale, telling bawdy jokes, surrounded by beautiful—oh, hell. They’d probably make me some portly little servant of “The Seven” or something. Maybe Bran’s next tutor in that whole “Three-Eyed Raven” story thread.

Is there a genre or literary niche that you feel hasn’t gotten its deserved amount of attention?

Actually, all the genres I love to read from are pretty popular, at present! I love horror stories, dystopian future, fantasy—and I’m very much in love with the young adult and teen market. But my publisher, Evernight Teen, has dozens of terrific authors of edgy teen romance, and I don’t think they get near the amount of attention they deserve.

Tell me about Shazam, just because. How did he get his name? Is he a fan of your books? Or a hindrance to writing?

Shazam is my twenty pound Russian blue bundle of cat stubbornness, snarkery, and unconditional love. I had the name before I went hunting for a cat to adopt. I searched until I found a cat who fit the name. Always on the move, my Shazam. And he’s not just a fan of my books. He’s a contributor. He hops right up on the keyboard while I’m at work. See? Here’s the beginning of a new short story: “It was nearing midnight when I exited the safe house through the front 2333333333”.

What’s the most interesting gross fact you know?

I know that the human head continues to think for an indeterminate amount of seconds after decapitation. Takes time for oxygen and blood deprivation to get the job done. Varies by person. This is kind of interesting, because—what? Hey, you asked.

What now-dead author would you like to interview? What are some of the things you would chat about?

I’d have to interview Robert Cormier, author of controversial young adult titles such as The Chocolate War and After the First Death. He was the very architect of the anti-happy ending—and I mean that really and completely, to the extent that his stories became predictable. And yet you couldn’t turn away from his special infusion of misery. I’d have a whole slew of questions, but my first would be, “Are you happy now? All better?”

Who are some of your favorite book villains?

I love Tolkien’s Gollum, first and foremost (not to be confused with Andy Serkis’s Gollum, although his was amusing in a different way). No villain has ever been so simultaneously reprehensible and sympathetic. For pure, consistent awfulness, I’m also a big fan of Yyrkoon from the Elric of Melnibone fantasy series. And, as a nameless collective, the entire government in Neal Shusterman’s Unwind dystology.

If you couldn’t be a writer, what would you chose to do?

Exactly what I’m doing: teaching! Nothing keeps me up-to-date on the human condition so much as educating kids. One day I’ll retire, though, and probably end up selling comics and cards somewhere …

You used to be part of a garage heavy metal band. Has your interest in music slipped into your books?

Oh, yes. I bug Jessica McEvoy (the brilliant and talented voice actress who reads my audiobooks) all the time with my “soundtracks.” She’s very patient and tolerant of me. I used to think I was the only one who created playlist soundtracks for his own books. Now I know everyone does it, which is a source of never ending frustration to me.

(If you look in the back of the paper-bound edition of The Devil in Miss Drake’s Class trilogy, or The Forever Show and Teeth, I include my suggested playlists there, just for fun.)

If you were asked to create the syllabus for a college class in Horror literature, what books would be on there as required reading? As passing discussion?

Required reading: Bram Stoker’s Dracula, Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, Stephen King’s It (not to be confused with the horrible TV movie), Dean Koontz’s Intensity, William Peter Blatty’s The Exorcist.

Passing discussion: Unwind, by Neal Shusterman, The Night Runners, by Joe Lansdale, and Edgar Allan Poe’s complete anthology of short stories.

Care to share an awkward fangirl/fanboy moment, either one where someone was gushing over your work…..or one where you were gushing over another author’s work?

I’ll deliver on both!

I got to be the “featured author” at the school where I teach a couple years ago. This was, of course, awesome and indescribably fun. I got to talk to groups of kids, four or five hundred at a time in the gym, and at the end of my presentation I did a Q&A. I was really in my element, actually, until I called on one young girl whose question was, “How did you get to be so brilliant?” And that stopped me cold. I was literally stuttering in my inability to formulate a reply. To me, what I do, at its highest level, can best be described as “crafted entertainment.” I don’t even aspire to art, much less “brilliance” …

And I can’t “gush” enough in my praise for fellow Evernight Teen authors S.D. Wasley and Christine Potter. I do it all the time! Those two, now—THEY’RE brilliant.

Book Blurb for Devils in the Dark (Book 1 of The Devil in Miss Drake’s Class series):

“The paramedics shared a look: This one was serious.”

To most of the Facebook 15, bullying Audrey Bales was just a game – until two deep cuts with a Swiss army knife changed everything forever. Audrey didn’t want attention anymore. After five weeks at Fairview High School, Audrey wanted to die.

The doctors did the only thing they could with her: they put her away.

But in Fairview, Virginia, the nightmare is only beginning. The chat session had not gone unobserved. The Facebook 15 have drawn the attention of an ancient evil that lives only to punish those who would prey upon the weak.

They are the ghosts of 1,000 dead children – 1,000 suicides – and their master….

Their master likes Audrey Bales.

And as Audrey attempts to heal her mind and body, far from home, their master prepares for the justice he will unleash upon her return.

Book Blurb for A Devil in Daylight (Book 2 of The Devil in Miss Drake’s Class series):

After three months in the suicide prevention wing of St. George’s, Audrey Bales is finally coming home. Enrolled at a new school, she plans to reinvent herself with a new look, new friends, and a second chance to be just like everyone else. But the kids who drove her over the edge aren’t through with her yet.

And one of her new friends has an agenda all his own.

“You will account for what you did to Audrey. You, and all the others. It will never stop …”

During the day, the halls of Battlefield High will echo with their screams.

“…until one of you ends it.”

And at night, their screams will be silenced.

Book Blurb for The Devil at Play (Book 3 in The Devil in Miss Drake’s Class series):

Now, too late for it to matter, Audrey understands at last. The devil of Fairview has been courting her for days, and watching her for much longer than that. The murderer is her boyfriend – and he’s been killing on her behalf.

His name is Jack Maddox, but everyone calls him Mad Jack. He’s planning a party, where everyone is invited, especially Audrey’s tormentors – especially the Facebook 15.

Audrey will have her revenge, whether she wants it or not.

Because, in Miss Drake’s class, the devil will have his due.

Book Blurb for The Salvation State:

“This is what the truth is. Second Salvations murdered my parents, and I’m running away.”

A single post over unregulated Internet channels. A sleeping society awakens to a chase, broadcast live on television screens all across the New United States of America.

Rebecca and Daniel have never met. A fifteen-year-old preacher’s kid and a sixteen-year-old atheist outcast, they have little in common. And yet they both have attracted the attention of a recruiter for Second Salvations, where bad kids go to be remade—or destroyed.

Agents of the New America Unity Church will stop at nothing to get them. They’re building an army, a modern children’s crusade, in which Rebecca and Daniel may be just the kind of future leaders they need.

If not, they might be just the kind of sacrifice necessary to keep the rest of the faithless in line.

Author Bio:

Marcus Damanda lives in Woodbridge, Virginia with his cat, Shazam. At various times throughout his life, he played bass guitar for the garage heavy metal band Mother’s Day, wrote for The Dale City Messenger, and published editorials in The Potomac News and The Freelance Star. To date, ten of his short horror stories have been produced by the Parsec Award winning NoSleep Podcast—featuring the brilliant and talented Jessica McEvoy, who has narrated four of his audiobooks as well. Currently, while not plotting his next foray into fictitious suburban mayhem, he spoils his nieces and nephews and teaches middle school English.

Places to Find Marcus Amanda

GIVEAWAY!

Marcus Damanda is generously offering up 3 sets of the Audible.com audiobook trilogy The Devil in Miss Drake’s Class, along with 3 ebook copies of each of the following books: Devils in the Dark, A Devil in Daylight, The Devil at Play, & The Salvation State . You can enter the Rafflecopters below or you can answer these questions in the comments: 1) Do you prefer the ebook or audiobook version? 2) Do you have an Audible.com account? 3) Who are your favorite book villains? 4) Please leave a way to contact you if you win. Giveaways ends December 7, 2016, midnight.

Audible.com Audiobook copy of The Devil in Miss Drake’s Class trilogy (3 winners)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Ebook copies of The Devil in Miss Drake’s Class trilogy (3 winners) Open International

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Ebook copy of The Salvation State (3 winners) Open International

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Audiobook Giveaway & Interview: Brian E. Niskala, Author of Rhinehoth

Folks, please welcome Brian Niskala to the blog today. We chat about horror writers, financial growth, cycling, and a porpoise scare – plus much more. Indeed, Brian is quite the entertaining interview! There’s an audiobook copy of his suspenseful horror novel Rhinehoth up for grabs, so scroll to the bottom to check out the giveaway!

What makes you cringe?

Wow, what a question to lead off with. People who Mix capital and lower case letters when they hand write something. The use of the word “mine’s” as “That is mine’s” or at least I think they intend to use an apostrophe. People who think they drive a car/truck well and pass on the right. Okay I could go on and on…

Which ancient or historical works have you not read and periodically kick yourself for not having made time for them yet?

Works of Shakespeare, I studied them in High School English and hated it. But now I see the root and invention of so many words came from him that I would like time to read all his works. I’ve actually read the Bible 3 times and actually have become rather opinioned on the whole thing. As a result, I like to read the bible every so often as a refresher. Not that I consider myself religious, but more spiritual as I have become older and wiser. I have in fact also read the translated Koran and Torah, but more so as a book, rather than a study. The Koran and Torah I would like to revisit and take my time to understand them as I do the Bible.

Do you have any phobias?

No phobias that I can think of, I’m paranoid about some things, but no so much as to be a conspiracy junkie. Well now that I think of it, I could say I have a phobia about sharks. I mean I will swim in the ocean, or rather wade in it. But if I can’t see my feet, I’m too deep. I had a scare when I was a young teen. I was swimming in a bay off my uncle’s boat and something rubbed up against me. When I say I turned white and froze, I turned pale white and almost sank because I stopped moving my arms and legs. It ended up being a porpoise, similar to a dolphin. But when its fin broke the top of the water, I freaked! Not to mention I had recently watched Jaws and to this day I will not go deep enough in the ocean to swim. I have a lake by my house with a cool looking beach. I even freak out a little swimming over to this floating dock we have about 40 feet from the beach. If a piece of lake weed hits me or a fish, I nearly jump right out of the water!

In my experience, some of the best fiction is based on facts and history. How do you build your research into your fictional works?

I write both fiction and non-fiction so I find myself being a research bee. I like to read and re-read a lot of books. I find myself reading Joseph Campbell’s Hero with a Thousand Faces, often. Then into my research, I try to craft characters around Campbell’s research of what works over the millenniums. I draw a lot from biblical reference, more so for the familiarity that people will associate with and as those stories have been so well crafted over time.

If you couldn’t be a writer, what would you chose to do?

Besides writing, I am an avid investor. I have a book out on investing and I’ve always been interested in the stock and bond markets. I actually spend more time researching stocks and financials than writing. Writing fiction actually gives my mind a break from writing my non-fiction works. So in short, I would have probably chosen to be a stock broker or hedge fund manager at this point of my life.

In this age of publishing, self-promotion is really necessary for the author. What do you enjoy most about advertising yourself and your works? What do you find most challenging?

I have a Twitter account listed under the name Rhinehoth, fitting enough. I have about 19,000+ followers which that number seems to grow daily. I use Twitter to help promote my books as well as other author’s works that I enjoy. I have not started an official blog as of yet, but think that is my next social engagement. Self-promotion is paramount to being successful in just about anything, especially in book marketing and sales in general.

What were you like as a kid? Did your kid-self see you being a writer?

As a kid I was high energy! To say the least I had trouble sitting still, so writing was initially the furthest from my mind. I wanted to be a ship captain from an early age. However I did write this adventure story that got some national recognition when I was in 5^th grade, I went to a couple of writing workshops as a result but wasn’t taken too serious as I was so young. My short lived ship captain and writing dream was put on hold for another passion. I had a friend who was interested in cycling and as a result I became a very avid cyclist. My love for cycling grew and soon I found myself pursuing a position on the US and Olympic cycling teams. So needless to say, my athletics took over as my primary focus. I began writing seriously after a long term bout with unemployment after the 2008 economic hiccup. It was either sit on the couch and “drink” (I haven’t and don’t drink alcohol) or keep active, productive and write. I had an opportunity to start-over and reinvent myself. I thought of what I dreamed of as a kid, being a captain of a ship was possible, if I bought the ship and captained it myself at my age. I remembered the excitement of getting national recognition for my story when I was younger and that is when my mind became flooded with countless book ideas. From there I knew what I wanted to do, write.

If you could sit down and have dinner with 5 dead authors, who would you invite to the table? What would they order?

Edgar Allan Poe would be my first pick. He was the only one that truly wrote anything that kept my attention span in High School English. He would order blackbird pie of course…

Alexandre Dumas as he is my favorite author. The Count of Monte Cristo is my all-time favorite read. Said to be an expert cook himself, I would think where ever we ate he would order the house special to learn from and test his taste buds.

Agatha Christie I like her writing a lot, it gives you a glimpse into early 20^th century with people’s thought patterns of her day. Her mystery/detective novels would keep me reading for hours. She would order the most exotic thing on the menu.

Jane Austen I love. Her novels are great reads and give you a real good representation of her time period. It truly is remarkable how our language has changed over a few centuries. The fact she died at 41 is a tragedy considering if she had lived another decade or more we probably would have a few more master pieces from her. She would probably order gruel and soft boiled eggs and boiled potatoes… 😉

H.G. Wells had a significant impact on my vision of the future. The fact he wrote about complex futures in a time period where the technology was still rather primitive is amazing! Somehow I always pictured him eating steak, baked potato and beer.

If you were asked to create the syllabus for a college class in Horror literature, what books would be on there as required reading? As passing discussion?

Frankenstein by Mary Shelley

Dracula by Bram Stoker

Hell House by Richard Matheson

The Exorcist by William Peter Blatty

The Shining by Stephen King

The Amityville Horror by Jay Anson

I would choose these 6, a nice number representing monsters, ghosts, demonic possession, and one who was driven mad. Classic mixed with some modern tales. My class would be based around how one’s inner thoughts can create a hell on earth.

What do you do when you are not writing?

I am a father of 4. Half of them are grown but still live home and the other half in school. They keep me pretty busy. But I am a voracious reader and audiobook listener as I travel often for business. I am well past the 1,000 mark of books read/listened to! But my true passion, above and beyond anything else is finance. Believe it or not, most of my daily thought pattern is how to invest my money to create more wealth.

Places to Stalk Brian E. Niskala

Book Blurb for Rhinehoth

This AudioBook has a full cast of characters! Over half a dozen actors and actresses were cast to complete this audio drama production.

Rhinehoth – Centuries ago, a great castle was built in the mountains of Germany’s Black Forest. Its ancient guardians still thrive in its walls, forever protecting its dark secrets, holding captive an enemy that threatens their very existence. Foretold is a story of an ancient warrior that is to return to the castle to free the captive Vampire Prince.

Simon Roberts was a petty thief who fled England to escape Scotland Yard after a series of unsuccessful jewelry store heists. He was recruited to do a job in Germany where he was to simply drive the getaway car while providing a look out. He thought this was going to be an easy job and a way to break into the German crime scene. But things go terribly wrong, and he ended up being the only survivor of the botched heist. Simon is quickly sentenced to a prison called Rhinehoth. This is where Germany sent the worst of the worst, surely not a place for a petty thief such as himself.

Rhinehoth is a great German castle that was converted in the late 1930s to a Stalag for war criminals of World War II. The converted prison’s modern day inhabitants are relentlessly tortured, starved, and sleep deprived. This contributes to the prisoners’ delusional visions that help hide the truth and keeps Rhinehoth’s secrets. Their captors are the army of Werewolves who have survived the centuries off the very flesh and blood of Germany’s worst forgotten criminals.

Simon, imprisoned, becomes plagued with visions from his subconscious ancient past with confusion of his modern day consciousness. He discovers through his visions that he is the ancient warrior Guthrie, who has come to free the Vampire Prince and all the captives, while saving the world from a dark plan of biblical proportions that has been orchestrated over the centuries!

GIVEAWAY!

Brian is offering up an Audible.com audiobook copy of Rhinehoth! Hooray! To enter the drawing, do the Rafflecopter thing below or answer these questions in the comments: 1) Do you have an Audible.com account? 2) What makes you cringe? 3) Leave a way for me to contact you if you win. This giveaway ends August 25th, midnight my time.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The History & Folklore of Vampires by Charles River Editors

Where I Got It: Review copy from the narrator (thanks!).

Narrator: Jack Chekijian

Publisher: Charles River Editors (2015)

Length: 1 hour 21 minutes

Author’s Page

In this informational book, Charles River Editors looks at the history of vampiric folklore world wide, with a strong focus on Europe. The vampires of modern literature and cinema are not the vampires of the ancient past. Indeed, those beings that have been called ‘vampire’ often bear little resemblance to Bran Stoker’s version. This book explores the folklore, the history to the modern version of vampires, historic figures, and a biological explanation of why some corpses may be accused of being vampires.

Charles River Editors has given us another informative book. I have listened to several of these short histories and each one has been quite impressive in the depth of information that can be imparted in just over an hour. I have read a little on vampiric folklore and history and yet, there was more for me to learn from this book. I especially like that there is an emphasis on the original meaning of the vampire and the powers of vampires in ancient folklore. In many tales the vampire would be the spirit of a dead person who was determined to feed on the life force of a living being. There are a variety of world folklore shared in this book, including those about the chupacabra. Many of these tales have evolved over time, especially since the popularity of Bram Stoker’s Dracula hit Europe.

A chapter is devoted to historic figures that became wrapped up in the vampire folklore. Of course, this included Vlad ‘The Impaler’ Dracula. Vampire hunters are also discussed. Indeed, plenty of detail is provided about historic events where people dug up bodies, believing them to be vampires slumbering away the day, and the various ways the vampires were dispatched. This was a fascinating topic and I can only imagine that contagion was sometimes spread by those hell-bent on destroying vampires. Everyone today knows it is unsanitary to play with corpses.

I think this would be useful to those wanting a primer on vampire folklore as it definitely gives you a list of places, events, and people to research further, should you be inclined. I found it fascinating because it demonstrates how human behavior and beliefs have kept this myth alive for centuries.

I received a copy of this audiobook at no charge via the narrator in exchange for an honest review.

The Narration: Jack Chekijian has given another worthy performance. There were several hard to pronounce proper nouns in this book, mostly places, and Chekijian did a great job not stumbling over them. I am sure there are a few myths (goat sucker?!?) that must have made the narrator giggle a little the first time he read them. However, none of that came through in the final product. He treated each myth with seriousness.

What I Liked: Educational and entertaining!; fascinating subject; good reference for the beginner; very pleased to world folklore explored, not just European folklore; included historic figures.

What I Disliked: Nothing – I really enjoyed this one!

The Vampire Dancer Saga: Part 3 by Shalimar Ali

Where I Got It: Won a copy from AudaVoxx (thanks!).

Narrators: Fatimah Halim, J. Lyle

Publisher: Belly Dance with Shalimar Ali (2014)

Length: 1 hour 7 minutes

Author’s Page

Note: Even though this is Book 3 in the series, it works OK as a stand alone.

Told in a series of short scenes, ancient queens and vampires compete and couple in the past, just as their dopplegangers do the same in our time. From Cleopatra to Dracula, belly dancing to the grind, ancient witch Queen Salome to modern day witch Grany Rosa Smith, this tale is anything but traditional.

At first, I wasn’t sure what to make of this book. It does skip around quickly, so you have to pay close attention. There is also a large cast of characters, so you never have time to get attached to any one character. Instead, you simply have to sit back and enjoy the experience, like watching an hour of 80s music videos. Not every video has to make 100% sense, and they don’t have to necessarily relate to one another, and you certainly don’t get to know the individual band members from the one video they feature in within that hour.

The over all experience was definitely different. I wouldn’t have thought to pair vampires and belly dancing, both of which can be sexy things. I liked that we had more female roles than male roles (something that is still hard to find in today’s literature). However, I didn’t like that at least half of these ladies were in direct competition with each of for a man. Sigh. So cliche.

Still, it was an interesting experience and for an hour’s entertainment, you could do far worse.

The Narration: Fatimah Halim and J. Lyle were excellent narrators. For having to switch characters, locations, and times so often they did a very nice job. I really liked Halim’s rich, full voice that made me think of comfort food and curvy sexy women all at once. J. Lyle had to pull off some accents while sounding like he had pointy teeth, which he did very well.

What I Liked: The cover art; the narration; so very different than anything else I have read lately; belly dancing!; plenty of female roles.

What I Disliked: Often the ladies were in competition with each for a man’s attention, which is simply boring.