Hello Lovelies
Welcome to my stop on the blog tour for
The Alchemy of Moonlight by David Ferraro. This tour is being hosted by TBR and Beyond Tours.
Genre: Young Adult Fantasy
Publishing date: May 30th, 2023
When Emile’s aunt declares he must marry or be disowned for being gay—he runs away to hide as a servant in Count Montoni’s mansion. In their service, Emile tends to the family who all suffer a strange affliction on the full moon. And after overhearing suspicious family arguments, he finds a body on the estate, drawing the attention of a handsome doctor as well as the count’s charismatic nephew, Henri.
Before Emile can sort out his affections or unravel the growing Montoni family mystery, his identity is revealed and his aunt comes to collect him.
When she arrives, Count Montoni forces everyone to depart to the remote Udolpho Castle—where there are no witnesses and no chance for escape. There, Emile realizes that he will have to risk his life to find the love he deserves—and survive the Montoni family.
Content Warning: Mentions of dead bodies, homophobia
Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | IndieBound
REVIEW
Alchemy of Moonlight, By David Ferraro is fun queer spin on 18th-century Ann Radcliffe’s book, The Mysteries of Udolph.
A suspenseful gothic paranormal romance. We follow Emile St. Aubert, who’s father has passed away and his aunt is insistent that he change his romantic preferences and marry a nice girl and settle down. Taking his future into his own hands he goes undercover and joins the working class as a servant at Chateau le Blanc,a crumbling castle, for the affluent Montoni household. There Emile will find a handsome doctor, a not so trustworthy count, along with strange happenings and macabre murders. Dark family secrets and yes please we have…. Werewolves ! 🐺
This was such a fun read, I loved the characters and love triangle and rival suitors along with the decadent gothic setting.
The perfect book to start the month of June off🤎
David Ferraro grew up in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, where he was raised on a steady diet of comic books, horror movies and YA novels. He graduated with a B.A. in English and creative writing from St. Cloud State University, and currently resides in Milwaukee, Wisconsin with his boyfriend and a very spoiled tortoise. He is represented by Eva Scalzo of Speilburg Literary. His debut “The Alchemy of Moonlight” is set to be published from Page Street Kids in Spring 2023.
Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads
Follow The Tour:
May 29th
Never Hollowed By The Stare – Promotional Post
Paiges Of Novels – Top 5 Reasons to Read The Alchemy of Moonlight, Favorite Quotes
Phannie the ginger bookworm – Review, Playlist
May 30th
Stuck in Fiction – Interview
Brinn’s Books – Review
Confessions of a YA Reader – Promotional Post
May 31st
Pages & Plots – Promotional Post
Midsummer Night’s Read – Review
June 1st
AndOnSheReads – Interview
dinipandareads – Review, Favorite Quotes
Gwendalyn’s Books – Review
June 2nd
Books & Such – Review
The Girl Who Reads – Review, Favorite Quotes
June 3rd
The Book Dutchesses – Interview
Charli’s Book Box – Promotional Post
Forthenovellovers – Review
June 4th
The Nutty Bookworm Reads Alot – Review
The Momma Spot – Promotional Post
Rampant Reading Reviews – Review
Instagram:
May 29th
writingrosereads – Promotional Post
paiges_of_novels – Content Creator’s Choice
phanniethegingerbookworm – Content Creator’s Choice
May 30th
ofbooksandromance – Creative post: Instagram Reel
froggyreadteach – Top 5 Reasons to Read The Alchemy of Moonlight
brinnsbooks – Content Creator’s Choice
May 31st
bookdemonio – Promotional Post
rickys_radical_reads – Review
pagesplots – Content Creator’s Choice
June 1st
yourlocalbookreader – Review, Book Look
bookish.by.trade – Promotional Post
kathreadsall – Review
gwendalyn_books_ – Content Creator’s Choice
June 2nd
ninebookishlives – Promotional Post
dreaminginpages – Review
bookstagramofmine – Content Creator’s Choice
June 3rd
grayreadsbookssometimes – Review, Mood Board
ablueboxfullofbooks – Review, Creative post: Little Free Library Drop
charlisbookbox – Content Creator’s Choice
June 4th
tbrandbeyond – Promotional Post
BookDragonsTBR – Content Creator’s Choice
rampant_reading – Content Creator’s Choice
Hello Lovely Readers
Welcome to my stop on the blog tour for
A Noble Cunning by Patricia Bernstein
A Noble Cunning: The Countess and the Tower
by Patricia Bernstein
Publication Date: March 7, 2023
History Through Fiction LLC
Genre: Historical Fiction/Christian
A thrilling tale, based on a true story, of one woman’s tremendous courage and incomparable wit in trying to rescue her husband from the Tower of London the night before he is to be executed.
The heroine of A Noble Cunning, Bethan Glentaggart, Countess of Clarencefield, a persecuted Catholic noblewoman, is determined to try every possible means of saving her husband’s life, with the help of a group of devoted women friends.
Amid the turbulence of the 1715 Rebellion against England’s first German king George I, Bethan faces down a mob attack on her home, travels alone from the Scottish Lowlands to London through one of the worst snowstorms in many years, and confronts a cruel king before his court to plead for mercy for her husband Gavin. As a last resort, Bethan and her friends must devise and put in motion a devilishly complex scheme featuring multiple disguises and even the judicious use of poison to try to free Gavin.
Though rich with historical gossip and pageantry, Bethan’s story also demonstrates the damage that politics and religious fanaticism can inflict on the lives of individuals.
Amazon | Barnes & Noble | IndieBound
REVIEW
A Riveting Debut Historical Fiction
A Noble Cunning: The Countess and the Tower by Patricia Bernstein
Scotland 1710, during the Jacobite uprising, we follow a Catholic noblewoman Countess of Clarencefield, Bethan Glentaggart. Living in the Scottish lowland with her husband and children, when Queen Anne passes away. The throne is then passed to the protestant George of Hanover, of Germany. This ignites the Jacobite uprising, and Bethan’s husband takes a stand alongside those against the new King. When Bethan husband is captured and taken to the Tower of London waiting to be executed for treasonous activity, she hatches a risky complex plan to free her beloved husband.
A meticulously researched historical fiction that features a strong willed, and resilient female MC, who will stop at nothing to free her husband. Rich in period details, along with historical imagery, I found myself completely immersed. Definitely an riveting book that felt drawn into the lives of the characters as they struggle during this turbulent time in Scottish-English History.
Praise
“A riveting tale of one woman’s courage and determination! Bernstein has crafted a dazzling heroine in Bethan Glentaggart. After enduring the religious fanaticism of Protestants, the vain heroics of Scottish lords, and the insipid insecurities of King George I, Bethan must devise and carry out a daring plan to rescue her husband from the Tower of London before his execution for treason. Her forceful personality makes A Noble Cunning a gripping page-turner!”
– David Blixt, author of What Girls Are Good For and Her Majesty’s Will
“I love a good historical novel about women with brains, heart, and courage. In A Noble Cunning, Patricia Bernstein’s finely-spun yarn of Jacobite sympathizer Countess of Clarencefield-inspired by the true adventures of Winifred Maxwell, Countess of Nithsdale-the author brings both the Scottish Lowlands and Hanoverian London vividly to life with a keen eye for period detail and a heart-stopping denouement.”
– Leslie Carroll, author of Notorious Royal Marriages
“This is a riveting and largely unknown story, based on true events, about a remarkable woman’s strength, love and courage against formidable odds. Set amidst English and Scottish hostilities in the early 1700s, and the terrible religious persecution of the period, Patricia Bernstein brings the countess’s extraordinary tale to dramatic life.”
– Karen Brooks, International Best-selling Author of The Good Wife of Bath and The Locksmith’s Daughter
“Wow! This spellbinding historical novel captures the religious aspects of an intriguing and true story. I was especially taken by the extraordinary Countess, the unsung Catholic heroine in a time of unrelenting persecution of Catholics in England and Scotland. Her dedication to her Catholic faith and especially to the Virgin Mary, her unstoppable courage, unimaginable cunning, and unflappable determination exceeded most women of her day. I also loved that Bethan Glentaggart, based on the true story of Winifred Maxwell, performs her audacious feat with the help of a group of devoted and courageous women friends. Patricia Bernstein adds dramatic flair and suspense that capture you to the very end. It is a must-read.”
– Sister Jane Meyer, O.P., Former Head of St. Agnes Academy, Houston, an all-girl secondary school
“Patricia Bernstein’s sumptuously detailed historical novel, A Noble Cunning: The Countess and the Tower, is set in 18th century Scotland and is based on the remarkable true story of a fiercely courageous woman fighting tirelessly against political and religious tyranny to save her husband, imprisoned and condemned to die in the Tower of London.”
– Kathleen Kent, NY Times Bestselling author of The Heretic’s Daughter
“In A Noble Cunning, Patricia Bernstein paints a compelling and dramatic portrait of Scotland in the perilous time of the 1715 Jacobite Rebellion, seen through the eyes of the courageous Bethan Carlisle Glentaggart, Countess of a Clarencefield, a Catholic noblewoman who defies danger to undertake an ingenious plot to save her husband from a traitor’s terrible death. Fans of historical fiction will find much to enjoy in this immersive tale of adventure, rich with period detail.”
– Gillian Bagwell, author of The September Queen
About the Author
Native Texan Patricia Bernstein grew up in Dallas. After earning a Degree of Distinction in American Studies from Smith College, she founded her public relations agency in Houston. In 2018, her third book was named a Finalist for the Ramirez Family Award from the Texas Institute of Letters. The Austin American Statesman named the book to a list of 53 of the best books ever written about Texas. Patricia’s nonfiction was previously published by Simon & Schuster and Texas A&M University Press. Patricia lives in Houston with her husband, Alan Bernstein, where she pursues her other great artistic love, singing with Opera in the Heights and other organizations. She also basks in the glory of her three amazing daughters. A Noble Cunning is her debut novel. You can learn more about Patricia and her work at PatriciaBernstein.com.
Blog Tour Schedule
Monday, May 15
Review at Books, Cooks, Looks
Tuesday, May 16
Review at A Potpourri of Opinions
Review at Michelle the PA Loves to Read
Wednesday, May 17
Review at Bookworlder
Review at Novels Alive
Thursday, May 18
Review at 100 Pages a Day
Saturday, May 20
Review at Rajiv’s Reviews
Review at Novel Nerd Blog
Review at Reading is My Remedy
Monday, May 22
Review at Cover Lover Book Review
Tuesday, May 23
Review at Linda Ulleseit
Guest Post at Author M.K. McClintock
Wednesday, May 24
Feature at Passages to the Past
Friday, May 26
Review at Coffee and Ink
Review at Gwendalyn’s Books
Giveaway
Enter to win a copy of A Noble Cunning by Patricia Bernstein. We have 3 copies up for grabs!
The giveaway is open to the US only and ends on May 26th. You must be 18 or older to enter.
Hello Gentle Readers
Welcome to my stop on the blog tour for
The Late Mrs. Willoughby by Claudia Gray
• Title: The Late Mrs. Willoughby
• Series: A Mr. Darcy & Miss Tilney Mystery (Book 2)
• Author: Claudia Gray
• Genre: Historical Mystery, Cozy Mystery, Austenesque
• Publisher: Vintage Books (May 16, 2023)
• Length: (400) pages
• Format: Trade Paperback, eBook, & Audiobook
• ISBN: 978-0593313831
• Tour Dates: May 15 – 29, 2023
BOOK DESCRIPTION
The suspenseful sequel to The Murder of Mr. Wickham, which sees Jonathan Darcy and Juliet Tilney reunited, and with another mystery to solve: the dreadful poisoning of the scoundrel Willoughby’s new wife.
Catherine and Henry Tilney of Northanger Abbey are not entirely pleased to be sending their eligible young daughter Juliet out into the world again: the last house party she attended, at the home of the Knightleys, involved a murder—which Juliet helped solve. Particularly concerning is that she intends to visit her new friend Marianne Brandon, who’s returned home to Devonshire shrouded in fresh scandal—made more potent by the news that her former suitor, the rakish Mr. Willoughby, intends to take up residence at his local estate with his new bride.
Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam Darcy of Pemberley are thrilled that their eldest son, Jonathan—who, like his father, has not always been the most socially adept—has been invited to stay with his former schoolmate, John Willoughby. Jonathan himself is decidedly less taken with the notion of having to spend extended time under the roof of his old bully, but that all changes when he finds himself reunited with his fellow amateur sleuth, the radiant Miss Tilney. And when shortly thereafter, Willoughby’s new wife—whom he married for her fortune—dies horribly at the party meant to welcome her to town.
With rumors flying and Marianne—known to be both unstable and previously jilted by the dead woman’s newly made widower—under increased suspicion, Jonathan and Juliet must team up once more to uncover the murderer. But as they collect clues and close in on suspects, eerie incidents suggest that the killer may strike again, and that the pair are in far graver danger than they or their families could imagine.
PURCHASE LINKS
AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | BOOKSHOP | BOOKBUB | GOODREADS
PRAISE FOR THE LATE MRS. WILLOUGHBY
• “An absolute page-turner full of well-plotted mystery and hints of simmering romance…. More of the Jane Austen characters we love (as well as those we love to hate).” —Mia P. Manansala, author of Arsenic and Adobo
• ”Gray makes her endearing leads’ sleuthing both plausible and entertaining while evoking the wit and feel of Austen’s classic novels. Admirers of P.D. James’s Death Comes to Pemberley will be delighted.” —Publisher’s Weekly (starred review)
• ”Absolutely delightful! Fans of Jane Austen and historical mysteries will fall in love with this series. Gray remains true to Austen’s style and intent for her beloved characters while still adding her own spin on them and their progeny—one that is both refreshing and absorbing. I’m already looking forward to the next installment.” —Anna Lee Huber, USA Today bestselling author of the Lady Darby series
REVIEW
From the desk of Gwendalyn
A Delightful Austenesque Style, Regency Era Whodunnit
The Late Mrs. Willoughby is the second installment in Mr. Darcy & Miss Tilney Mystery Book Series, by the author Claudia Gray.
Claudia Gray once again does an excellent job of transporting readers back to the world of Sense & Sensibility. Juliet and Jonathan find themselves using their clever amateur sleuths capabilities to solve another murder mystery.
While attending a house party to welcome John Willoughby, new bride, disaster unfolds. Jonathan was a little reluctant to the party at John Willoughby estate, because of his past school days trauma. His knowing that a certain lady, a Miss Tilney will be there is all the motivation that he needs. Together Mr. Darcy and Miss Tilney work together to solve the murder, as their relationship starts to blossom into a proper romance.
After enjoying the first book in this cozy historical mystery series, I was overjoyed to once again accompany Mr. Darcy and Miss Tilney on another investigation. Full of rich imagery and vibrant details, the author grabs your attention from start to finish. This wonderful charter driven novel, will satisfy readers who enjoy books inspired by the people in Jane Austen’s Sense and Sensibility book. The author stays true to the period and her seamless narration helps to keep readers on their toes as the twists of the investigation brings our two MC’s close to danger. The ending will have you excited for the next book, and I am anxiously waiting for its release.
AUTHOR BIO
Claudia Gray is the pseudonym of Amy Vincent. She is the writer of multiple young adult novels, including the Evernight series, the Firebird trilogy, and the Constellation trilogy. In addition, she’s written several Star Wars novels, such as Lost Stars and Bloodline, and Jane Austen-inspired series, A Mr. Darcy & Miss Tilney Mysteries. She makes her home in New Orleans with her husband Paul and assorted small dogs.
WEBSITE | TWITTER | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | BOOKBUB | GOODREADS
Hello Readers
I just finishedthe last lord standing by diana lloyd
Book Links: Goodreads |
Link to Amazon
Link to Barnes and Noble
Book Info:
Always the rogue and never the gentleman, Kerrigan Northam doesn’t worry about anything beyond his own pleasures. But lately, his noble friends have been considering marriage—specifically, the charms (and generous fortune) of the refreshingly pert Lady Olivia Liberty Chalford. Now they want Kerr to keep her from considering any other eligible suitors…by courting her himself!
Libby is averse to the very idea of marriage. Why be auctioned off when she has a far more enticing—if scandalously modern—plan for her future? So when she’s rescued by a wickedly dashing gentleman who claims to be something of a scoundrel, Libby thinks she’s found the perfect partner in crime…
It’s the perfect ruse. Libby gets a secret accomplice and Kerr’s in the uniquely coveted position of being able to kiss the comely, spirited Libby as thoroughly—and as often—as possible. But as their courting charade continues, Kerr’s gone from wondering how long until she discovers his secret…to how long until he’s madly in love with her.
REVIEW
Diana Lloyd third installment I here delightful book series, What Happens In The Ballroom was such a charming and fun read.
We follow the youngest child of the Earl and Countess of Winchcombe, twenty-two year old, Lady Olivia Chalford. Some have nicknamed her Lady Liberty, or just Libby. Still unmarried with several unsuccessful seasons prior, she has plans for her future. Olivia wants to do more than most young ladies from notable families. She would love nothing more than invest her time and hard work in creating a charity for the poor. Convinced that having to experience what it’s like to have really work for a living she has decided to work as a shop girl in a theater district. To gain first hand knowledge of what it’s like for those not as fortunate as those that sweep the elaborate ballrooms of the ton.
Kerrigan “Kerr” Northam is the second son of a second son, currently runs a charity for widows of sailors. His situation has allowed him to extra time to think about what he wants to do with his life.
A chance meeting at ball that includes some spilled punch and a spare- -of -the-moment kiss. Libby and Kerr’s story takes off.
Diana Lloyd seamless writing provided a top notch historical romance, and had characters you are going to fall in love with.
This was such a charming historical romance that you won’t be able to put down.
Meet the Author:
Diana Lloyd, mother of gingers, lives in the state shaped like a mitten where she enjoys the shark free waters of the great lakes. An avid reader, Diana found her happy place in historical romance novels and decided to write one. That first one turned out so well she stuck with it and wrote a few more.
Website | Facebook | Twitter | | Instagram |
Hello Gracious Readers
Welcome to my stop on the blog tour for
The Queen’s Scribe
Sea and Stone Chronicles
by Amy Maroney
The Queen’s Scribe
Sea and Stone Chronicles
by Amy Maroney
Blog Tour May 1st – May 12th, 2023
Publication Date: April 25th, 2023
Publisher: Artelan Press
Pages: 388
Genre: Historical Fiction
A broken promise. A bitter conflict.
And a woman’s elusive chance to love or die.
1458. Young Frenchwoman Estelle de Montavon sails to Cyprus imagining a bright future as tutor to a princess. Instead, she is betrayed by those she loves most—and forced into a dangerous new world of scheming courtiers, vicious power struggles, and the terrifying threat of war.
Determined to flee, Estelle enlists the help of an attractive and mysterious falconer. But on the eve of her escape, fortune’s wheel turns again. She gains entry to Queen Charlotta’s inner circle as a trusted scribe and interpreter, fighting her way to dizzying heights of influence.
Enemies old and new rise from the shadows as Estelle navigates a royal game of cat and mouse between the queen and her powerful half-brother, who wants the throne for himself.
When war comes to the island, Estelle faces a brutal reckoning for her loyalty to the queen. Will the impossible choice looming ahead be her doom—or her salvation?
With this richly-told story of courage, loyalty, and the sustaining power of love, Amy Maroney brings a mesmerizing and forgotten world to vivid life. The Queen’s Scribe is a stand-alone novel in the Sea and Stone Chronicles collection.
Praise for the Sea and Stone Chronicles:
“Island of Gold is a nimbly told story with impeccable pacing.”
~ Historical Novel Society, Editor’s Choice Review
“Sea of Shadows is stunning. A compelling tale of love, honor, and conviction.”
~ Reader’s Favorite Review
Amy Maroney is the author of the award-winning Miramonde Series, the story of a Renaissance-era female artist and the modern day scholar on her trail.
Buy Links
Amazon UK • Amazon US • Amazon CA • Amazon AU
REVIEW
The Queen’s Scribe, is the third installment in the Sea and Stone Chronicles, by Amy Maroney
Ms Maroney, superbly blends real life historical figures, along with her own imagined characters, to create a thrilling historical fiction, full of courtly intrigue and action.
We follow our heroine the daughter of master falconer to Lord de Milly of Rhodes. Estelle de Montavon. Tasked to travel to Cyprus to become the French tutor of the recently widowed teenage Princess Charlotta. Estelle is met with opposition from the young Charlotta, heir to the throne. Court life is treacherous to say the least, Estelle needs to keep her wits about her if she is going to survive. She finds help and friendship with an under-falconer named Gabrie. As the young princess takes on the roll of queen, her status is not set in stone as her devious half-brother will do anything to snatch the crown from her. Estelle and those around her find themselves embroidered in a civil rebellion.
Meticulous researched, along with atmospheric court imagery, give readers an opportunity to experience a mediterranean court life during the fifteen century. A fast paced read with engaging and fleshed out characters that I enjoyed reading about.
Amy Maroney
Amy Maroney studied English Literature at Boston University and worked for many years as a writer and editor of nonfiction. She lives in Oregon, U.S.A. with her family. When she’s not diving down research rabbit holes, she enjoys hiking, dancing, traveling, and reading. Amy is the author of The Miramonde Series, an Amazon-bestselling historical mystery trilogy about a Renaissance-era female artist and the modern-day scholar on her trail. Amy’s award-winning historical adventure/romance series, Sea and Stone Chronicles, is set in medieval Rhodes and Cyprus. An enthusiastic advocate for independent publishing, Amy is a member of the Alliance of Independent Authors and the Historical Novel Society.
Social Media Links:
Website • Twitter • Facebook • Instagram
Pinterest • BookBub • LinkedIn
Amazon Author Page • Goodreads
Tour Schedule
May 1st
May 2nd
May 3rd
May 4th
Meredith Allard’s Official Blog
Elizabeth St.John’s Official Blog
May 5th
May 8th
The Historical Fiction Company
Kahleena MacCarthy’s Official Blog
May 9th
Historical Fiction Blog
Wendy J. Dunn’s Official Blog
May 10th
Gwendalyn’s Books
CelticLady’s Reviews
May 11th
MJ Porter’s Official Blog
Crowvus Book Blog
May 12th
Deborah Swift’s Official Blog
When Angels Fly
The Coffee Pot Book Club
Hello lovely Readers
Welcome to my stop on my book tour for
The Castle Keepers by Aimie K. Runyan, J’nell Ciesielski, & Rachel McMillan
Publication Date: May 2, 2023Harper Muse
Genre: Historical Fiction
Leedswick Castle has housed the Alnwick family in the English countryside for generations, despite a family curse determined to destroy their legacy and erase them from history.
- After a disastrous dinner at the Astor mansion forces her to flee New York in disgrace, socialite Beatrice Holbrook knows her performance in London must be a triumph. When she catches the eye of Charles Alnwick, one of the town’s most enviably-titled bachelors, she prepares to attempt a social coup and become the future Marchioness of Northridge. When tragedy and scandal strike the Alnwick family, Beatrice must assume the role of a lifetime: that of her true, brave self.
- Artist Elena Hamilton arrives in Northumberland determined to transform a soldier’s wounds into something beautiful. Tobias Alnwick’s parents have commissioned a lifelike mask to help their son return to his former self after battle wounds partially destroyed his face. But Elena doesn’t see a man who needs fixing—she sees a man who needn’t hide. Yet secrets from their past threaten to chase away the peace they’ve found in each other and destroy the future they’re creating.
- Alec Alnwick returns home from the war haunted but determined to leave death and destruction behind. With the help of Brigitta Mayr, the brilliant young psychoanalyst whose correspondence was a lifeline during his time on the Western Front, he reconstructs his family’s large estate into a rehabilitation center for similarly wounded soldiers. Now Alec’s efforts may be the only chance to redeem his family legacy—and break the curse on the Alnwick name—once and for all.
Purchase Links
Amazon | Barnes & Noble
REVIEW
A stellar collaboration of three wonderful authors Aimie K. Runyan, J’nell Ciessielski, and Rachel McMillan. Creating three distinct novellas that are set at Leedswick Castle, in England during the years of 1870, 1917 and 1945. Readers will be transported to the English countryside where each author’s storyline focuses on the the Ainwick family in this multigenerational family saga.
All three novella’s are well written and the characters are wonderfully fleshed out. The FMC are strong willed and independent women whom I just loved.
This was a creative and enjoyable read by three of the best historical fiction writers.
I highly recommend this book to my family and friends who enjoy historical fiction and moving storylines.
Praise
‘A trio of talented storytellers skillfully brings to life three eras in The Castle Keepers. I found myself yearning to walk the halls of Leedswick Castle to soak up the secrets the walls held, and also the whispers of love. Intrigue, a poison garden, and a long-standing curse make for a colorful and rich read.’ — Heather Webb, USA TODAY bestselling author of Strangers in the Night
‘The Castle Keepers is a fascinating story of love’s ability to overcome family curses, scandals and even war. Told in three parts, this multi-generational tale is wonderfully heartwarming!’ — Madeline Martin, New York Times bestselling author of The Last Bookshop in London
‘Take one castle and the dramatic tales of three generations of fascinating characters who reside there, and you’re in for a treat with The Castle Keepers by Aimie K. Runyan, J’nell Ciesielski, and Rachel McMillan. Every generation has its challenges, but for the owners of Leedswick Castle, their actions will affect their descendants over and over again.
Filled with sweet romances, a little humor, and touches of intrigue, this novel written in three parts is sure to delight readers!’ — Eliza Knight, USA TODAY bestselling author of Starring Adele Astaire
About the Authors
Aimie K. Runyan
Internationally bestselling author Aimie K. Runyan writes to celebrate unsung heroines. She has written six historical novels (and counting!) and is delving into the exciting world of contemporary women’s fiction. She has been a finalist for the Colorado Book Award three times, a nominee for the Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers’ ‘Writer of the Year,’ and a Historical Novel Society’s Editors’ Choice selection. Aimie is active as a speaker and educator in the writing community in Colorado and beyond. She lives in the beautiful Rocky Mountains with her wonderful husband, two adorable (usually) children, two very sweet cats, and a pet dragon. Visit her online at aimiekrunyan.com; Instagram: @bookishaimie; Facebook: @aimiekrunyan; Twitter: @aimiekrunyan.
J’nell Ciesielski
Bestselling author with a passion for heart-stopping adventure and sweeping love stories, J’nell Ciesielski weaves fresh takes into romances of times gone by. When not creating dashing heroes and daring heroines, she can be found dreaming of Scotland, indulging in chocolate of any kind, or watching old black-and-white movies. She is a Florida native who now lives in Virginia with her husband, daughter, and lazy beagle. Learn more at http://www.jnellciesielski.com. Instagram: @jnellciesielski; Facebook: @J’nellCiesielski.
Rachel McMillan
Rachel McMillan is the author of The London Restoration, The Mozart Code, the Herringford and Watts mysteries, the Van Buren and DeLuca mysteries, and the Three Quarter Time series of contemporary Viennese romances. She is also the author of Dream, Plan, Go: A Travel Guide to Inspire Independent Adventure. Rachel lives in Toronto, Canada. Visit her online at rachelmcmillan.net; Instagram: @rachkmc; Facebook: @rachkmc1; Twitter: @rachkmc; Pinterest: @rachkmc.
Blog Tour Schedule
Tuesday, May 2Review at Tammy ReadsReview at Ms. Darcy ReadsExcerpt at MK McClintock Blog
Wednesday, May 3Review at A Girl Reads Bookss
Thursday, May 4Review at Amy’s Booket List
Friday, May 5Review at Michelle the PA Loves to Read
Saturday, May 6Review at Bookworlder
Monday, May 8Review at Gwendalyn’s BooksReview at Books In Their Natural Habitat
Tuesday, May 9Review at Rebecca is Reading
Wednesday, May 10Review at Novels Alive
Thursday, May 11Review at Amanda in PA
Friday, May 12Review at Books, Cooks, Looks
Saturday, May 13Feature at Passages to the Past
Monday, May 15Review at Reading is My RemedyReview at She’s Becoming Bookish
Tuesday, May 16Review at Reader_ceygo
Wednesday, May 17Review at The Lit Bitch
Thursday, May 18Review at Girl Who Reads
Giveaway
Enter to win a copy of The Castle Keepers by Aimie K. Runyan, J’nell Ciesielski, Rachel McMillan!
The giveaway is open to the US only and ends on May 18th. You must be 18 or older to enter.
The Castle Keepers
Hello Gracious Readers
Welcome to my stop on the blog tour for
Regency Therapy: A Sweet Romantic Comedy
• Title: Regency Therapy: A Sweet Romantic Comedy
• Series: The Jane Austen Vacation Club (Book 2)
• Author: Lisa H. Catmull
• Genre: Contemporary Romance, Inspirational Fiction
• Publisher: Saltair Press (February 3, 2023)
• Length: (278) pages
• Format: Trade Paperback & eBook
• ISBN: 978-1959864011
• Tour Dates: April 24 – May 8, 2023
BOOK DESCRIPTION
My publisher invited me to attend an all-expenses paid writing retreat at the posh new Hartfield Regency Resort in Loveland, Colorado. Carole isn’t nice like that—there must be a catch.
There is. His name is Ryder Hawk, the outlaw leader of the all-male Western writers who work for the same publishing company. He thinks he’s agreed to attend an all-expenses-paid week at a dude ranch.
Yeah, no. Carole has other ideas. She wants to break into the cowboy romance market. If I want to renew my writing contract, I have to do more than put up with Ryder and his gang of cowboy cronies for a week. We have to write together.
The problem is, Ryder and I have a history.
And it’s more like war than peace.
PRAISE FOR REGENCY THERAPY
• “Fun, sweet, slow burn. I was rooting for them!”— Liselotte, Goodreads
• 5 STARS “The romantic chemistry was off the charts with these two and the flirting was on another level!”— Ashley Johnson, Bringing Up Books
• “You don’t have to be an Austen fan to love this series!…If you’re looking for a clean, well-written book with some truly laugh out loud moments, grab this one today!”— Lorie AH, Amazon, on Matchmaking Therapy
PURCHASE LINKS
REVIEW
A Wonderful Romcom, With Nods To Jane Austen
We follow Lucy, a dedicated Regency styled author who is on her way to a writer’s retreat at Hartfield Regency Resort. When she bumps into a handsome cowboy at the airport who just happens to be boarding the same plane. They exchange a little flirtatious dialogue, without each other really knowing who each other are.
The writers retreat is usually a Regency author’s retreat, but Lucy’s publisher has decided to add male authors, who write western novels to be included in the mix. Lucy’s books are a steady sweet second right behind western author Ryder Hawk, on the bestseller list. Which tends to baffle Lucy as she is definitely proud of her book genre settings and subject matter. All in all she knows she is a better author than any western writer.
Fireworks ignite in this delightful, spunky contemporary book, with nods to Jane Austen. The authors writing flows effortlessly, along with the relatable characters. Lucy is a snarky woman who I just loved, and Ryder was a swoon worthy counterpart. A book that will keep a smile on your face all the way through, because of the delightful banter between Lucy and Ryder.
I am excited to see what’s in store in the next book in this series.
AUTHOR BIO
Lisa Catmull writes sweet contemporary romances and clean and wholesome romances in the Victorian era. Her books have been nominated for Swoony, RONE, and Whitney awards.
She taught Middle School English and History for seven years before pursuing screenwriting and writing. She currently lives between a canyon and a lake in Utah with her husband, two cats, and two rambunctious children.
Her books can be found on Amazon and are always free for Kindle Unlimited readers.
WEBSITE | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | BOOKBUB | GOODREADS
Hello Welcome My Friends
Thanks for joining me on the Blog Tour for
The Vanishing at Castle Moreau By Jaime Jo Wright
Book Facts
- Title: The Vanishing at Castle Moreau
- Author: Jaime Jo Wright
- Genre: Historical Suspense, Historical Romance, Inspirational Fiction
- Publisher: Bethany House Publishers
- Publication date: April 4, 2023
- Length: 384 pages
- Format: Hardcover, trade paperback, eBook, & audiobook
- ISBN: 978-0764238345
- Tour dates: March 27 – April 10, 2023
Purchase Links
AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | BOOK DEPOSITORY | BOOKSHOP | GOODREADS
Book Description
A haunting legend. An ominous curse. A search for a secret buried deep within the castle walls.
In 1870, orphaned Daisy François takes a position as housemaid at a Wisconsin castle to escape the horrors of her past life. There she finds a reclusive and eccentric Gothic authoress who hides tales more harrowing than the ones in her novels. As women disappear from the area and the eerie circumstances seem to parallel a local legend, Daisy is thrust into a web that could ultimately steal her sanity, if not her life.
In the present day, Cleo Clemmons is hired by the grandson of an American aristocratic family to help his grandmother face her hoarding in the dilapidated Castle Moreau. But when Cleo uncovers more than just the woman’s stash of collectibles, a century-old mystery and the dust of the old castle’s curse threaten to rise again . . . this time to leave no one alive to tell the sordid tale.
Award-winning author Jaime Jo Wright seamlessly weaves a dual-time tale of two women who must do all they can to seek the light amid the darkness shrouding Castle Moreau.
REVIEW
Thank you for joining me today on my blog as I Review The Vanishing at Castle Moreau by Jaime Jo Wright, on tour with Austen Prose tours!
The Vanishing at Castle Moreau By Jaime Jo Wright, delights readers with its multi narrations and a heavy dose of gothic suspense. Once you start this book you won’t want to stop. It kept me completely immersed into the wee hours of the night.
1870 Orphaned Daisy Francois finally escapes her foster parents. She takes a position at a Midwest castle in Wisconsin. Set out to leave her traumatic past behind she finds herself faced with more terror. When the villagers devolve about the happenings of the woman near by, Daisy Francois realizes their is more to the eccentric reclusive mistress of the castle, who writes tales of suspense and murder. She decides to stay on because of her friendship with the mistress’s grandson.
Present Day Cleo Clemmons, is running from her family and the law. She takes a job hoping to stay in the shadows under the radar the debilitated Castle Moreau. Her job is to help Ora’s granddaughter Virgie deal with her hoarding problem. Cleo starts to experience strange unusual experiences.
As both women past and present experience eerie unsettling moments it would seem that Moreau-Tremblays are definitely hiding something. An excellent unputdownable read, with just enough spine tingling suspense mixed into a heartfelt message of regret and forgiveness. The authors seamless narration weaves the stories together and the twist are engaging. The perfect amount romance, along with a meaningful message adds so much to this engaging storyline.
Special thanks for my complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers, courtesy of Austen Prose Tours with Laurel Ann Nattress. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
About the Author
Jaime Jo Wright is the author of eight novels, including Christy Award and Daphne du Maurier Award-winner The House on Foster Hill and Carol Award winner The Reckoning at Gossamer Pond. She’s also the Publishers Weekly and ECPA bestselling author of two novellas. Jaime lives in Wisconsin with her cat named Foo; her husband, Cap’n Hook; and their two mini-adults, Peter Pan and CoCo.
WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | BOOKBUB | GOODREADS
Praise for the Book
“Wright (The Souls of Lost Lake) captivates with a thrilling tale of two women who get caught up in the secrets of a Wisconsin castle…The twisting, fast-moving plot is loaded with secrets, and the characters remain morally ambiguous until the end. Readers won’t want to put this down.”— Publisher’s Weekly
“Wright (The Premonition at Withers Farm) pens another delightfully creepy tale where nothing is quite as it seems and characters seek freedom from nightmares both real and imagined.”— Library Journal
“Jaime Jo Wright never disappoints, and The Vanishing at Castle Moreau is no exception. With real, flawed characters who grapple with real-life struggles, this gripping suspense novel will draw readers in from the very first page. Good luck putting it down. I couldn’t.”— Lynette Eason, bestselling author of the Extreme Measures series
Welcome to my stop on the blog tour for
⚔️☀︎△༻·.Pagan King.·༺ △ ☀︎⚔️
by MJ Porter @colorsofunison
@cathiedunn
TalesOfMercia #TheSeventhCentury #PaganKing #MJPorter #HistoricalFiction #BlogTour #EarlyMedievalFiction
by MJ Porter
The Seventh Century
Pagan King
Publication Date: April 21st, 2016
Publisher: MJ Publishing
Pages: 300
Genre: Historical Fiction / Action & Adventure
Audiobook: narrated by Matt Coles
From bestselling author, MJ Porter comes the tale of the mighty pagan king, Penda of Mercia.
The year is AD641, and the great Oswald of Northumbria, bretwalda over England, must battle against an alliance of the old Britons and the Saxons led by Penda of the Hwicce, the victor of Hæ∂feld nine years before, the only Saxon leader seemingly immune to Oswald’s beguiling talk of the new Christianity spreading through England from both the north and the south.
Alliances will be made and broken, and the victory will go to the man most skilled in warcraft and statecraft.
The ebb and flow of battle will once more redraw the lines of the petty kingdoms stretching across the British Isles.
There will be another victor and another bloody loser.
Amazon US • Amazon UK • Amazon CA • Amazon AU
Waterstones • Barnes & Noble • Kobo
iBooks • iTunes • Audio • Bookshop
M J Porter
MJ Porter is the author of many historical novels set predominantly in Seventh to Eleventh-Century England, as well as three twentieth-century mysteries. Raised in the shadow of a building that was believed to house the bones of long-dead Kings of Mercia, meant that the author’s writing destiny was set.
Connect with MJ Porter:
Website • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn • Instagram • Pinterest • BookBub
Amazon Author Page • Goodreads • Linktr.ee • TikTok
Connect with narrator, Matt Coles:
Hello Friends,
Welcome to my stop stop on the Blog Tour for
Pagan Warrior by M.J. Porter
(Of Gods and Kings #1)
Pagan Warrior
by MJ Porter
(Of Gods and Kings #1)
Blog Tour March 14th – May 16th, 2023
Publication Date: May 25th, 2015
Publisher: MJ Publishing
Pages: 294
Genre: Historical Fiction / Action & Adventure
Audiobook: narrated by Matt Coles
ABOUT THE BOOK
From bestselling author, MJ Porter comes the tale of the mighty pagan king, Penda of Mercia.
Britain. AD632.
Penda, a warrior of immense renown, has much to prove if he is to rule the Mercian kingdom of his dead father and prevent the neighbouring king of Northumbria from claiming it.
Unexpectedly allying with the British kings, Penda races to battle the alliance of the Northumbrian king, unsure if his brother stands with him or against him as they seek battle glory for themselves, and the right to rule gained through bloody conquest.
There will be a victor and a bloody loser, and a king will rise from the ashes of the great and terrible battle of Hædfeld.
Buy Links
Amazon US • Amazon UK • Amazon CA • Amazon AU
Waterstones • Barnes & Noble • Kobo
iBooks • iTunes • Audio • Bookshop
REVIEW
⚔️☀︎△༻·.Pagan Warrior.·༺ △ ☀︎⚔️
by MJ Porter
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
This is a non spoiler review, because you as reader need to read this book. Also, I feel sometimes I have in the past gave away to much of the plot line. This has diminished the pleasure for would be readers.
Pagan Warrior by M.J. Porter, is an impeccably researched historical fiction of the dark ages. A captivating book that is written in multi-POV’s, giving the reader front row center place as book progresses up to the battle of Hædfeld. As Christianity makes it steady march, across the lands, and the shift from paganism to the one god. Kings and Lords start to form alliances, M.J. Porter, incredible writing gives readers an insightful look at the treachery and the side switching of those who play key roles in the dark turbulent time in history. A vast cast of players who are somewhat related by birth or marriage makes for even more heated dynamics. Stunning character development and rewarding backstories, kept me immersed from start to finish. The ever present tension, is cleverly built up to the climatic battle.
What A Rewarding Read
The Battle of Hatfield
In AD632 there was a fierce battle between the Northumbrians led by King Edwin against the Pagans led by Penda of Mercia and King Cadwallon of Gwynedd. The Battle is known as the Battle of Heathfield but we now know it as the Battle of Hatfield.
History tells us that the Battle took place at the village of Hatfield just north-east of Doncaster. Yet I cannot find any evidence to support that claim, only by the word of mouth of William Camden. (1)
Heath means ‘unattended land’.
Field means ‘a piece of land cleared of trees and usually enclosed’
So Heathfield is ‘a clearing of unattended land’.
From this point we will use the word Hatfield in preference of Heathfield.
The first recognised historian in England was The Venerable Bede (673-735) and it was he who first mentioned the Battle of Heathfield / Hatfield in the written word. 40 years before his birth, the battle in question took place.
Bede writes:
“A great battle being fought in the plain that is called Haethfelth, Edwin was killed on the 12th of October, in the year of our Lord 632, being then forty-eight years of age, and all his army was either slain or dispersed.”
In the 7th Century, a vast amount of Northumbria, Yorkshire, North Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire would fall under the heading of Hatfield.
Sited from : Battle of Hatfield Investigation Society
AUTHOR
M J Porter
MJ Porter is the author of many historical novels set predominantly in Seventh to Eleventh-Century England, as well as three twentieth-century mysteries. Raised in the shadow of a building that was believed to house the bones of long-dead Kings of Mercia, meant that the author’s writing destiny was set.
Connect with MJ Porter:
Website • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn • Instagram • Pinterest • BookBub
Amazon Author Page • Goodreads • Linktr.ee • TikTok
Connect with narrator, Matt Coles:
Tour Schedule
March 14th
The Historical Fiction Company
March 21st
March 28th
Gwendalyn’s Books
Historical Fiction Blog
Let Your Words Shine
April 4th
Elizabeth St.John’s Official Blog
Brook’s Journal
April 11th
Deborah Swift’s Official Blog
The Writing Desk
April 18th
Paul Walker’s Official Blog
Wendy J. Dunn’s Official Blog
Ruins & Reading
April 25th
The Magic of Wor(l)ds
Judith Arnopp’s Official Blog
Carolyn Hughes’ Official Blog
May 2nd
Stuart Rudge’s Official Blog
When Angels Fly
May 9th
CelticLady’s Reviews
The Book’s Delight
May 16th
Linnea Tanner’s Official Blog
The Coffee Pot Book Club
Hello There Friends
Welcome to my stop on the blog tour for
Silver in the Bone
Genre: Young Adult Fantasy
Publishing date: April 4, 2023
Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indigo | IndieBound
Synopsis:
#1 New York Times bestselling author Alexandra Bracken cements her status as one of the top fantasy authors writing today in this stunning series opener inspired by Arthurian legend and fueled by love, revenge, and pure adrenaline!
Tamsin Lark didn’t ask to be a Hollower. As a mortal with no magical talent, she was never meant to break into ancient crypts, or compete with sorceresses and Cunningfolk for the treasures inside. But after her thieving foster father disappeared without so much as a goodbye, it was the only way to keep herself—and her brother, Cabell—alive.
Ten years later, rumors are swirling that her guardian vanished with a powerful ring from Arthurian legend. A run-in with her rival Emrys ignites Tamsin’s hope that the ring could free Cabell from a curse that threatens both of them. But they aren’t the only ones who covet the ring.
As word spreads, greedy Hollowers start circling, and many would kill to have it for themselves. While Emrys is the last person Tamsin would choose to partner with, she needs all the help she can get to edge out her competitors in the race for the ring. Together, they dive headfirst into a vipers’ nest of dark magic, exposing a deadly secret with the power to awaken ghosts of the past and shatter her last hope of saving her brother. . . .
Content Warning: foster family dynamic, childhood abuse, mention of suicidal thoughts, self-harm, and gore/blood
REVIEW
Hello Gracious Readers
Welcome to my stop on the blog tour for
To Win Her Hand by Jen Geigle-Johnson
To Win Her Hand
Series: A Gentleman’s Match (Book 1)
Author: Jen Geigle Johnson
Genre: Historical Romance, Regency Romance, Inspirational Fiction
Publisher: King’s Row Press (December 15, 2022)
Length: (272) pages
Format: Hardcover, Trade Paperback, & eBook
ISBN: 978-1737592174
Tour Dates: February 27 – March 13, 2023
BOOK DESCRIPTION
An expert at winning a woman’s hand. A woman who cannot be won.
Lord Featherstone has the world on his shoulders. Or at least his world. With two brothers and a failing estate he must make funds somehow. But what happens when he falls for a woman? Will his tactics work when the situation is so close and personal?
Everyone thinks Lady Loveluck is a wealthy widow. What they don’t know is that she is on the brink of hiring herself out as a Governess in order to pay for her next meal. The only thing keeping her from employment is a growing reputation as a matchmaker. As long as she never falls for another man, as long as she doesn’t allow herself to be fooled into marrying, she will be just fine.
But she never counted on being caught up in the beguiling tactics of London’s renowned and not so secret matchmaker for men.
Review
From the desk of Gwendalyn Anderson
To Win Her Hand
Series: A Gentleman’s Match (Book 1)
Author: Jen Geigle Johnson
Genre: Historical Romance, Regency Romance, Inspirational Fiction
Publisher: King’s Row Press (December 15, 2022)
A unique Regency romance with a delightful twist on the matchmaker troupe !
We follow vivacious Lady Loveluck, who has been left with a considerable amount of debt from her late husband’s passing. She secretively takes in female clients that are looking for suitable husbands. Lord Featherstone shoulders the burden of of his impoverished estate, along with sole care of his younger siblings. His uncanny ability to transform certain gentleman of the ton into appealing husband material, has earned him a certain notoriety as a stand out matchmaker.
What happens when a friendly competition brings these two closer together? Will they lose their hearts to one another?
Jen Geigle Johnson’s engages readers in this fun and witty Regency Romance. I couldn’t help being drawn into this very clever twist on the matchmaker trope, that worked so well and I was completely there for. A delightful book, that will keep interested and characters that you will root for.
PRAISE FOR TO WIN HER HAND
“I loved the character growth, watching them learn more about the other’s heart and hardships, and the realization that perhaps they had more choices than they first thought. Such a sweet regency. I’m so grateful I had the chance to read this one.”— Makayla Branson, Reading Past Bedtime
“The house party, the quiet moments, the collection of other characters, and much more all combined together made this is delightful read.”— Julie Carpenter, Goodreads
“Two matchmakers with a wager. What fun for all! [A] heart touching story.”—Shauna Jones, Goodreads
PURCHASE LINKS
AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | BOOK DEPOSITORY | BOOKSHOP | GOODREADS
AUTHOR BIO
Jen Geigle Johnson is an award-winning author, including the GOLD in Foreword INDIES Book of the Year Awards and LDSPMA Praiseworthy’s top award for Romance,
Jen has more stories circulating in her brain than can possibly be told. She discovered her passion for England while kayaking on the Thames near London as a young teenager. History is her main jam. Her literary heroes include the greats: Jane Austen and Charles Dickens. But she has modern sensibilities as well.
Six children and an inspiring husband keep her going and make certain she doesn’t stay glued to a keyboard or lost in obscure fascinating details of old castles.
Now, she loves to share bits of history that might otherwise be forgotten. Whether in Regency England, the French Revolution, or Colonial America, her romance novels are much like life is supposed to be: full of adventure.
WEBSITE | TWITTER | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | GOODREADS
Hello Gracious Readers
Welcome to my stop on the blog tour for
ACT LIKE A LADY, THINK LIKE A LORD
COVER REVEAL
Make sure you read the complete post to enter an Giveaway!
• Title: Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Lord: A Mystery
• Author: Celeste Connally
• Genre: Historical Mystery, Regency Mystery, Cozy Mystery
• Publisher: Minotaur Books (November 14, 2023)
• Length: (304) pages
• Format: Hardcover, & eBook
• ISBN: 978-1250867551
BOOK DESCRIPTION
Bridgerton meets Agatha Christie in Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Lord, a dazzling first entry in a terrific new Regency-era cozy series with a feminist spin.
When Lady Petra Forsyth’s fiancé and soulmate dies just weeks ahead of their wedding, she makes the shocking proclamation―in front of London’s loosest lips―that she will never remarry. A woman of independent means, Petra sees no reason to cede her wealth and freedom to any man now that the love of her life has passed, nor does she intend to become confined to her country home. Instead, she uses her title to gain access to elite spaces and enjoy the best of society without expectations.
But when ballroom gossip suggests that a longtime friend has died of “melancholia” while in the care of a questionable physician, Petra vows to use her status to dig deeper―uncovering a private asylum where men pay to have their wives and daughters locked away, or worse. Just as Lady Petra has reason to believe her friend is not dead, but a prisoner, her own headstrong actions and thirst for independence are used to put her own freedom in jeopardy.
PURCHASE LINKS
AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | BOOK DEPOSITORY | BOOKSHOP | GOODREADS
AUTHOR MESSAGE
Hello, Dear Readers,
I’m incredibly honored you’re here to help me reveal the cover for the first book in my new historical mystery series, Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Lord.
The idea for this book took hold during the pandemic, when I was watching period dramas on the regular, including all my favorite Jane Austen adaptations and Downton Abbey. And of course, in nearly every one, there was the notion of the unmarried woman being a rather pitiable character. I began thinking about how the spinsters never got to be in the limelight, especially in the Regency period. They were hardly ever seen as strong, or capable, or worthy of respect, and I thought to myself that a main character who valued her independence and embraced her decision not to marry would make for a heroine I would like to write.
And thus, dear readers, I am overjoyed to introduce you to Lady Petra Forsyth. Daughter of the Fifth Earl of Holbrook, accomplished equestrienne, goddaughter to the Duchess of Hillmorton, and a woman in possession of her own fortune.
After the death of her fiancé three years ago, Lady Petra’s already headstrong ways—which include occasionally riding astride in her brother’s old breeches—came to include living her life on her own terms. That is, without a husband—though not everyone sees her decision as the right one, or the ladylike one. And when the purported death of a dear friend seems intertwined with mentions of a mysterious physician, Petra does the most unladylike thing she can: she starts asking questions.
When Petra formed in my mind as a character, I saw her with little bits of some of my favorite…well, almost-spinsters. Such as Emma Woodhouse, who was initially willing to go her own way and remain unmarried in a time where doing just that was an incredible risk for a woman, no matter what her financial status. And then there’s Downton Abbey’s Lady Edith, who recognized her talents and carved out a satisfying life for herself as anentrepreneur and businesswoman. She didn’t let it stop her from romance, either…
Another thing my inspirations for Petra have in common is that I feel they would all have made excellent amateur sleuths. Some would say it’s because spinsters have an inclination toward nosiness, but I would say it’s their sharp minds and a refusal to give up on what’s important. I think Petra certainly begins to develop the knack for investigating—whether or not those around her approve—and I very much hope you’ll enjoy riding alongside her for her very first adventure.
All my best,
Celeste
AUTHOR BIO
Celeste Connally is an Agatha Award nominee, and a former freelance writer and editor. A lifelong devotee of historical novels and adaptations fueled by her passion for history—plus weekly doses of PBS Masterpiece—Celeste loves reading and writing about women from the past who didn’t always do as they were told.
WEBSITE | TWITTER | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | GOODREADS
GIVEAWAY CHANCE
Author Celeste Connally and her publisher Minotaur Books are generously offering a fabulous giveaway for your readers that you can add to your post and on social media.
Giveaway Details:
Two (2) winners (selected at random by Rafflecopter) will receive one (1) advanced reader’s paperback copy of Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Lord. One (1) winner (selected at random by Rafflecopter) will receive one (1) advanced reader’s paperback copy of Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Lord and a gift prize package containing the following:
1. A Jane Austen ‘Obstinate, Headstrong Girl’ mug from the Jane Austen Centre giftshop.
2. A bookmark, and a bookplate signed by the author.
3. A medley of Harney & Sons teas in various flavors individually wrapped teabags.
4. A handmade ceramic tea tidy in the shape of a teapot for teabags.
5. A box of English tea biscuits.
Giveaway period: Open from 12:01 am Pacific time 02/22/23 until 11:59pm Pacific time on 03/19/23.
Terms & Conditions:
The giveaway is hosted by Celeste Connally and Minotaur Books. No purchase is necessary. Entrants must be 18 years or older. Open to US residents only. All information will remain confidential and will not be sold or otherwise used, except to notify the winner and to facilitate postage of the books and prizes to the winners. Void where prohibited. One giveaway item per eligible entrant.
Announcement of Winner:
Visit author Celeste Connally’s website on March 20, 2023, to see if you won one of the three prizes.
Rafflecopter Form:
Link: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/406b793d1/?
Today I’m excited to participate in the Creative Blog Tour for
The Fated and the Damned by Chloe Hodge
Hosted by MTMC Tours.
A steamy, romantic, and dangerous, The Fated and the Damned is the deliciously dark conclusion to the Cursed Blood duology.
Title: The Fated and the Damned
Author: Chloe Hodge
Series: Cursed Blood #2
Publication Date: February 16th, 2023
Genres: Dark, Fantasy Romance
Format: eBook, Paperback, Hardcover
Purchase a copy:
Amazon | Book Depository | Barnes & Noble| Indiebound | Blackwell’s
Add on Goodreads!
The Dark Queen has risen. War is coming.
Desperate to save her people and secure allies, Kitarni must forge her position as leader of the coven and lady of Mistvellen. The only way to do that is to marry him.
The man who betrayed her … and the one who has her heart.
With demons roaming the land and humans on a witch hunt, their only means of survival lies in Death’s fabled crown. The only problem is, it’s hidden in the Under World, and the price of entry might be too much to bear.
Only the cursed one can save her people.
Only the wolf lord can save her.
INTL Tour-wide Instagram Giveaway!
Head over to my Instagram account to enter the tour giveaway where two lucky readers will win a paperback copy of The Fated and the Damned!
Ends on March 4th, 2023. Winner will be announced on @mtmctours’ Instagram account.
REVIEW
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐅𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐦𝐧𝐞𝐝 by @chloeschapters!
𝚃𝚑𝚎 𝙳𝚊𝚛𝚔 𝚀𝚞𝚎𝚎𝚗 𝚑𝚊𝚜 𝚛𝚒𝚜𝚎𝚗. 𝚆𝚊𝚛 𝚒𝚜 𝚌𝚘𝚖𝚒𝚗𝚐.
The Fated and the Damned is the stunning dark conclusion to the Cursed Blood duology. Action packed, this spicier follow-up has higher stakes and more action.
The Fated and the Damned, is a stellar fast paced romantasy with a strong female heroine, that features an arranged marriage, along elements of Hungarian folklore. Full of dark magic, hate to love, witches, epic battle scenes, second chances!
Be prepared for more spice, a binge worthy book that features two of my all time favorite book characters Kitarni and Dante ♥︎
"𝐈 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐧𝐨 𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐚 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐜𝐡, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫. 𝐍𝐞𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐥𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐧𝐨𝐫 𝐝𝐞𝐚𝐝, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐚 𝐧𝐞𝐰 𝐛𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐨𝐟 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐨𝐬."
Tour Schedule:
February 20
@thereaderandthechef – Bookstagram & Book Blog
February 21
@a_bookish_dream – Bookstagram & BookTok
February 22
@paperfury – Bookstagram & BookTok
February 23
@buildingourbookshelves – Bookstagram
February 24
@rozanne_visagie – Bookstagram & Book Blog
February 25
@gwendalyn_books_ – Bookstagram & Book Blog
February 26
@thebookishmusician – Bookstagram
February 27
@rebireads – Bookstagram & BookTok
February 28
@booksandbasilisks – Bookstagram
March 1
@nelthewhichcraftsbooks – Bookstagram & Book Blog
AUTHOR
About Chloe Hodge:
Chloe Hodge was born in Adelaide, South Australia to New Zealand parents and a Hungarian heritage.
In 2017 she completed a Bachelor of Journalism & Professional Writing at the University of South Australia, receiving recognition as a high performing student in the top 10 percentile. She was a finalist for the Julie Duncan Memorial Award, and holds a lifetime membership to the Golden Key International Honour Society. Hodge then proceeded to work for the Australian Broadcast Corporation (ABC) as a radio producer in Adelaide, before spending some time in regional SA as a broadcast news reporter. Thereafter, she worked as a journalist for a technical grape and wine magazine before founding her own small editing business, Chloe’s Chapters, and starting a career as a Young Adult Fantasy author.
She now spends her time crafting fantastical novels brimming with magic and mystery, and building worlds rich with colour and history. Hodge creates a character cast full of underdogs and the morally grey—always seeking to triumph over evil, or perhaps live long enough to see them become it.
Hodge lives in Brisbane, QLD, with her husband and two dogs. She can be found at chloehodge.com or you can contact her on her Bookstagram account @chloeschapters
Website | Instagram | Goodreads
Hosted by:
Hello Lovely Readers
Welcome to my stop on the cover reveal for
A WINTER BY THE SEA
Julie Klassen
• Title: A Winter by the Sea
• Series: On Devonshire Shores (Book 2)
• Author: Julie Klassen
• Genre: Historical Romance, Regency Romance, Inspirational Fiction
• Publisher: Bethany House Publishers (December 5, 2023)
• Length: (448) pages
• Format: Hardcover, Trade paperback, & eBook
• ISBN: 978-1250867551
BOOK DESCRIPTION
When the Duke and Duchess of Kent rent neighboring Woolbrook Cottage for the winter, the Summers sisters are called upon to host three of the royal couple’s male staff in their seaside house. But they soon realize they’ve invited mysterious secrets and the sweet possibility of romance into their home.
Meanwhile, Emily Summers approaches a local publisher in hopes of fulfilling her dream of becoming an author. When he turns her down, his dashing competitor promises to consider her novel if she will first write a new Sidmouth guidebook for him. Emily accepts and begins researching with the help of the Duke of Kent’s handsome private secretary. But a surprise visitor from her past shows up at Sea View, leaving Emily torn between the desires she used to hold dear and her budding dreams for the future.
Return to the Devonshire coast with the Summers sisters, where loyalties are tested, secrets come to light, and new love emerges.
PURCHASE LINKS
AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | BOOK DEPOSITORY | BOOKSHOP | GOODREADS
AUTHOR MESSAGE
WEBSITE | TWITTER | FACEBOOK | PINTEREST | INSTAGRAM | GOODREADS
Dear Readers,
I am excited to give you an insider’s look at my December 2023 novel, A Winter by the Sea. This is the second book in the On Devonshire Shores series. Book One, The Sisters of Sea View, has been enthusiastically received and reviewed. I am grateful for each of you who helped spread the word about it!
During my research, I learned that the Duke and Duchess of Kent and their baby daughter stayed in Woolbrook Cottage (very near fictional Sea View) during the winter of 1819-1820. I instantly knew I wanted to include them in the novel to give readers a glimpse of the early life of Queen Victoria and her parents. The royal party arrived with too many attendants to accommodate at Woolbrook, so some were lodged elsewhere. I thought it would be fun to have a few staff members stay at Sea View, including a pastry chef who invades their kitchen, a man in desperate straits, and the duke’s handsome private secretary.
It was also interesting to write a seaside novel set during wintertime (it was unusually cold and snowy that year). Because I live in frigid Minnesota, cold weather details and sensations were easy to imagine. 😊
When I began writing this series, I had not yet traveled to Sidmouth, where the series is set. I am happy to say I was able to visit in August 2022 and was thrilled to experience this delightful town in person. The highlight of that trip was meeting the staff and volunteers of the Sidmouth Museum who have been extremely helpful in answering research questions and checking setting details for me.
A Winter by the Sea focuses on beautiful Emily Summers, who finds herself caught up in two rivalries. First, while striving to further her writing aspirations, Emily is torn between her loyalty to a well-established publisher & bookseller and his flamboyant competitor. Second, despite her best intentions, she is attracted to one of their new guests, but an old love comes to town, determined to renew their courtship.
I hope you are eager to return with me to the English seaside for Book Two of the On Devonshire Shores series. Thank you for all you do to support my books, and readers everywhere!
Gratefully, Julie
AUTHOR BIO
Julie Klassen loves all things Jane—Jane Eyre and Jane Austen. Her books have sold more than a million copies and she is a three-time recipient of the Christy Award for Historical Romance. She has also been honored with the Minnesota Book Award, Midwest Book Award, and Christian Retailing’s BEST Award. A graduate of the University of Illinois, Julie worked in publishing for sixteen years and now writes full time. She and her husband have two sons and live in St. Paul, Minnesota.
Hello Readers of The Page
Welcome to my stop on the blog tour for
Winter of the Wicked (Sisters Solstice #2)
@VampaJl @PhantomHPress @RRBookTours1 #RRBookTours #WOTW
Congratulations to J.L. Vampa on the release of the HIGHLY-ANTICIPATED second novel in The Sisters Solstice series, Winter of the Wicked! Read on for more and get yourself a copy of this beauty!
Winter of the Wicked (Sisters Solstice #2)
Publication Date: February 21st, 2023
Publisher: Phantom House Press
Genre: Adult Fantasy/ Gothic Fantasy/ Dark Romantic Fantasy
Some witches cast spells. Others sacrifice everything.
A Sister forced to do the unthinkable. A kingdom on the brink. A quartet of witches intent on altering History.
For centuries, Sister Winter’s life has been dictated by a Grimoire—the Book her Sister Autumn just destroyed. Despite the necessity of its destruction to end a vile shadow organization and the Sisters’ three hundred years of separation, Wendolyn is left adrift without its guidance.
As secrets from long ago begin to rise up around her, Sister Winter must face what haunts her, while the Prince of Mereville uses his abilities as Marchand de Mort to infiltrate The Order—the shadow regime that wants him dead.
Will the ghosts of the past keep Wendolyn from her Sisters? Will their differences spell the end for Midlerea? Or can they put aside what’s been to save the dark prince and the future of the realm?
Add to Goodreads
Available on Amazon
REVIEW
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
This is a non spoiler review, because you as reader need to read this book. Also, I feel sometimes I have in the past gave away to much of the plot line. This has diminished the pleasure for would be readers.
Winter of the Wicked is the second installment in the book series, The Sisters Solstice. JL Vampa’s Winter of the Wicked, is another superb book. The story kicks off right where we last parted the Sisters. Told in distinct multiple POV’s, that were very easy to follow. We are giving a wonderful back stories, and more of a look at what propels our characters emotions and actions.
A fasanating book, that kept me engaged from start to finish. The Sisters complex relationship with each other and their love interest is expanded more. Vampa’s ups the stakes in this one, and her richly descriptive storytelling will keep you immersed within these pages. Old friends and new ones lavish the pages, along with the perfect amount of heat and spice will keep readers enthralled. The world building is expanded, and the emotional aspects of the MC personal development is well noted in this haunting gothic tale.
If you enjoyed the first book Autumn Of The Grimoire, like I did, than prepared to be spellbound in JL Vampa bewitching follow up.
Autumn of the Grimoire (Sisters Solstice Series #1)
Publication Date: September 22, 2022
Genre: Gothic Fantasy/ Dark Fantasy Romance
Publisher: Phantom House Press
Some witches cast spells. Others slay kings.
A mysterious Grimoire. A marriage full of dark secrets. A History sculpted by a quartet of ancient Sister witches.
For three hundred years, Sister Autumn has incited wars, burnt villages, killed kings, and released plagues at the bidding of the Grimoire. Meanwhile, her Sister Winter, Sister Spring, and Sister Summer have brought forth only peace.
When an Order from the Grimoire sends Agatha to the Kingdom of Merveille, she already anticipates the worst. Unless she wants to face the wrath of the Goddess, Agatha must keep her head down and do as she’s commanded.
But when the Grimoire Orders her to marry a pompous prince and play the role of a peasant “accepted” by vicious aristocrats, she finds herself at the center of a war between the classes and an age-old prophecy.
Within the court, many players harbor dark secrets—including her new husband. With her newfound influence, Agatha joins forces with the city’s Blacklisted in order to blur the lines between the common man and the elite, unravel the mysteries in her marriage, and decide once and for all if she will defy the Grimoire and face the brutal consequences.
As secrets unfold, will Agatha continue to slay on behalf of the Grimoire, or forge an uncharted History with her unlikely allies?
About the Author
Jane Lenore (J.L.) Vampa is a published author of Dark Fantasy and Victorian Gothic fiction. J.L. also owns a macabre-style bookish shop, Wicked Whimsy Boutique. She lives in Texas with her musician husband and their two littles who are just as peculiar as they are.
JL Vampa | Instagram | Twitter | Wicked Whimsy Boutique
Book Tour Organized By:
Hello Readers
I am truly excited to share with today the beautiful cover for
The Orchid Hour by Nancy Bilyeau
The Orchid Hour by Nancy Bilyeau
Publication Date: August 10, 2023
Lume Books
Genre: Historical Thriller
There is a certain hour, in the dead of night, when the orchid’s scent can put you under a spell…
“Nancy Bilyeau has created a beautifully layered and utterly seductive tale… and, at its living, tender heart, a strong-willed and magnetic heroine.” – Emilya Naymark, author of Behind the Lie, finalist for the 2023 Sue Grafton Award
Nancy Bilyeau, author of The Crown and The Blue, returns with a tantalizing novel about one woman caught up in a secret nightclub that one can only reach through a certain florist on a cobblestone street.
New York City, 1923. Zia De Luca’s life is about to be shattered. Having lost her husband to The Great War, she lives with her son and in-laws in Little Italy and works at the public library. But when a quiet poetry lover is murdered outside the library, the police investigation focuses on Zia. After a second tragedy strikes even closer to home, Zia learns that both crimes are connected to a new speakeasy in Greenwich Village called The Orchid Hour.
When the police investigation stalls, Zia decides to find her own answers. A cousin with whom she has a special bond serves as a guide to the shadow realm of The Orchid Hour, a world filled with enticements Zia has shunned up to now. She must contend with a group of players determined to find wealth and power in New York on their own terms. In this heady atmosphere, Zia begins to wonder if she too could rewrite her life’s rules. As she’s pulled in deeper and deeper, will Zia be able to bring the killers to justice before they learn her secret?
To be published August 10, 2023, in the U.S., the UK, Canada, and Australia, in original paperback and ebook.
The pre-order is on a special discount for the ebook: geni.us/TOHPre-Order
Praise for Nancy Bilyeau’s Other Books
The Crown:
“Bilyeau deftly weaves extensive historical research throughout, but the real draw of this suspenseful novel is its juicy blend of lust, murder, conspiracy, and betrayal.”
—O, The Oprah Magazine, pick of the month
The Blue:
“Definitely a winner!”
—Kate Quinn, author of The Diamond Eye
Dreamland:
“I could practically taste the salt-water taffy and smell the ocean air as I read Bilyeau’s latest, set in 1911 Coney Island. Beautifully written and impeccably researched, DREAMLAND is a rollicking ride.”
—Fiona Davis, author of The Magnolia Palace
About the Author
Nancy Bilyeau is a historical novelist and magazine editor based in New York. She wrote the Joanna Stafford trilogy, a trio of thrillers set in Henry VIII’s England, for Simon & Schuster. Her fourth novel is The Blue, an 18th-century thriller revolving around the art and porcelain world. Her next novel is Dreamland, set in Coney Island of 1911, to be published by Endeavour Quill on January 16, 2020. A former staff editor at Rolling Stone, Entertainment Weekly, and InStyle, Nancy is currently the deputy editor at the Center on Media, Crime and Justice at John Jay College and contributes to Town & Country, CrimeReads, and Mystery Scene magazine.
To learn more, go to www.nancybilyeau.com. You can follow Nancy on Facebook, Twitter, BookBub, and Goodreads.
Cover Reveal Schedule
Wednesday, February 15
Passages to the Past
Thursday, February 16
I’m Into Books
Gwendalyn’s Books
Impressions In Ink
My Reading Getaway
Friday, February 17
Miranda’s Bookscape
Dive Into a Good Book
Saturday, February 18
One Book More
CelticLady’s Reviews
Sunday, February 19
The Book Junkie Reads
Monday, February 20
The Lit Bitch
Books In Their Natural Habitat
History from a Woman’s Perspective
Tuesday, February 21
Bookworlder
Amy’s Bookshelf
Wednesday, February 22
Reading is My Remedy
Hello Loves
Welcome to my stop on the blog tour for
THE MAID OF BALLYMACOOL By Jennifer Deibel
@ThisGalsJourney, @RevellBooks
THE MAID OF BALLYMACOOL
By Jennifer Deibel
• Genre: Historical Romance, Historical Fiction, Inspirational Fiction
• Publisher: Fleming H. Revell Co (February 21, 2023)
• Length: (352) pages
• Format: Hardcover, Trade Paperback, & eBook
• ISBN: 978-0800741747
• Tour Dates: February 13 – 27, 2023
PURCHASE LINKS
AMAZON | BAKER PUBLISHING | BARNES & NOBLE | BOOK DEPOSITORY | BOOKSHOP | GOODREADS
BOOK DESCRIPTION
Brianna Kelly was abandoned at Ballymacool House and Boarding School as an infant. She has worked there since she was a wee girl and will likely die there. Despite a sense that she was made for something more, Brianna feels powerless to change her situation, so she consoles herself by exploring the Ballymacool grounds, looking for hidden treasures to add to the secret trove beneath the floorboards of her room.
When Michael Wray, the son of local gentry, is sent to Ballymacool to deal with his unruly cousin, he finds himself drawn to Brianna, immediately and inescapably. There is something about her that feels so . . . familiar. When Brianna finds a piece of silver in the woods, she commits to learning its origins, with the help of Michael. What they discover may change everything.
Fan favorite Jennifer Deibel invites you back to the Emerald Isle in the 1930s for this fresh take on the Cinderella story, complete with a tantalizing mystery, a budding romance, and a chance at redemption.
ADVANCE PRAISE
– “Deibel’s update on the “Cinderella” story features sympathetic, three-dimensional characters that readers will find easy to root for as they navigate the page-turning plot and find their way to one another. This heartwarming entry will keep readers hooked till its satisfying close.”— Publisher’s Weekly
– “A slow-building, delicious romance wrapped in a mystery!”— Erica Vetsch, author of the Thorndike & Swann Regency Mysteries
REVIEW
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
This is a non spoiler review, because you as reader need to read this book. Also, I feel sometimes I have in the past gave away to much of the plot line. This has diminished the pleasure for would be readers.
The Maid of Ballymacool by Jennifer Deibel, follows a sweet young Irish woman Brianna Kelly. Brianna was abandoned on the steps of the Ballymacool House and Boarding School when she was just an infant. Maureen Magee, the harsh headmistress of Boarding School has made sure that Brianna knows her place as a servant.
Michael Wray the son of a local lord, is tasked with checking on his wayward female cousin at Ballymacool House. He can’t help being drawn to tinder hearted Brianna Kelly. Even though they are separated by completely opposite social classes, Michael is smitten by the young lass. Michael finds Mistress Magee treatment of Brianna ghastly, and uncalled for. Together Brianna and Michael seek to unravel the mystery surrounding Brianna’s parentage.
This was such a lovely Cinderella styled clean historical romance. I found the setting and details wonderful, along with budding romance of Brianna and Michael. There is a mystery that unfolds that keeps readers in a state of suspense.
This was such a delightful book read, that once I started reading it I found myself captivated by the characters and the mystery.
Thanks so much to Laurel Ann Nattress Austenprose PR
AUTHOR
Jennifer Deibel is the author of A Dance in Donegal (winner of the Kipp Award for Historical Romance) and The Lady of Galway Manor (a Parable Group bestseller). Her work has appeared on (in)courage, on The Better Mom, in Missions Mosaic magazine, and in other publications. With firsthand immersive experience abroad, Jennifer writes stories that help redefine home through the lens of culture, history, and family. After nearly a decade of living in Ireland and Austria, she now lives in Arizona with her husband and their three children.
WEBSITE | TWITTER | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | GOODREADS
The White Sails Series: Special Hardback Omnibus
by Emma Lombard
If Bridgerton and Pirates of the Caribbean had a love child.
Are you a fan of sweeping romantic adventures?
Do you fall for tall, brooding Naval Officers?
Love a feisty female lead who makes you yell aloud?
Then hop aboard Emma Lombard’s hardback Collector’s Edition of The White Sails Series, and batten down the hatches!
But Why?
Well, firstly, let me tell you what my Kickstarter campaign isn’t. It isn’t a plea for donations, it’s not a beg for money, and it’s not just another retailer.
Okay, so what is it then?
Kickstarter is a wonderful way for me to give more to my fans.
It allows fans access to a special collector’s edition that is not (and will never be) available from online retailers.
It allows fans to have each and every copy personalised, which is just not doable on retailers.
It also allows fans a more intimate view of the story behind my series.
And best of all, it allows fans to get involved in my next series, whether through an exclusive sneak peek of the first draft or even having a character named after them.
Oh, and did I mention there’s an opportunity to win the original oil painting of the cover?
Where else in the world do you get all this extra cool stuff thrown in just because you bought a book?
What’s in it for you, Emma?
Without wanting to sound too cheesy, I’m beside myself to put such a pretty book out in the world. I’m mean, just look at that dreamy sunset! I’m not going to lie, I love a chunky book. This collector’s edition fulfils my ultimate author dream—to be able to hold (and smell) a weighty tome. I’m not the only one—I’ve had folks walk up to my books at the market and pick them up just to smell them! My kind of peeps!
I know it’s taboo to talk about money, but the pledges received for this campaign will help me recoup some of the upfront expenses that I have already laid out, like editing, book cover design, audiobook narration, and it will give me the momentum I need to invest in those same services for my next series, The Gold Hills Series.
You’ll be helping keep the indie publishing ecosphere turning, which in turn lets me keep creating more stories.
So, what’s The White Sails Series about?
One of my readers described it best: If Bridgerton and Pirates of the Caribbean had a love child.
The idea for this series was born from a tiny nugget of family gossip that my grandmother shared with me. She told me how my 3x great grandmother left her well-to-do family in England to elope with an English sea captain, and live aboard his ship with him.
I took the basic concept of this story and had a blast creating an entirely fictitious imagining of what it might have been like for a woman to live aboard a ship in those days. Quite ironic considering that I get terribly sea-sick myself.
Curious? Never seen what a Kickstarter campaign looks like?
Just looking: Take an exclusive pre-launch look at Emma’s campaign to see it in detail, click HERE.
Note: clicking on this link will not sign you up to anything, it’s simply an exclusive behind-the-scenes look.
To follow the campaign: Open the campaign, and click ‘Notify me on launch’ button at the top of the page
Note: this will not commit you to any pledges, it’s how you will be able to have ring-side seats to watch the campaign play out.
Giveaway
Batten down the hatches, m’lovelies, for a chance to win an exclusive, personalised, hardcover Collector’s Edition of The White Sails Series: Fill out the entry form HERE.
Book Blast Hosts
Books & Benches
Passages to the Past
The Book Junkie Reads
Books, Cooks, Looks
Elodie’s Reading Corner
Carole’s Ramblings
My Reading Getaway
Gwendalyn’s Books
Bookish Mya
I’m Into Books
Reading Is My Remedy
CelticLady’s Reviews
History from a Woman’s Perspective
Jorie Loves a Story
Hello Readers Of My Page
Welcome to my stop on the book tour for
Spice Road (The Spice Road Trilogy #1) by Maiya Ibrahim.
Genre: Young Adult Fantasy
Publishing date: January 24th, 2023
Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indigo | IndieBound
Rep: Middle Eastern, Arabian, Lebanese
Synopsis:
The first book in an epic fantasy series for fans of Sabaa Tahir, Hafsah Faizal and Elizabeth Lim, set in an Arabian-inspired land. Raised to protect her nation from the monsters lurking in the sands, seventeen-year-old Imani must fight to find her brother whose betrayal is now their greatest threat.
In the hidden desert city of Qalia, secret spice magic awakens affinities in those who drink the misra tea. With an affinity for iron, seventeen-year-old Imani wields a dagger like no other warrior, garnering her the reputation as the next greatest Shield for battling the dangerous djinn, ghouls, and other monsters that lurk in the sands beyond city limits.
Her reputation has been overshadowed, however, by her brother who tarnished the family name after he was discovered stealing their nation’s coveted spice – a tell-tale sign of magical obsession. He disappeared soon after, believed to have died beyond the Forbidden Wastes, and leaving Imani reeling with both betrayal and grief.
But when Imani uncovers evidence her brother may be alive and spreading their nation’s magic beyond the desert, she strikes a deal with the Council to find him and bring him back to Qalia before he can reveal the city’s location. Accompanied by Qayn, a roguish but handsome djinni, and Taha, a powerful beastseer whose magical talents are matched only by his arrogance, they set out on their mission.
Imani will soon discover there are many secrets that lie beyond the Forbidden Wastes – and in her own heart – but will she find her brother before his betrayals endanger the fate of all of Qalia?
In this epic and action-packed fantasy, one young heroine navigates the treacherous road between protecting the ones you love and staying loyal to the place you call home.
Content Warning: politics, colonialism
REVIEW
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
This is a non spoiler review, because you as reader need to read this book. Also, I feel sometimes I have in the past gave away to much of the plot line. This has diminished the pleasure for would be readers.
Spice Road by Maiya Ibrahim is vibrant fantasy, full of swords and sorcery !
Maiya Ibrahim, brings Qalia and Alqibah worlds vividly to life. This immersive enemies to lovers fantasy is set in an Arabian-inspired land. Full of Monsters and myths from Middle Eastern folklore.
We follow seventeen year old Imani, who is the the infamous Djinni-Slayer, the youngest member of the Shields, protectors of the city of Qalia. Imani is gifted with the magical ability to transform her ancient dagger into other weapons. Aided by a tea called Spice, who’s magical properties that comes from the ancient Misra Tree.
Her presumed treasonous brother Atheer, has been missing and assumed dead after his theft of misra. When things come to light he might not be so dead after all. When Imani and her younger sister, Amira are given information about their brother, they find themselves in a retrieval group set out to bring Atheer back. To much to her dismay Imira is paired with her rival Taha and his scouts. Together along with her sister, and a Djinni, who claims he has befriended her brother, they leave the comforts of everyone and everything they know to retrieve her brother.
Faced with danger and the harsh reality of the vast desert land, and what it’s people have had to endure. Imira slowly realizes how much she is narrow minded. The reader Is given first hand Imira inner thoughts as she finds herself in back and forth relationship with Taha, as they make their way.
A plot driven book who’s slightly stubborn and quite sassy character, faces harsh realities about the world she thought she knew. I enjoyed the enemies to lovers troupe and the banter. The magical system was unique and I thought the beautiful world building and folklore was gorgeous.
I am excited for the next installment.
Happy Reading Friends
Thanks to @tbrbeyondtours @getunderlined @maiya_ibrahim @delacortepress @delacortepresskids @randomhousekids @atrandombooks @prhlibrary
AUTHOR
Maiya Ibrahim is the debut author of SPICE ROAD, publishing January 24, 2023 from Delacorte Press and Hodder & Stoughton. She graduated with a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Technology Sydney. When she isn’t writing, reading, or spending time with her family, she enjoys video games, gardening, and expanding her collection of rare trading cards. She lives in Sydney, Australia.
She is represented by Peter Knapp of Park & Fine Literary and Media, Claire Wilson of RCW Literary, and Mary Pender-Coplan of United Talent Agency.
Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Pinterest
TOUR SCHEDULE
January 23rd
paperbacktomes – Interview
The Litt Librarian – Review
Midsummer Night’s Read – Review
The Momma Spot – Review
January 24th
Stuck in Fiction – Promotional Post
Boys’ Mom Reads! – Review
Poppy Warphan – Review
Gwendalyn’s Books – Review
January 25th
Book Notes by Athina – Promotional Post
PopTheButterfly Reads – Review
Roopkathaa – Review
Book Trek – Review
January 26th
Hardcover Haven – Interview
Whimsical Dragonette – Review & Favorite Quotes
laura’s bookish life – Review
The Girl Who Reads – Review & Favorite Quotes
January 27th
The Book Dutchesses – Promotional Post
Brinns Books – Review
Confessions of a YA Reader – Review
heylittlesiren – Review
January 28th
What Cass Reads – Review
dinipandareads – Review & Favorite Quotes
Lit Lemon Books – Review
Reading Stewardess – Review
January 29th
Kait Plus Books – Interview
The Clever Reader – Promotional Post
The Ink Slinger – Review & Playlist
Books We Love – Review
INSTAGRAM SCHEDULE
January 23rd
writingrosereads – Promotional Post
thisreadergirl – Favorite Quotes
paperbacktomes – Content Creator’s Choice
thelittlibrarian – Content Creator’s Choice
January 24th
thebookwebb – Promotional Post
tahaslibrary – Review & Mood Board
aluojins.scrolls.of.secrets – Content Creator’s Choice
gwendalyn_books – Content Creator’s Choice
January 25th
ninebookishlives – Promotional Post
get.outside.and.read – Top 5 Reasons to Read Spice Road
tinybooknest – Favorite Quotes
booknotes_athina – Content Creator’s Choice
popthebutterfly – Content Creator’s Choice
January 26th
silveryquills – Mood Board
hardcoverhaven – Content Creator’s Choice
laurasbookishlife1 – Content Creator’s Choice
bookstagramofmine – Content Creator’s Choice
January 27th
tbrandbeyond – Promotional Post
secretrhs05 – Review & Favorite Quotes
lisashelves – Review & Favorite Quotes
brinnsbooks – Content Creator’s Choice
heylittlesiren – Content Creator’s Choice
January 28th
belle.bookcorner – Review & Favorite Quotes
the_ya_assassin – 15 Reactions While Reading Spice Road
whatcassreads – Content Creator’s Choice
dinipandareads – Content Creator’s Choice
January 29th
theenchantedshelf – Review & Playlist
betweenhogwartsandvelaris – Promotional Post
aamnaiswriting_ – Content Creator’s Choice
bookswelovee – Content Creator’s Choice
Hello Readers
Welcome to my stop on the blog tour for
Woodborn by Heather Nix
Read on for details and be sure to enter the giveaway at the end – A book box containing the book and other bookish goodies!
Woodborn by Heather Nix
(Song of Gods #1)
Expected Publication Date: January 21, 2023
Genre: Sapphic Fantasy/ High Fantasy
CW: This is a sapphic fantasy novel, featuring a great deal of blood. Full list here
Pre-Order Here
Add to Goodreads
“I do not know how I lived in darkness for so many years with this bright world just waiting for me to grasp it.”
Maelwen is a young witch trapped in a harsh and unforgiving life. Friendless and alone, she endures terrible abuse in order to survive in the desolate land of Iowain.
Across the continent, Cicerine, a virtuous young faun, lives in the idyllic glade of KanitoshWoods. Alongside her mother and closest friend, she is raised with dutiful reverence for the god, Idyth—led by the mysterious Father Farragen.
After escaping her tormentor and seeking a new life of her own, Maelwen finds a fresh start in the seedy trade city of Konidas. Meanwhile, a terrible tragedy befalls the glade, and Cicerine must flee to the same seaside town, leaving behind all she has ever known.
As a dark and menacing force spreads across Idythia, can Maelwen’s gifts and Cicerine’sdeveloping power stand against the threat which faces them all? Alongside found family, new friends, and a crew of sapphic pirates, the line between good and evil is tested as the continent prepares for an epic battle.
GIVEAWAY
Win a Woodborn book box that includes the book and other goodies (US only)
a Rafflecopter giveaway
REVIEW
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
This is a non spoiler review, because you as reader need to read this book. Also, I feel sometimes I have in the past gave away to much of the plot line. This has diminished the pleasure for would be readers.
Woodborn by Heather Nix, is a stunning sapphic dark fantasy.
Heather Nix delivers a vividly descriptive, interesting, and well-written read here, with characters and a setting that totally captivated and intrigued me. I was totally taken and fascinated with each character’s own story. The narration is solid told in very distinct multiple POV’s. The two characters that stand out for me are, Maelwen the witch and Ceci a half human faun. The writing is smooth, and the author easily switches back and forth between characters effortlessly. The book has depth, with gender identity, and sexual preferences representatives The there also is traumatic scenes that I thought were handled perfectly. The spice was just enough to add some heat to the tale, also it kept me flipping through the pages. Fair warning friends, once you start reading this book you won’t be able to stop. Overall I really enjoyed reading this book, and I am excited to read Heather Nix next written work.
A captivating dark fantasy book, that will give you the best book hangover !
Happy Reading Friends
EXCERPT
My bare feet pad along the floor of my small apartment as I head toward the bedroom. The desolate and stark journey from Iowain to Konidas took three days’ time, and I arrived two months ago today. I slept on the open ground, wrapped in my cloak beneath the wide sky, full of stars. I did not encounter a single living creature as I flew. The nights were silent but for the whistle of the wind and the soft rustle of my cloak, becoming as familiar to me as a part of my body. Tiny pinprick scars now run along my arms and back from wrist to wrist, where it stitches to my skin for flight, looking like a seam pulled undone. They are the only wounds which my body has not healed. It feels odd, like finding something I did not know belonged to me. The cloak currently lies draped over a chair in my sitting room, humming softly to me as I sit on my bed. Months ago, I only dreamed of freedom. Now, I have it.
This apartment sits over a tavern in Konidas. The owners are human, plump, and kind-hearted. The night I arrived here, the tavern was the first open business I found, and I shook off the chill at a barstool with a tankard of frothy ale. The barkeep made small talk, and after the ale loosened my tongue, I let slip that I had just arrived and had made no arrangements for housing. I had planned on renting a room at the inn by the docks, despite the cost—rooms were rented by the day or the hour, not monthly. Without renting one of the rickety, dilapidated homes in town or an apartment above one of the small businesses, the cost of living in a transient city like Konidas is high. However, by the end of the night, I had made my first friend, the barkeep, Shell. She is the daughter of the tavern owners who coincidentally, and conveniently, had an empty apartment upstairs. I can’t help but feel like this is all too easy, too good. I have never had a home or a friend, and this comfort is unnerving. Some god or goddess must have been on my shoulder, guiding me toward complete strangers who somehow trusted me enough to offer up an apartment within hours of my arrival. I would say thanks if we still recalled the names of the gods. I paid them upfront for three months, a show of good faith that I can at least be counted on in that regard. I am not a friendly face, but money is just as good when it comes to trust. For the second time today, I pull out my sack of coin from beneath my mattress and count it. Jarrus’s savings and my meager hoard made a fair sum, and I have a decent amount left, but soon I will need to come up with a way to make more. I slide beneath my blankets and with a small smile allow myself to drift to sleep—almost happy for the first time in my life.
I wake with the dawn, the pale pink light of sunrise filtering through my small window. There is a marked quiet to the morning and my brow furrows as I look around. My cloak has gone quiet. The persistent hum has stopped, and my senses feel dulled. I am tired, despite my night of sleep, and my body aches. Hunger grabs onto the pit of my stomach with a twisting cramp and I stand, unsteady on my feet. I dress in a pair of charcoal gray pants and a silk blouse, and I pull my long hair back into a leather tie. The staircase down to the tavern seems to shift beneath my feet, and I grip the railing to keep from falling. Shell is busy wiping down the bar, and I can smell something cooking in the kitchen, but it makes my stomach turn. Nearly gagging, I push my way through the door and out into the morning bustle.
AUTHOR
Heather Nix is the debut author of Woodborn, the first book in the Song of Gods series. Born and raised in sunny San Diego, CA she longs to return to the forests of the Pacific Northwest. She is the mother of two human and three cat children, and enjoys tattoos, tabletop RPGs, and creating feminist art in her limited spare time. Heather is passionate about writing queer fantasy and strives to create nuanced characters who resonate with underserved communities.
Books by Nix | Instagram | TikTok
Book Tour Schedule
January 16th
R&R Book Tours (Kick-Off) http://rrbooktours.com
@afantaseaofbooks (Review) https://www.instagram.com/afantaseaofbooks/
@gwendalyn_books_ (Review) https://www.instagram.com/gwendalyn_books_/
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Books Blog (Spotlight) https://www.booksblog.co.uk/
January 17th
@fantastic__fiction (Review) https://www.tiktok.com/@fantastic__fiction
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I Love Books & Stuff (Spotlight) https://ilovebooksandstuffblog.wordpress.com
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Stine Writing (Spotlight) https://christinebialczak.com/
January 18th
@amber.bunch_author (Review) https://www.instagram.com/amber.bunch_author/
@margiebythebookcase (Review) https://www.instagram.com/margiebythebookcase/
Bunny’s Reviews (Review) https://bookwormbunnyreviews.blogspot.com/
The Faerie Review (Review) http://www.thefaeriereview.com
Lady Hawkeye (Spotlight) https://www.ladyhawkeye.com/
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January 19th
@crazybookloverz (Review) https://www.instagram.com/crazybookloverz/
@laras.litreads (Review) https://www.tiktok.com/@laras.litreads
@littlebonelibrary (Review) https://www.instagram.com/littlebonelibrary/
@r.c.thomson (Review) https://www.instagram.com/r.c.thomson/
@vinamkent_author (Review) https://www.instagram.com/vinamkent_author/
January 20th
@thelibrocubicularista (Review) https://www.instagram.com/thelibrocubicularista/
@mels_booksandhooks (Review) https://www.instagram.com/mels_booksandhooks/
Rambling Mads (Review) http://ramblingmads.com
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@the_princess_library (Review) https://www.instagram.com/the_princess_library/
Hello Darlings
Welcome to my stop on blog tour for
The Rose and the Thistle By Laura Frantz
Hosted By @AustenprosePR
@gwendalynbooks.wordpress.com
• Title: The Rose and the Thistle: A Novel
• Author: Laura Frantz
• Genre: Historical Romance, Historical Fiction, Inspirational Fiction
• Publisher: Fleming H. Revell Co (January 3, 2023)
• Length: (416) pages
• Format: Hardcover, Trade paperback, & eBook
• ISBN: 978-0800742669
• Tour Dates: January 2 – 16, 2023
PURCHASE LINKS
AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | BOOK DEPOSITORY | BOOKSHOP | GOODREADS
SYNOPSIS
In 1715, Lady Blythe Hedley’s father is declared an enemy of the British crown because of his Jacobite sympathies, forcing her to flee her home in northern England. Secreted to the tower of Wedderburn Castle in Scotland, Lady Blythe awaits who will ultimately be crowned king. But in a house with seven sons and numerous servants, her presence soon becomes known.
No sooner has Everard Hume lost his father, Lord Wedderburn, than Lady Hedley arrives with the clothes on her back and her mistress in tow. He has his own problems–a volatile brother with dangerous political leanings, an estate to manage, and a very young brother in need of comfort and direction in the wake of losing his father. It would be best for everyone if he could send this misfit heiress on her way as soon as possible.
Drawn into a whirlwind of intrigue, shifting alliances, and ambitions, Lady Blythe must be careful whom she trusts. Her fortune, her future, and her very life are at stake. Those who appear to be adversaries may turn out to be allies–and those who pretend friendship may be enemies.
REVIEW
From the desk of Gwendalyn-
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
This is a non spoiler review, because you as reader need to read this book. Also, I feel sometimes I have in the past gave away to much of the plot line. This has diminished the pleasure for would be readers.
“You are still my English rose . . .
while I remain your
Scottish thistle.”
An exquisite historical fiction with picturesque settings, and wonderful superb details.
The Rose and the Thistle by Laura Frantz is heady historical romance set in Scotland during the perilous times of the Jacobite uprising in 1715.
Lady Blythe Hedley and her lady’s companion, barely escape with their lives as they fly through the night from northern England to the Wedderburn Castle in Scotland. Lady Blythe’s father, the Earl of Northumberland is embroiled heavily in the Jacobite cause. Which supported the restoration of the senior line of the House of Stuart to the British throne. Even though her father had already laid out plans just encase such a situation should arise. Nothing prepared Blythe and her dearest companion and confidante, for the challenges they will face in Scotland.
Everything is in chaos upon their arrival at Wedderburn Castle, as Blythe finds herself thrown in a house of mourning. Her godfather late Lord Wedderburn, has just passed away, and the eldest son, Everard Hume is coming terms with his new role as heir. Being the eldest of seven brothers he is now tasked with keeping his families estate intact as the shifting tides of religious upheaval threatens to tear all of England, and Scotland apart. Trying to keep the lady Blythe’s presence a secret is important, but the demanding English Rose might be a more of challenge than he can handle. Harboring the young lady who is a practicing Catholic, and that her father is a Jacobitism supporter, could mean disaster for Hume’s outward loyalty to the Crown….and to Everard and Blythe’s heart !
Oh this was a lovely historical fiction that I fell in over the hills love in with. A blossoming friendship that slowly turns into something more. Both main characters overcoming religious and background challenges, to learn how to except each other for who they are.
A moving and treasured book that leaves with a warm heart and a delightful smile on your face after long after closing the book. This is my first foray with this author and I completely understand her wide following. Her writing is superb, along with historical atmospheric imagery, that had me completely invested within the characters lives.
I am so excited to find this very talented author, and I look forward to going back and reading her past work!
–Happy Reading-
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH AUTHOR LAURA FRANTZ
ADVANCE PRAISE
• “A masterful achievement of historical complexity and scintillating romance sure to thrill readers with its saga of love under siege.”— Booklist, starred review
• “A deeply atmospheric story of faith, love, and sacrifice that is as captivating as it is enthralling.”— Sarah E. Ladd, bestselling author of The Cornwall Novels
• “Marked by majestic Scottish scenery and a memorable trip to Edinburg, The Rose and the Thistle is a delightful historical romance set during a tumultuous time.”— Forward Reviews
AUTHOR
WEBSITE | TWITTER | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | GOODREAD
Christy Award-winning author, Laura Frantz, is passionate about all things historical, particularly the 18th-century, and writes her manuscripts in longhand first. Her stories often incorporate Scottish themes that reflect her family heritage. She is a direct descendant of George Hume, Wedderburn Castle, Berwickshire, Scotland, who was exiled to the American colonies for his role in the Jacobite Rebellion of 1715, settled in Virginia, and is credited with teaching George Washington surveying in the years 1748-1750. Proud of her heritage, she is also a Daughter of the American Revolution. When not at home in Kentucky, she and her husband live in Washington State.
Hello Gracious Readers
Welcome to my stop on the blog tour for
The Witch of Tin Mountain
#WitchofTinMountain #PauletteKennedy #HFVBT
@pkennedywrites @hfvbt
THE WITCH OF TIN MOUNTAIN
BY PAULETTE KENNEDY
Publication Date: February 1, 2023
Lake Union Publishing
Genre: Historical Fiction
SYNOPSIS
In Depression-era Arkansas, something wicked has come to a haunted mountain town in a novel of uncanny suspense by the author of Parting the Veil.
Blood and power bind three generations of women in the Ozark Mountains. So does an evil that’s followed them across the decades.
1931. Gracelynn Doherty lives peacefully on Tin Mountain, helping her adoptive granny work her cures. Despite whispers that the women are witches, the superstitious locals still seek them out, whether they suffer from arthritis or a broken heart. But when evangelist Josiah Bellflower comes to town touting miracle healing, full bellies, and prosperity, his revivals soon hold Tin Mountain in thrall—and Granny in abject fear.
Granny recognizes Josiah. Fifty years ago, in a dark and desperate moment, she made a terrible promise. Now Josiah, an enemy, has returned to collect his due.
As Granny sickens and the drought-ridden countryside falls under a curse, Gracelynn must choose: flee Tin Mountain and the only family she knows or confront the vengeful preacher whose unholy mission is to destroy her.
AVAILABLE FOR PRE-ORDER
AMAZON | BARNES AND NOBLE | BOOKSHOP.ORG
REVIEW
From the desk of Gwendalyn’s Books
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
This is a non spoiler review, because you as reader need to read this book. Also, I feel sometimes I have in the past gave away to much of the plot line. This has diminished the pleasure for would be readers.
The Witch Of Tin Mountain
By Paulette Kennedy
A stunning story of the multi-generational Werner family of witches, who experience an ominous entity bound by a curse. This compelling book is mostly set deep in the Ozark’s mountains. Spanning from the years of 1881 to 1931, we follow Gracelynn, and Deirdre and Anneliese.
A propulsive storyline, offering both drama and historical authenticity to appeal to anyone interested in strong female characters and exceptional writing.
The Innovative world building and incisive character development make this compulsively readable. Paulette Kennedy seamless narration is effortless to follow when switching from different points of views, along with different time periods. Steeped in folklore and superstitions, the back hills of the Ozark’s are vividly brought to life in rich imagery and dialogue.
The women in this story are strong and resilient. I could easily connect with them as endured trials and events that shaped them into who the are. The pacing was steady and from the first page to the last I was completely absorbed into these women’s lives. I really enjoyed reading about the granny woman who use healing with herbalism and mountain magic. The author really outshines with her details to southern mountain dialogue. Paulette Kennedy captures the sites and sounds that give this book a complete atmospheric experience. She also tackles some important issues, that are relatable even today. She respectfully gives would be readers this information, in her content warning at the beginning of the book.
I truly enjoyed this book, and I have a feeling I am already on to being a life long fan of this author’s work. I highly recommend this book to my friends family, and I am patiently waiting on Mrs Kennedy’s next book!
Praise
“With LGBTQ representation, Kennedy’s captivating second novel is perfect for historical fiction readers who enjoy a bit of witchcraft, folklore, and mystery.” —Booklist
“Kennedy weaves an achingly beautiful tale full of dark folklore, powerful women, and spine-tingling suspense. Deirdre’s and Gracelynn’s stories will grab you by the heart and stay with you long after the last page.” —Hester Fox, author of A Lullaby for Witches
“Brilliant and enthralling, The Witch of Tin Mountain left me breathless. Gracie and Deirdre are two unforgettable characters, and their stories twine in an intricate braid of complex beauty. Kennedy has secured her place as one of the very best in historical fiction.” —Olivia Hawker, bestselling author of One for the Blackbird, One for the Crow
“Kennedy’s sophomore novel weaves a mysterious, gorgeous tale that spans three generations of witches living in Arkansas—and the man who haunts them. A stunning work filled with fear, dark folklore, an Ozarkian voice that grabs you by the throat, and suspense that will keep you guessing, The Witch of Tin Mountain is the perfect read for a bleak winter’s day under the covers…with a flashlight.” —Maria Tureaud, author of The Last Hope in Hopetown
“Hauntingly atmospheric and crackling with life, The Witch of Tin Mountain is an unforgettable story of family, magic, love, hypocrisy, and the power—for good or evil—we all carry with us. The richly painted Ozark setting leaps from the page, and all three interlaced story lines are captivating, heartbreaking, and triumphant in equal measure. I inhaled this book in two days. Witchy readers won’t want to miss it.” —Allison Epstein, author of A Tip for the Hangman
“Atmospheric and haunting, The Witch of Tin Mountain flawlessly weaves folklore and history into a compelling generational story of love, evil, and magic. With vivid characters and an immersive dive into the beauty and superstitions of her native Ozarks, Paulette Kennedy delivers a darkly captivating novel that readers will devour.” —Erin Litteken, author of The Memory Keeper of Kyiv
“Paulette Kennedy has surely cast a spell with The Witch of Tin Mountain. This multigenerational saga beautifully illuminates a little-known (and often misunderstood) corner of America and its history while also providing spine-tingling, eerie chills and thrills along the way. I absolutely devoured this spooky, atmospheric book!” —Alyssa Palombo, author of The Spellbook of Katrina Van Tassel
“Kennedy beautifully captures the earthy, rural, charismatic traditions in her native Ozarks…Gritty and atmospheric, her alluring sophomore novel weaves spiritualism, demons, feminism, and folklore with more than a few twists before the book’s satisfying ending. I loved every page!” —Constance Sayers, author of The Ladies of the Secret Circus and A Witch in Time
“The Witch of Tin Mountain is a skillfully plotted home run about three generations of strong women who are bound by history and a curse. Kennedy will delight you with unexpected twists and turns where suspicions and accusations rule the land. Thoroughly enjoyed, a true feast for readers everywhere.” —Andie Newton, USA Today bestselling author of A Child for the Reich
“The Witch of Tin Mountain is lush, gripping, and deliciously creepy. Paulette Kennedy, author of the standout debut, Parting the Veil, transports readers to the heart of the Ozarks, a place as brutal as it is hauntingly beautiful, and the home of three generations of women whose special powers make them the target of an evil man set on destroying them. With elegant prose and captivating storytelling, Kennedy spins a fiercely feminist page-turner about the power of love, loyalty, and family—reminding us that it’s the women in our lives who give us strength and provide a light during our darkest hours. This spectacular sophomore novel proves that Kennedy is an author to watch, in the world of gothic fiction and beyond.” —Elissa Grossell Dickey, author of The Speed of Light and Iris in the Dark
“The Witch of Tin Mountain drew me in from the very first chapter. Paulette Kennedy takes readers on a journey across generations into the heart of the Ozark mountains where women rise above sexism with cleverness, strength, and—if you listen to the ne’er-do-well traveling preacher—witchcraft.” —Jennifer Bardsley, author of Sweet Bliss
“Electrifying! This multigenerational tale that travels across time and space is woven together like a delicate tapestry, and it will stay with you long after the last page.” —Mansi Shah, author of The Taste of Ginger and The Direction of the Wind
“Rich with sense of place, brimming with historical detail, and deliciously spiced with authoritative dialect, this tale of women’s resourcefulness and passion and power is pure magic. Kennedy knows the Ozarks and is uniquely qualified to bring the Ozarks culture alive. A thoroughly readable novel!” —Louisa Morgan, author of The Great Witch of Brittany
About the Author
Writing historical fiction for the romantic-at-heart reader who craves page-turning twists and a touch of the supernatural, Paulette Kennedy infuses her stories with realistic detail to create a cinematic, immersive experience for the reader.
As a history lover, she can get lost for days in her research—learning everything she can about the places in her novels and what her characters might have experienced in the past.
Originally from the Missouri Ozarks, Paulette now lives with her family in a quiet suburb of Los Angeles. In her free time, she enjoys tending to her garden, knitting, and finding unique vintage treasures at thrift stores and flea markets.
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | GOODREADS
Blog Tour Schedule
Monday, January 9
Review at Gwendalyn’s Books
Tuesday, January 10
Excerpt at The Lit Bitch
Review at A Girl Reads Bookss
Wednesday, January 11
Review at The Page Ladies
Thursday, January 12
Review at Books In Their Natural Habitat
Friday, January 13
Review at Amy’s Booket List
Feature at Passages to the Past
Giveaway
Enter to win a paperback copy of The Witch of Tin Mountain by Paulette Kennedy!
The giveaway is open to the US only and ends on January 13th. You must be 18 or older to enter.
Direct Link: 👇
Hello Friends
Welcome to my stop on the Creative Blog Tour for
A Blossom at Midnight by A.L. Knorr hosted by MTMC Tours. @mtmctours & @alknorrbooks!
Also check out My Instagram for the giveaway!! Thanks to MTMC Tours & the author for the copy.
Title: A Blossom at Midnight
Author: A.L. Knorr
Series: The Scented Court #1
Publication Date: January 2022
Genres: Young Adult, Epic Fantasy
Format: eBook, Paperback, Hardcover
Purchase a copy:
Amazon | Book Depository |Indiebound | Blackwell’s
Add on Goodreads!
INTL Tour-wide Instagram Giveaway!
Head over to my Instagram account👉 My Instagram to enter the tour giveaway where one lucky reader will win a $50 Amazon gift card + a hardcover copy of A Blossom at Midnight & another reader will win a $25 Amazon gift card + a paperback copy of A Blossom at Midnight!
Ends on January 14th, 2022. Winners will be announced on @mtmctours’ Instagram account.
Synopsis
One earns a coveted place among royalty. Another is imprisoned by her betrothed, while the third is exiled until he can prove his worth. Can these three fae prevent a war?
Dreaming of escaping her simple country life and tired of keeping her winged familiars a secret, half-fae Jessica finds herself swept into a breathtaking world of an elite retinue of fae performers known as the Calyx. As she learns to master her abilities, Jess is expected to entertain at glittering balls in the richest kingdom in Ivryndi, alongside far more experienced and beautiful flora fae. She is sworn to secrecy as she discovers the source of their wealth–the perfumes that royals travel from far-flung and exotic kingdoms to possess. As her exciting new life—and magic—blossoms, Jess learns that her mother has been keeping a secret of her own, one that changes everything.
Rejection has left fae courtier Laec wallowing in wine and disdainful of what he sees in the mirror. When Queen Elphame offers him a foreign commission, he jumps at the chance for a fresh start, but when he meets a beautiful and mysterious stranger on the road, he soon learns that healing his heart may inflame the very trouble his queen sent him to prevent.
Beautiful and eligible Çifta believes in the importance of duty. Wishing to please her father, she agrees to marry a powerful unseelie prince. But when she discovers his cold heart and attempts to break the engagement, she suddenly finds herself in chains. Alone and trapped in a damp fortress, she cannot see a way out.
When a visit to another realm sparks a dark turn of events, it sets these three fae on a collision course. Will they wilt under pressure or become a thorny threat to evil?
Welcome to the continent of Ivryndi, where flora and fauna magic reign, and an unseelie prince with a mysterious power threatens it all. If you love stories steeped in the beauty of nature, slow-burn romance, and endearing characters (including a whole cast of insects and mammals) you’ll never forget, enter the dreamy otherworld of A Blossom at Midnight. At over 500 pages, this title delivers an epic-length fantasy experience by an award-winning author.
REVIEW
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
This is a non spoiler review, because you as reader need to read this book. Also, I feel sometimes I have in the past gave away to much of the plot line. This has diminished the pleasure for would be readers.
Welcome to the continent of Ivryndi, where flora and fauna magic reign, and an unseelie prince with a mysterious power threatens it all.
-A Blossom at Midnight by A.L. Knorr-
A.L. Knorr delights readers with another stunning magical book! A Blossom at Midnight, is the first installment in The Scented Court series.
A wonderful fantasy book, I cannot quite say just how impossibly good this is, from the first page I was completely mesmerized , I flew through the pages at lighting speed. Never really contemplated the page count, because the pacing was spot on, and I was immersed within the main characters lives. It is an addictive, dramatic story that flawlessly entwines fantasy, action adventure within a stunning, captivating storyline. Told in multiple thread narratives, that eventually come together. We follow Half-Fae Jessica, who longs for more adventure than her small community can offer her. A saddened Fae courtier Laec, who’s been rejected and is on a royal commission by the Queen. Çifta, lovely who is a dutiful daughter and knows that she must obey her father’s wishes and agree to an arranged marriage. Only to be held captive by her fiancé when she realizes that she no longer can marry the man her father wants her to.
The author excelles at creative folklore and world building, with rich imagery that sinks the reader right into its pages. I feel in love with characters, and the drama and twist held my attention from start to finish.The Innovative world building and incisive character development make this compulsively readable. I can’t wait for the next installment
The Innovative world building and incisive character development make this compulsively readable. I can’t wait for the next installment
Happy Reading
Tour Schedule:
January 2
@paperfury – Bookstagram & Book Blog
@courtysbookclub – Bookstagram
January 3
@thecaffeinatedbooksisters – Bookstagram & Book Blog
@hiddenbookshelf_ – Bookstagram
January 4
@thereaderandthechef – Bookstagram & Book Blog
@complicaitreads – Bookstagram
January 5
@bookdreamr – Bookstagram & Book Blog
@everything.erynreads – Bookstagram & Booktok
January 6
@gwendalyn_books_ – Bookstagram & Book Blog
@bibliotherapy_session – Bookstagram
January 7
@bookspired – Bookstagram & Booktok
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January 8
@pavlinamich – Bookstagram & Book Blog
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January 9
@shanayahreads – Bookstagram & Book Blog
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January 10
@booksandbasilisks – Bookstagram
@emreadz – Bookstagram
January 11
@shaked_reads – Bookstagram & Book Blog
@yourbookishfriendcom – Bookstagram & Book Blog
——–
AUTHOR
About A.L. Knorr:
USA Today Bestselling Author, A.L. Knorr is an award-winning Canadian fantasy writer. Readers love her vivid characters and mesmerizing stories of elemental transformation, adventure, friendship, and love. The bestselling Elemental Origins Series can be read out of order, but if you want to read in the order they were written, they are listed below chronologically.
Dive into the new YA noblebright fantasy series; The Scented Court. If you love earth magic, insect and animal characters, slow-burn romance, and fables steeped in the beauty of nature, you’ll love A Blossom at Midnight.
Known for strong female protagonists, realistic magic, adventure and intrigue, sweet romance, and well-crafted plots that keep you turning pages late into the night, A.L. Knorr is a masterful storyteller.
Hosted by:
Hello Gracious Readers
Welcome to my stop on
BOOK BLITZ TOUR : The Stolen Heir
@tbrbeyondtours & @Blackholly
#TBRBeyondTours #TheStolenHeir #HollyBlack
BOOK BLITZ TOUR : The Stolen Heir
(The Stolen Heir Duology #1) by Holly Black
Genre: Young Adult Fantasy Romance
Publishing date: January 3rd, 2023
Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indigo | IndieBound
Synopsis:
Return to the opulent world of Elfhame, filled with intrigue, betrayal, and dangerous desires, with this first book of a captivating new duology from the #1 New York Times bestselling author Holly Black.
A runaway queen. A reluctant prince. And a quest that may destroy them both.
Eight years have passed since the Battle of the Serpent. But in the icy north, Lady Nore of the Court of Teeth has reclaimed the Ice Needle Citadel. There, she is using an ancient relic to create monsters of stick and snow who will do her bidding and exact her revenge.
Suren, child queen of the Court of Teeth, and the one person with power over her mother, fled to the human world. There, she lives feral in the woods. Lonely, and still haunted by the merciless torments she endured in the Court of Teeth, she bides her time by releasing mortals from foolish bargains. She believes herself forgotten until the storm hag, Bogdana chases her through the night streets. Suren is saved by none other than Prince Oak, heir to Elfhame, to whom she was once promised in marriage and who she has resented for years.
Now seventeen, Oak is charming, beautiful, and manipulative. He’s on a mission that will lead him into the north, and he wants Suren’s help. But if she agrees, it will mean guarding her heart against the boy she once knew and a prince she cannot trust, as well as confronting all the horrors she thought she left behind.
AUTHOR
Holly Black is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of fantasy novels, including the Novels of Elfhame, THE COLDEST GIRL IN COLDTOWN, the Spiderwick Chronicles, and her adult debut, BOOK OF NIGHT. She has been a finalist for an Eisner Award and the Lodestar Award, and the recipient of the Mythopoeic Award, a Nebula, and a Newbery Honor. Her books have been translated into 32 languages worldwide and adapted for film. She currently lives in New England with her husband and son in a house with a secret library.
Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Facebook | Pinterest
Hello Bookish Friends
Thanks for joking me for my review of
The Myrtle Wand
The Myrtle Wand
by Margaret Porter
Publication Date: October 11, 2022
Gallica Press
Genre: Historical Fiction
SYNOPSIS
The Myrtle Wand, a retelling and a continuation of the classic ballet Giselle, restores original story elements to transform a tale of blighted romances and betrayals into a quest for redemption and restorative love.
Princess Bathilde de Sevreau, her school friend Myrte, and the peasant girl Giselle have heard the legend of the vilis, ghostly maidens who rise from their graves by night to roam the forest, seeking revenge on faithless lovers. Each will fear being ensnared by that spectral sisterhood…
Bathilde, destined for a marriage of convenience with Albin, Duc de Rozel, leaves her ancestral château for the Sun King’s sophisticated and scandalous court. As participants in royal ceremonies and entertainments, the princess and the soldier gradually recognize their deep feelings for each other, as well as mutual hopes for a happy and satisfying union. But the tragic consequences of Albin’s brief masquerade as a commoner and the amorous Louis XIV’s quest for a mistress divide the betrothed couple. Together and separately, they must overcome conflicting duties and unexpected dangers to determine their fate.
PRAISE
“An absorbing and touching tale . . . a fully realized, moving portrait of the storied court of Louis XIV.” ~ Kirkus Reviews
“Lushly atmospheric . . .rich with historical detail. Porter imagines the story behind the iconic Giselle, transporting us to France during the early reign of the Sun King.” ~ Leslie Carroll, author of Royal Romances
REVIEW
–From the desk of Gwendalyn-
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
This is a non spoiler review, because you as reader need to read this book. Also, I feel sometimes I have in the past gave away to much of the plot line. This has diminished the pleasure for would be readers.
𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐌𝐘𝐑𝐓𝐋𝐄 𝐖𝐀𝐍𝐃
𝐛𝐲 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐠𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐭 𝐏𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐫
Publisher: Gallica Press October 8, 2022)
Thanks to @authormargaretporter my absolutely gorgeous book.
A stunning historical novel set in 17th-century France, during the early reign of King Louis XIV, the Sun King.
Margaret Porte’s riveting details and exceptional characterization catapult readers into lush 17th-century France, during the early reign of King Louis XIV, the Sun King.
A creative continuation tale of the famous classical ballet, Giselle. The author Margaret Porter, seamless prose, and lush world building will captivate you. From start to finish I was completely immersed within the books pages.
Following the death of her mother, Princess Bathilde de Sevreau, is sent to the convent school the Ursulines in Niort, France. Being very young Bathilde is taken under the wing by an older student, Myrte Vernier. The two girls form a close endearing sisterly bond, as the years pass. Both knowing that their future will be decided for them with arranged marriages.
Princess Bathilde de Sevreau is able to take holidays away from the covent with her farther to visit the Queen, there she meets King Louis and his vivacious brother Phillipe. Setting a course for Bathilde future, as she will need her wits about her as she navigates through intrigue in the decadent Sun King’s court.
Margaret Porter propulsive storyline, offering both drama and historical authenticity to appeal to anyone interested in or adores historical fiction. I was captivated from page one. I found this story to be entertaining, well thought out, perfectly paced, and exciting to read.
A beautiful historical fiction with a touch of magical realism. Readers will fall in love with the characters as they face heartache, betrayal and finally redemption.
AUTHOR
MARGARET PORTER is award-winning, bestselling author of The Myrtle Wand (October 2022), The Limits of Limelight (September 2021), Beautiful Invention: A Novel of Hedy Lamarr, and twelve other historical novels. After studying British history in the U.K., she worked professionally in theatre, film, and television. A historian and avid traveler, Margaret returns to Great Britain and Europe for research. She lives in New England with husband and dog, dividing her time between an architecturally unique book-filled house in a small city and a waterfront cottage on one of the region’s largest lakes.
More information is available on her website and blog. You can also connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Goodreads.
Hello Readers
Welcome to my stop on the Book Blast for
A Gentleman Will Never…Forget a Lady by Emily Windsor! #ForgetaLady #EmilyWindsor #HFVBT
A GENTLEMAN WILL NEVER…FORGET A LADY
BY EMILY WINDSOR
Publication Date: December 1, 2022
Genre: Regency Romance
Series: The Governess Chronicles, Book 3
Get swept away to a romantic and rugged land in this joyful and heart-warming Christmas tale…
Having lost her beloved, Lord Tristan, to a storm at sea, Lady Gwen Evans is planning a life of travel, writing books on her adventures.
But will the arrival of a dark, scarred gentleman one December’s eve disrupt all her plans?
With wassailing on frosty nights, dragon myths in the snowy Welsh hills, a rather unladylike list of D.I.S.G.R.A.C.E. and Hide and Seek in the seductive dark, this will be a Christmas never to forget…
‘Witty and wonderful. The storyline is unique and intriguing. And the amount of love in this story is absolutely beautiful.’ ★★★★★ Once Upon A Time
“Christmas is but a few weeks away. A time for wonder.”
Praise for ‘A Gentleman Will Never…Forget a Lady’
‘The only word that could describe this book is enchanting. I loved every moment.’ ★★★★★ Reading Rebel Reviews
‘…brimming with emotion. Filled with wonderful characters, secrets, longing, healing, new beginnings, ghouls, wassail… ’ ★★★★★ Flippin’ Pages
‘An achingly beautiful novel… I LOVED this book!’ ★★★★★ Gloria’s Happily Ever Afters
‘…breathtakingly resplendent. You will become just as enchanted with Windsor’s creations as I have been because it’s utterly magical.’ ★★★★★ sammstormborn reviews
‘Emily Windsor continues to write beautiful stories, and I was totally captivated by this one, as Tristan and Gwen found their way back to each other. I love the warmth, the family connections, and the satisfying resolution, which occurs during the Christmas holiday, the season of miracles.’ ★★★★★ Roses Are Blue Romantic Fiction Reviews
AMAZON US | AMAZON UK
About the Author
Emily Windsor grew up in the north of England on a diet of historical romance and strong tea.
Unfortunately, you couldn’t study Regency slang, so she did the next best thing and gained a degree in Classics and History instead. This ‘led’ to an eight-year stint in engineering.
Having left city life, she now lives in a dilapidated farmhouse where her days are spent writing, fixing the leaky roof, battling the endless vegetation and finding pictures of well-tied cravats.
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Book Blast Schedule
Monday, December 19
Dive Into a Good Book
Tuesday, December 20
Reading is My Remedy
Wednesday, December 21
History from a Woman’s Perspective
Thursday, December 22
Gwendalyn’s Books
Friday, December 23
Booking With Janelle
Monday, December 26
Passages to the Past
Tuesday, December 27
Novels Alive
Wednesday, December 28
CelticLady’s Reviews
Thursday, December 29
Coffee & Ink
Friday, December 30
Michelle the PA Loves to Read
Saturday, December 31
Lisa Everyday Reads
Giveaway
Enter to win a $50 Amazon Gift Card!
The giveaway is open to the US only and ends on December 31st. You must be 18 or older to enter.
A Gentleman Will Never Forget a Lady
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Today I’m excited to participate in the Creative Blog Tour for
Secrets of Isoria by Cristina Macari hosted by MTMC Tours.
Set in an elite academy for sorcerers filled with magic, romance, betrayals, and jaw-dropping twists and turns. Secrets of Isoria is the first installment in a spellbinding YA Contemporary Fantasy series published on December 13th,
Title: Secrets Of Isoria (Secrets of Isoria #1)
Author: Cristina Macari
Publication Date: December 13th, 2021
Genres: YA Contemporary Fantasy, Paranormal
Purchase a copy: Amazon | Book Depository | Barnes & Noble | Indiebound | Blackwell’s
Add on Goodreads!
Uncovering the past can save the future.
Sixteen-year-old Orion Candor has always felt like an outsider. Concealing her weird, unexplained abilities hasn’t been easy, and a near-death experience turns her world upside down. She learns she has elemental powers and must train at an elite academy in Isoria, a hidden country for sorcerers. But dark forces begin to test Orion in ways she couldn’t have imagined.
Fear and treachery haunt Isoria’s streets as the country’s most malicious sorcerer, Cyril Obsidian, craves domination. But Orion discovers her late grandmother hid clues leading to a relic that can turn the tide of evil. Determined to solve the mysteries of her past, Orion finds herself on the run from Cyril and entangled in a spy ring with questionable motives—the same spy ring her grandmother once belonged to.
In a world that thrives on deception, Orion must choose her allies carefully. One wrong move and she could lose Isoria’s last chance at freedom—along with her life.
REVIEW
💬 If you could choose an elemental magical ability to be born with, which one would you choose ?
𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐬 𝐦𝐲 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐩 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐈𝐬𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐚 𝐛𝐲 @cristinamacari!
Uncovering the past can save the future.
Secrets of Isoria by Cristina Macari is first installment in Secrets of Isoria series!
A girl born with elemental ability to control air. In this action packed fantasy we follow sixteen year old Orion, who has returned to the town she was born in, Crystal Manor.
There she unravels clues about her grandmother Corinne, uncovers a hidden world of magic, along with dangerous spy rings, and magical relics! ..
Cristina Macari has a way of connecting you to her characters and has you totally believing in them which allowed me to be totally invested in their lives. The Innovative world building and incisive character development make this compulsively readable. I can’t wait for the next installment
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Cristina Macari is the author of the young adult contemporary fantasy series, Secrets of Isoria. She grew up in New Jersey and is the proud child of Italian immigrants. She holds a B.S. in History and double minored in Creative Writing and International Business at the Ramapo College of New Jersey. She has always loved the idea of magic hiding in our modern world and gets lost in creating in-depth worlds filled with secrets and danger. She hopes that she can help readers escape the everyday with her writing while entertaining and finding themselves and those they care about in her books. Just like her character, she hopes readers will discover they too have a place in this world. When she’s not writing or reading, she can be found horseback riding, spending time in nature, gaming, weightlifting, doing yoga, or playing piano.
MTMC TOURS SCHEDULE
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@dbookishprincess – BookstagramDecember 7
Hello Bookish Babes
Welcome to my stop on the incredible Book Tour for
All the Lost Places by Amanda Dykes
#bookreview #happypubday
All the Lost Places: A Novel
Author: Amanda Dykes
• Genre: Historical Fiction, Historical Romance, Inspirational Fiction
• Publisher: Bethany House Publishers (December 13, 2022)
• Length: (400) pages
• Format: Hardcover, Trade paperback, & eBook
• ISBN: 978-0764239502
• Tour Dates: December 5 – December 19, 2022
PURCHASE LINKS
AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | BOOK DEPOSITORY | BOOKSHOP | GOODREADS
SUMMARY
When all of Venice is unmasked, one man’s identity remains a mystery . . .
1807
When a baby is discovered floating in a basket along the quiet canals of Venice, a guild of artisans takes him in and raises him as a son, skilled in each of their trades. Although the boy, Sebastien Trovato, has wrestled with questions of his origins, it isn’t until a woman washes ashore on his lagoon island that answers begin to emerge. In hunting down his story, Sebastien must make a choice that could alter not just his own future, but also that of the beloved floating city.
1904
Daniel Goodman is given a fresh start in life as the century turns. Hoping to redeem a past laden with regrets, he is sent on an assignment from California to Venice to procure and translate a rare book. There, he discovers a city of colliding hope and decay, much like his own life, and a mystery wrapped in the pages of that filigree-covered volume. With the help of Vittoria, a bookshop keeper, Daniel finds himself in a web of shadows, secrets, and discoveries carefully kept within the stones and canals of the ancient city . . . and in the mystery of the man whose story the book does not finish: Sebastien Trovato.
REVIEW
From the desk of Gwendalyn
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
This is a non spoiler review, because you as reader need to read this book. Also, I feel sometimes I have in the past gave away to much of the plot line. This has diminished the pleasure for would be readers.
All the Lost Places by Amanda Dykes Is Truly Amazing Historical Fiction
Amanda Dykes powerful elegant prose will have you completely captivated. Told in dual periods, we follow 1904 San Francisco, Daniel Goodman, who longs for redemption. Sebastien Trovato, abandoned as a baby and taken in by artisans in early 1800s Venice, seeks to know the mystery of his origins.
The story of these men unfolds beautifully through the author rich imagery and vivid characterization. Even though they are centuries apart they are centered around the magical city of Venice, and tethered to a book called the Book of Waters.
Spellbinding and poetic, Amanda Dykes use of metaphors, and her ability to bring the lushness of the enchanting Venice to life, will leave you breathless. Longing and Beautiful, the characters and their struggles will draw you in, and the little romance and a mystery add so much to the book. A novel that will stay with you a very long time after you finish reading it. Longing and Beautiful, the characters and their struggles will draw you in. All the Lost Places is moving thought provoking tale that I truly can’t even write a review to even give this books justice. This is one stunning piece of historical fiction, I have to say it’s the best HF out of all the books I have read in 2022. If there is one book that I would recommend for historical fiction readers, it would be this book
A must read, seriously buy this book!
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH AUTHOR AMANDA DYKES
ADVANCE PRAISE
• “This lyrical dual-narrative historical from Dykes (Set the Stars Alight) dives into the histories of Venice, Italy, and Venice Beach, California.”— Publisher’s Weekly
• “Introspective, surprising, and achingly beautiful.”— Booklist starred review
• “Dykes’s pen is fused with magic and poetry. Every word’s a gentle wave building into the splendor that is All the Lost Places, where struggles for identity and a place to belong find hope between the pages of a timeless story.”— J’Nell Ciesielski, bestselling author of The Socialite
• “Luscious writing, authentic characters, and an ending that satisfies to the core of the spirit, this novel is another winner from Amanda Dykes.”— Heidi Chiavaroli, Carol Award-winning author of Freedom’s Ring and Hope Beyond the Waves
AUTHOR
Amanda Dykes’s debut novel, Whose Waves These Are, is the winner of the prestigious 2020 Christy Award Book of the Year, a Booklist 2019 Top Ten Romance debut, and the winner of an INSPY Award. She’s also the author of Yours Is the Night and Set the Stars Alight, a 2021 Christy Award finalist.
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Hello Lovelies
Welcome To My Stop On The Blog Tour For
Under A Veiled Moon By Karen Odden
QUICK FACTS
• Title: Under a Veiled Moon
• Series: An Inspector Corravan Mystery (Book 2)
• Author: Karen Odden
• Genre: Historical Mystery, Detective Mystery, Victorian Mystery
• Publisher: Crooked Lane Books (October 11, 2022)
• Length: (336) pages
• Format: Hardcover, eBook, & audiobook
• ISBN: 978-1639101191
• Tour Dates: November 14 – December 19, 2022
BOOK DESCRIPTION
In the tradition of C. S. Harris and Anne Perry, a fatal disaster on the Thames and a roiling political conflict set the stage for Karen Odden’s second Inspector Corravan historical mystery.
September 1878. One night, as the pleasure boat the Princess Alice makes her daily trip up the Thames, she collides with the Bywell Castle, a huge iron-hulled collier. The Princess Alice shears apart, throwing all 600 passengers into the river; only 130 survive. It is the worst maritime disaster London has ever seen, and early clues point to sabotage by the Irish Republican Brotherhood, who believe violence is the path to restoring Irish Home Rule.
For Scotland Yard Inspector Michael Corravan, born in Ireland and adopted by the Irish Doyle family, the case presents a challenge. Accused by the Home Office of willfully disregarding the obvious conclusion and berated by his Irish friends for bowing to prejudice, Corravan doggedly pursues the truth, knowing that if the Princess Alice disaster is pinned on the IRB, hopes for Home Rule could be dashed forever.
Corrovan’s dilemma is compounded by Colin, the youngest Doyle, who has joined James McCabe’s Irish gang. As violence in Whitechapel rises, Corravan strikes a deal with McCabe to get Colin out of harm’s way. But unbeknownst to Corravan, Colin bears longstanding resentments against his adopted brother and scorns his help.
As the newspapers link the IRB to further accidents, London threatens to devolve into terror and chaos. With the help of his young colleague, the loyal Mr. Stiles, and his friend Belinda Gale, Corravan uncovers the harrowing truth—one that will shake his faith in his countrymen, the law, and himself.
ADVANCE PRAISE
• “[An] exceptional sequel . . . Fans of Lyndsay Faye’s Gods of Gotham trilogy will be enthralled.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review
• “Victorian skulduggery with a heaping side of Irish troubles.” —Kirkus Reviews
• “Charismatic police superintendent Michael Corravan is back in a gripping sequel about the mysterious sinking of the Princess Alice. Odden deftly weaves together English and Irish history, along with her detective’s own story, in a way that will keep readers flipping pages long into the night.” —Susan Elia MacNeal, New York Times bestselling author of Mother Daughter Traitor Spy and the Maggie Hope series.
REVIEW
Under a Veiled Moon: An Inspector Corravan Mystery by Karen Odden is an exceptional historical crime fiction!
The second installment in the Inspector Corravan Mystery, Under a Veiled Moon is an exceptional historical crime fiction! Set to the backdrop of when the Princess Alice, a pleasure steamer, who in the September made her daily trip along the Thames and collided with a huge iron hulled collier. A devastating disaster, hundreds dead, some say that the Irish Republican Brotherhood might be behind catastrophe.
Michael Corravan is acting superintendent of the Wapping River Police. With his Irish background and connections, others feel he might not be able to stay completely unbiased. Irish born, and taken in and cared for by the Doyle family from White Chapel. Corravan must navigate through the upheaval political intrigue, and corruption.
Under a Veiled Moon by Karen Odden, sets the bar that few will be able to follow. This is one book that will keep you up way into late hours of night. Once I started reading I found myself unable to set the book aside.
The back alleyways and gritty docks of Victorian England, comes alive through incredible details and rich rewarding prose. This page turner of a read will not only captivate you with its dynamic main character, you will also be fully immersed within its rich details. Michael Corravan, is a no-nonsense realistic character, that is incredibly easy to fall for. Odden shines through,with Corravan methodical police investigating techniques. The twist and turns, make for a rewarding reading experience.
Karen Odden is one of my all time favorite historical crime writers, and Under a Veiled Moon is a phenomenal historical fiction.
AUTHOR INTERVIEW
• Read an exclusive interview with author Karen Odden
PURCHASE LINKS
AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | BOOK DEPOSITORY | BOOKSHOP | GOODREADS
AUTHOR
Karen Odden earned her Ph.D. in English from New York University and subsequently taught literature at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. She has contributed essays to numerous books and journals, written introductions for Victorian novels in the Barnes & Noble classics series and edited for the journal Victorian Literature and Culture (Cambridge UP). Her previous novels, also set in 1870s London, have won awards for historical fiction and mystery. A member of Mystery Writers of America and Sisters in Crime and the recipient of a grant from the Arizona Commission on the Arts, Karen lives in Arizona with her family and her rescue beagle Rosy.
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Hello There Gracious Readers
Welcome to my stop on the blog tour
The Sisters of Sea View By Julie Klassen
Book Information
• Title: The Sisters of Sea View
• Series: On Devonshire Shores (Book 1)
• Author: Julie Klassen
• Genre: Historical Romance, Regency Romance, Inspirational Fiction
• Publisher: Bethany House Publishers (December 6, 2022)
• Length: (448) pages
• Format: hardcover, trade paperback, & eBook
• ISBN: 978-0764234262
• Tour Dates: November 28 – December 12, 2022
BOOK DESCRIPTION
Some guests have come for a holiday, others for hidden reasons of their own . . .
When their father’s death leaves them impoverished, Sarah Summers and her genteel sisters fear they will be forced to sell the house and separate to earn livelihoods as governesses or companions. Determined to stay together, Sarah convinces them to open their seaside home to guests to make ends meet and provide for their ailing mother. Instead of the elderly invalids they expect to receive, however, they find themselves hosting eligible gentlemen. Sarah is soon torn between a growing attraction to a mysterious Scottish widower and duty to her family.
Viola Summers wears a veil to cover her scar. When forced to choose between helping in her family’s new guest house and earning money to hire a maid to do her share, she chooses the latter. She reluctantly agrees to read to some of Sidmouth’s many invalids, preferring the company of a few elders with failing eyesight to the fashionable guests staying in their home. But when her first client turns out to be a wounded officer in his thirties, Viola soon wishes she had chosen differently. Her new situation exposes her scars–both visible and those hidden deep within–and her cloistered heart will never be the same.
Join the Summers sisters on the Devonshire coast, where they discover the power of friendship, loyalty, love, and new beginnings.
REVIEW
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
This is a non spoiler review, because you as reader need to read this book. Also, I feel sometimes I have in the past gave away to much of the plot line. This has diminished the pleasure for would be readers.
The Sisters of Sea View By Julie Klassen
Series: On Devonshire Shores (Book 1)
A Delightfully Charming Historical Fiction.
Author Julie Klassen, first installment in her new warm hearted series titled, On Devonshire Shores. Following their father’s untimely death, the Summer sisters along with their ailing mother, find themselves in dire circumstances. The Summer families reduced funds, threatened’s to separate them, the oldest sister Sarah takes things into her own hands. She convinces her other genteel sisters to open their home, the Sea View as a guest house, in the seaside town of Sidmouth. The area is known as a tourist destination off the coast of Devonshire.
The wonderful Historical details and beautiful drawn out characters made for a rich and rewarding reading experience. The first half of the book is set up perfectly, giving the reader much needed insightful information about the area around Sea View, along with its occupants. The storyline never drags, and keeps to a steady pace, which I found lovely.
Told in distinct multiple narratives, focusing on the three older sisters Sarah, Emily, and Viola. The paid guest staying at Sea View make for an interesting assortment of characters, and add some much to the story. As the sisters rise up to the new challenges that are presented to them, you will find them appealing and relatable. I cherished the light romance, with just enough angst to satisfy my romantic heart. To me the book looks at what it means to be humble, and to rise up to overcome obstacles either physically or socially, giving us strength moving forward.
This enduring book gives so many subtle nods to Jane Austen and Louisa May Alcott, that will attract readers to its clever and witty characters.
I highly recommend this book to my family and friends, and I am looking forward to reading the next book in this captivating series
VIDEO INTRODUCTION TO THE SISTERS OF SEA VIEW BY JULIE KLASSEN
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH AUTHOR JULIE KLASSEN
ADVANCE PRAISE
• “Jane Austen fans will delight in this nimble series launch…Klassen excels at weaving her various story lines, each emphasizing the colorful qualities of her characters and allowing them the space to shine. Readers will be eager for the next installment.” —Publisher’s Weekly (starred review)
PRAISE FOR THE NOVELS OF JULIE KLASSEN
• “Julie Klassen delights with a winsome love story…” —Publisher’s Weekly, on A Castaway in Cornwall
• “I couldn’t put it down! It you are a historical fiction fan you need this one on your radar! It was a spooky delight full of heart. ”—Anne Mendez, The Lit Bitch, on Shadows of Swanford Abbey
• “…a wonderfully engaging novel full of intriguing characters and storylines. I highly recommend it and can’t wait for more in the series.” —Laura Gerold, Laura’s Reviews, on The Innkeeper of Ivy Hill
PURCHASE LINKS
AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | BOOK DEPOSITORY | BOOKSHOP | GOODREADS
AUTHOR BIO
Julie Klassen loves all things Jane—Jane Eyre and Jane Austen. Her books have sold over a million copies, and she is a three-time recipient of the Christy Award for Historical Romance. The Secret of Pembrooke Park was honored with the Minnesota Book Award for Genre Fiction. Julie has also won the Midwest Book Award and Christian Retailing’s BEST Award and has been a finalist in the RITA and Carol Awards. A graduate of the University of Illinois, Julie worked in publishing for sixteen years and now writes full time. She and her husband have two sons and live in a suburb of St. Paul, Minnesota.
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Hello Gracious Readers
Welcome to my stop on the Book Tour for
Beneath His Silence By Hannah Linder
Beneath His Silence By Hannah Linder
• Genre: Historical Suspense, Regency Romance, Inspirational Fiction
• Publisher: Barbour Publishing (November 1, 2022)
• Length: (320) pages
• Format: Trade paperback, eBook, & audiobook
• ISBN: 978-1636094366
• Tour Dates: October 31 – November 13, 2022
SYNOPSIS
Will Seeking Justice Lead to Her Own Demise?
A Gothic-Style Regency Romance from a Promising Young Author
Second daughter of a baron—and a little on the mischievous side—Ella Pemberton is no governess. But the pretense is a necessity if she ever wishes to get inside of Wyckhorn Manor and attain the truth. Exposing the man who killed her sister is all that matters.
Lord Sedgewick knows there’s blood on his hands. Lies have been conceived, then more lies, but the price of truth would be too great. All he has left now is his son—and his hatred. Yet as the charming governess invades his home, his safe cocoon of bitterness begins to tear away.
Could Ella, despite the lingering questions of his guilt, fall in love with such a man? Or is she falling prey to him—just as her dead sister?
REVIEW
From The Desk Of Gwendalyn Anderson
Beneath His Silence By Hannah Linder gives readers alluring elements of Jane Eyre
This gothic-style regency suspense features an enemies to love trope! A wonderful mix of mystery and suspense, along with a hidden identity. A rich and rewarding faith based book that kept me flipping the pages from start to finish.
Strong willed and courageous Ella Pemberton, takes up the task left by her deceased father to find out what really happened to her sister Lucy. Who died under mysterious circumstances. She travels to the estate where her late sister and her husband lived, Wyckhorn Manor. Determined to to uncover the events that surround the mystery of her beloved sister. Ella decides to apply for the position of governess when it becomes available, under the name Ella Woodhart.
A tortured soul Lord Henry Sedgwick resides at the secluded Wyckhorn Manor
Taking care of his young son, after the devastating loss of his wife. The manor house is steeped in family secrets, and not just the death of his wife Lucy.
Readers will enjoy atmospheric imagery and the steady incline of suspense. I thought the characters were wonderful and the storyline unfolded perfectly.
BOOK TRAILER
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH AUTHOR HANNAH LINDER
ADVANCE PRAISE
• “Fast-paced danger and suspense from an exciting newcomer to Regency fiction.”— Julie Klassen, award-winning author of A Castaway in Cornwall
• “A strong story of loss and forgiveness, resentment surrendered to faith, and the mercy of God. Readers will enjoy this turbulent mystery with a smile-worthy ending.”— Kristen Heitzmann, Christy Award-winning author of Secrets and The Breath of Dawn
• “This book has everything I love…a dark and broody hero, a spunky heroine on a mission, and a deeply delicious creepy manor home. Beneath His Silence is a rather gothic tale set in Regency England, filled with plenty of intrigue, danger, and romance to make for a very satisfying read.”— Michelle Griep, Christy Award-winning author of Lost in Darkness
PURCHASE LINKS
AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | BOOK DEPOSITORY | BOOKSHOP | GOODREADS
AUTHOR BIO
Hannah is a debut Regency Suspense author with Barbour Publishing.
Hannah Linder resides in the beautiful mountains of central West Virginia. Represented by Books & Such, she writes Regency romantic suspense novels. She is a double 2021 Selah Award winner, a 2022 Selah Award finalist, and a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW). Hannah is a Graphic Design Associates Degree graduate who specializes in professional book cover design. She designs for both traditional publishing houses and individual authors, including New York Times, USA Today, and international bestsellers. She is also a local photographer and a self-portrait photographer. When Hannah is not writing, she enjoys playing her instruments–piano, guitar, and ukulele–songwriting, painting still life, walking in the rain, and sitting on the front porch of her 1800s farmhouse.
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Hi There
Welcome to my stop on the Blog Tour for
Godmersham Park by Gill Hornby.
Publisher: Pegasus Books (November 1, 2022)
Length: (416) pages
Format: Hardcover, eBook, & audiobook
Book description:
A richly imagined novel inspired by the true story of Anne Sharp, a
governess who became very close with Jane Austen and her family by the #1International bestselling-author of Miss Austen.
PURCHASE LINKS
AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | BOOK DEPOSITORY | BOOKSHOP | GOODREADS
On January 21, 1804, Anne Sharpe arrives at Godmersham Park in Kent to take up the position of governess. At thirty-one years old, she has no previous experience of either teaching or fine country houses. Her mother has died, and she has nowhere else to go.
Anne is left with no choice. For her new charge—twelve-year-old Fanny
Austen—Anne’s arrival is all novelty and excitement. The governess role is a uniquely awkward one. Anne is neither one of the servants, nor one of the family, and to balance a position between the “upstairs” an “downstairs” members of the household is a diplomatic chess game. One wrong move may result in instant dismissal. Anne knows that she must never let down her guard.
When Mr. Edward Austen’s family comes to stay, Anne forms an immediate attachment to Jane. They write plays together and enjoy long discussions. However, in the process, Anne reveals herself as not merely pretty, charming, and competent; she is clever too. Even her sleepy, complacent, mistress can hardly fail to notice.
Meanwhile Jane’s brother, Henry, begins to take an unusually strong interest in the lovely young governess. And from now on, Anne’s days at Godmersham Park are numbered.
Advanced Praise:
“This is a deeply imagined and deeply moving novel. Reading it made me happy and weepy in equally copious amounts…I read it straight through without looking up.”— Karen Joy Fowler, author of The Jane Austen Bookclub
Hornby’s skillful mix of fact and fiction captures the complexities of the Austens and their era, and her crisp, nimble prose sparkles throughout. Best of all, Hornby genuinely channels the sentiment of 19th-century English literature. Janeites aren’t the only readers who will relish this smart, tender
tale.”— Publishers Weekly, starred review
“…a well-written and delightfully observant novel…an excellent read.”— The
Historical Novel Society
REVIEW
Thank you @Pegasus_Books @AustenProse #AustenProsePR for my gorgeous print copy of #GodmershamPark upon my request. All opinions are my own.
Godmersham Park: A Novel of the Austen Family by Gill Hornby
Through Gill Hornby literary imagination we are granted a gracious storyline centered on Miss Anne Sharp. In January of 1804, in the county side of Kent, a lesser known character Miss Sharp spent two years at Godmersham park as a governess to young Fanny.
Fanny Austen, was the daughter of Edward Austen who is brother to Jane Austen. Gill Hornby writes vividly, creating a somewhat melancholy story from Fanny’s Austen’s diaries.
Numb from the loss of her mother, thirty-one year old Anne Sharpe is unable to comprehend what was her father’s motive for casting her out of her home with only enough money to survive. Anne’s predicament meant that she would either be forced to marry her family’s man of business or gain some sort employment.
Anne finds it hard to adjust to her life, her position is neither part of the servants or that of the family. Anne finds her young charge charming and delightful, they have an instant connection.
When Henry Austen and his sister Jane, arrive at Godmersham Park Anne feels the rippling effect. Hornby does a fabulous job displaying the Irony and clever wit, that is the equation for Austen styled literature.
by Cassandra Austen
Author
Gill Hornby is the author of the novels Miss Austen, The Hive, and All Together Now,
as well as The Story of Jane Austen, a biography of Austen for young readers. She lives
in Kintbury, England, with her husband and their four children.
Hello Gracious Readers
Welcome to my stop on The Belle of Belgrave Square
By Mimi Matthews
The Belle of Belgrave Square By Mimi Matthews
Series: Belles of London (Book 2)
• Genre: Historical Romance, Historical Fiction
• Publisher: Berkley Romance (October 11, 2022)
• Length: (432) pages
• Format: Trade paperback, eBook, & audiobook
• ISBN: 978-0593337158
• Tour Dates: October 3 – 23, 2022
BOOK DESCRIPTION
A BookBub Best Romance of 2022
A London heiress rides out to the wilds of the English countryside to honor a marriage of convenience with a mysterious and reclusive stranger.
Tall, dark, and dour, the notorious Captain Jasper Blunt was once hailed a military hero, but tales abound of his bastard children and his haunted estate in Yorkshire. What he requires now is a rich wife to ornament his isolated ruin, and he has his sights set on the enchanting Julia Wychwood.
For Julia, an incurable romantic cursed with a crippling social anxiety, navigating a London ballroom is absolute torture. The only time Julia feels any degree of confidence is when she’s on her horse. Unfortunately, a young lady can’t spend the whole of her life in the saddle, so Julia makes an impetuous decision to take her future by the reins—she proposes to Captain Blunt.
In exchange for her dowry and her hand, Jasper must promise to grant her freedom to do as she pleases. To ride—and to read—as much as she likes without masculine interference. He readily agrees to her conditions, with one provision of his own: Julia is forbidden from going into the tower rooms of his estate and snooping around his affairs. But the more she learns of the beastly former hero, the more intrigued she becomes…
ADVANCE PRAISE
• “A grand cross-class romance, a twisty mystery, and emotional internal struggles combine to excellent effect…fans and new readers alike will root for this well-earned love story.”— Publishers Weekly (starred review)
• “[C]ombines deception, risk, and a resourceful heroine to create an intoxicating, suspenseful romance. Highly recommended.”— Library Journal (starred review)
• “If you’re a fan of Beauty and the Beast, this regency romance will rapidly become a new favorite of yours. Wallflower meets an infamous war hero in this fascinating and intriguing love story.”— BuzzFeed
• “Mimi Matthews never disappoints, with richly drawn characters and couples whose individual shortcomings become strengths, when paired together. In this Beauty and the Beast retelling, we get to root for two underdogs who get to rewrite their own stories.”— Jodi Picoult, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Wish You Were Here
• “The Belle of Belgrave Square is such tremendous, good fun: a heroine with a big horse, an even bigger novel-reading habit, and a hidden anxiety; a hero with a crumbling estate, a trio of wary children, and a literary secret—what’s not to love? Mimi Matthews paints Victorian England with vivid humor, and her Belles of London is set to go on for at least a few more much-anticipated installments. Julian Fellowes fans will rejoice!”— Kate Quinn, New York Times bestselling author of The Diamond Eye
PURCHASE LINKS
AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | BOOK DEPOSITORY | BOOKSHOP | GOODREADS
REVIEW
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
This is a non spoiler review, because you as reader need to read this book. Also, I feel sometimes I have in the past gave away to much of the plot line. This has diminished the pleasure for would be readers.
This Book Is Pure Perfection !
The Belle of Belgrave Square By Mimi Matthews, is second installment in the Belles of London. A wonderful emotional proper romance, that is by far my all time favorite book by this very talented author.
Captain Jasper Blunt is a scared war hero, his time spent in the Crimean War has earned him a reputation as a ruthless cold hearted man. Along with his well none personal drama. In need of a wealthy heiress, he is in town as a guest, staying at the home of Viscount Ridgeway. If all goes well this season he will acquire a wife that comes with a substantial dowery that will help with renovating his dilapidated Goldfinch estate in Yorkshire.
Julia Wychwood, would much rather be far away from glittering ballrooms a social soirées. Comfortable amongst her books and upon her beloved horse Cossack.
She has a very small circle of friends that are a form of protection from the madding crowds that make up extensive rounds of the ton’s parties. Her social anxieties drive her to escape away from the attentions of wound be suitors. She is the most happiest deep within her precious books. Longing for a quite life of her very own, she suffers at the callused hands of her parents, who live their lives in a perpetual state of ill health. Keeping Julia at hand in London, to make sure she does her duty to them by caring for them. Sacrificing their own daughters own happiness to benefit theirs.
Drawn to each other more than just an extensive dowery, Jasper’s and Julia’s slow burn budding romance is what fairytales are made of, heartfelt and swoon worthy. A marriage of convenience that gives readers everything that they would want and more. There is a little mystery with hidden identities and a locked room in a tower.Jasper’s family antics are a delight to read.
Mimi Matthews, dual narration pulls readers into a delightful and absolutely gorgeous book. A novel of ordinary people struggling through life, who find each other and the bonds of love, family and friendship can be forged with an adoring newfound family.
Rich in details and prose, Matthews excels with her newest book. The Belle of Belgrave Square, exceeded all my expectations. It’s a gorgeous love story, with the right amount of romance and mystery to keep you perfectly entertained from start to finish.
There are so rewarding nods to Hades and Persephone, Beauty and the Beast, Sleeping Beauty, and the tale of Bluebeard’s wife.
Along with more nods to -The Law and the Lady, -Lady Audley’s Secret and -The Blue Castle
Quotes
“That wasn’t a rescue. That was not a minor service”. Jasper’s eyes held hers, his voice dark with promise. “When I rescue, Miss Wynchwood you’ll know it.”
Miss Wynchwood was a wallflower. A self-proclaimed oddity with two failed season behind her.
VICTORIAN READING ROOM
Join Mimi at her Victorian Reading Room Facebook Group for exclusive access as she shares her love of writing, historical romance, Victorian fashion, brooding heroes, independent heroines, and of course, her beloved pets!
READ AN EXCLSUIVE INTERVIEW WITH MIMI MATTHEWS
Discover intriguing insights into The Belle of Belgrave Square and Mimi’s writing life in this exclusive interview at austenprose.com.
GIVEAWAY
Mimi has generously offered a fabulous giveaway that book tour participants can add to their post and on social media. Here are the details:
Giveaway period: October 3 – October 30
Terms & Conditions:
Giveaway hosted by Mimi Matthews. No Purchase Necessary. Entrants must be 18 years or older. Open to US residents only. All information will remain confidential and will not be sold or otherwise used, except to notify the winner and to facilitate postage of the book to the winner. Void where prohibited.
Giveaway Details:
1 winner (selected at random by Rafflecopter) receives a paperback copy of The Belle of Belgrave Square, signed and annotated by the author with personal comments, underlining of her favorite lines, and other highlights by Mimi Matthews.
Giveaway is open from 12:01 am Pacific time 10/03/22 until 11:59pm Pacific time on 10/30/22.
The winner will be announced on Mimi’s blog on 10/31/22.
Rafflecopter Form: 👇
a Rafflecopter giveaway
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AUTHOR
AUTHOR BIO
USA Today bestselling author Mimi Matthews writes both historical nonfiction and award-winning proper Victorian romances. Her novels have received starred reviews in Publishers Weekly, Library Journal, Booklist, and Kirkus, and her articles have been featured on the Victorian Web, the Journal of Victorian Culture, and in syndication at BUST Magazine. In her other life, Mimi is an attorney. She resides in California with her family, which includes a retired Andalusian dressage horse, a Sheltie, and two Siamese cats.
WEBSITE | TWITTER | FACEBOOK | PINTEREST | BOOKBUB | GOODREADS
Hello Loves,
Welcome to my stop on the Book Tour for
In the Shadow of a Queen By Heather B. Moore
@HeatherBMoore, @ShadowMountn, @Austenprose
#IntheShadowofaQueen #HistoricalFiction,#inspirationalFiction, #BookTwitter, #BookTour #AustenprosePR
• Title: In the Shadow of a Queen
• Author: Heather B. Moore
• Genre: Historical Fiction, Inspirational Fiction
• Publisher: Shadow Mountain Publishing (October 4, 2022)
• Length: (384) pages
• Format: Hardcover, eBook, & audiobook
• ISBN: 978-1639930500
• Tour Dates: September 26 – October 9, 2022
PURCHASE LINKS
AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | BOOK DEPOSITORY | BOOKSHOP | GOODREADS
BOOK DESCRIPTION
Based on the True Story of the Free-Spirited Daughter of Queen Victoria.
Princess Louise’s life is upended after her father’s untimely death. Captive to the queen’s overwhelming mourning, Louise is forbidden to leave her mother’s tight circle of control and is eventually relegated to the position of personal secretary to her mother―the same position each of her sisters held until they were married.
Already an accomplished painter, Louise risks the queen’s wrath by exploring the art of sculpting, an activity viewed as unbefitting a woman. When Louise involves herself in the day’s political matters, including championing the career of a female doctor and communicating with suffragettes, the queen lays down the law to stop her and devotes her full energy to finding an acceptable match for her defiant daughter.
Louise is considered the most beautiful and talented daughter of Queen Victoria butfinding a match for the princess is no easy feat. Protocols are broken, and Louise exerts her own will as she tries to find an open-minded husband who will support her free spirit.
In the Shadow of a Queen is the story of a battle of wills between two women: a daughter determined to forge her own life beyond the shadow of her mother, and a queen resolved to keep the Crown’s reputation unsullied no matter the cost.
ADVANCE PRAISE
• “Peek into the House of Hanover and view the strength of two women: Queen Victoria and her daughter Princess Louise. This story weaves compassion and conflict into breathtaking and gripping historical detail.”— Julie Wright, author ofA Captain for Caroline Gray
• “Moore crafts an intriguing portrait of the independently minded Princess Louise and her tensions with the English royal family. Moore sets the stage with meticulous research, and she expertly combines fact with fiction, with psychological insights on Victoria’s mercurial moods and the impact of her controlling nature. It adds up to a worthy portrait of a woman divided by duty and self-determination.”— Publishers Weekly
• 5 STARS – “I always enjoy Heather Moore’s historical novels. This one did not disappoint! She is impeccable with her research and always does an excellent job of bringing people from the past to life.”— Julia Daines, bestselling author of Haven Cross, and Whitney Award Finalist
REVIEW
From The Desk Of Gwendalyn ♥︎
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
This is a non spoiler review, because you as reader need to read this book. Also, I feel sometimes I have in the past gave away to much of the plot line. This has diminished the pleasure for would be readers.
In Shadow Of The Queen
By Heather B. Moore
@ShadowMountn @AustenProse #AustenProsePR
#InTheShadowOfAQueen
In the Shadow of a Queen by Heather B. Moore is an excellent historical fiction. Moores’s newest book centers on the headstrong Princess Louise, one of Queen Victoria’s daughters.
An intimate look into the British Royal Family from the years of 1861 when Princess Louise is twelve years old, and the book comes to a close in the year 1871, when she is twenty-three. Moore shines in this meticulously researched historical fiction. The readers is placed front row and center into the day to day lives of Queen Victoria’s nine children.
Overnight the royal family lives come to a shattering halt as the Queen and her children submerge into a deep and lengthy period of morning upon the death of Prince Albert. At a young age Louise, shows so much artistic promise, but she is destined to follow the course her mother has set out for her. Being a royal princess comes with a certain amount responsibilities, your life is not your own. She struggles with the strict rules and traditions placed on her. Clever in her strategic maneuvering, Louisa forges her on way, and her journey is told through the authors seamless narration.
A lovely book, full of rich details along with journal exerts that began every chapter.
AUTHOR
AUTHOR BIO
Heather B. Moore is a USA Today best-selling and award-winning author of more than seventy publications, including The Paper Daughters of Chinatown. She has lived on both the East and West Coasts of the United States, as well as Hawaii, and attended school abroad at the Cairo American Collage in Egypt and the Anglican School of Jerusalem in Israel. She loves to learn about history and is passionate about historical research.
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Hello Lovely Readers
Welcome to the Book Blitz for
Kingdom of the Feared (Kingdom of the Wicked #3) by Kerri Maniscalco.
Genre: Young Adult Fantasy Romance
Publishing date: September 27th, 2022
SYNOPSIS
From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Stalking the Jack the Ripper series comes the steamy conclusion to Kingdom of the Wicked trilogy.
Two curses.
One prophecy.
A reckoning all have feared.
And a love more powerful than fate. All hail the king and queen of Hell.
Emilia is reeling from the shocking discovery that her twin sister, Vittoria, is alive. But before she faces the demons of her past, Emilia yearns to claim her king, the seductive Prince of Wrath, in the flesh. Emilia doesn’t simply desire his body, she wants his heart and soul—but that’s something the enigmatic demon can’t promise her.
When a high-ranking member of House Greed is assassinated, Emilia and Wrath are drawn to the rival demon court. Damning evidence points to Vittoria as the murderer and she’s quickly declared an enemy of the Seven Circles. Despite her betrayal, Emilia will do anything to solve this new mystery and find out who her sister really is.
Together Emilia and Wrath play a sin-fueled game of deception as they work to stop the unrest that’s brewing between witches, demons, shape-shifters and the most treacherous foes of all: the Feared.
Emilia was warned that when it came to the Wicked nothing was as it seemed. But, have the true villains been much closer all along? When the truth is finally revealed, it just might end up costing Emilia her heart.
Kerri Maniscalco grew up in a semi-haunted house outside NYC where her fascination with gothic settings began. In her spare time she reads everything she can get her hands on, cooks all kinds of food with her family and friends, and drinks entirely too much tea while discussing life’s finer points with her cats.
She is the #1 NYT and USA Today bestselling author of the Stalking Jack the Ripper series and the forthcoming Kingdom of the Wicked.
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Hello Friends,
Thanks for joining me on my stop for
Forestfall (World at the Lake’s Edge #2) by Lyndall Clipstone.
Genre: Young Adult Fantasy
Publishing date: September 27th, 2022
Rep: Demisexual
Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indigo | IndieBound
Synopsis:
Some oaths can never be broken…
The curse that haunted Lakesedge Estate has been broken, but at great cost. Violeta Graceling has sacrificed herself to end the Corruption. To escape death, Leta makes a desperate bargain with the Lord Under, one that sees her living at his side in the land of the dead.
But this world of souls and mist hides many secrets. And when Leta realizes she is still connected to Rowan by a tethering spell, she will risk everything— even her soul— to try and reach him.
Torn between power and love, life and death, Leta struggles to keep hold of her humanity as she falls further and further under the spell of the world Below… and the Lord Under.
Content Warning: Body horror ; Gore and blood (including description of wounds); Discussions of death and grief; Descriptions of drowning and deep water; Drowning-related imagery; Self-injury
REVIEW
Forestfall by Lyndall Clipstone, was one of my highly anticipated books for 2022.
A lush gothic tale that is everything bit as hauntingly magical as the first book. This high stakes, enchanting book is a direct continuation of the much loved 2021 Lakesedge. Picking up just a few days following the ending of the last book, Clipstone gives readers two points of views, that of Violeta and Rowan.
Violeta struggles with her increasing attraction to The Lord Under, as she is still in World Below. In the World above Rowan seeks to rescue Violeta from the clutches of the dark lord. The writing was captivating and the angst was on high, in this dark romance fantasy. The dual POV’s and the sub characters were enjoyable, and I especially loved the love triangle. The world is more expanded, along with complexity of the characters personalities. The atmospheric imagery was a perfect start to the spooky season. I loved this follow up book, and I am excited to read what’s next from this very talented author.
”Beyond seven forests, beyond seven lakes, there was a monster who lived deep below the earth…”
AUTHOR
Lyndall Clipstone writes about monsters and the girls who like to kiss them. A former youth librarian who grew up running wild in the Barossa Ranges of South Australia, she currently lives in Adelaide, where she tends her own indoor secret garden. She has a Bachelors in Creative Writing and a Graduate Diploma in Library and Information Management.
Her debut novel, Lakesedge, has been published in three countries, was a Dymocks Books bestseller, and has been nominated for numerous awards. The sequel, Forestfall, will publish in 2022.
She is represented by Jill Grinberg at
Jill Grinberg Literary Management.
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BLOG SCHEDULE
September 26th
Nine Bookish Lives – Interview
Gwendalyn’s Books – Review
September 27th
Stuck in Fiction – Promotional Post
Books Over Everything – Review
Forever In A Story – Top 5 Reasons to Read Forestfall & Mood Board
September 28th
Epic Book Society – Top 5 Reasons to Read Forestfall
Balancing Books And Beauties – Review & Mood Board
September 29th
Never Hollowed By The Stare – Promotional Post
A Part of Your Book World – Review & Playlist
September 30th
The Book Dutchesses – Promotional Post
Avni Reads – Top 5 Reasons to Read Forestfall
October 1st
And On She Reads – Review
One Book More – Review & Favorite Quotes
Betwixt the Sheets – Promotional Post
October 2nd
thisbellereadstoo – Review & Favorite Quotes
BookBriefs – Review
SCHEDULE INSTAGRAM
September 26th
wraithreads – Promotional Post
ninebookishlives – Blogger’s Choice
gwendalyn_books_ – Blogger’s Choice
September 27th
thebookwebb – Promotional Post
hoardingbooks.herdingcats – Review & Favorite Quotes
books_over_everything – Blogger’s Choice
foreverinastory – Blogger’s Choice
September 28th
tbrandbeyond – Promotional Post
simplybeccamee – Review
bookish.by.trade – Journal Spread & Top 5 Reasons to Read Forestfall
balancing_books_and_beauties – Blogger’s Choice
September 29th
gryffindorbookishnerd – Promotional Post
starryworld – Creative post
daniereads87 – Review
apartofyourbookworld – Blogger’s Choice
September 30th
jl_books – Promotional Post
following.fantasies – Top 5 Reasons to Read Forestfall
onemused – Review
avnireads – Blogger’s Choice
October 1st
writingrosereads – Promotional Post
booking.with.janelle – Review & Mood Board
1bookmore – Blogger’s Choice
theink.slinger – Blogger’s Choice
October 2nd
dreaminginpages – Promotional Post
wild.legends – Review & Favorite Quotes
bookbriefs – Blogger’s Choice
Hello Everyone
Welcome to my stop on the blog tour for
THE PHYSICIAN’S DAUGHTER
BY MARTHA CONWAY
Publication Date: September 1, 2022
Zaffre
Genre: Historical Fiction
From the author of The Underground River comes this compelling new novel of female perseverance. Set in the aftermath of the Civil War, The Physician’s Daughter is the story of two people trying to make their way in a world that is struggling to escape its past.
It is 1865, the American Civil War has just ended, and 18-year old Vita Tenney is determined to pursue her lifelong dream of becoming a country doctor like her father. But when her father tells her she must get married instead, Vita explores every means of escape – and finds one in the person of war veteran Jacob Culhane.
Damaged by what he’s seen in battle and with all his family gone, Jacob is seeking investors for a fledgling business. Then he meets Vita – and together they hatch a plan that should satisfy both their desires. Months later, Vita seemingly has everything she ever wanted. But alone in a big city and haunted by the mistakes of her past, she wonders if the life she always thought she wanted was too good to be true. When love starts to compete with ambition, what will come out on top?
WATERSTONES | AMAZON | INDIEBOUND | BAM
Praise
“Vividly realised, and impeccably researched, with a determined female lead”
–Kayte Nunn, author ofThe Botanist’s Daughter
“In the proud tradition of female characters from Jo March to Meredith Grey, Vita Tenney takes her place as a determined woman unwilling to let society or her family control her destiny. I was captivated by The Physician’s Daughter. The novel stays with you.”
–Tony Phelan, executive producer of Grey’s Anatomy and Council of Dads
“A riveting read set during the American civil war about a pioneering young woman dead-set on becoming a doctor.”
–Inga Vesper, author of The Long, Long Afternoon
REVIEW
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
This is a non spoiler review, because you as reader need to read this book. Also, I feel sometimes I have in the past gave away to much of the plot line. This has diminished the pleasure for would be readers.
The Physician’s Daughter, is Martha Conway’s newest novel. A superb historical fiction that is set post Civil War.
In 1865 we follows Vita Tenney Culhane, who’s aspirations to be a doctor is completely disregarded because she is a woman. Boldly she confronts her farther, who is the village doctor in Lark’s Eye, Massachusetts. Dr. Arthur Tenney dismissing his daughter notions of wanting to aspire to be like him and follow in his footsteps. Instead he secures her a husband, just returned from war, Jacob Cultane. Vita and Jacob’s marriage of convenience, might just prove to be something more to both of them.
Her desire to attend medical school comes with challenges and setbacks. As a woman who seeks to attend Cleveland Medical College, in the late 19th century she is a heroine that we can all root for. The struggles for women are daunting during this time period. Those who want to throw off the bonds of strict society and overcome obstacles place before them, are brave and courageous women. Martha Conway draws the reader effortlessly into Vita’s life. Meticulously researched and beautifully written, this is a book that I will treasure on my library shelf. Wonderfully detailed, with seamless narration and a thought provoking storyline. Once you begin reading you will find yourself unable to stop.
I highly recommend this book to my family and friends! a 5 ⭐️ read for me
AUTHOR
Martha Conway is the author of several novels including The Underground River, which was a New York Times Book Editor’s Choice (titled The Floating Theatre in the U.K. and Europe). Her novel Thieving Forest won the North American Book Award for Best Historical Fiction.
Martha’s short fiction has appeared in the Iowa Review, Mississippi Review, The Quarterly, Carolina Quarterly, and other publications. She has reviewed fiction for the San Francisco Chronicle and the Iowa Review, and is a recipient of a California Arts Council fellowship in Creative Writing. In addition to writing, Martha is an instructor of creative writing at Stanford University’s Continuing Studies Program. She received her BA from Vassar College in History and English, and her MA in Creative Writing from San Francisco State University. Born and raised in Ohio, she now lives in San Francisco with her family, where the fog reminds her of lake-effect cloud cover in Cleveland.
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | BOOKBUB | GOODREADS
Blog Tour Schedule
Monday, September 26
Review at Gwendalyn’s Books
Tuesday, September 27
Review at Amy’s Booket List
Wednesday, September 28
Review at Bookworlder
Friday, September 30
Review at Reading the Past
Monday, October 3
Review at Books, Cooks, Looks
Tuesday, October 4
Review at Novels Alive
Excerpt at What Is That Book About
Wednesday, October 5
Review at The Page Ladies
Friday, October 7
Review at Cover Lover Book Reviews
Sunday, October 9
Review at Older & Smarter
Monday, October 10
Review at Reading is My Remedy
Tuesday, October 11
Review at History from a Woman’s Perspective
Friday, October 14
Review at Coffee and Ink
Excerpt at A Darn Good Read
Review at Reading Is My SuperPower
Hello Witchy Babes
Welcome to my stop on the blog tour for
Autumn of the Grimoire by J.L. Vampa
We are celebrating the official release of the highly anticipated novel by J.L. Vampa, Autumn of the Grimoire and we’re thrilled to be part of the launch! Read on for more details and a chance to win a fantastic giveaway!
Autumn of the Grimoire (Sisters Solstice Series #1)
Expected Publication Date: September 22, 2022
Genre: Gothic Fantasy/ Dark Fantasy Romance
Publisher: Phantom House Press
Some witches cast spells. Others slay kings.
A mysterious Grimoire. A marriage full of dark secrets. A History sculpted by a quartet of ancient Sister witches.
For three hundred years, Sister Autumn has incited wars, burnt villages, killed kings, and released plagues at the bidding of the Grimoire. Meanwhile, her Sister Winter, Sister Spring, and Sister Summer have brought forth only peace.
When an Order from the Grimoire sends Agatha to the Kingdom of Merveille, she already anticipates the worst. Unless she wants to face the wrath of the Goddess, Agatha must keep her head down and do as she’s commanded.
But when the Grimoire Orders her to marry a pompous prince and play the role of a peasant “accepted” by vicious aristocrats, she finds herself at the center of a war between the classes and an age-old prophecy.
Within the court, many players harbor dark secrets—including her new husband. With her newfound influence, Agatha joins forces with the city’s Blacklisted in order to blur the lines between the common man and the elite, unravel the mysteries in her marriage, and decide once and for all if she will defy the Grimoire and face the brutal consequences.
As secrets unfold, will Agatha continue to slay on behalf of the Grimoire, or forge an uncharted History with her unlikely allies?
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REVIEW
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
This is a non spoiler review, because you as reader need to read this book. Also, I feel sometimes I have in the past gave away to much of the plot line. This has diminished the pleasure for would be readers.
Autumn of the Grimoire by J.L. Vampa, is the perfect book to kick start your fall reads.
An addictive book that will have you captivated right from the beginning. Every Solstice and every Equinox, the Sisters of Solstice meet. The sisters represent each season, bond to do the bidding of the sacred text of the Grimoire, when it’s their season. We follow The sister of Autumn, named Agatha, who is the youngest of the four Sisters Solstice. Sister Autumn was designed to be the brutal hand of the Goddess of three, Hespa. This time Agatha {Aggie} is told to travel to Merveille and seek the Grand Magus. Once there she is tasked with marrying a Prince Grimm.
I fell in love with the characters in this book, along with the authors seamless narration. Rich in details the atmospheric imagery catapults the reader within pages of this captivating storyline. The author gives the perfect amount of fantasy romance, along with dynamic skillful character development.
If you enjoy well-written witchy fantasy, then I definitely recommend you read this one!
- Witches
- Strong female protagonists
- The chosen one
- Arranged marriage
- Hate to Love / Enemies to Lovers
- Animal familiars
- Dark cottage core vibes
- Wonderful atmospheric imagery
A special shout out to @rachel_art.fantasy @amillionworldsdesign
for stunning art work of Grimm and Agatha.
Teaser
The gargantuan doors closed with an ominous clank and Prince Thackery stalked toward her, stopping only a stride away. “How dare you stand there and deign to say nothing?” he ground out.
Her nerves bent a knee to her fury at his unexpected outburst. Agatha let a spiteful smile adorn her lips. “And what would you have me do, then? Throw myself at your feet and argue that I am worthy to be your bride?” Surprise flashed across the prince’s face at her gall, but he swiftly shoved it away. She swung an arm out wide. “Or would you have me faint upon the chaise because of my utter fortune to be your betrothed?” She took a step closer to him. “Because I will do neither of those things.”
His lip curled. “A bit bold for a peasant, aren’t we?” Agatha cursed her cheeks for heating. Perhaps she was a fool not to play the part of a meek little mouse, but she couldn’t stop the storm of rage bubbling up inside of her. “I do not wish to marry you any more than you wish to marry me.” A muscle in the prince’s jaw flexed. “Then help me fight this madness! Deny the proposal that has been asked without my will.” Agatha snickered. “And risk the loss of my head at the hands of our darling Crown?” She crossed her arms at her chest, matching the prince’s stance. “I think not.”
©JL VAMPA
Order on Amazon
About the Author
J.L. Vampa’s four-book New Adult Fantasy series, SISTERS SOLSTICE, will begin on September 22, 2022. Jane Lenore (J.L.) Vampa is a published author of Dark Fantasy and Victorian Gothic fiction. J.L. also owns a macabre-style bookish shop, Wicked Whimsy Boutique. She lives in Texas with her musician husband and their two littles who are just as peculiar as they are.
JL Vampa | Instagram | Twitter | Wicked Whimsy Boutique
Visit one of our Bookstagrammers for a chance to win a physical copy of the book and a $25 Wicked Whimsy Boutique gift card!
Book Tour Schedule
September 19th
R&R Book Tours (Kick-Off) http://rrbooktours.com
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September 20th
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September 21st
@wraithreads (Review) https://www.instagram.com/wraithreads/
@tairen_soul (Review) https://www.instagram.com/tairen_soul/
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September 22nd
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@booktreasuresau (Review) https://www.instagram.com/booktreasuresau/
@she.gets.lit.erary (Review) https://www.instagram.com/she.gets.lit.erary/
September 23rd
@libraryofash (Review) https://www.instagram.com/libraryofash/
@haunted.by.candlelight (Review) https://www.instagram.com/haunted.by.candlelight/
@wicked_bibliophile (Review) https://www.instagram.com/wicked_bibliophile/
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Gwendalyn’s Books (Blog) https://gwendalynbooks.blog/
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Book Tour Organized By:
Welcome to the book tour for the gorgeous, genre-blurring book, A Lesson in Love and Death by W.H. Lockwood! Read on for more details and a chance to win a $25 Amazon e-gift card!
A Lesson in Love and Death (Endymion College #1)
Expected Publication Date: September 26th, 2022
Genre: Cozy Horror Romance/ Dark Academia
Anna James dreamed of only two things in life: to read books and to not die.
The day she is offered a scholarship to study literature at the beautiful, exclusive and gothic Endymion College, is the happiest day of her life, but soon after arrival, Anna finds it is nothing like the brochure.
Instantly thrust into a dangerous conspiracy, sent to live in a haunted dormitory with a captivating rival, Anna struggles to keep control of her only chance at a better life and to maintain her already tenuous grip on reality.
Things soon go from bad to worse when a séance goes awry, and finding herself pursued by a terrifying spectre, Anna finds comfort and a kindred spirit in her professor of literature: young, devastatingly handsome and completely off-limits.
Anna must find a way to fight both her desire and a relentless supernatural force out for blood, all while completing her work on time to hold on to her precious scholarship.
Darkly humorous, crushingly awkward, deeply romantic, Endymion College: A Lesson in Love and Death is a celebration of the books we love and an action-packed, supernatural, feminist, horror story all rolled into one.
Teaser
“Name?”
“Anna James.”
“Anna… Ah, I see your roommate has already been and got her key. One moment.”
The handsome yet bored-looking man disappeared into a dimmer and smaller room, only to return seconds later with a faded envelope. “So, we have a small problem, Anna. Your key is missing. Whoever had it last year didn’t bring it back. But it’s all right. We found this one. Except it comes with a warning.”
The man, clearly amused, leaned close in a conspiratorial manner, and raised one expectant eyebrow at Anna as she took the faded envelope from him. The words ‘Do Not Open’ were written across the front in beautiful cursive. Anna’s big eyes and delicate fingers traced over the words.
“Don’t worry, it’s not as sinister as it sounds,” he continued. “In here is, or should be, a skeleton key. It will open all the doors in your apartment. Which is fine, because there are only two, but one of those is the old hanging door.”
“Hanging door?”
“Hanging door. You’ll see when you get there. You’re on the second floor. There used to be a staircase leading up the exterior of the building to the door. That staircase has long since rotted away, and now only the door remains. A hanging door. A door to nowhere.” He smiled a dashing smile and Anna couldn’t decide if he had gone insane with boredom or if he was flirting. Or both.
“Oh, I see.”
His tone and face changed in an instant. “Do not open that door. I don’t care what happens. Don’t let the air through, don’t look at the view, don’t touch the thing. Health and safety, you know? It’s rotting in its hinges and it could fall out at any moment. I shouldn’t even be giving you this, but, well, I know how it is. You can’t always rely on your roommate.” He tapped on an old, laminated map that was stuck to the counter with brown, peeling sticky tape. “You’re in the old building, here.”
“Older than this building?”
“Oh yes. A good two hundred years older. Go back the way you came and straight across the courtyard. Your building is opposite this one. You will be in the east wing, so turn right when you go inside. You’re on the top floor at the very end of the building. You have the corner view.”
Anna was absolutely delighted. She signed for her key, thanked the man, and made to leave.
“Ms James?”
“Yes?” As Anna looked at him, she noted a strange intensity in his manner, in his stormy, blue eyes.
“That key—that’s our little secret. Really, I probably shouldn’t have given it to you. Don’t tell anyone and don’t let anyone else borrow it. Not even your roommate. And whatever you do, don’t bring it back here…”
REVIEW
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
This is a non spoiler review, because you as reader need to read this book. Also, I feel sometimes I have in the past gave away to much of the plot line. This has diminished the pleasure for would be readers.
A Lesson in Love and Death by W.H. Lockwood, is first installment in the Endymion College series. We follow Anna James as enters Endymion college, on a scholarship. She receives a strange skeleton key to her assigned apartment and an odd peculiar hanging door.
“ A hanging door. A door to nowhere “. last year’s student never returned it. A clear warning comes with it, “ Do not open the door”. Do not tell anyone about the key and don’t let anyone borrow it. After meeting her slightly odd new roommate, Candi Lenoir , along with a teacher named Eve.
On her first night in her dormitory, Anna sees an an apparition of a boy. There is more incidents that lead up to a seance. Menacing spirt that intends to harm Anna and her new found friends.Things take a turn as Anna seeks out more help from the local clergy as the tension builds. I soared through this one, with tidbits of the occult and a dash of romance with a handsome professor.
The book is full of suspense and secrets, gothic architecture, and menacing ghost. The author does a wonderful job creating dark atmospheric imagery, with little mysteries within mysteries to keep the reader satisfied. The ending leaves some loose ends not tidied up, which adds to the anticipation for the next book in the series. A promising start to what could be an enjoyable reading experience, perfect for the upcoming spooky season.
A cozy academia paranormal fiction, with dark gothic styled world building, and romance.
Excited to read the next installment in the Endymion college series
About the Author
W.H. Lockwood writes feminist gothic and historical fiction, dark academia and cosy horror, all with a romantic twist.
Raised on a diet of Point books and Pepsi, only willing to leave her den to attend chess club at public school, W.H. Lockwood started writing at a young age and has kept this passion throughout her life.
Always a voracious reader, she obtained an undergraduate degree in literary studies from a gorgeous sandstone university, following that with a master’s degree in publishing and editing, then another master’s degree in astronomy, thus uniting her two great loves of the arts and science, leaving her utterly unqualified to cope with the real world.
These days, W.H. Lockwood works as a professional editor and can often be found aimlessly wandering through the coffee shops and bookstores of the beautiful city she calls home.
WH Lockwood | Twitter | Instagram | Newsletter | Facebook
For a chance to win a $25 Amazon e-gift card, visit any one of our instagrammers!
Book Tour Schedule
September 19th
R&R Book Tours (Kick-Off) http://rrbooktours.com
@books_inthecity (Review) https://www.instagram.com/books_inthecity/
@fblackthornbooks (Review) https://www.instagram.com/fblackthornbooks/
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@the_pageling (Review) https://www.instagram.com/the_pageling/
@bhaneereads_ (Review) https://www.instagram.com/bhaneereads_/
September 20th
@hauntedbycandlelight (Spotlight) https://www.instagram.com/hauntedbycandlelight/
Riss Reviews (Review) https://rissreviewsx.wixsite.com/website
@creepylilbookworm (Review) https://www.instagram.com/creepylilbookworm/
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September 21st
@amber.bunch_author (Review) https://www.instagram.com/amber.bunch_author/
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September 22nd
@bri_serena_reads (Review) https://www.instagram.com/bri_serena_reads
@wicked_bibliophile (Review) https://www.instagram.com/wicked_bibliophile/
@fariha_binte_islam (Review) https://www.instagram.com/fariha_binte_islam/
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Rambling Mads (Review) http://ramblingmads.com
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September 23rd
@ems_literarycorner (Review)
@bookish_elise (Review) https://www.instagram.com/bookish_elise/
Hello Gracious Readers,
Welcome to my stop on the blog tour for
Millstone of Doubt by Erica Vetsch
• Title: Millstone of Doubt: Thorndike and Swann Regency Mysteries (Book 2)
• Series: Thorndike and Swann Regency Mysteries
• Author: Erica Vetsch
• Genre: Historical Mystery, Historical Romance, Inspirational Fiction
• Publisher: Kregel Publications (September 20, 2022)
• Length: (304) pages
• Format: Trade paperback & eBook
• ISBN: 978-0825447143
• Tour Dates: September 19 – October 3, 2022
BOOK DESCRIPTION
A Bow Street Runner and a debutante in London Society use their skills to find the killer of a wealthy businessman, but the killer’s secrets aren’t the only ones they will uncover.
Caught in the explosion of the Hammersmith Mill in London, Bow Street runner Daniel Swann rushes to help any survivors only to find the mill’s owner dead of an apparent gunshot–but no sign of the killer.
Even though the owner’s daughter, Agatha Montgomery, mourns his death, she may be the only one. It seems there are more than a few people with motive for murder. But Daniel can’t take this investigation slow and steady. Instead, he must dig through all the suspects as quickly as he can because the clock is ticking until his mysterious patronage–and his job as a runner–comes to an abrupt and painful end. It seems to Daniel that, like his earthly father, his heavenly Father has abandoned him.
Lady Juliette Thorndike is Agatha’s bosom friend and has the inside knowledge of the wealthy London ton to be invaluable to Daniel. She should be in a perfect position to help with the case. But when her trusted instructor in the art of spy craft orders her to stay out of the investigation, Lady Juliette obeys. That is, until circumstances intervene, and she drops right into the middle of the deadly pursuit.
When a dreadful accident ends in another death on the mill floor, Daniel discovers a connection to his murder case–and to his own secret past. Now he and Juliette are in a race to find the killer before his time runs out.
ADVANCE PRAISE
• “An artfully told story that will have you wondering at the outcome until the final pages are read.” —Ruth Logan Herne, USA Today best-selling author
• “…a fully satisfying mystery. I can’t wait to read the next one!” —Jocelyn Green, Christy Award–winning author of Drawn by the Current
• “I am sure fans of the first book in this series will revel in the deepening relationship between Daniel Swann and Juliette Thorndike.” —Alissa Baxter, author of The Viscount’s Lady Novelist
• “Millstone of Doubt captivated me from the first sentence and kept me guessing the entire novel…Erica Vetsch is the master of all things Regency.” —Lorri Dudley, author of The Duke’s Refuge
• “5 Stars. Millstone of Doubt is a compelling Regency mystery with plenty of romance. Michelle Griep fans (or any Regency fan in general) will love this novel.”— Jennifer Purcell, ChristianBooks.com
PURCHASE LINKS
AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | BOOK DEPOSITORY | BOOKSHOP | GOODREADS
REVIEW
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
This is a non spoiler review, because you as reader need to read this book. Also, I feel sometimes I have in the past gave away to much of the plot line. This has diminished the pleasure for would be readers.
Millstone of Doubt: Thorndike and Swann Regency Mysteries (Book 2)
By Erica Vetsch
Series: Thorndike and Swann Regency Mysteries
Pub Date: September 20, 2022
Publisher: Kregel Publications
Genre: Historical Mystery, Historical Romance, Inspirational Fiction
Millstone of Doubt by Erica Vetsch is the second installment in the Thorndike and Swann Regency Mysteries. Another curious mystery is afoot, one that Mr Daniel Swann and Lady Juliette Throndike find themselves thrown together again.
London 1816, Debutante, Lady Juliette Throndike first season out in London’s society and she has promised herself not to fall for any man. Juliette’s {Jules} parents along with her uncle Bertie work behind the scenes of society as agents to the crown. Since Juliette’s abduction last month her uncle has provided her with some necessary self defense instructions to better prepare herself as fledgling agent, and develop her skills in spy craft.
Mr Daniel Swann, a detective from the Bow Street Magistrate’s Court, twenty-fifth birthday is fast approaching. This would bring to end the support from his mysterious patron would end. He would no longer be obligated to cary out the multitude of tasks in exchange for financial support.
When a explosion of a flour mill and what looks like the murder of Juliette’s good friend Agatha’s father, Mr Garfield Montgomery. Garfield Montgomery who owns the flour Mill that was threatened and may be have targeted by the Rabble rousers who don’t use critical thinking, instead they use vengeance and violence as away of stating their viewpoints on industrial progress. Causing more harm and job loss to the workers and their families.
This book follows first book in the series The Debutante’s Code. Told in dual perspectives, this warmhearted regency romance, provides underlying meaningful messages to its readers. I enjoyed the light hearted romance and the way mystery unfolds. The characters are likable, and you will find yourself drawn into their lives.
AUTHOR BIO
Erica Vetsch is a New York Times best-selling author and ACFW Carol Award winner and has been a Romantic Times top pick for her previous books. She loves Jesus, history, romance, and watching sports. This transplanted Kansan now makes her home in Rochester, Minnesota.
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | BOOKBUB | INSTAGRAM | GOODREADS | NEWSLETTER
Hello Friends
I am so excited to share
A Kingdom of Flame and Fury with you all today!
Read my review and the exclusive excerpt and a chance to win a signed copy of the book!
A Kingdom of Flame and Fury (The Four Kingdoms #1)
Publication Date: May 26th, 2022
Genre: Dark Fantasy/ Dark Romance
At ten years old, Raven was mysteriously willed to be the next ruler of Seolia, a kingdom nestled within the realm of The Four Kingdoms. Orphaned as a baby, she has spent fifteen years ruling over a kingdom she believes she did not earn all while hiding secrets: she possesses dark magic and she thirsts for blood. Now at almost twenty-five years old and with a sudden addiction to stealing life, Raven must fight through her new procured darkness to save her soul, but when a mysterious stranger arrives in her kingdom, she starts experiencing vivid dreams that detail who she truly is. As she slowly starts to unravel her story, what she uncovers at the end of the spool will change the course of her life and her kingdom forever.
A Kingdom of Flame and Fury is book one in a steamy and thrilling new fantasy series: The Four Kingdoms
This is book one of an epic dark fantasy adventure series and contains scenes of graphic and mature content. Reader discretion is advised.
Add to Goodreads
Excerpt
I was quiet for a while. Five drinks in and the thick liquid was replacing my blood. “I think I’m in love.” My words were slurred as they tumbled out. “She has purple hair.” Her hair was black, but I saw it when it was purple, and it looked so real.
Arthur chuckled as he cleaned out a glass left by another patron.
“Are soul mates real?” I had never believed in them, having spent at least fifteen years fucking my way through the female population of three of the four kingdoms. Nothing I felt ever resembled love. Or like. More like tolerance.
“Soul mates and twin flames are rare, and they’re both destined to be together.” He leaned his forearms down against the bar top and looked at me. “I think my wife was mine. I never looked at another woman like I saw her. It was something else.”
“What’s the difference between soul mates and twin flames?”
Arthur smiled at me, probably because he couldn’t understand what I said as I tipped back my sixth glass of rum. “Soul mates can be anyone. A friend, a lover, someone you met briefly.”
Raven wasn’t anyone.
“Twin flames are two halves of one soul. There’s an intense connection that can’t be replicated. There’s pain associated with flames, both people mirroring one another. When you find your twin, you can’t be apart from them without going a little mad.”
Mad, as in getting drunk in a pub mid-afternoon because I couldn’t be with her? If so, I was mad.
“How do you know so much about them?” He didn’t seem like the type who would believe in things like this. I didn’t think I could ever be one, either. Yet, here I was, getting wasted in a pub because I was wholly convinced that purple-haired demon was meant to be in my life.
“My wife did,” he answered. “She read often. A lot about how magic used to live in our realm. Mates and flames are a rarity, and they used to be treasured. When they existed, there would be celebrations for days. At least, that’s what her books used to tell her. I haven’t met any, nor have there been any pairings in a very long time. It always intrigued her, so she’d sit on one of these stools every night and tell me about them, or anything else she read.” There was a sadness in his voice as he recalled time spent with his wife, whom I assumed he lost. “Do you think your girl with purple hair may be one of those to you?”
I swished the rum around in my glass as I thought about his question through my unfocused mind, laden with alcohol. “Twin flame,” I said. “I think she’s my twin flame.”
And if they were such a rarity, I was determined to do nothing but treasure her.
Available on Amazon and at Barnes & Noble
A Kingdom of Frost and Fear is Now Available for Pre-Order
Giveaway: Signed Copy of A Kingdom of Flame and Fury (US Only)
REVIEW
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
This is a non spoiler review, because you as reader need to read this book. Also, I feel sometimes I have in the past gave away to much of the plot line. This has diminished the pleasure for would be readers.
Quote: “Straighten your crown, dear girl. Face those who don’t believe in you with pride in who you are.”
A Kingdom of Flame and Fury, is book one of “ The Four Kingdoms “ by Whitney Dean. This is one book to check out if you enjoy steamy dark fantasy that features an intense love triangle and obsession. Political intrigue, shift-changing magical abilities, along with elemental magic. Told in dual prospectives, and morally grey characters that will have completely immersed. An addictive book with a stellar ending full of betrayal, and spice! 🌶🌶🌶🌶
Just Look at the brand new alternate cover for AKOFAF. Isn’t Gorgeous
I wanted to represent Raven on the cover being held up by puppet strings because her every move was being controlled by an outside force that she wasn’t aware of yet. The back of the dust jacket is Raven as one of her shifts, Blaze, and Zeke. Zeke always encouraged that fiery side of her while others in her life wanted her to shove it down. – Whitney Dean
It was designed by @Romannaboch on IG.
Links for purchase:
https://www.booksamillion.com/p/Kingdom-Flame-Fury/Whitney-Dean/9798986011837?id=8414148692373
About the Author
Whitney was born in Fayetteville, Arkansas and raised in Allen, Texas. She resides in a quaint little town in Arkansas with her husband and two children, along with her labradoodle, Simba.
Her love of reading came from the Harry Potter series when she was seven years old, and frequent trips to the most magical place on earth. Because of it, the fantasy realm has taken up residence in her brain for a very long time.
While her writings include real-life pain and angst, she is a fan of happily-ever-after’s and always strives to bring that forth in her stories.
Whitney Dean | Instagram | Facebook | Amazon
Book Tour Schedule
September 19th
R&R Book Tours (Kick-Off) http://rrbooktours.com
Reads & Reels (Spotlight) http://readsandreels.com
@caffeinatedbibliophilia (Review) https://www.instagram.com/caffeinatedbibliophilia/
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September 20th
@its_b.e.l.l.e (Review) https://www.instagram.com/its_b.e.l.l.e/
Gwedalyn’s Books (Review) https://gwendalynbooks.wordpress.com/
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September 21st
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September 22nd
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September 23rd
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@wolfesbooks (Review) https://www.instagram.com/wolfesbooks/
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Book Tour Organized By:
Hello Friends Today I’m excited to participate in the Creative Blog Tour for
Charlie Lavender and the Origin of Everything by Carson Patrick Bowie hosted by MTMC Tours.
Charlie Lavender and the Origin of Everything
By Carson Patrick Bowie
Purchase a copy:
Amazon |
Add on Goodreads!
Book one in a YA Fantasy series
releasing on September 20th, 2022
from Lab Partners Publishing!
Title: Charlie Lavender and the Origin of Everything
Author: Carson Patrick Bowie
Series: Volume One: Orientation
Publisher: Lab Partners Publishing
Publication Date: September 20, 2022
Genres: Fantasy, Young Adult
SUMMARY
A bundle of awkwardness and social anxiety, Charlie Lavender isn’t sure about starting her freshman year in small-town Normal, Illinois. Little does she know her new best friend, a love triangle, and…a magical owl(?) are waiting for her in the Fall of 1993.
She definitely didn’t expect ominous priests, probable witches, and a secret, several-thousand-year-old war would also become part of everyday life.
Welcome to Normal, where nothing ever is.
As she and her newfound friends search for the truth about a world of magic just out of view, the real question is, can Charlie accept the last thing she ever expected to happen? For the first time ever, she’s fitting in.
REVIEW
𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐞 𝐋𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫 & 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐎𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠
𝐁𝐲 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐚𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐁𝐨𝐰𝐢𝐞
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
This is a non spoiler review, because you as reader need to read this book. Also, I feel sometimes I have in the past gave away to much of the plot line. This has diminished the pleasure for would be readers.
Thanks to the author @carson.patrick.bowie and @mtmctours for my incredible book box and gorgeous print Arc.
“𝙄𝙛 𝘾𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙡𝙞𝙚 𝙇𝙖𝙫𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧 𝙞𝙨 𝙖𝙬𝙖𝙠𝙚𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜, 𝙞𝙩 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙗𝙚 𝙨𝙪𝙗𝙩𝙡𝙚.”
Charlie Lavender & the Origin of Everything by Carson Patrick Bowie, will delight readers everywhere. A witchy magical coming of age novel, that is not short of spectacular. Set in Norma Illinois, where everything is not. The author delivers a YA fantasy, with atmospheric 90s nostalgia. The smooth transitioning dual time frames, and lush magical realism adds to wonderful storyline. What really captured my heart and soul was the realistic characters, that I couldn’t help but fall in love.
I completely related to social anxiety and perils of high school that Charlie experiences, along with the love triangle. Some of the most key elements of the book is the importance of friendship and family. The air of secrecy of witches and a magical world, along with the science had me captivated. The writing was seamless and I am impatiently waiting for the next installment.
This is one author that you should take notice and follow.. simply an amazing book.!
Tour Schedule:
September 12
@paperfury – Bookstagram & Book Blog
@brittyoreads – Bookstagram
September 13
@library.of.becca – Bookstagram & Booktok
@annoying_sidekick_thoughts – Bookstagram
September 14
@thereaderandthechef – Bookstagram & Book Blog
@alessasbookshelf – Bookstagram
September 15
@pluvioreads – Bookstagram & Booktok
@bookworm_panda – Bookstagram
September 16
@gwendalyn_books_ – Bookstagram & Book Blog
@_bookishparadise_ – Bookstagram
September 17
@coffeebooksandmagic – Bookstagram & Booktok
@kathreadsya – Bookstagram
September 18
@fictionwithalice – Bookstagram & Booktok
@bibliophilesandcoffee – Bookstagram
September 19
@booktreasuresau – Bookstagram & Booktok
@thetalesofabooklover – Bookstagram
September 20
@intriguedonlybybooks – Bookstagram & Book Blog
@readreadnosleeprepeat – Bookstagram
September 21
@fannislibrary – Bookstagram & Booktok
@rebireads – Bookstagram
About Carson Patrick Bowie:
Carson currently resides in the suburbs of Toronto, Canada, along with his two teenage sons, and two rescued cats. He misses the Scholastic book fair and is passionate about great storytelling regardless of the medium. He’s a member of the LGBTQ+ community a disappointment to his father, and believes with all of his heart that representation for all communities is vital. Carson is reasonably fond of Dungeons & Dragons, unreasonably fond of Dan Levy, and he has, when left unattended, been known to use run-on sentences. He is also incredibly proud of both of his sons.
Website | Instagram | Goodreads
Hosted by:
Hello Readers
Welcome to my stop on the Blog Tour for
The Witch and the Tsar by Olesya Salnikova Gilmore
The Witch and the Tsar by Olesya Salnikova Gilmore
Historical Fantasy
09/20/2022 by Ace
Thanks to AceBooks / #BerkleyPartner @berkleypub @olesyaauthor for my copy
Summary:
In this stunning historical fantasy debut, an isolated witch will risk all that she has to save her country and her people from dangerous gods and the twisted hearts of men.
As a half goddess possessing magic, Yaga is used to living on her own, her prior entanglements with mortals having led to heartbreak. She mostly keeps to her hut in the woods, where those in need of healing seek her out, even as they spread rumors about her supposed cruelty and wicked spells. But when her old friend Anastasia—now the wife of the tsar, and suffering from a mysterious illness—arrives in her forest desperate for her protection, Yaga realizes the fate of all of Russia is tied to Anastasia’s. Yaga must step out of the shadows to protect the land she loves.
As she travels to Moscow, Yaga witnesses a sixteenth-century Russia on the brink of chaos. Tsar Ivan—soon to become Ivan the Terrible—grows more volatile and tyrannical by the day, and Yaga believes the tsaritsa is being poisoned by an unknown enemy. But what Yaga cannot know is that Ivan is being manipulated by powers far older and more fearsome than anyone can imagine.
Olesya Salnikova Gilmore weaves a rich tapestry of mythology and Russian history, reclaiming and reinventing the infamous Baba Yaga, and bringing to life a vibrant and tumultuous Russia, where old gods and new tyrants vie for power. This fierce and compelling novel draws from the timeless lore to create a heroine for the modern day, fighting to save her country and those she loves from oppression while also finding her true purpose as a goddess, a witch, and a woman.
Early Praise for The Witch and the Tsar:
“An utterly enchanting, wholly immersive debut that deftly reimagines the legend of Baba Yaga. This one is unmissable.”—Alexis Henderson, Author of The Year of the Witching
“A rich and vivid tapestry of old Russia in an age when Tsar Ivan the Terrible grappled not only with political foes but with the legendary witch Baba Yaga and her command of magic and pagan gods. An evocative journey into old Russian myth and history, and a poignant exploration of what it means to be both human and immortal.”– Margaret George, New York Times bestselling author of The Splendor Before the Dark
“Weaves myth and history into a poignant tale of love and war and gods in the flesh, with impeccable imagery and a heroine whose strength and courage stayed with me long after the final page. Fans of The Witch’s Heart, Circe and The Bear and the Nightingale are sure to fall in love with Gilmore’s compelling debut.” – H.M. Long, Author of Hall of Smoke
Hello friends let’s take a journey to long ago Mother Russia. A world of rich history, folklore and magic
Excerpt:
Leaving the guard to keep watch outside, I ushered the tsaritsa into the darkened innards of my hut. Little Hen was used to clients coming and going and usually behaved herself enough by staying low to the ground so as not to frighten anyone. I hastily lit a few stubby beeswax candles. The scent of burning honey filled the air as I turned back to my royal visitor, swallowing hard.
Her tears had dried, her dull brown eyes taking on a chillingly distant look. Where were the flecks of gold, the quick wit, the uncharacteristic warmth of someone of her social standing? Her vibrancy was gone. Her skirts rustled like dried-up leaves as she sank onto the stool I offered her with the tired, defeated air of one who wishes never to rise again.
A few wandering chickens clucked at my feet. Noch hooted from a shadowy corner. The tsaritsa probably found this-me-uncivilized, disgustingly rustic, even.
But she only said, “It has been months. The doctors do not know what it is. I do.” She struggled out of her cloak. “I am dying.”
The bell-sleeved, flower-patterned letnik gown dragged her down as if bloated with seawater. A little shiver darted up my spine, almost prompting me to ask the tsaritsa how many dresses she wore. For wealthy women, it was customarily a minimum of three. But it was clear it was not the dresses plaguing her.
There was sweat on her brow, a redness at her mouth and eyes, though her skin was missing the telltale blotches and swellings of pestilence. An internal imbalance was possible, but those were the hardest to heal. An illness of the mind or spirit? Stooping under the dry herbs and flowers hanging from the slanted ceiling, I crossed the room to an iron cauldron bubbling over a fire that never went out. Iron possessed mystical and protective powers.
“It has been some time since you visited me,” I said slowly, brushing aside a purple lavender blossom. “Thirteen years?”
“With the wedding, I . . .”
“I have heard weddings eat into time like moths. What about after? I tended to your family for years. To be forgotten so quickly by you and your mother was quite the revelation.” I bent over the cauldron and ladled out hot water into a bowl fashioned from bone. Steam billowed into my face as I flushed with resentment. Or maybe disappointment.
How would the great Earth Goddess Mokosh feel about such neglect? I thought about my beloved mother, the protector of women-of their work and destiny, the birth of their children. I glanced up at her symbol, the wooden horse’s head hanging above the cauldron.
We provide succor regardless of wounded pride, she had once told me. Pride is an illusion and the path to conceit. Gods may be guilty of it, Yaga, but not you.
But our gods, the ancient ones born of the Universe, had been worshipped then. While Mokosh had not spoken of it, tales say she helped to create the Earth with Perun, the Supreme God and Lord of the Heavens, and many other gods besides. Perun forged the sky with his thunderbolts; Mokosh gave birth to the land. Her spindle spun the cloth of humanity, thread by thread, woman by woman, life to death, generation after generation. She was Moist Earth, mother of all living things and my actual mother.
Eventually, mortals began to worship the Christian god. While some believed in the old gods as well as him, I doubted the tsaritsa was of their number, living as she did in the center of the Orthodox Christian faith in Russia. Yet before her ascent to the court, she had gladly partaken of what infuriatingly limited talents I had inherited from Mokosh.
“I made you a tsaritsa,” I said. “I provided your mother with the herbs and charms that got the court to take notice of a dead aristocrat’s daughter. Or have you forgotten?”
Excerpted from The Witch and the Tsar by Olesya Salnikova Gilmore Copyright © 2022 by Olesya Salnikova Gilmore. Excerpted by permission of Ace. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.
Buy Links:
About the Author:
Olesya Salnikova Gilmore was born in Moscow, Russia, raised in the U.S., and graduated from Pepperdine University with a BA in English/political science, and from Northwestern School of Law with a JD. She practiced litigation at a large law firm for several years before pursuing her dream of becoming an author. She is most happy writing historical fiction and fantasy inspired by Eastern European folklore. She lives in a wooded, lakeside suburb of Chicago with her husband and daughter. The Witch and the Tsar is her debut novel. Learn more online at www.olesyagilmore.com
LINKS: Website | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
Hello There
Welcome to my stop on the Blog Tour
The Witches of Moonshyne Manor
Title: The Witches of Moonshyne Manor
Author: Bianca Marais
Genre: Fantasy, Contemporary
Publisher: MIRA
Source: Publisher
Format: Paperback arc, Ebook
Release Date: August 23, 2022
Rating: ★★★★★
A coven of modern-day witches. A magical heist-gone-wrong. A looming threat.
Five octogenarian witches gather as an angry mob threatens to demolish Moonshyne Manor. All eyes turn to the witch in charge, Queenie, who confesses they’ve fallen far behind on their mortgage payments. Still, there’s hope, since the imminent return of Ruby—one of the sisterhood who’s been gone for thirty-three years—will surely be their salvation.
But the mob is only the start of their troubles. One man is hellbent on avenging his family for the theft of a legacy he claims was rightfully his. In an act of desperation, Queenie makes a bargain with an evil far more powerful than anything they’ve ever faced. Then things take a turn for the worse when Ruby’s homecoming reveals a seemingly insurmountable obstacle instead of the solution to all their problems.
The witches are determined to save their home and themselves, but their aging powers are no match for increasingly malicious threats. Thankfully, they get a bit of help from Persephone, a feisty TikToker eager to smash the patriarchy. As the deadline to save the manor approaches, fractures among the sisterhood are revealed, and long-held secrets are exposed, culminating in a fiery confrontation with their enemies.
Funny, tender and uplifting, the novel explores the formidable power that can be discovered in aging, found family and unlikely friendships. Marais’ clever prose offers as much laughter as insight, delving deeply into feminism, identity and power dynamics while stirring up intrigue and drama through secrets, lies and sex. Heartbreaking and heart-mending, it will make you grateful for the amazing women in your life.
BUY Links:
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Witches-Moonshyne-Manor-witchy-rom-com/dp/0778386996/
Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-witches-of-moonshyne-manor-bianca-marais/1141674843?ean=9780778386995
Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/books/the-witches-of-moonshyne-manor/9780778386995
IndieBound: https://www.indiebound.org/book/9780778386995
Books-A-Million: https://www.booksamillion.com/p/9780778386995
Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/the-witches-of-moonshyne-manor
AppleBooks: https://books.apple.com/us/book/the-witches-of-moonshyne-manor/id1609763913
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/books/details/Bianca_Marais_The_Witches_of_Moonshyne_Manor?id=WKteEAAAQBAJ
Libro.FM: https://libro.fm/audiobooks/9781488215506-the-witches-of-moonshyne-manor
Indigo: https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/books/the-witches-of-moonshyne-manor/9780778333920-item.html
Target: https://www.target.com/p/the-witches-of-moonshyne-manor-by-bianca-marais-paperback/-/A-85998293
REVIEW
Please excuse any grammatical errors, or typos. I have done my best, but in reality I am just reader, and will leave the writing to all the incredible authors out there.
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
This is a non spoiler review, because you as reader need to read this book. Also, I feel sometimes I have in the past gave away to much of the plot line. This has diminished the pleasure for would be readers.
The Witches of Moonshyne Manor by Bianca Marais is magical tale of found sisters.
“Women belong in all places where decisions are being made.”
Six octogenarian witches who make up a modern day coven. An impending threat to demolish their Moonshyne Manor, a magical heist that went haywire, along with Persephone, a feisty TikToker. makes for delightful fun book. These ride or die sisters, were so engaging and I loved everything about this book. The storyline was creative and the characters were so engaging and enjoyable. All around a great book, I am so happy to be adding this one to my favorite book list for 2022.
Thank you to @htpbooks and @biancamarais_author for the early review copy of this novel.
AUTHOR
About the Author:
Bianca Marais cohosts the popular podcast The Sh*t No One Tells You About Writing, aimed at emerging writers. She was named the winner of the Excellence in Teaching Award for Creative Writing at the University of Toronto’s School of Continuing Studies in 2021. She is the author of two novels, Hum If You Don’t Know the Words and If You Want to Make God Laugh, as well as the Audible Original The Prynne Viper. She lives in Toronto with her husband and fur babies.
Social Links:
Author website: https://www.biancamarais.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/biancamaraisauthor
Twitter: https://twitter.com/biancam_author/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/biancamarais_author/
EXCERPT
1
Saturday, October 23rd
Morning
Half an hour before the alarm will be sounded for the first time in decades—drawing four frantic old women and a geriatric crow from all corners of the sprawling manor—Ursula is awoken by insistent knocking, like giant knuckles rapping against glass. It’s an ominous sign, to be sure. The first of many.
Trying to rid herself of the sticky cobwebs of sleep, Ursula throws back the covers, groaning as her joints loudly voice their displeasure. She’s slept in the buff, as is her usual habit, and as she pads across the room, she’s more naked than the day she was born (being, as she is, one of those rare babies who came into the world fully encased in a caul).
Upon reaching the window, the cause of the ruckus is immediately obvious to Ursula; one of the Angel Oak’s sturdy branches is thumping against her third-floor window. Strong winds whip through the tree, making it shimmy and shake, giving the impression that it’s espousing the old adage to dance like no one’s watching, a quality that rather has to be admired in a tree. Either that, or it’s trembling uncontrollably with fear.
The forest, encroaching at the garden’s boundary, looks disquieted. It hangs its head low, bowing to a master who’s ordered it to bend the knee. As the charcoal sky churns, not a bird to be seen, the trees in the wood whisper incessantly. Whether they’re secrets or warnings, Ursula can’t tell, which only unsettles her further.
That infernal billboard that the city recently erected across from the manor property—with its aggressive gigantic lettering shouting, ‘Critchley Hackle Mega Complex Coming Soon!’—snaps in the wind, issuing small cracks of thunder. A storm is on its way, that much is clear. You don’t need to have Ivy’s particular powers to know as much.
Turning her back on the ominous view, Ursula heads for the calendar to mark off another mostly sleepless night. It seems impossible that after so many of them—night upon night, strung up after each other seemingly endlessly—only two remain until Ruby’s return, upon which Ursula will discover her fate.
Either Ruby knows or she doesn’t.
And if she does know, there’s the chance that she’ll want nothing more to do with Ursula. The thought makes her breath hitch, the accompanying stab of pain almost too much to bear. The best she can hope for under the circumstances is that Ruby will forgive her, releasing Ursula from the invisible prison her guilt has sentenced her to.
Too preoccupied with thoughts of Ruby to remember to don her robe, Ursula takes a seat at her mahogany escritoire. She lights a cone of mugwort and sweet laurel incense, watching as the tendril of smoke unfurls, inscribing itself upon the air. Inhaling the sweet scent, she picks up a purple silk pouch and unties it, spilling the contents onto her palm.
The tarot cards are all frayed around the edges, worn down from countless hours spent jostling through Ursula’s hands. Despite their shabbiness, they crackle with electricity, sparks flying as she shuffles them. After cutting the deck in three, Ursula begins laying the cards down, one after the other, on top of the heptagram she carved into the writing desk’s surface almost eighty years ago.
The first card, placed in the center, is The Tower. Unfortunate souls tumble from the top of a fortress that’s been struck by lightning, flames engulfing it. Ursula experiences a jolt of alarm at the sight of it for The Tower has to signify the manor; and anything threatening their home, threatens them all.
The second card, placed above the first at the one o’clock position, can only represent Tabitha. It’s the Ten of Swords, depicting a person lying face down with ten swords buried in their back. The last time Ursula saw the card, she’d made a mental note to make an appointment with her acupuncturist, but now, following so soon after The Tower, it makes her shift nervously.
The third, fourth and fifth cards, placed at the three o’clock, four-thirty and six o’clock positions, depict a person (who must be Queenie) struggling under too heavy a load; a heart pierced by swords (signifying Ursula); and a horned beast towering above a man and woman who are shackled together (obviously Jezebel). Ursula whimpers to see so many dreaded cards clustered together.
Moving faster now, she lays out the sixth, seventh and eighth cards at the seven-thirty, nine and eleven o’ clock positions. Ursula gasps as she studies the man crying in his bed, nine swords hovering above him (which can only denote Ursula’s guilt as it pertains to Ruby); the armored skeleton on horseback (representing the town of Critchley Hackle); and the two bedraggled souls trudging barefoot through the snow (definitely Ivy). Taking in all eight sinister cards makes Ursula tremble much like the Angel Oak.
Based on the spread, Ursula absolutely should sound the alarm immediately, but she’s made mistakes in the past—lapses in judgment that resulted in terrible consequences—and so she wants to be a hundred percent certain first.
She shuffles the cards again, laying them down more deliberately this time, only to see the exact same shocking formation, the impending threat even more vivid than before. It couldn’t be any clearer if the Goddess herself had sent a homing pigeon with a memo bearing the message: Calamity is on its way! It’s knocking at the window, just waiting to be let in!
And yet, Ursula still doesn’t sound the alarm, because that’s what doubt does; it slips through the chinks in our defenses, eroding all sense of self until the only voice that should matter becomes the one that we don’t recognize anymore, the one we trust the least.
As a result of this estrangement from herself, Ursula has developed something of a compulsion, needing to triple check the signs before she calls attention to them, and so she stands and grabs her wand. She makes her way down the hallway past Ruby’s and Jezebel’s bedrooms at a bit of a clip before descending the west wing stairs.
It’s just before she reaches Ivy’s glass conservatory that Ursula breaks out into a panicked run.
Excerpted from The Witches of Moonshyne Manor @ 2022 by Bianca Marais, used with permission by MIRA Books.
Hello Friends welcome to my stop on the blog tour for
The House With the Golden Door By Elodie Harper
Title: The House With the Golden Door
Author: Elodie Harper
Release Date: September 6, 2022
Genre(s): Adult — Mythology
Buy Link: https://bookshop.org/a/11727/9781454946625
SYNOPSIS
The life of a courtesan in Pompeii is glamorous yet perilous . . .
Amara has escaped her life as a slave in the Wolf Den, the city’s most notorious brothel, but now her survival depends on the affections of her patron: a man she might not know as well as she once thought. At night, in the home he bought for her, the house with the golden door, Amara’s dreams are haunted by her past. She longs for her sisterhood of friends—the women at the brothel she was forced to leave behind—and worse, finds herself pursued by the cruel and vindictive man who once owned her. To be truly free, she will need to be as ruthless as he is. Amara knows her existence in Pompeii is subject to Venus, the goddess of love. Yet finding love may prove to be the most dangerous act of all.
REVIEW
The House With The Golden Door by Elodie Harper,
Thank you to @turnthepagetours and @elodielharper
The House with the Golden Door by Elodie Harper is just as captivating story as the The Wolf Den. Elodie Harper creates a world that is immersible, and harsh.
We follow a greek woman Amara, solid into slavery and living in a brothel as a prostitute, in Pompeii, known as the Lupanar or ‘Wolf Den.
Following the events of the end of Wolf Den, The House with the Golden Door is a continuation of Amara’s turbulent life. She has left the brothel and is walking a fine line of a courtesan.
Harper does a wonderful job in giving the reader class structure and traditions. Meticulously researched, you are easily catapulted into this world.
The characters grow and expand,I am excited to read what’s next from this author
Author Info
Elodie Harper is a journalist and prize-winning writer. She is currently a reporter and presenter at ITV News, and before that worked as a producer for Channel 4 News. Elodie studied Latin poetry both in the original and in translation as part of her English Literature degree at Oxford, instilling a lifelong interest in the ancient world. The Wolf Den, the first in a trilogy of novels about the lives of women in ancient Pompeii, was a number one London Times bestseller. Elodie lives in the UK. You can visit her at elodieharper.com and find her @ElodieLHarper.
Hello Gracious Readers
Welcome to my stop on the blog tour for
The Portraitist: Adélaïe Labille-Guiard
By Susanne Dunlap
The Portraitist: A Novel of Adelaide Labille-Guiard by Susanne Dunlap
Buy The Portraitist
Publication Date: August 30, 2022
She Writes Press
Based on a true story, this is the tale of Adélaïde Labille-Guiard’s fight to take her rightful place in the competitive art world of eighteenth-century Paris.
With a beautiful rival who’s better connected and better trained than she is, Adélaïde faces an uphill battle. Her love affair with her young instructor in oil painting gives rise to suspicions that he touches up her work, and her decision to make much-needed money by executing erotic pastels threatens to create as many problems as it solves. Meanwhile, her rival goes from strength to strength, becoming Marie Antoinette’s official portraitist and gaining entrance to the elite Académie Royale at the same time as Adélaïde.
When at last Adélaïde earns her own royal appointment and receives a massive commission from a member of the royal family, the timing couldn’t be worse: it’s 1789, and with the fall of the Bastille her world is turned upside down by political chaos and revolution. With danger around every corner in her beloved Paris, she must find a way to adjust to the new order, carving out a life and a career all over again—and stay alive in the process.
Praise
“An imaginative work that brings the story of a little-known artist to vivid life.” –Kirkus Reviews
“Deeply researched and imagined, The Portraitist offers a fascinating and dramatic plunge into the world of a brilliant female artist, struggling to make her mark before and during the turbulent and treacherous era of the French Revolution. I loved this novel.” –Sandra Gulland, international bestselling author of The Josephine Trilogy
“Written with breathless drama, The Portraitist follows the rise of the gifted portraitist Adélaïde Labille-Guiard in Paris during the last years of the late eighteenth century. The novel is a luminous depiction of Paris and those terrible times seen through the astute, compassionate eyes of a woman who had to paint. Every bit of lace, or royal carriage or bloody cobblestone is alive in the writing. The rain drumming on the skylight and a misbuttoned coat speak. Go to those streets with this book in your hand to follow her footsteps and those long-gone turbulent times will come alive to you as if they were yesterday.” –Stephanie Cowell, award-winning author of Claude and Camille
“In The Portraitist, Susanne Dunlap skillfully paints a portrait of a woman struggling to make her way in a man’s world — a topic as relevant today as it was in Ancien Regime France. Impeccably researched, rich with period detail, Dunlap brings to life the little known true story of Adélaïde Labille-Guiard, who fought her husband and society to make a name for herself as a painter to the royal family, the very apex of success– only to find everything she had built threatened by the Revolution. A stunning story of determination, talent, and reversals of fortune. As a lifelong Elisabeth Vigée-LeBrun fan, I am now questioning my allegiances!” –Lauren Willig, New York Times bestselling author of The Summer Country and Band of Sisters
“[The Portraitist is a] luminous novel of Adélaïde Labille-Guiard, whose livelihood and longing for respect are threatened by the institutions that deny women artists their due, compounded by the tumultuous events of the French Revolution. Deftly written and impeccably researched. Highly recommended.” –Michelle Cameron, award-winning author of Beyond the Ghetto Gates
REVIEW
The Portraitist: Adélaïe Labille-Guiard
By Susanne Dunlap
Publisher : She Writes Press
Pub Date August 30, 2022
Paperback : 296 pages
⚜️‧͙⁺˚*･༓☾⚜️♥︎⚜️☽༓･*˚⁺‧͙⚜️
Susanne Dunlap, brings the 18th century France portraitist artist, Adélaïe Labille-Guiard, richly to life.
⚜️♥︎⚜️
Set pre-Revolutionary France, Dunlap’s newest historical fiction she tells the story of the artist Adélaïe Labille-Guiard, not as a victim, but as revolutionary. She becomes one of the earliest female members of the Royal Academy of France, and also the first first female artist to receive permission to set up a studio for her students at the Louvre. She was an advocate for women who desired to be artists, giving them instructions and a place to develop their craft.
Most professional women painters who were usually born into families of artists or artisans. Not so with our heroine, Labille-Guiard, who was born to a Parisian shopkeeper. Unlike her advisory Elisabeth Vigée Le Brun, who was the daughter of a painter, and later Vigée on in life married Jean-Baptiste Pierre Le Brun, a connected art dealer. This allowed Vigée to rise swiftly and gain a foot hold in portrait paintings to the Royal Parisian Family. She became good friends with the Queen, and the official painter of Queen Marie Antoinette.
Adélaïe, Labille-Guiard goes against her father’s good judgment and marries Louis Nicolas Guiard. Immature and easily deceived, she realizes her husband Nicolas is not the man she thought he was. Instead of remaining she is granted legal separation from her husband, which at that time was hard to come by unless there was factual evidence. While separation was legal, divorce was out of the question.
Adélaïe life long dream is to be a sought after portraitist, already accomplished pastelist. She further her artist education by taking classes with the young François André Vincent at the Louvre. Determined to be recognized in her own right, she stays stead fast, and dedicates her life to her art.
The author uses historical facts along with meticulously research to bring Adélaïe, Labille-Guiard character vividly to life. Wonderful atmospheric details along with a character I thought that she was an extremely well-written. Dunlap seamless narration Adélaïe ‘s realistic, believable character jump off the page. She is compassionate and one that you can easily root for.
I enjoyed the realistic rivalry that may or may not have been created by male painters during this time. Both women use what they can to bring profits as they struggle to rise in a male dominated art world. The author’s carefully constructed storyline was everything I wished it to be, both enlightening and captivating from start to finish. The character development and complex relationships, and the setting and world building with its unique artistic details, making for a highly compulsive read.
⚜️♥︎⚜️
If you are not a fan of Susan Dunlap, this book will sure make you one!
I highly recommend this addictive book to my family and friends ⚜️
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
This is a non spoiler review, because you as reader need to read this book. Also, I feel sometimes I have in the past gave away to much of the plot line. This has diminished the pleasure for would be readers.
⚜️Giveaway⚜️
Enter to win a paperback copy or Audiobook of The Portraitist by Susanne Dunlap!
The giveaway is open to the US only and ends on September 8th. You must be 18 or older to enter.
👇
AUTHOR
Susanne Dunlap is the author of twelve works of historical fiction for adults and teens, as well as an Author Accelerator Certified Book Coach. Her love of historical fiction arose partly from her studies in music history at Yale University (PhD, 1999), partly from her lifelong interest in women in the arts as a pianist and non-profit performing arts executive. Her novel The Paris Affair won first place in its category in the CIBA Dante Rossetti awards for Young Adult Fiction. The Musician’s Daughter was a Junior Library Guild Selection and a Bank Street Children’s Book of the Year, and was nominated for the Utah Book Award and the Missouri Gateway Reader’s Prize. In the Shadow of the Lamp was an Eliot Rosewater Indiana High School Book Award nominee. Susanne earned her BA and an MA (musicology) from Smith College, and lives in Biddeford, ME, with her little dog Betty. For more information, please visit Susanne Dunlap’s website. You can follow author Susanne Dunlap on Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, Instagram, Pinterest, and BookBub.
Blog Tour Schedule
Hello Readers
Welcome to my stop on the blog tour for
The Children of Gods and Fighting Men
A novel set in 10th century Ireland, published from AdAstra/Head of Zeus coming September 1st.
Read on to find out more about the book and author, how you can preorder, and of course see the stunning cover art from Micaela Alcaino (@micaelaalcaino).
Make sure you preorder it now! And add it to Goodreads
‘Highlander meets The Last Kingdom as feuding clans of magical undying vie for control of tenth-century Ireland in this assured and captivating debut. Themes of motherhood and conflicted obligation lie at the heart of Shauna Lawless’s historical fantasy, explored through the eyes of two powerful women compelled to navigate a land where men hold sway, or think they do. I was hooked from page one‘ — Anthony Ryan
SYNOPSES
The Children of Gods and Fighting Men is the first book of the Gael Song series – and is due for release on the 1st September 2022.
The first in a gripping new historical fantasy series that intertwines Irish mythology with real-life history, The Children of Gods and Fighting Men is the thrilling debut novel by Shauna Lawless.
They think they’ve killed the last of us…
981 AD. The Viking King of Dublin is dead. His young widow, Gormflaith, has ambitions for her son – and herself – but Ireland is a dangerous place and kings tend not to stay kings for long. Gormflaith also has a secret. She is one of the Fomorians, an immortal race who can do fire-magic. She has kept her powers hidden at all costs, for there are other immortals in this world – like the Tuatha Dé Danann, a race of warriors who are sworn to kill Fomorians.
Fódla is one of the Tuatha Dé Danann with the gift of healing. Her kind dwell hidden in a fortress, forbidden to live amongst the mortals. Fódla agrees to help her kin by going to spy on Brian Boru, a powerful man who aims to be High King of Ireland. She finds a land on the brink of war – a war she is desperate to stop. However, preventing the loss of mortal lives is not easy with Ireland in turmoil and the Fomorians now on the rise…
REVIEW
The Children of Gods and Fighting Men by Shauna Lawless
A stellar fantasy of mythologies, along with Irish, historical rivalry, set in 981 AD.
Shauna Lawless gives readers a stunning tale, told in in dual perspectives of two strong female characters. Vikings and Irish kings, along with Witches made for a compelling storyline.
We follow the ruthless and cunning, Gormflaith, who is one of the last remaining Fomorian, an immortal race. Seeking to rise her son Sitric, to the seat of king of Dublin, she will stop at nothing to get her way. The Fomorian, an immortal race that has the ability of Fire magic. Hiding from their magical rivals the Tuatha Dé Danann, who have all but annihilated their kind.
Fodla, who is known as a Descendant, of the Tuatha De’ Danann. She is blessed with the magical ability of healing. When her beloved sister Rónnat, is banished to an island after becoming pregnant by a mortal. She takes up the responsible of the care of her nephew, Broccan. She finds herself tasked with spying on Brian Boru, who ultimately becomes the high king of Ireland from 1002 to 1014.
A captivating debut to what looks like a thrilling series, full of political intrigue and drama. Strong female POV’s that really standout, and I quite partial to Gormflaith character. The characters are well developed and all are morally grey or dark, which suits me just fine. This is one of those books that you just have to read to know what feeling I’m getting at. This one of those books that sucks you in and keeps you hungry for more. It’s a unique and unforgettable story told through a brilliant narrative.
⚔️
I highly recommend getting your hands on a copy!
Thank you Head of Zeus and Ad Astra for the ARC.
The Author
Shauna Lawless is an avid reader of Irish mythology and folklore. As an Irish woman, she loves that Irish mythology has inspired so many stories over the years, however, she wanted to explore the history and mythology of Ireland in a more authentic way. She lives in Northern Ireland with her family.
Follow Shauna on twitter @shaunaLwrites – or on her blog and website at www.shaunalawless.com
Hello everyone!
I am so excited to be apart of blog tour for
Beguiled by Cyla Panin.
Genre: Young Adult Fantasy
Publishing date: August 23rd, 2022
Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indigo | IndieBound
Synopsis:
A dark and enthralling story about a young woman who makes a deal with a spirit to try and gain her independence—and the twisted price she has to pay for it
Ella is a 17-year-old weaver whose entire livelihood depends on her loom. She dreams of opening her own shop, but when her father died in debtor’s prison, she had to support herself by taking whatever clients she could get. In order to buy her supplies she goes into debt of her own, and when her loom breaks, Ella realizes she needs more help than a repairperson can give her. She, like everyone, has heard about the old washerwoman spirit called the Bean-Nighe who will grant any one wish—for a price.
But Ella is desperate, so she asks the Bean-Nighe to fix her loom. And it works. The loom is fixed, and she’s creating beautiful pieces she could have never imagined before. All she has to do is feed the loom a drop of blood each time she weaves—a small price to pay for such magnificent silks. And when she brings two bolts to a rich client, she meets a mysterious young man named Callum and bargains for an invitation to his exclusive party. At that party, he’s so mesmerized by her talent, he offers Ella a place to live and patronage for her art. It seems like Ella’s fortune is finally turning for the better . . . until she begins to notice the loom taking more from her than she offered.
As she becomes entangled in the lives of the city’s rich, swept into Callum’s allure, and trapped by the Bean-Nighe’s magic, Ella must figure out a way to secure her future while she still has a future at all.
Content Warning: mild self-harm, gaslighting and emotional abuse
REVIEW
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
This is a non spoiler review, because you as reader need to read this book. Also, I feel sometimes I have in the past gave away to much of the plot line. This has diminished the pleasure for would be readers.
BEGUILED By Cyla Panin Is An Enchanting YA Fantasy.
Beguiled follows a seventeen-year-old struggling weaver Ella, who is barely able to get by. She only has one customer, and when a series of events happens leaving her weavers loom broken. She is unable to fulfill her order, and goes down to the river and seeks out the Bean-nighe, a type of ban-sìth that haunts desolate streams and washes the clothing of those about to die.
Casting aside all good judgment she makes a careless deal, that call for one drop of blood each time she sets done to use her weaving loom. Wanting a better life, Ella sets about changing her circumstances, but everything comes with a cost. Innocently drawn into a world of power and decadence by the mysterious Callum. Dreaming of owning her own textile shop, she risk everything for independence. She produces gorgeous magical bolts of material, that can influence whoever the wearer desires.
Cyla Panin, masterfully creates a memorable tale, atmospheric and slightly dark. She draws you in slowly. Setting up the book perfectly with an assertive heroine, that wants more in life than what she has been dealt. The world building and magical elements were spot on, and they didn’t overshadow the characters. The book was engaging and kept me entertained from start to finish with its twists.
AUTHOR
Cyla Panin is an MG, YA and Adult Author who prefers to look at the world through a dusting of magic.
After spending most of her childhood wanting to escape into the wonderful worlds her favourite authors created, she’s now using her own words to craft magical places. When not writing, Cyla can be found playing dinosaurs with her two young boys, watching swashbuckling and/or period TV shows with her husband, and, of course, reading.
Her YA debut, STALKING SHADOWS will be out with Amulet, Abrams Fall 2021. She is represented by Chloe Seager of the Madeleine Milburn Literary, TV, and Film Agency.
Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads
SCHEDULE
August 22nd
Kait Plus Books – Interview
Nine Bookish Lives – Promotional Post
This Soul’s Devouring Words – Review & Favorite Quotes
August 23rd
Pages & Plots – Promotional Post
Phannie the ginger bookworm – Review & Playlist
Gwendalyn’s Anderson – Review
Avni Reads – Review
August 24th
The Book Dutchesses – Promotional Post
Littlefoot Reader – Review
PopTheButterfly Reads – Review
August 25th
A Court of Coffee and Books – Interview
The Moon Phoenix – A reel aesthetic/teaser
Books and Babble – Review
Sadie’s Spotlight – Promotional Post
August 26th
Confessions of a YA Reader – Promotional Post
Thindbooks Blog – Review
The Nerdy Nook – Review & Favorite Quotes
August 27th
Stuck in Fiction – Promotional Post
Rae’s Reading – Review & Favorite Quotes
The Girl Who Reads – Review
The Momma Spot – Review
August 28th
The Clever Reader – Interview
Dear Rivarie – Top 5 Reasons to Read Beguiled & Mood Board
One Book More – Review & Favorite Quotes
Hello and welcome to my stop on the book tour for The Drowned Woods By Emily Lloyd-Jones
@tbrbeyondtours & @em_llojo
#thedrownedwoods #TBRBeyondTours #emilylloydjames
Genre: Young Adult Fantasy
Publishing date: August 16th, 2022
Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indigo | IndieBound
Synopsis:
A magical, ethereal fantasy from IndieBound bestselling author Emily Lloyd-Jones.
Once upon a time, the kingdoms of Wales were rife with magic and conflict, and eighteen-year-old Mererid “Mer” is well-acquainted with both. She is the last living water diviner and has spent years running from the prince who bound her into his service. Under the prince’s orders, she located the wells of his enemies, and he poisoned them without her knowledge, causing hundreds of deaths. After discovering what he had done, Mer went to great lengths to disappear from his reach. Then Mer’s old handler returns with a proposition: use her powers to bring down the very prince that abused them both.
The best way to do that is to destroy the magical well that keeps the prince’s lands safe. With a motley crew of allies, including a fae-cursed young man, the lady of thieves, and a corgi that may or may not be a spy, Mer may finally be able to steal precious freedom and peace for herself. After all, a person with a knife is one thing…but a person with a cause can topple kingdoms.
The Drowned Woods—set in the same world as The Bone Houses but with a whole new, unforgettable cast of characters—is part heist novel, part dark fairy tale.
REVIEW
The Drowned Woods
By Emily Lloyd-Jones
Publisher Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Pub Date August 16, 2022
‧͙⁺˚*･༓☾ ༺♥༻☽༓･*˚⁺‧͙
Emily Lloyd-Jones newest book is set into the same world as The Bone Houses.
The Drowned Woods by Emily Lloyd-Jones is an adventurous heist infused with nuisance mythology of the Welsh Myth Cantre’r Gwaelod. Which happens to be an ancient sunken city governed by cruel Prince Garanhir.
Eighteen-year-old Mererid “Mer” is the last living water diviner who has been hiding from a cruel prince. Branded as a slave, she has escaped his clutches and is on the run, when she Is rescued by Renfrew, her former trainer, and former spy master to the prince. A treacherous plan to destroy the magical well that protects the prince’s lands is hatched. Joining forces is Fane, a bold young man, who is indebted to the otherfolk for avenging his family’s murder. He traded seven years of service as an ironfetch for the fae, for seven human lives. His charismatic sidekick, a corgi named Trefor, who sneezes when near magic, who just might be a spy for the otherfolk. Ifanna, a somewhat sketchy lady thief, and heir of the Thieves Guild.
This book had me hooked from start to finish – I literally couldn’t put it down. This was unique and absorbing, I found myself completely immersed in Emily Lloyd-Jones vibrant world. The characters are fleshed out, and I enjoyed them all, along with the corgi. The storyline was super easy to follow along with different POV’s.
I have to say this is one of my favorites this year.
༺♥༻
-A high stakes heist
-Dark magic
-Morally gray characters
-Ragtag unlikely group of misfits
-A corgi named Trefor
AUTHOR
Emily Lloyd-Jones grew up on a vineyard in rural Oregon, where she played in evergreen forests and learned to fear sheep. She has a BA in English from Western Oregon University and a MA in publishing from Rosemont College. She currently resides in Northern California, where she enjoys wandering in redwood forests. Her young adult novels include Illusive, Deceptive, The Hearts We Sold, The Bone Houses, and the forthcoming The Drowned Woods. Her debut middle grade, Unseen Magic, will release in 2022.
Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads
SCHEDULE
August 15th
Brinns Books – Review & Favorite Quotes
Whimsical Dragonette – Review & Favorite Quotes
Gwendalyn’s Books – Review
& She Reads – Review
August 16th
Stuck in Fiction – Promotional Post
Pages & Plots – Review
A Court of Coffee and Books – Review & Favorite Quotes
Thindbooks Blog – Review
August 17th
The Book Dutchesses – Promotional Post
Books Over Everything – Review
One More Chapter – Review
Avni Reads – Review & Favorite Quotes
August 18th
Abigail’s Lost in a Book – Review
Confessions of a YA Reader – Review & Favorite Quotes
Balancing Books And Beauties – Review
Lost Girl in Bookland – Review
The Bookish Coven – Review & Favorite Quotes
August 19th
Nine Bookish Lives – Promotional Post
The Clever Reader – Review
Midsummer Night’s Read – Review
Metaphors and Miscellanea – Review & Favorite Quotes
August 20th
dinipandareads – Review & Favorite Quotes
Books and Bookish – Review & Favorite Quotes
bookloversbookreviews -Promotional Post
Beneath A Thousand Skies – Review
August 21st
The Nerdy Nook – Review & Favorite Quotes
Books We Lovee – Review
itsKooreviews – Review & Favorite Quotes
Rampant Reading Reviews – Review & Favorite Quotes
Gwendalyn’s Books 
