KC Riley-Gyer
Ah Hogwarts
This is world-building for a novel the readers normally wouldn't get to see. Thank goodness for the huge Harry Potter fandom as it gives us this little gem to join the rest.
While some of this is new and others aren't, I would have liked each entry to have been more in-depth than the snippets they are. Despite that, this is an enjoyable quick read.
Behind the scenes
An author writes a lot of things when writing a book and not all of it ever makes its way into a novel. What is one to do with such information that will just sit there? Turn them into a book of short stories of info snippets so fans can delve deeper into that world the novels never reveal.
Despite this still being sparse on information, I did enjoy this brief peek into Harry Potter's Wizarding World. It'll more than likely not answer your questions but ‘tis an enjoy read nonetheless.
The ebb and flow of life
What starts out as a spur of the moment holiday becomes so much more. What a delight this read was. This is the first time I've read from this author and I thoroughly enjoyed the story and the characters, and the twists and turns. I have a new series on my list as I read this book in one sitting.
Good for the beginner
As of two days ago (24 March 2021), scrivener 3 for Windows was released and you might feel you need help getting started with it whether you've used scrivener before or not. This is a good book to get you started and is for both Windows users and Mac users.
Scrivener 3 Express will take you through the basics of getting started to learning the interface to setting up automatic saving and backups to compiling for publishing and all in between. It is well written, clear and concise with great screenshots clearly marked between the operating systems.
I will admit that I skimmed some sections due to my own work flow and where I'm currently at in my project. Only you can decide what your work flow is and if scrivener is the right software for you to use. Tip: learn in bits and pieces so you won't feel overwhelmed and based on whether or not you have a deadline.
Beginners' Help
For beginners, this is definitely worth buying if you plan on downloading the scrivener program. If you're not a beginner, you might or might not find this useful. Either way, this book has been well put together and is highly informative.
This book will not hold your hand during every step of your writing journey. It will, however, take you from choosing a template for your new project to setting up the backup to how to sync across devices properly to how each section works within a project. This book is about the software and where to find the sections and their basic use.
I'd started using scrivener 1 a couple of weeks ago and my usage is basic. As of 24 March 2021 (yesterday at the time of writing this), scrivener 3 for Windows and this book came out at basically the same time and this book has helped me to navigate around the new program. Especially within the Options and the settings covered within.
I admit I skimmed some of the things because I'm not a plotter and currently don't see a use for them based on my own work flow (do note, only you can decide what your work flow is and what works best for you). But the beauty of having this book is that I can grab it and look up what I need to help me along whenever the need arises.
The Storm
More is yet to come! The twists at the end are amazing hooks. But they aren't the only things that keep me reading this series. The characters, each story, they're what keeps me coming back.
One issue is this one needed better editing; so many obvious mistakes. It was like this book had been rushed to release. Hence only 4 stars this time.
On to the next book.
Ah Halloween
I'm gonna be repetitive... good characters, good story, edge of the seat reading. A nice twist at the end but I'd been expecting it. But I did hate the typical other branch of good guys acting like douchy bad guys.. that elitist crud. But, what does one expect from an old secret society. Eager to read the next book. Binge reading at its best.
Shadows
This is a slightly darker story and kept me on the edge of my seat; I didn't want to stop when I had to. I love how each book is a complete story but has a hook or more that leads to the next. Each story has me enjoying Alec and Felicity more and more; as well as the satellite characters who aid them.
Getting started
This is another excellent resource on writing a book for start to finish. I'm only part way through this but felt the need to leave a review now.
I was originally given a copy to read in exchange for a review. I've since bought a copy to add to my collection or resources in novel writing. I'm pleased with what I've read so far.
Buy this. It doesn't matter if you're a beginner or already have books published; you will always find something that will help you.
