Cerulean Isle Book Review

Cerulean Isle by GM Browning is the best historical action novel I've read in years! Is that even a genre? Historical fiction doesn't seem to cut it because it is far too fast paced and exciting to be dubbed a 'history' book. It's not fantasy, even though there are a few elements of that. I don't even know what to call it. But it's basically a Pirates of the Caribbean  in book form, only with a ruthless, bloodthirsty captain instead of Johnny Depp. Yeah. It's that good.

So, what's it about?

Kidnapped as a boy and kept as a slave on a pirate ship, young Jacob dreams of freedom, and of discovering the fabled island of the Mer people. With fellow shipmate Grant, Jacob escapes and finds refuge in Granada. But stories of Cerulean Isle, land of the Merfolk, continue to haunt him. One day a stranger appears, forcing Jacob and Grant to confront their past. They must embark on a dangerous voyage to flee from the pirates that seek their lives. In the process, Jacob at last discovers the truth behind legendary Cerulean Isle.
I don't usually go out of my way to read books that aren't 'chick lit'... but I grabbed this one because it was written by a fellow author at the same publishing house that published my books. Author comraderie, you know? That's why I bought it and kept it on my shelf for a while as I read the latest Sophie Kinsella book instead. Then, one night when I couldn't sleep, I picked it up and started to read it, hoping that a chapter or two would put me out. Ha. Nice try. Instead, I was up until 1:00 am. I could not put it down. And now, I will recommend this book to the world. Check it out! Now! Do it! This book is awesome.

It is a bit bloody at times, as there is killing and death. But it's pirates, so that's expected, and the author does a fine job of making it realistic without being too detailed or gross. The language is clean yet not corny. You feel like you are there. The action is non stop, there are twists and turns all along that keep you turning pages. Basically, it deserves to be read.

5 out of 5 stars! Can't wait for the next one by Browning!

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In other WiDo Publishing news, my new novel, due out in a few months, is going to the copy edit right away! I will keep you all posted as soon as I have a title and release date!

And, my current novel, Tanned, Toned and Totally Faking It, has received yet another awesome review! Here it is:

This is the best, cute, fun, light read I have read in so long. Whitney Boyd's writing reminds me of a Canadian Sophie Kinsella, but with a smart, main character you can relate to and want to cheer for. Mikayla, the lead character, is from Calgary, Alberta and going to U of C (WAHOO for Calgary!) when she is discovered by an agent. Record deals and grammy nominations and a move to L.A. are now part of her life, but she doesn't have many people she can trust to love her for who she is instead of the fame. This is a girl who enjoys the lifestyle along with the spotlight, but also enjoys being REAL and wearing comfy sweat pants and being able to shop without the paparazzi. What more could a normal girl from Canada dream of? A Man.

I appreciate the authors basing the character out of Calgary, without making fun of uber Canadian-isms. She likes hockey, but doesn't get made fun of for her accent or mounties, or any other uncommon canadian jokes.

Honestly, I think this book was one of the best light hearted books I have read in a long time. Buy it now! You will thank me when you finish it.

 

Thanks, Brooke! If ya'll haven't read it, listen to Brooke... and read it now! :)