The Realism Challenge

Whether you are a pro or a novice, there's something for everyone in here. From simulating shadows, to advanced surfaces, adding color, manufactured objects and much more. This book is written in a way that is easy to understand. It gives lots of tips and tricks without being overwhelming. Some of the paintings I wasn't super impressed with. But some really did look life-like. I think it's a good book to add to any artists collection. 

I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Second Street Station

I have to say, I was anticipating a really good mystery. I was eagerly awaiting this book.  UnfortuNately this  one drew up  a little short for me. I wanted to see more suspense and intensity. There were  definitely some twists toward the end, but most of the book was spent in character development or details I didn't feel pertinent. I would have rather seen the story developed in a more detailed manner.
I think some of what made this story less than amazing for me was getting used to the authors style. Toward the middle of the book, I started to settle in and not focus so much on his writing (which seemed a little like reading for a part for a tv show at times.... kind of choppy and awkward descriptions that didn't seem relevant to the story).
I did however love the main character Mary, she is what made me finish the book.mso despite the stories slow start and some dry areas, I do think I'd read another installment.