Wednesday, October 5, 2022

The Fernweh - End Of The Summertime


THE FERNWEH 2 of 3 
As the recent weather reminds me of the seasonal change  . . I miss it already.

THE FERNWEH - THE WOUNDS OF LOVE


2022 Music - - - THE FERNWEH

CUNNINGHAM and RYALL Join AFTERSHOCK COMICS

information obtained via the POPVERSE article . . .

Read the full article at Popverse.com


Following the departure of Mike Marts from AfterShock Comics — where he served as editor-in-chief as well as co-founder — to join Florida-based indie publisher Mad Cave Studios, AfterShock has announced two new additions to the company: former DC senior story editor Brian Cunningham, and IDW publishing veteran Chris Ryan.

Cunningham, who worked on titles including Superman, Justice League, Batman: Earth One, and the critically acclaimed Superman’s Pal Jimmy Olsen at DC, will step into the role of editor-in-chief at the company moving forward. 

     In a statement provided by the publisher, he said, “AfterShock stands for quality comic books, and there’s a reason why they’ve grown to be a major player in the industry, as dedicated as they’ve been to working with creators to tell their best stories across a variety of genres. I’m thrilled and grateful to be called upon to carry on that tradition and build on that success. I can’t wait to work with Joe [Pruett, AfterShock Comics publisher], Lee [Kramer, company president] and the entire AfterShock team.”

     Starting November 1, Cunningham will be joined at the company by Chris Ryall, former chief creative officer and president of IDW, who’ll be serving as a publishing consultant. Pruett said of the hire, “My relationship with Chris goes back 15 years or so when my Desperado Publishing imprint moved under IDW's corporate umbrella. To say that the man is accomplished would be understating how much of an impact he has had in the comics community over the past two decades. Not only does he have a great eye for talent and story (Locke & Key anyone?), but he’s also never been one to stand still. I can’t wait to regularly pick his brain.”

Sunday, October 2, 2022

Audio Book Review: A SAFE HOUSE by Stuart Woods

A SAFE HOUSE by Stuart Woods (Penguin, March 2022)Audiobook  ISBN #0593554078 ISBN13: 9780593554074 



Synopsis on the Goodreads website . . . . .


In this latest adrenaline-charged thriller from #1 New York Times bestselling author Stuart Woods, Stone Barrington takes on a vengeful rival.


Stone Barrington is looking forward to some quiet time in New York City, until he is asked to transport precious, top-secret cargo across the Atlantic. Taking on the challenge, Stone flies off unaware of what—or who—he is bringing with him. 


But his plans to lie low are quickly spoiled when a dangerous dispatcher tracks down Stone and his tantalizing mystery guest, intent on payback—and silencing anyone who poses a threat. From the English countryside to the balmy beaches of Key West, Stone is on an international mission to hide and protect those closest to him.


My One-Star Review on the Goodreads website . . . . .

     

     I feel bad about saying this in the same year that prolific author Stuart Woods passed away, but this is absolutely the last Stone Barrington novel that I will bother with, and probably the last book by Stuart Woods. 


     I read a Stone Barrington novel some years ago, and wasn't that impressed. Then, I later read his first novel, CHIEFS, which won several awards and was incredible. I recommend it. So, I tried a second Barrington novel, liked it a little more than the first time, but still not adding any to my want-to-read list. Then, I picked up this audio book.


     This was a terrible experience. Had I been reading the novel I don't believe I would have finished it, probably putting it aside after fifty pages. However, we listened to the audiobook during a long road trip between Indianapolis and Pennsylvania. Even a decent attempt at narration by Tony Roberts (who must have quietly cringed at some of the dialogue) couldn't save it. At least it helped pass the time, and I punished myself further by finishing it. 

     The new characters are either ridiculous caricatures or just plain stupid (always asking obvious questions). Very episodic, making readers wonder when something will actually conclude which it doesn't until the final chapter, and rather abruptly as if Woods was just tired of writing it and wanted to wrap it up. 


     Stone Barrington is not a likable character, which didn't help. He's not that decisive or deliberate in this story, just kind of experiencing it. Too much devoted to food alcohol and sex with a nymphomaniac supporting character (and focus of the plot). Dialogue heavy. Ugh. Ugh. Ugh.

Saturday, October 1, 2022

The Kinks - 20th Century Man


THE KINKS 3 of 3 . . . . I just had to cap it off with this one

The Kinks - Muswell Hillbilly + Band Introduction (1972)


Continuing the celebration of the 1972 classic by THE KINKS . . . . .

The Kinks – Acute Schizophrenia Paranoia Blues (Ray Davies 2022 Mix)


Thanks to music-loving friend John Rowan for making me aware that
the re-mix/re-issue of MUSWELL HILLBILLIES by THE KINKS is 
out now. Hard to pick a favorite Kinks album but this is definitely in
the Top Five for me.