MOVIE REVIEW: "The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies"

We all know the tale, a hairy little hobbit named Bilbo gets unwillingly taken on an adventure with a company of thirteen dwarves and Gandalf, a wizard. The dwarves, led by King Thorin Oakenshield, are on a quest to reclaim their homeland, the mountain Erebor, which is filled with treasure...and guarded by the dragon, Smaug.
Along the way, Bilbo meets a strange creature named Gollum, and takes his magical Ring.
The evil Orc king, Azog the Defiler, is hot on their tails, getting ready to stir up an ancient evil. To top it off, the Woodland elf king Thranduil wanted to keep them prisoner, but his son, Legolas Greenleaf, wants to help them fight, and Tauriel, an elf of high standing, is falling for the dwarf prince, Kili.
During the first two movies is when all of this happened, in An Unexpected Journey and The Desolation of Smaug. Now that I've caught you all up, let's commence with the review of The Battle of the Five Armies.

This was my first 3D movie, believe it or not. I hadn't gone to see either of the fist two Hobbit films in a theatre, but I knew I had to go see this, what might very well be the final Tolkien film.
This movie picks up right where Smaug left off, with the dragon terrorizing Lake-Town, laying waste to all in its path. Bard needs to escape prison and Thorin doesn't seem at all inclined to help. The effects right off the bat are beautifully done. Especially in 3D, you wonder how it is that the fire isn't singing you.
What I liked was that (and this is you're only spolier you're going to get from me) they didn't linger overlong on the dragon and that battle. It was taken care of quickly and with the dramatics it deserved.
As the film went on, the effects got even better, drawing you in and making you feel like you're there, at Bilbo's side. They aren't effects to say, "Wow, that's unrealistic," but instead they made it all feel real, even the impossible things, like Dain (another dwarf who comes in later on in the film) riding a hog of some sort, or Thranduil's elk.
The five armies consist of Men, dwarves, elves, orcs and animals (the eagles, Beorn, etc.), for those thinking there are only four armies. Unlike The Return of the King, this battle isn't huge and impersonal, making you feel like a spectator in a sport. This was smaller (though no less violent), and you felt invested in it, as though you were fighting.
The story varies from the novel, I'll admit that. It varies far away, though not as much as the previous films. But the way it varies is necessary to make a good movie. Every call Peter Jackson made, from adding Legolas and creating Tauriel, to expanding certain scenes that the book cut short, was integral to making this movie as enjoyable as it was, and tying it into the LOTR trilogy better. Had they stuck straight to the book, Thorin would not be as likable and they would have only made one movie due to lack of content.
The acting is beyond incredible! We mostly know Martin Freeman (Bilbo) as a comedic actor, but as Richard Armitage (Thorin) said in an interview, he is a tremendously talented dramatic actor as well. He truly stunned me. His emotions are so raw and pure, it's just beautiful.
Armitage also surprised me here. While I enjoyed him on Robin Hood and in the first two films, I never imagined the depth of his talent. He has to act mad, and insanity isn't an easily conveyed state of mind. I can only imagine what it took out of him to portray the dragon-sickness to the audience. And the end...he truly captures your heart.
Lee Pace, Luke Evans, Evangeline Lilly, Aidan Turner; all of them give wonderful performances, the performances that will very likely define their careers. If none of them are nominated for Oscars, I just might protest.
Advice for watching the film: discard the book for three hours and enjoy the amazing ride this cast and crew takes you on. Also, invest in Kleenex. Even if you know how it ends, you'll still cry.

5/5--a stunning piece of work!

AUTHOR INTERVIEW: Emilyann Girdner

1. When/why did you decide to become a writer?

I loved writing in school (it was my favorite subject), and my mom loves to whip out a book I wrote in third grade and remind me how much I've always loved it. It was just written with marker and taped together, but I loved writing even then. I actually originally chose Creative Writing for my college degree focus. I ended up playing around with my visual arts interest as well and transitioned to a Digital Arts degree, but the summer before my final semester, I missed writing so much, that I decided to pick it back up in my spare time, and I ended up writing an entire novel in a couple week period that summer (my first full manuscript). I decided then that I obviously couldn't stay away from writing. So, after I graduated, I started researching publishing options.

2. What authors inspired you when you were younger? What books do you enjoy reading today?

I don't want to get too carried away with a whole history of all the books and Authors I adore, so I'll share a quick rundown. In elementary school, I loved Stephen Cosgrove's Serendipity books (still have a couple). They're imaginative, heart-warming and often have meaningful messages. Gertrude Chandler Warner's Box Car Children books were also a favorite when I was in Elementary and Middle School; I couldn't get enough of their adventures and independence. They're still very nostalgic because my dad and I read them together. These days, one of my favorite books ever is still The Hobbit, by Tolkien. I love The Shannara Series by Terry Brooks (I got to participate in a Goodreads Live Chat with him that was amazing) because the stories are full of adventure and excitement. His books immerse readers in a fantasy world, often with wonderful female protagonists and fun animal side characters. I'd be remiss if I left out a couple other favorite Authors such as J.K. Rowling and Rachel Morgan.        

3. What was the inspiration behind your novel The Labyrinth Wall?

The idea was originally a series concept sparked from Dante’s Inferno but in a Fantasy world (think Lord of the Rings meets Labyrinth). That then melded with my thought of 'what if I explored a character that never had a childhood because they are actually a creation? So as a writer I am forced into a very strange perspective of someone learning to understand themselves and others for the first time.' All those strands of thought intertwined into what is now The Labyrinth Wall, the first novel in my Obsidian series.

4. You intimated that there will be a sequel to TLW. What can you tell us about it?

For those who have not yet read The Labyrinth Wall, I don’t want to give away too much. I will just say that the second book is a continuation of Araina’s story as she discovers the true nature of the world, which is not what she once perceived it to be. Also, this book is in the final editing stages and the first draft of the third book has actually already been written as well. All that to say, expect big exciting things to happen for the Obsidian Series in 2015.

5. Was there any intended symbolism behind the Mahk and Creators' relationships with each other?

Absolutely, in the sense that the harsh rule of the Creators which forces the Mahk’s dependence on them is not unlike historical relationships between societies. Dare I say, this sort of “rule by power” leaving those with fewer resources at the mercy of those with greater resources, is certainly not extinct in modern times. I think a lot of people can feel powerless as they find themselves in a role (even sometimes one which seems to have more power) and therefore a tension develops which leads to suppression and rebellion. Well, I could go on about this, but yes, I would say there is symbolism in that relationship. And, hopefully it doesn’t give away too much to readers to add that things aren’t always what they seem…

6. Aside from writing novels, you've won blogger awards. What can you tell the readers about your blogging?

Thank you for asking about my blogging, Kelly. I don’t normally have much inquiry about that. My blog can be found on my website at www.emilyanngirdner.com and the main theme is “Anything Imagined.” I initially started the blogging venture as a way to keep writing, even on breaks between novel projects and also as a way to begin to reach an audience. However, along the way I have met a wonderful network of other creatives and have been privileged to form some meaningful friendships with my readers in the process. As far as content goes, I stick to a couple of main series concepts most of the time, and those typically include Movie Mashup Monday (sometimes originally created by me and other times an attributed compilation of other mashups), Throwback Thursday Fantasy Relay (discussions of popular Fantasy books and movies), and Fellow Creatives (interviews with talented writers, artists and musicians). As you might expect, I also share novel project updates as well, but the best place to stay up-to-date on my news is by signing up for my newsletter here.

7. What other genres would you like to try your hand at?

I love this question because it makes me nervous but excited to consider the possibilities. I have considered Children’s Fiction and Adult Fantasy, as well as publishing some Poetry. Part of the fun of writing for me is trying new things, so exploring a new genre could be a great experience. We shall see ;)

8. Were any of the characters based on real people?

No one character was based on one specific person. However, many of their traits came from myself or people I know.

9. What would you do if you were Araina?

Another interesting question, for which I will try to muster a worthy response. To be bluntly honest, I’m not sure I would have survived nearly as long as Araina. It is hard to say without being in the situation, but I tend to be a pushover and I often have difficulty standing up to anyone. And I have about as much experience with weapons as my cat does with skydiving (none). So, if I were created in the labyrinth like Araina, I would probably do my best to hide away (like she did), but I don’t think there’s any way I would have embarked on the journey she did. Araina is very explorative and has difficulty being content, so it was more natural for her to want to learn more and be brave enough to fight for freedom. I think I’d be likelier to follow along for the ride, but not lead the way. In fact, I sometimes think it is because I am more timid and settled that I loved exploring Araina’s world, because all I do is type while she takes on the madness.

10. Would you like to see The Labyrinth Wall in theaters? If so, what actors would you like to see play your characters?

Absolutely I would love to see a film adaptation of The Labyrinth Wall. As a huge fan of movie soundtracks and high fantasy film productions, it would be my dream to see the film accompanied by a lovely instrumental composition, like The Lord of the Rings or Star Wars. As far as actors and actresses….
Araina: Dakota Fanning (Or possibly Candice Accola from The Vampire Diaries)
Darith: Engin Akyürek (He just looks almost exactly how I picture Darith)
Korun: Tyler James Williams (Currently Plays Noah on The Walking Dead)
Rase: Hayden Panettiere (Hayden has the same build as Rase and I think she could pull off the sass)

11. Where do you see yourself and your career in the next ten years?

In ten years I see myself still writing (I have ideas and characters bubbling in my mind and all over notepads, so I don’t suspect I will be slowing down by then). The Obsidian Series will have been out for some time and who knows, there may even by films too. I see myself continuing to write and hopefully readers will continue to enjoy the adventures.

12. What would you be doing if you weren't writing?

If I ever become Catwoman then I will fulfill my childhood dreams (haha). Writing is my number one passion, so I will always be doing that, as long as I’m able. But in all serious I am an opportunist, so it would depend on what comes my way. Even now, I hold a marketing position in addition to my writing, and I love it all. I like to stay busy and take up new projects because I love to learn and grow.  

13. Can you tell KSR what you're working on next?

I’m polishing up book two in the Obsidian Series and have just completed draft one of the third book. Also, I have a short story project currently being edited that I plan to release for free as a gift to my readers. It will be out before Christmas and anyone who is interested can sign up for my newsletter to be among the first to learn it is released and grab a copy.

14. What authors, dead or alive, would you like to collaborate with?

I would love to work with Terry Brooks, Jo Rowling or Rachel Morgan.

15. Thank you for participating in the interview. Can you please leave the readers with three things that may surprise them about you?

3 Facts About Me:
1. A brown recluse spider bit my forehead and nearly killed me when I was a little one.
2. Due to my loving of writing, I work daily to overcome my insecurities and challenges of having dyslexia. Wonderful mentors in school taught me methods to help catch my errors and polish my skills. All of the work has been worth it and I hope to inspire anyone who faces similar challenges to push past them in pursuit of their dreams.
3. My first language was Turkish.

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AUTHOR INTERVIEW: Joe Walker

1. When/why did you decide to become a writer?

In my teen years I was always impressed by books, films and series and I remember even then wanting to read and see so much that I would inspired enough to one day add my own work to the genres I love.

2. What authors inspired you when you were younger? What books do you enjoy reading today?

J. R. R. Tolkien and J.K Rowling. Benard Cornwell and David Gemmell. Conn Iggulden and R. A. Salvatore. Eric Nylund and George R. R. Martin. Today I'm enjoying the works of many indie authors as well as A Song of Ice and Fire. 

3. What was the inspiration behind your novel Blood Bonds?

A long list of many works have led to a love of fantasy and a need to add something to the magical genre. The two most predominant authors who inspired my work have to be J. R. R. Tolkien and George R. R. Martin. Many themes in fantasy are shared and although there are some who criticise this fact the majority of people appreciate it and understand that the underlying themes are invincible and should be harboured and expressed in as many ways as possible by as many authors as possible.

4. How many books will the series span?

The Thundous Saga will be comprised of two trilogies, Ethriel and Nariel.

5. Why elves and orcs instead of vampires and werewolves?

I absolutely love vampires and werewolves, especially where Darren Shan is involved. But it is my preference and always has been that I prefer elves and orcs. That said, why not merge the two? Forgotten realms proved it works every time.

6. Were any of the characters personalities or emotions taken from real life?

I believe that all characters and all emotions in all books will only add to an author's success if they are based on real life experiences, otherwise they will be unbelievable and difficult to develop.

7. What other genres would you like to try your hand at?

Sci-fi and horror... maybe a sci-fi/horror.

8. What would you do if you were one of your characters in the book? Van or the princess, for instance?

If I was a character in my books I would trust in my friends. The sense of unity with the four main characters is unshakable and they should hold on to that at all costs.

9. You are an English teacher in China. What made you decide to duo that as a career and has it been influential to your writing career at all?

I'm a big fan of creation and I think it is a teacher's duty to emphasise the need to create to children everywhere. If I preached that belief without being creative myself I'd be a hypocrite.

10. Would you like to see Blood Bonds as a film? If yes, who do you want to see play your characters?

I would want Blood Bonds to be a film and I would want new and undiscovered actors to play the roles as I totally believe that everyone deserves a chance in life and if Blood Bonds were to hit the big screens I'd want that to be theirs.

11. Where do you see yourself and your career in the next ten years?

I try not to speculate where I will be and where I hope to be as they can fundamentally disagree at the best of times, but for honesty's sake I'd like to be comfortably settled as a full-time writer (cough cough).

12. What would you be doing if you weren't writing?

Perhaps I'd spend the time learning an instrument or drawing.

13. Can you tell KSR what you're working on next?

The next stop is the final instalment of Ethriel - Freedom. Then it will be onto Nariel.

14. What authors, dead or alive, would you like to collaborate with?

I'd like to make a sci-fi with Tolkien - he could create worlds and I would go live on them.

15. Thank you for participating in the interview. Can you please leave the readers with three things that may surprise them about you?

Thank you for having me; it's been a pleasure :) A lot of people tell me that I'm young at 22 to have two books up for sale and a third one well on the way. I want to learn Latin, Elfish and Dwarfish... oh and Orcish. I wish I had been born in Roman times.

Follow Joe Walker on Twitter.

BOOK REVIEW: "Ethriel: Blood Bonds (Thunderous Book 1)" by Joe Walker

Storm clouds gather over the land of Ethriel. 

The Dark Lord, Akvandar, has defeated the once mighty Kingdom of Sol and now turns his attention upon the men of the west; a weak and fractured people struggling desperately to repel the advances of the armies spewing forth from the dreaded Spire. 
Meanwhile, in the cold north, there is trouble afoot. Goblins march from the Mountain of Iron, ravaging the lands between the Range and the Impassable Peaks; a once peaceful region where the stench of betrayal is pungent and corruption is rife.
Humankind teeters on the edge of existence and the forces of good have only one choice. They must forget past grievances and fight against the evil that plagues their land in a war that will be decided by the sword and the shield. 
From the deepest depths to the highest peaks, Blood Bonds will take you on a whirlwind adventure following four unlikely companions who must bind themselves in friendship, overcoming battles, betrayals and grief as they strive to bring the nations of the realm together.

In Joe Walker's maiden novel, we are taken into a fictional world of the past, one where orcs rule over humans and elves are trying to get their lives back and defeat the terrible orcs.
If that sounds a little like Tolkien, you're right. It was reminiscent of the great storyteller's magum opus, but it wasn't a blatant act of plagiarism, as I have read many times before. It was written with an entirely new vision in mind, one with less imagery and more heart.
You have slaves and princesses working together, villains you'll love to despise and a magnificent journey your mind will never forget.
This is one of those books you'll be telling your grandchildren about. Great writing, great characters and a lot of things for your mind to envision late at night as you read.

4/5--entertaining and visual!

Purchase Blood Bonds via:

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BOOK REVIEW: "Mathion (Mavonduri Trilogy #1)" by Jeff Shanley

In an ancient time long lost to legend, a race of men known as the Wolven inhabited the land of Ánovén. To the north lay the land of Kânavad, home to a brutal, savage race we know today as Werewolves.
At the age of seven, the Wolven prince Mathion encountered a dying White Wolf, and received two gifts that would forever change not only his life, but the course of history itself. Centuries later, with a White Wolf at his side, Mathion gathers together a small band of warriors, consisting of both friends and family. Their mission: help the city of Kihar east of the river defend itself against an advancing army of werewolves.
Along the way, Mathion learns of a secret that he has carried with him all his life, and a power that can change the tide of a war that has raged between the Wolven and the Werewolves for over twenty thousand years. Little does he know that his enemy is well aware of this secret. And they will do anything to obtain the final piece of a puzzle that, if completed, could condemn the world to eternal darkness.
When someone close to him is captured alive by the enemy, Mathion attempts the impossible: to venture into the enemy's homeland itself, and infiltrate the Black City, the stronghold of Lord Azgharáth, the oldest and strongest of the werewolves. With this choice, events are set in motion that will hurtle these lands toward a final confrontation, and an epic journey is begun that will change everyone's lives forever.

Above is the description on Amazon for Mathion, the first book in Jeff Shanley's Mavonduri Trilogy. I put that instead of my own description because I could not have put a summary of the book as eloquently as it was put here.
I was recommended to Mr. Shanley by a mutual friend, David, and I'm so glad he briught us to work together!
Usually, when I hear that a book is influenced by Tolkien, I think, Here we go again. Mathion is not a book you'll read everyday, and I'm sorry for thinking for a second that it might be.
Imagine if Bram Stoker and Tolkien could have a lovechild. What would they write? They would write the Mavonduri Trilogy, an epic adventure full of danger and werewolves.
While the characters are very important, this is a story-driven book, not character-driven. It's vivid, it's enchanting and it's the perfect book for those of us who love fantasy and the paranormal.
There are many similarities between this and Lord of the Rings, but they are like acknowledging nods to the master of fantasy rather than blatant rip-offs.
This is a beautifully written book, and I am excited for #2!

4/5--unique!

Purchase Mathion via:

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