Fish & Chips by by Abigail Roux and Madeleine Urban

After a long stretch of desk work, Zane and Ty finally have a new assignment – they’re going undercover on a cruise…as a married couple. Thrown into a mix of criminals, the two men must do their best to discover what they can about the men there are posing as and their business partners.

It isn’t long before Ty and Zane are dodging attempts on their lives. With no sign of back up, they must do their best to stay afloat, living their roles…but when the line between reality and fiction start to blur, both agents may end up hurt in ways they can’t prevent.

This is the first time I have ever switched narrators for a series. I often give books a go just because I like the narrator, so if the narrator trods off, I go also. The only problem is, I really liked this series. So I was faced with two options: switch narrators…or read the rest of the series myself. Pfft, like I remember how to read. So, I gave the new narrator – Sean Crisden – a shot and he was even more awesome than the previous. Zane’s voice was quite a bit different (I couldn’t hear it on the preview so I didn’t know what to expect until my purchase) but I liked it.

I liked it a lot. In fact, I’ve listened to this book twice all the way through. The assignment of Zane and Ty being a sleazy, criminal married couple was just too delicious a premise. It was interesting to see the lines blur between the roles Ty and Zane were taking on and their true feelings for one another.

Zane's character flaws came into play a lot in this novel - his jealousy and his struggle with his alcoholism - and I found him a lot more compelling for it. Whereas Ty explores hi more openly vulnerable and submissive side, which was riveting. He had some very sentimental as well as hilarious moments.

The plot was well-written and I couldn't guess who was behind what or exactly where the danger was coming from. It made for a thrilling conundrum. I particularly loved how tangible the tension was in the rock climbing and scuba diving scenes. Brilliant writing.

This is my favourite installment of the Cut & Run series thus far. I have listened to the audio book twice through since purchase. After I finished the book for the first time, I was quick to get onto the next, 'Divide & Conquer.'

In accordance with the FTC, Quill Café would like to disclose that the reviewer purchased this book. The opinions expressed are hers alone and no monetary compensation was offered to her by the author or publisher. Cover art is copyright of Dreamspinner Press and is used solely as an aide to the review.

My Fictional Boyfriend

Today I finally share who my fictional boyfriend is. Do you have a fictional belle/beau? I must know! Share in the comments.

The Bro Code for Parents by Barney Stinson, with Matt Kuhn

So, you want to be parent/are going to be a parent/are a new parent? Congratulations! Your life is over. The good news is there is still hope for your offspring. Indefinite bachelor Barney Stinson gives you all the advice you’ll need to make sure that your baby grows up to be legen- wait for it…

Being a fan of Stinson's previous works - 'The Bro Code' and 'The Playbook' - it was a no-brainer that I would purchase this volume when I happened upon its existence. Sure, I am not a parent, nor do I have any intention of being one...but it gave me a good outlet to laugh at those suckers' expense. "Those suckers" is of course a general term, by which I mean my cousins who all seem to be having babies. Naturally I purchased Stinson's latest work on audio, narrated by the man himself. I have since listened to it through twice. It doesn't disappoint.

'The Bro Code for Parents' comes not only heavy with disclaimers but also includes some notes from the editor, who is naturally a begrudging chick. Although, admittedly, she does sound pretty hot. The editor's notes are primarily interjected when it comes to what women should/should not do during their pregnancy. There is a surprising lack of note from her contradicting the use of a plastic bag as a suitable children's toy.

My favourite aspects of 'The Bro Code for Parents' are Stinson's renditions of classic children's stories and songs. A few that stood out for me were, 'Bro McDonald,' 'The Bro Who Cried Hot Chicks' and his version of 'The Wheels on the Bus.' Couldn't help but crack up over his suggested list of films for expecting parents to watch. Alien!

The only thing that disappointed me was that I was unable to locate the PDF file mentioned by Stinson. I've had this trouble in the past but it was simply an oversight on my part. There was no PDF download link located where I found the one for 'The Bro Code' on Audible. My leg is not an appendage I appreciate being pulled.

Overall, 'The Bro Code for Parents' was a very enjoyable listen. It is not recommended for the easily offended or dangerously literal.

-dary. LEGENDARY!

In accordance with the FTC, Quill Café would like to disclose that the reviewer purchased this book. The opinions expressed are hers alone and no monetary compensation was offered to her by the author or publisher. Cover art is copyright of Simon & Schuster and is used solely as an aide to the review.

When I Am A Published Novelist

I came across a poem I wrote a few years ago. So, some of you may have read it but...nah, none of you have seen it. Enjoy!

Darcy v.s. the Beast

I've talked a bit about the Darcy Factor in the past - building excitement in a reader towards a specific character, so that they feel a sense of elation whenever the character is mentioned or appears. A character who possesses the Darcy Factor doesn't necessarily exhibit any of his character traits. However, there is one dominant archetype in fiction that keeps cropping up, particularly when an author is trying to instill this excitement in a romantic interest. That is the Beast archetype from the old tale, Beauty and the Beast.

The Beast archetype is a character - usually a man, usually the love interest - who is antagonistic towards the protagonist and sometimes the world around them. They are controlling, mysterious, and the story goal frequently involves them changing their ways because of the protagonist. The application of the Beast archetype when executing the Darcy Factor can either be extremely effective...or horrific.

I want to emphasise that the actual character of Fitzwilliam Darcy does not fall under the Beast archetype. He is a character who doesn't always say the most appeasing things in social situations, he is unafraid to voice his opinions, and when his emotions get involved he can do so to the point of being blunt. He is drawn to the protagonist because she challenges him but while he enjoys debating her and he infuriates her, it isn't his intention to be malicious or make her feel bad about herself. Yes, he evolves because of the events of the story - as all good character should - but he does it on an equal level to the protagonist. A lot of him is revealed, not fixed or altered.

In contrast, the Beast archetype brings about the masochistic and sadistic roles between characters. Which can be very effective in provoking emotions in the reader, whether the "Beast" is in the role of love interest - themes of love, hate and thin lines - or takes up a different dynamic in the story. However, this can also get really tedious. If the author is blatant or forceful in their use of conflict, the reader can feel like they are watching a kicked puppy. It doesn't help if the "Beast" does a 180 on at an alarming rate and decides that they want to love and protect their puppy against the world. Baby steps, my hairy frienemy.

I have seen the Beast archetype in many works of fiction, and when it is well handled it succeeds in executing the Darcy Factor with correct applications of conflict, tension and intrigue. However, even the most sadistic and mysterious characters need to reel it in a little. Otherwise the jig gets tiring real quick.

How do you feel about the Beast archetype? Where have you seen it succeed and where has it failed?