Book Review: Lettering on Wood, Paper, and Leather by Lora S. Irish

Title: Lettering on Wood, Paper, and Leather

Author: Lora S. Irish
Genre: Art - Pyrography - Woodburning
Publisher:  Fox Chapel Publishing - Copyright 2023
Publication Date: January 3, 2023
ISBN: 9781497103283
Read: January 22, 2023
Disclaimer: I received a digital advanced reader copy from the publisher via Netgalley. All opinions are my own.

Synopsis from Publisher: Accomplish your hand lettering goals and make amazing personalized gifts and signs with flair! 

The ultimate guide to burning letters, this is a must-have resource for pyrographers of all skill levels to learn various hand-lettering techniques to apply on different surfaces. Opening with detailed overviews on safety, tools, basic pyrography techniques, pen tip styles, burning strokes, tonal values, and hand grips, also included are sections on three main pyrography media surfaces: wood, leather, and artist paper. 

After learning how to work on each medium, this insightful guide then shows you everything you need to know about hand lettering with heat! You'll find tutorials on fill techniques, resizing letters, creating curved letters, fixing mistakes, and more. Templates for 10 fonts are provided, as well as a step-by-step practice project to build your skills, and five additional lettering projects to try. 

Finally, with this complete and comprehensive resource to learning and burning alphabets, renowned and award-winning artist Lora Irish takes you through how to prepare your chosen media to finish it with flair! Irish offers expert guidance on materials for pyrography, including preparing, cleaning, finishing, and sealing the surface.

Improve your hand lettering skills to make beautiful customized gifts, signage, and other amazing calligraphy projects with Lettering on Wood, Paper, and Leather!

Review: Pyrography, also known as woodburning, is the act of creating art with a hot-tipped pen (similar to a soldering tool) a natural surface like wood, leather, or paper. The art created can be simple lines (like basic lettering) or complex masterpieces of surprising depth and detail. 

Lora S. Irish focuses on transferring hand-lettered calligraphy to pyrography in this book. Filled with how-to details, tips, and projects, Lettering on Wood, Paper, and Leather is a perfect introduction to anyone familiar with calligraphy who is looking to expand into a new and challenging area. Irish covers the basics of what is pyrography, safety tips, and tools and techniques before explaining the differences in substrates that make for good pyrography. Information on various types of burning systems, cleaning and care for tools, preparation of the surface areas, and how to transfer patterns is detailed and written in an easy-to-follow manner. 

She then turns her attention to the different styles of lettering and font elements, how to resize letters to fit smaller and larger works, incorporating and fixing mistakes (something I love seeing because I'm guaranteed to screw up at least once), cleaning and finishing a piece, and sealing your project to protect it for years to come. The provided projects range from beginner to advanced and are sure to provoke your inner creative spirit. Templates for the fonts used in the projects are provided so you don't have to make your own or go on an endless internet hunt for them.

Overall, whether you're new to pyrography or experienced, Lettering on Wood, Paper, and Leather will make a great addition to your artistic library.

Book Review: Creating Art with Alcohol Ink by Laurie Williams & Sheryl Williams

Title: Creating Art with Alcohol Ink

Author: Laurie Williams and Sheryl Williams
Genre: Art - Painting
Publisher:  Design Originals - Copyright 2023
Publication Date: January 17, 2023
ISBN: 9781497206250
Read: January 16-19, 2023
Disclaimer: I received a digital advanced reader copy from the publisher via Netgalley. All opinions are my own.

Synopsis from Publisher: Whether you're a seasoned artist or are about to paint your first brush stroke, Creating Art with Alcohol Ink will show you how to paint with alcohol ink! 

In this complete painting book, you'll discover 12 different painting techniques — including pouring, dripping, blowing, blending, staining and lifting, masking, brush painting, push and glide, dabbing, doodling, splattering, and wisping — so you can practice and master them all on different surfaces! Also included are detailed opening overviews on the basics of alcohol inks, surfaces, color theory, and other essential topics to know. 

Stunning step-by-step alcohol ink painting projects are provided to recreate beautiful birch trees, tropical scenes, mountain landscapes, and even home décor items like tile coasters, ornaments, and jewelry pendants using easy-to-find and affordable materials. With so many easy-to-follow technique tutorials and inspiring projects to try, this is an absolute must-have resource!

Review: Alcohol ink is a difficult creature to master, but co-authors Laurie Williams and Sheryl Williams make taming this beast look easy! Creating Art with Alcohol Ink focuses on techniques for using bottled alcohol-based ink versus markers, but there is a very small section dedicated to art created with markers, which I appreciated since the markers are the only alcohol-based ink I've personally used. However, after reading this book, I'm ready to try delving into the world of bottled inks.

In addition to a full-color inspiration gallery filled with art that's sure to light the creative fire in any artist, the authors take time to cover the tools and supplies needed for working with alcohol inks as well as the safety equipment. Yes, there are hazards to working the alcohol-based inks and proper precautions must be taken. I always love when artists-turned-authors share safety information so this can be factored into not just the cost of working with a new medium but into the set up of my workspace. 

The authors then cover a topic I don't see covered nearly enough in books: Color Theory. Since the nature of alcohol inks lends to free-flowing blending techniques, it pays to know in advance which colors will blend to create secondary and tertiary colors and so on rather than the well-known brownish color known as "mud." With step-by-step instructions for making your own color wheel, this vital section will save time in the long run because you'll not only know which colors will work to create dazzling new colors but how the inks work before ever starting a project. Time savers = bonus points!

Speaking of projects, Creating Art with Alcohol Ink doesn't skimp on them. With a choice of landscapes, birds, flowers, abstracts, and more and substrates from paper to metal, any alcohol ink artist from beginner to seasoned pro will find something to inspire and try. The instructions for each are clear and easy to follow, as is the writing as a general whole. It's like having two patient and knowledgeable instructors sitting next to you, sharing their secrets and their passion. If you're looking for a new artistic challenge, then pick up a copy of Creating Art with Alcohol Ink. You won't be disappointed.

Book Review: Crave Me Roughly by Kira James

Title: Crave Me Roughly

Author: Kira James
Genre: Paranormal Romance - Vampires
Publisher:  Kira James - Copyright 2022
Publication Date: August 17, 2022
ISBN: N/A (Ebook Novella)
Read: January 16, 2023
Disclaimer: I received a digital advanced reader copy from the publisher via Netgalley. All opinions are my own.

Synopsis from Publisher: For almost twenty years, he’s been watching me in secret. This dark, sensual, dangerous man who steps out of the shadows to help me when I need it the most. He won’t accept any payment other than a kiss. But it’s a kiss that sparks a dark desire in a secret, hidden part of me. And when he touches me, all I crave is the kind of dangerous passion that he offers. 

Then I learn the truth—he’s not a man at all. He’s a vampire. 

The love that burns between us is forbidden, but now it’s too late for me to turn back. Perhaps it always was. Because no matter how much danger stalks us both, I’ll sacrifice anything to keep him safe.

Warning: Contains violence, sex, and references to blood drinking. (What do you expect from vampires? Sunshine and daisies? I think not.)

Review: Crave Me Roughly was my first introduction to Kira James as an author, the characters of Luke and Sara, and the world in which they live. And, wow, what an introduction. From the description of Luke and his buddy, Serge, I'm picturing Jason Momoa sans beard and Chris Hemsworth but both have fangs. Um, oh, hells yeah!

As this is a prequel novella set a few years prior to the events of the first book in the Dark Alliance series, Embrace Me Darkly, I won't go into a lot of detail regarding the plot. Basically, the plot breaks down like this: Assistant District Attorney Sara Constantine has been looking for the person who killed her father nearly twenty years ago. She gets a lead from a sketchy dude. Goes to an even sketchier part of Los Angeles, alone, at night, to meet Sketchy Dude and learn what he knows. Mayhem ensues. Sara is rescued by the mysterious and hunky Dynamic Duo of Luke and Serge. Luke and Sara fall in lust. Cue the hot sex. Things happen. Secrets are revealed. More stuff happens. Questions are raised. Can Serge be even snarkier? Will Luke and Sara work out their issues? Will Luke's state-of-the-art kitchen be used for actual cooking at some point? 

I don't know, but I want to know.

Anyone who truly knows me knows just how much I loooooooooove vampires, and just from the short introduction to the Dark Alliance series I got from Crave Me Roughly, I need to read the rest of the series now. But it's not only vampires populating James's world. Other preternatural creatures are hinted at through conversations between Luke and Sara, creatures such as werewolves, demons, fairies, and much more. So, yeah, color me intrigued. 

Now, if you'll excuse me, I've got some hot vampire books to download...

Book Review: The Little Book of the Occult by Astrid Carvel

Title: The Little Book of the Occult

Author: Astrid Carvel
Genre: Occult - Magic - Witchcraft
Publisher: Andrews McMeel Publishing - Copyright 2023
Publication Date: March 7, 2023
ISBN: 9781524882174
Read: January 13-16, 2023
Disclaimer: I received a digital advanced reader copy from the publisher via Netgalley. All opinions are my own.

Synopsis from Publisher: Come along on a journey of self-discovery and begin to make sense of the unpredictability of our existence with this fun and insightful introduction to the occult. 

An exploration of rich history and a discovery of lasting benefits, The Little Book of the Occult is a quick dive into the world of occult magick, perfect for both beginners and those who are more familiar with the practice. From sigils to tarot cards and rituals, occult practices are an insightful way to achieve your dreams, discover more about yourself, and feel empowered.

Review: The Little Book of the Occult is simply what the publisher's description states: "a quick dive into the world of occult magick." With only 128 pages, one cannot expect to have all the mysteries of the occult revealed. However, one can expect to have at least some of the mystery taken away, but Astrid Carvel seems to leave more questions unanswered than answered as if trusting the reader to continue researching the subject on their own. (Personally, I have no problem with research. I love nothing better than a deep dive into a subject that interests me. But it's not something everyone enjoys, I know.)

Most of the topics in this book are covered in the span of one or two pages. Again, this is not a book that's meant to be an exhaustive resource. It's meant to be more a means to pique the curiosity. Could Carvel perhaps spend a little more time on certain topics? Yes, absolutely. Does Carvel include every topic related to the occult? No, definitely not. Does Carvel at least cover the basics? Meh, I leave that up to the reader to decide.

Overall, The Little Book of the Occult is a very basic, Cliff Notes-version of an introduction to occult magick and history. If you're interested in the topic, chances are you'll continue on with your own research. If you're not that interested but are at least a little curious, then it will probably satisfy that curiosity. If you're looking for an exhaustive, authoritative treatise on the subject, this is definitely not the book for you.

Book Review: Mountain Magic by Rebecca Beyer

Title: Mountain Magic

Author: Rebecca Beyer
Genre: Folklore - Mythology - Magic - Witchcraft
Publisher: Wellfleet Press - Copyright 2023
Publication Date: February 21, 2023
ISBN: 9781577153351
Read: January 12-13, 2023
Disclaimer: I received a digital advanced reader copy from the publisher via Netgalley. All opinions are my own.

Synopsis from Publisher: Discover the wisdom and magic of Appalachia through Mountain Magic, an illustrated guide to the occult power of the hills and hollows. 

The people of Appalachia and the American backwoods have a long and deep magical tradition, one rooted in the power of place, land, and nature. With a creativity and ingenuity born of necessity, Appalachian witches built and sustained a wealth of magical knowledge drawn from European, Native American, and African American folk magic. Guided by expert witch and forager Rebecca Beyer, you can explore the wisdom of this powerful place: 

Learn medical and magical uses for common plants and herbs 

• Meet the traditional magical practitioners of Appalachia, from Blood Stoppers to Water Witches 
• Delve into a wealth of charms and curses, from witchballs to love workings 
• Follow the lore of the stars and seasons to grow and thrive 

Some of the magic and culture you will encounter in this enchanted guide include: 

• Magical lore surrounding the weather, seasons, and the movements of the moon and stars 
• Recipes for a tonic salad to move the blood in springtime and a cleansing spicebush tea 
• Profiles of the medicinal and magical properties of some essential mountain plants, including ginseng, blackberry, poke, sassafras, and mullein 
• Charms to protect from evil, including witch bottles, a holly twig charm, and the SATOR ROTAS square 

With this beautifully illustrated guide, you can bring the wisdom and magic of the backwoods to meet the challenges of modern life, building a magical practice that’s fueled by ancestral traditions and the nourishing power of the natural world.

Review: Rebecca Beyer lifts the veil of mystery surrounding Appalachian folk magic and provides a glimpse into this unique world of Yarb People, Water Witches, Burn Whisperers, Granny Women, and Conjure Folk. A blend of European magic, West African folklore, and Native American herbal knowledge, Appalachian folk magic is both a fascinating and powerful by-product of the landscape and the people who populated the Smoky Mountains, and it's still practiced today.

Mountain Magic is insightful and interesting in that much of the information has been passed down through generations, influenced by different eras and cultures, but remains largely unchanged in its core beliefs. Beyer's writing is easy to read and offers good explanations for concepts or items that may not be as familiar to readers outside of Appalachia. The illustrations compliment the information provided without distracting from the writing. Overall, this guidebook is a great introduction to a unique culture and the folklore and magic that has helped to shape it.

Book Review: Tales of Polynesia by Yiling Changues

Title: Tales of Polynesia: Folktales from Hawai'i, New Zealand, Tahiti, and Somoa

Author: Yiling Changues (Illustrator)
Genre: Folklore - Mythology
Publisher: Chronicle Books - Copyright 2023
Publication Date: May 9, 2023
ISBN: 9781797217567
Read: January 10-11, 2023
Disclaimer: I received a digital advanced reader copy from the publisher via Netgalley. All opinions are my own.

Synopsis from Publisher: Explore the enchanting world of Polynesian folklore in this beautifully illustrated collection of traditional stories. 

A woman falls in love with the king of the sharks. Two powerful sorcerers compete in a battle of magical wits. The king of Maui's fastest messenger races to bring a young woman back from the dead. In these traditional tales, the borders blur between life and death, reality and magic, and land and sea. 

This volume includes legends from Hawai'i, New Zealand, Tahiti, and Samoa, showcasing the rich narrative tradition of the Polynesian islands. You'll encounter awe-inspiring warriors, tricky magicians, and fearsome creatures of the deep. Each tale is paired with evocative contemporary art, creating a special illustrated edition to read, share, and treasure across generations.

Review: Tales of Polynesia is the perfect introduction to the rich folklore and native cultural heritage of Hawai'i, New Zealand, Tahiti, and Samoa. Divided into sections, these fascinating tales deal with legends and myths surrounding Trickers, Creatures of the Earth and Sea, Life and Death, and Family. Bringing the tales to life are stunning illustrations from Yingling Changues. A perfect addition to the folklore series from Chronicle Books and a great way to engage young readers in the vibrant world of mythology.

Book Review: Mary Berry's Baking Bible (Revised Edition 2023)

Title: Mary Berry's Baking Bible (Revised & Updated 2023)

Author: Mary Berry
Genre: Cookbook - Baking
Publisher: Clarkson Potter - Copyright 2023
Publication Date: May 9, 2023
ISBN: 9780593578155
Read: January 10, 2023
Disclaimer: I received a digital advanced reader copy from the publisher via Netgalley. All opinions are my own.

Synopsis from Publisher: Baking legend Mary Berry, longtime judge of The Great British Baking Show, presents this revised and updated edition of her seminal baking book, featuring 250 recipes, including 20 all-new bakes, updated photography, and Americanized measurements. 

Mary Berry’s Baking Bible has been thrilling home bakers with delectable, no-fuss, trustworthy recipes for more than a decade. Now the queen of British baking brings her straightforward advice and expertise to this fully revised edition of classic bakes. Her biggest collection yet also features 20 new recipes plus mouthwatering photography. A sampling of her beloved desserts includes: 

• Cakes: Victoria Sandwich; Very Best Chocolate Fudge; Lemon Yogurt 
• Cookies and Bars: Melting Moments; Orange and Chocolate Shortbread; Bakewell Slices 
• Traybakes: Lemon Drizzle; Coffee and Walnut; Double Chocolate Chip and Marshmallow 
• Tarts and Pastries: French Apple Tart; Chocolate Eclairs; Profiteroles 
• Breads: Crunchy Orange Syrup Loaf; Quick Sourdough Loaf; White Cottage Loaf 
• Puddings and Pies: Sticky Apricot Pudding; Classic Apple Pie; Crème Brûlée 
• Cheesecakes: American Chocolate Ripple; Buttermilk and Honey; and Key Lime Pie 

Readers will also be delighted to discover that many of her treasured recipes have been updated and simplified to suit the needs and tastes of today’s home bakers. And, as always with foolproof recipes from Mary Berry, there will be no soggy bottoms!

Review: Mary Berry is a living baking legend in her UK homeland, and now she's become well-known here in America thanks to the popularity of The Great British Baking Show via Netflix. In this revised and updated edition of her Baking Bible, she offers over 250 mouthwatering recipes from across the UK, parts of Europe, and even some American favorites like apple pie. Combined with the stunning photography, you'll practically want to lick every page of this fabulous cookbook.

Berry gears her books toward the home baker, whether they be new baking or a practiced hand. The recipes range from the simple--chocolate chip cookies--to the most complex, French patisserie-style dessert--Gâteau Saint Honoré--to easy, bake-with-the-kids suggestions. But it's not all recipes. Berry includes nearly everything a baker needs to know about the art of baking: equipment list, how-to instructions for lining pans, baking terminology, key ingredients, baking tips, and so much more. All recipes include both metric and imperial measurements and many include helpful hints or variations to up your baking game.

Overall, any of Mary Berry's books are worth adding to your collection, but if you're serious about baking and only have room for one more recipe book on your shelf, Mary Berry's Baking Bible: Revised and Updated is the one you need.