Emma's Ramblings on Supernatural Fiction

Another working week done and dusted. Lots of stress last few days, so I’m looking forward to settling down later this evening with a nice glass of rosé (which I’ll probably fall asleep mid way through) and some chill out music. I hope 2014 is going well so far for everyone. Anyone got some resolutions/goals they’d like to share or have all our good intentions we made January 1st gone out the window? No judgement here.

Before I get to the music, scroll down to see the cover for Jen Naumann’s latest book, Paranormal Keepers. Isn’t it scrumptious? Najla Qamber who designed the cover for my book Beneath Manhattan Skies designed the artwork for Paranormal Keepers. I loved Jen’s zombies novels, and I’m looking forward to reading her latest story.

Everyone thinks Harper Young killed her boyfriend. No one will say it to her face, but the signs are everywhere.

It’s almost been a year since Gavin was torn from Harper’s arms and brutally murdered. The police wrote it off as a freak accident, deciding Harper’s strange testimony was given under duress. But she knows something unnatural was involved and refuses to stop looking until she finds his killer, even if it means her reputation as a senior is ruined. Even if it means there really are monsters living among us.

With the discovery of the mothmen, witches, vampires and all the creatures she always suspected were out there, Harper finds herself amidst a complex bundle of unseen heroes who call themselves “Keepers”, sworn to keep the secret of the paranormal creatures that walk this earth. As she tries to understand what’s so special about her that she’s able to break an old Keeper law, Harper has a baffling vision of kissing a mysterious guy before a blade is brought down on him. Before she can get a handle on her future, she becomes central to a battle between the questionable “heroes” and the evil she’s been training to fight, leaving her to wonder if there’s any way to change the fate that has been foretold before it’s too late.

First up is “Royals” by Lorde. This song literally stopped me in my tracks last year. I was striding across the living room, heading to the kitchen to make myself a cup of tea when I heard the opening beat. I sat down and watched the video and found myself hypnotised by the music. This song seems to appeal to all ages. My father who is twice my age thinks it’s one of the best songs he’s heard in a long time – and he doesn’t think much of modern music. Have a listen yourself. (Her album, Pure Heroine is also excellent). Lorde from New Zealand is just 17 years old. A little trivia for ya -The last person her age to have such a big hit in the US was Tiffany back in the 80’s with “I Think We’re Alone Now.”

“Hey Brother” by Avicii. This Swedish musician/DJ can do no wrong right now. I loved “Wake Me Up” and the lyrics in this one also make you stop and listen.

“Fans” by Kings of Leon.  The long intro gets the energy buzzing. This song always perks me up. It’s good if you’re feeling a bit muted and need a little pick me up.

“Walking on a Dream” by Empire of the Sun. Starts out with a distinctive 80s sound. The video is on the crazy side, but goes with the psychedelic feel. Doesn’t this make you want to be drunk dancing on a dancefloor this Saturday night? Or is that just me?

“Ride” by Lana del Rey. I can’t have a chillout music evening and not listen to something of Lana’s. I adore this woman’s voice. There’s a dreamy, soulful quality to her music, and I love that her songs tell a story.

“Not Fair” by Lily Allen. This makes me smile. Love the video too.

Got any songs you think I should add to my Friday playlist?

Enjoy the weekend

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