Friday, January 30, 2015

FREE book: Epic fantasy The Gifting!

Epic fantasy The Gifting (Gathandria #1) is FREE today and tomorrow only at Amazon!

Simon Hartstongue is a mind-reader, and branded a coward and a murderer. When his overlord and lover Ralph Tregannon turns against him, he is forced to embark on a treacherous journey to the distant and magical land of Gathandria in order to save his country and his own soul. During a series of terrifying trials, Simon must encounter the trickery of the deadly Mind Executioner and the secret dealings of those he ought to trust. 

The Gifting is an Awesome Indies novel, and is showcased at the Awesome Indies website. 

Reviews

"The Gifting is a unique fantasy where mental and physical worlds merge in a flight of unrestrained imagination. Unlike much fantasy I've read lately, this book soars with hope. It's a story of redemption gained through a mystical journey through earth, air, fire and water that tests the deepest recesses of a man's soul." (Awesome Indies Reviews) 

"The Gifting is merely the introduction to the Gathandrian Trilogy; it's a big world, filled with intrigues and magic, loss and redemption. It's a fantastical place where almost anything is possible, where a coward can become a hero, where the promise for more excitement and enchantment are guaranteed, and I look forward to seeing where Anne Brooke will take us next, as well as discovering what Simon's future holds." (Top2Bottom Reviews)


Download your FREE copy today! Happy reading.

Anne Brooke Books
The Gathandrian Fantasy Trilogy
Gay Reads UK

Sunday, January 25, 2015

Atishoo and Bless You! The ABC of Mucus Management

As a regular sufferer of all kinds of catarrh and sinusitis problems, I've long felt that it would be great to have a easy-reference guide on the market, offering helpful hints to making me and my fellow-sufferers get better quickly. Well, I've not been able to find one, so I thought I'd write my own, so here it is:


Sinusitis? Catarrh? That awful feeling of nausea? Yes, you've got the dreaded problem of mucus. It's nasty and debilitating and nobody seems to want to talk about it, but don't worry, as you're not alone! Written by a fellow-sufferer, The ABC of Mucus Management takes you through a series of suggested remedies, tips and tricks to manage your sinusitis and catarrh issues. It will help ease your discomfort, shorten your period of illness and prevent your next attack. Atishoo and bless you!

I hope that this little book will provide some essential help to all you catarrh and sinusitis sufferers out there - happy reading and bless you!



Anne Brooke Books
Dryathlon 2015 - Help support Cancer Research UK in January!

Saturday, January 24, 2015

Headlong by Michael Frayn: Rambling Nonsense with a Spark of Genius


Martin Clay, a young would-be art historian, suddenly sees opening in front of him the chance of a lifetime: the opportunity to perform a great public service, and at the same time to make his professional reputation - perhaps even a lot of money as well. Thus he finds himself drawn step by step into a moral and intellectual labyrinth.

I'm normally a fan of all Frayn's work and count him as one of the best living writers we have. However, I'm sorry to say this book is on the whole a significant error of judgement in a wide variety of ways, and only just managed to redeem itself in the last one hundred pages or so. This isn't enough to make it a great work of literature or even a good book.

Here are the issues that are wrong with it:

  1. Martin is a dull and weak man, who thinks of himself far more highly than he needs to. As a result, he's neither strong enough nor attractive enough as a character to carry this story.
  2. The characters, particularly the wife Kate, are very shadowy indeed and really more caricatures than genuine people.
  3. The long and dull ramblings about art and Bruegel are … well … long and rambling. Mind you, the ability to make the magnificent Bruegel dull is itself quite impressive. If Frayn had wanted to write an historical novel, he should have done so, as Martin is not strong enough to make the historical sections interesting. It's more of an info-dump than a narrative.
  4. The first 280 or so pages are mind-numbingly tedious.
Here are the issues that are right with it:
  1. After page 280, the plot suddenly becomes interesting and fast-moving enough for the weak characterisation to be unimportant. Actually, the plot did very much remind me of one of the episodes of Midsomer Murders, but for me that's no bad thing as it's a crime series I enjoy.
  2. The Lady of the Manor Laura finally comes into her own at the end of the novel, though she's still sadly underwritten.
  3. The final page is spot on, and (possibly, though the jury's still out ...) worth the 280 pages of drivel to get there. Much like Wagner then in that you have to suffer through one hell of a lot of opera boredom to arrive at that glorious final note.
Verdict: 2.5 stars (the 0.5 for that end page). Rambling nonsense, with an odd spark of genius here and there.





Dryathlon Cancer Research UK Challenge - one week to go!

There's ONE WEEK left on my Dryathlon Cancer Research UK January challenge and not a drop of alcohol has passed my lips since December, go me!

It's a truly wonderful cause so if you are able to give a small amount to make sure we can cure cancer in our lifetime, please do visit my page. You never know - it may well help you or your family in the future. Thank you!

Anne Brooke
Dryathlon Challenge

Friday, January 23, 2015

FREE book: Comic Romance Rosie by Name!

Comic romance Rosie by Name is FREE at Amazon today and tomorrow only so hurry along to download your copy while the offer lasts!

Rosie (AKA Alison) works at a high-class escort agency as a receptionist. When her boss asks her to be the special birthday present for his favourite nephew, she can't help but agree. The boss is the boss after all. 

However an evening of surprises, unexpected parents and even the odd spider awaits her. By the end of the night, will she have fulfilled her mission or is her potential pay-rise nothing but a distant dream?

Reviews

"A fun coffee-break read about a brothel receptionist who goes above and beyond to keep her boss happy. Rosie By Name is a light, easy read, and with plenty of Anne Brooke's original metaphors and similes to keep you entertained until the twist in the tale." (A 5-star review at Amazon)

Happy reading, and have a great weekend!

Anne Brooke Books
Gay Reads UK
Dryathlon 2015 - still time to donate to Cancer Research UK!

Wednesday, January 21, 2015

Half-price sale at Amber Quill Press!

There's a half-price sale of suspense and thriller fiction at Amber Quill Press until Friday! So, if you're a non-EU reader, you can get ALL THREE of my gay thrillers at discount prices:

A Dangerous Man

Michael Jones, a young gay artist and part-time prostitute, will do anything to stage his first exhibition. When he falls in love with rich financier, Jack Hutchinson, he seems set to achieve his goal. But as Michael becomes caught between the unforgiving territory of smoky-bar Hackney and the green-garden luxury of upper class London, the intense mindscape of a man obsessed with his dreams is revealed as he attempts to free himself from his past.
When a net of antagonistic relationships and inner battles encroaches upon him, the consequences of Michael's uncompromising pursuit emerge in tragedy, leaving him having to fight for all he holds dear, and in the only way he knows how.


Reviews:
“...brilliant...powerful as hell too... The protagonist, Michael...His obsession is huge, a swallowing emotion that sweeps out of your feet with every line you read... Another astonishing fact is how brilliantly his self-destructiveness is painted...Michael was brilliantly written...” – Thommie, MM Good Book Reviews

Buy the book at half-price today!


Maloney's Law

Shortlisted for the Harry Bowling Prize 2006 (for novels set in London) and the Royal Literary Fund Scheme, and longlisted for the Betty Bolingbroke-Kent Novel Award...
Paul Maloney, a small-time private investigator from London, reluctantly accepts a case from his married ex-lover, Dominic Allen. Before he knows it, Paul finds himself embroiled in the dark dealings of big business and the sordid world of international crime. The deeper he pushes, the closer he comes to losing everything he holds dear.
Can he solve the mystery and protect those he loves before it's too late?

Reviews:

"...Paul is an complex character. In fact it's difficult to put down in words all the various aspects of Paul's character...my favourite part of Paul's character were the little quirks given to him by the author...a breathtaking ride from start to finish...Once again Anne Brooke has produced a book which is high in emotional intensity and yet never strays into hysteria. Her descriptions of setting, character and situation all combine to makeMaloney's Law into an unforgettable read. I highly recommend that you read this book...Grade: 'Excellent.'" -- Jenre, Well Read
"...a gay romance and mystery. It’s also a dark, deep, and poetic gay romance and mystery...I confess I love novels written in the first person and present tense, but I also know it’s quite difficult to write them well. But not, apparently, for Brooke. Her Maloney’s Law is exceptionally well-written...I thank you, Anne Brooke, for writing this story." -- Ron Fritsch, Rainbow Book Reviews

Buy the book at half-price today!


The Bones of Summer

The sequel to Maloney's Law, garnering third place in the inaugural 2009 Rainbow Mystery Fiction Awards...
When Craig Robertson’s religious fanatic father disappears, Craig is forced to return to the home he left behind after an underage affair in order to look for answers. He takes with him his new lover, private investigator Paul Maloney, who is more than willing to help solve the mystery.
During his initial search, Craig locates items that belonged to Michael, his lover in that long-ago ill-fated affair, and soon discovers that Michael has disappeared as well. The search becomes an investigation into Craig’s past, and, because of distressing gaps in his memory, he’s terrified of the truths he might find.
As Craig’s obsession with uncovering clues grows, however, his fragile relationship with Paul begins to disintegrate. Haunted and stalked, Craig has to face down the horror of his memories if he wants to have any hope of a future at all...

Reviews:

"... good and well written...It focuses on religious obsession and how people twist and perverse faith into abnormality and loses the very point of it...you’ll like this one." -- Thommie, MM Good Book Reviews

Buy the book at half-price today!

Happy reading to all.

Anne Brooke Books
Gay Reads UK
Dryathlon 2015: Support Cancer Research UK!




Tuesday, January 20, 2015

FREE Book: Tales from the Typeface!

For today only, Tales from The Typeface: a Secretary's Life and How to Survive It is FREE at Amazon so don't miss out!

Office life: love it or hate it, but you can't get away from it. Want to laugh at the lighter side of your secretarial career? Then this is the book for you! Discover the essential art of looking busy, how to love your photocopier and carve a path through the stationery jungle. Learn to deal with terrifying tasks, tricky travel arrangements and the horrors of networking. And do it all with a smile on your face and success on your CV. Happy typing! 

A reader review: "hysterically funny and very true of all offices everywhere!" 

Happy reading!


Anne Brooke Books
Dryathlon 2015: Please give generously to Cancer Research UK!


Friday, January 16, 2015

Two FREE Books: A double Amazon treat for you!

This weekend I have not one, but TWO free books for you to enjoy!

Dark fantasy novel The Executioner's Cane is FREE at Amazon for today only:

The Executioner's Cane is the final book in the Gathandrian Trilogy fantasy series. The first two books are The Gifting and Hallsfoot's Battle

Simon Hartstongue, accompanied by the mind-cane and the snow-raven, must travel back to the land he came from to offer support to the people he once tried to kill. From Gathandria, Annyeke Hallsfoot endeavours to help him but her attentions are focused on rebuilding the city after the wars. 

Alone and faced with the anger of his people and hindered by the fragility of Ralph Tregannon's leadership, Simon has to find a way to bring healing to a dying country and to renew his relationship with Ralph. But the odds and time itself are stacked against him.

Download YOUR free copy today!


Comic non-fiction Tales from the Typeface: a Secretary's Life and How to Survive It is FREE at Amazon today and tomorrow:

Office life: love it or hate it, but you can't get away from it. Want to laugh at the lighter side of your secretarial career? Then this is the book for you! Discover the essential art of looking busy, how to love your photocopier and carve a path through the stationery jungle. Learn to deal with terrifying tasks, tricky travel arrangements and the horrors of networking. And do it all with a smile on your face and success on your CV. Happy typing! 

A reader review: "hysterically funny and very true of all offices everywhere!" 

Download Your free copy now!

I hope you enjoy both books, and have a great weekend.

Anne Brooke
The Gathandrian Fantasy Trilogy
Dryathlon 2015: Please support Cancer Research UK

Wednesday, January 14, 2015

New gay romance: Angels and Airheads!

Gay comic romance Angels and Airheads is published at Amazon today!

Ricky has been secretly in love with his best friend Jez forever, but he's never dared confess his feelings because he thinks Jez is too high-class for him. One evening, while sharing a quiet evening with Jez, a mysterious angel, Madred, appears and tries to persuade Ricky to take a chance on love.

Too bad Ricky doesn't believe in angels. Madred is forced to take desperate measures in an attempt to show the reluctant Ricky the truth. When the angel leaves, can Ricky find the courage to declare himself to Jez, and what will happen to their friendship if he does? 





Reviews

"I really liked how romantic this story was. We don't get long with the men together on the page, but what is there is quite delightful. Their long friendship reflected the emotions and feelings but there was the fresh newness of the physical which added to that friendship and showed they were in for the long haul." [From an A-rated review at Brief Encounter Reviews] 

"There are none so blind as those who will not see. And sometimes it takes nothing less than a gigantic nudge from your guardian angel to get you to open your eyes and see the miracle that's been right in front of you all along … Angels and Airheads is a story of perfect love in an imperfect world, and what could be more sweet than that?" [From a 4-star review at The Novel Approach] 

"This is such a sweet short about taking chances; Ricky has been gently nudged quite a few times to put his heart out there to Jez. But he always thinks of something that always holds him back. This time Heaven means business and Madred is given the task of convincing him … I recommend this to those who love angel intervention, conflicted men, a sweet short story and a happy ending." [From a 4-star review at MM Good Book Reviews] 

"Angels and Airheads is a short, endearing story of faith, hope, and love. I love how Anne Brooke incorporates faith in her stories and yes, I can do a happy dance. This is my first time reading a strong HEA from this author." [From a 4-star review at TWLIB Reviews] 

"I'm not much for divine interventions when it comes to books, but in this particular one I very much enjoyed it. I've found that Anne Brooke's style with her short stories suits me and romance is certainly her thing." [From a review at The Romance Reviews]

Happy reading!

Anne Brooke Books
Gay Reads UK
Dryathlon 2015: Please give generously to Cancer Research UK!

Friday, January 09, 2015

FREE book: dark fantasy Hallsfoot's Battle!

For TODAY only, dark fantasy novel Hallsfoot's Battle (Gathandria #2) is FREE at Amazon, so pop along and pick up your copy while the offer lasts!

This book is the second in the Gathandrian Fantasy series and is the sequel to The Gifting

The battle for survival has merely begun and the Mind Executioner's defeat is only temporary. Annyeke Hallsfoot, Acting Elder of Gathandria, must join forces with Simon the Scribe in a tenuous alliance to fight for their survival. However, Simon is distracted by his own personal demons, giving Annyeke no choice but to plot a desperate strategy to defeat the enemy. 

When the Mind Executioner kidnaps Simon and raises an army from the dead, all hope appears to be lost. Both Annyeke and Simon, with the help of the mysterious mind-cane and the magical snow-raven, are determined to stay alive and, if possible, to win.

"a great trilogy that I couldn't put down" (From a 5-star Amazon US review)


Happy reading!

Anne Brooke Books
The Gathandrian Fantasy Trilogy
Dryathlon 2015: Support Cancer Research UK!

New reviews for The Apple Picker's Daughter!

Much to my surprise and delight, novel of childhood The Apple Picker's Daughter has picked up its first US reviews at Amazon:

Born in the 1960s on a UK apple farm, Clare Rivers is a girl out of time, living in a family and a world that makes little sense to her. Determined to carve out her place somehow, and with her deep love of her father to see her through, Clare begins a unique journey to discover the reasons for her own existence. If she can. However, accompanied by the oddities of family, school and the strange lyrical life of the apples, can Clare really find a place within herself to call home? 

This novel will appeal to lovers of rural life, recent history and a child's quirky but clear-sighted view of the adult world.



Reviews:

"The only way to absorb Anne Brooke's gift of a child's perception of the world is to read the book. It is a joy!" (From a 5-star Amazon US review)

"She [Clare] sees herself as different and she has never felt that she quite fit into the dynamics around her. She embarks on a journey of self discovery that will endear even the most hardened cynic. This book is an absolute joy to read." (From a 4-star Amazon US review)


So why not pick up a copy and give it a try today? Happy reading!

Anne Brooke Books
The Gathandrian Trilogy
Dryathlon 2015: Support Cancer Research today!

Wednesday, January 07, 2015

HALF-PRICE Gay Fantasy: Martin and The Wolf

Gay shapeshifter story Martin and The Wolf is HALF-PRICE at Amber Quill Press until 9 January so don't miss out!

When thirty-six-year-old lecturer Martin meets the mysterious Lucas at a neighbor’s midsummer party, the attraction is instant and hot. The two men soon start a relationship, but Martin is puzzled by Lucas’ behavior. He’s not like any man Martin has ever known—indeed, sometimes Lucas hardly seems human at all—and Martin wants to find out why.
But on one August night, when Martin tracks Lucas to the depths of the local park, he discovers eye-opening, fantastical realities about his new lover and the pack of strange wolves Lucas runs with than he had ever thought possible. Can Martin handle the truth?



Reviews:

"Martin and The Wolf by Anne Brooke is a gracefully written paranormal novelette that takes a fresh perspective on the werewolf legend … The story's appeal lies in those fascinating disconnects where Lucas's aggressive wolf personality causes him to stand out from the camouflage of his courteous but reserved British countrymen. Even better is the first-person narrator Martin's puzzled but unflappable acceptance of Lucas." [From a Recommended Reads review at ARe Cafe Reviews]
“This is an amazing story about Martin, a university lecturer, and Lucas, a somewhat wild and definitely unusual designer ... I loved the message of this story: what counts in a relationship between any two "beings" isn't how they look, nor necessarily what DNA they carry, or what they behave like. The focus in examining whether we can have a relationship with someone, and accept who and what they are, should be on how they relate to us, what they mean to us, and how they treat us. A very powerful message indeed!” [From a review at Queer Magazine Online]

Happy reading!

Anne Brooke
Gay Reads UK
Dryatholon 2015: Helping Cancer Research UK


Tuesday, January 06, 2015

A BIG thank you from The Gangster's Wife!

Quirky crime novel The Gangster's Wife was downloaded well over 1500 times over a 2-day period at Amazon as a free book, so a BIG thank you to everyone for that!

When 53-year-old Elise Walker returns home after a day at the office to find her husband Gerald dead of a heart attack, she doesn’t expect a visit from the police with revelations about Gerald’s secret life. 

Soon, however, her own life takes a distinctive turn for the surreal, with missing loot, online crime and curious neighbours the least of her problems. Not to mention trying to deal with never-ending funeral arrangements and stay on top of her job. 

Thank goodness then for the support of her ever-reliable boss, Hugh. But will even he turn against her when she decides to contact Gerald’s former gang members to find out more? And what is the real significance of the note Gerald left her? Most important of all, if Elise ever finds the money, will she be able to keep it? 

Happy reading!

Anne Brooke Books
The Gathandrian Fantasy Trilogy
Dryathlon 2015: Supporting Cancer Research UK


Sunday, January 04, 2015

FREE book: Acclaimed crime novel The Gangster's Wife

Crime novel The Gangster's Wife is FREE at Amazon until tomorrow only so don't miss out - especially as it's now received no less than NINE 5-star reviews at Amazon US, well gosh!

When 53-year-old Elise Walker returns home after a day at the office to find her husband Gerald dead of a heart attack, she doesn’t expect a visit from the police with revelations about Gerald’s secret life. 

Soon, however, her own life takes a distinctive turn for the surreal, with missing loot, online crime and curious neighbours the least of her problems. Not to mention trying to deal with never-ending funeral arrangements and stay on top of her job. 

Thank goodness then for the support of her ever-reliable boss, Hugh. But will even he turn against her when she decides to contact Gerald’s former gang members to find out more? And what is the real significance of the note Gerald left her? Most important of all, if Elise ever finds the money, will she be able to keep it? 

Here is a medley of the latest Amazon reviews:

"I loved this book. It was thrilling and kept me wanting to find out more along with the main character … Well written for anyone to enjoy!"

"I absolutely loved this book because it was engrossing, fast and very realising - It is the kind of book that you can put down and think to yourself: 'OK, who do I know that is leading a double life?'"

"Love, love, love this book! Elise is a woman I totally relate to … The book was beautifully worded and moved right along without lingering on its beautiful prose … Read this book. You won't be disappointed."

"Like a great movie … I would recommend it to anyone who wants to escape in a weird, but catchy story."

"I absolutely loved this book, very fast paced and interesting story! It is a fun read! I did not want to put this book down! Thanks, Anne Brooke, for a great read."

Gosh and phew - not bad then for a book I couldn't get any publishers to take a punt on as they thought readers wouldn't like it, hey ho … I'm very glad that some readers do, that's for sure!

If you do pick up the book, I'd be very grateful if you left a review, whatever you think - as reviews are lifelines to indie authors such as myself - many thanks, and happy reading!


Saturday, January 03, 2015

FREE book: Awesome Indies fantasy The Gifting!

For today ONLY, Awesome Indies fantasy novel The Gifting (Gathandria #1) is FREE at Amazon, so pick up your copy while you can!

Simon Hartstongue is a mind-reader, and branded a coward and a murderer. When his overlord and lover Ralph Tregannon turns against him, he is forced to embark on a treacherous journey to the distant and magical land of Gathandria in order to save his country and his own soul. During a series of terrifying trials, Simon must encounter the trickery of the deadly Mind Executioner and the secret dealings of those he ought to trust. 

The Gifting is an Awesome Indies novel, and is showcased at the Awesome Indies website. 





Reviews

"The Gifting is a unique fantasy where mental and physical worlds merge in a flight of unrestrained imagination. Unlike much fantasy I've read lately, this book soars with hope. It's a story of redemption gained through a mystical journey through earth, air, fire and water that tests the deepest recesses of a man's soul." (Awesome Indies Reviews) 

"The Gifting is merely the introduction to the Gathandrian Trilogy; it's a big world, filled with intrigues and magic, loss and redemption. It's a fantastical place where almost anything is possible, where a coward can become a hero, where the promise for more excitement and enchantment are guaranteed, and I look forward to seeing where Anne Brooke will take us next, as well as discovering what Simon's future holds." (Top2Bottom Reviews)

Happy reading!

Anne Brooke Books
The Gathandrian Fantasy Trilogy
Dryathlon 2015: Help beat cancer today


Friday, January 02, 2015

FREE book: comic romance Rosie by Name

Comic romance Rosie by Name is FREE at Amazon for today only, so don't miss out!

Rosie (AKA Alison) works at a high-class escort agency as a receptionist. When her boss asks her to be the special birthday present for his favourite nephew, she can't help but agree. The boss is the boss after all. 

However an evening of surprises, unexpected parents and even the odd spider awaits her. By the end of the night, will she have fulfilled her mission or is her potential pay-rise nothing but a distant dream?

Happy reading!





Anne Brooke Books
Gay Reads UK
Dryathlon 2015: Raising money for Cancer Research UK

Thursday, January 01, 2015

New Year Sales and Gay Fantasy News!

The New Year sales of my gay fiction books continue today!

Firstly, for today ONLY, all my All Romance Ebooks are HALF-PRICE, so hurry along to pick up a New Year bargain!

Not only that, but my Amber Quill Press fiction continues to be HALF PRICE until 3 January, so don't miss out.

Finally, I'm happy to say that gay BDSM fantasy The Taming of the Hawk is now available at Amazon for your delectation:

When escaped prisoner Redallek Castonar goes on the run in the war-torn city of Tetranal, he finds himself in the pleasure-house of Councillor Jarrod Tetran. Unaware that Redallek has made a blood-promise with the rebel factions to kill him, Jarrod is instantly attracted to the man. Although Redallek is determined to complete his mission as soon as possible in order to gain his freedom, he quickly finds his new master to be full of surprises and not the man he expected.

Meanwhile, Jarrod is secretly planning to take the ruling Council captive, and to begin a negotiated peace with the rebel army. Even though such an act goes against all his family stands for, he is willing to risk everything to save the country he loves from destruction.

Both Redallek and Jarrod are determined to fight for freedom and peace, but in two very different ways. Will their differences drive them apart, or can they find a way to work together for the good of all? And, even if they do, will the passion springing up between them lead to victory or defeat?

Happy reading to all!

Anne Brooke Books
Gay Reads UK
Dryathlon January 2015: Support Cancer Research