The Vanishing at Loxby Manor by Abigail Wilson

Hello, Lovelies ,

Today is my stop on The Vanishing at Loxby Manor by Abigail Wilson. This is second book I have had the pleasure of reading by this very talented author. Thanks so much to Amy at Historical Fiction Virtual Blog Tours for the invite to this tour.

@acwilsonbooks @TNZFiction @HarperCollins @hfvbt @gwendalyn_books @ThomasNelson

#abigailwilson #thevanishingatloxbymanor #thomasnelsonfiction

The Vanishing at Loxby Manor
by Abigail Wilson

Publication Date: January 26, 2021
Thomas Nelson
Paperback & eBook; 336 pages

Genre: Historical Fiction/Romance/Regency

 

 

A story of second chances and secrets, this mysterious Regency romance will transport you to 19th-century England as one young lady reunites with her childhood love to find his missing sister.

Her friend is missing.

After five years abroad, Charity Halliwell finally returns to Loxby Manor, the home of dear friends—and her lost love. No longer a young girl, she is now haunted by a painful secret and the demise of her dreams. Instead of the healing and happiness she hopes to find, she encounters a darkness lurking in the shadows of the once-familiar house. When her friend, Seline, disappears the very night of her arrival, Charity is determined to uncover the truth.

Her only hope is the man who broke her heart.

Branded a coward, Piers Cavanaugh has lived the last five years as an outcast far from his family home. When his sister presumably elopes with a stable hand, Piers joins forces with an unlikely partner—the one woman he thought he’d never see again. Together they launch an investigation that leads to strange nightly meetings in the ruins of an old abbey and disturbing whispers of a secret organization. The more they learn, the more desperate the situation becomes.

The house seems determined to keep its secrets.

As they struggle to piece together the clues, Charity and Piers also endeavor to rebuild their friendship. One cryptic letter changed everything between them. To find happiness they will have to overcome the grief and shame keeping them apart. But first they must discover why Seline vanished and confront the growing fear that she may never return.

Settle in, because once you start The Vanishing at Loxby Manor, you won’t be able to put it down.

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | IndieBound

Praise for The Vanishing at Loxby Manor

“Vanishing at Loxby Manor cleverly combines Regency romance with Gothic intrigue, and the result is a suspenseful, thoroughly entertaining read. Charming and lovely.”—Tasha Alexander, New York Times bestselling author of In the Shadow of Vesuvius

“Like each of Wilson’s novels, The Vanishing at Loxby Manor drew me in from the start and didn’t let go. From the heartfelt characters to the twists that kept me guessing, I relished each turn of the page. Wilson is a master at historical mystery, and I cannot wait for her next story.”—Lindsay Harrel, author of The Joy of Falling

“Abigail Wilson’s latest Gothic romance hits the notes readers have come to expect from her talented pen: romance, shadows and intrigue and a brilliantly executed atmosphere. She is a master at her craft and a rare stand-out in a popular genre.”—Rachel McMillan, author of The London Restoration

“Weaving a shadow of mystery among the gilded countryside of Regency England, Wilson’s tale of love lost, buried shame, and secret societies is a delicious blend of romance and intrigue. Splash in gorgeous historical Regency details, and murder brewing around every stone, and readers will be burning through the pages until the riveting end.”—J’nell Ciesielski, author of The Socialite

“A gothic romance that is filled with great characters and a mystery that unfolds chapter by chapter. A perfect blend of mystery, family relationships, lost years, and star-crossed love. Be warned, you won’t be able to walk away from these characters.”—Cara Putman, award-winning author of Flight Risk

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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

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This is Abigail Wilson Wilson’s fourth Regency romantic suspense

I Immensely enjoyed reading her last novel Masquerade at Middlecrest Abbey. It’s a treasured book in my library. So when opportunity to be able to read her latest book, I literally jumped at it.

Charity Halliwell fell in love with Abigail Wilson weaves a stunning mystery here in the story along with rich period details. The author writing definitely stands out, with her seamless narration that holds the plot line together. The twists are perfectly executed and you won’t see them coming. Her ability to create a second chance romance, that captures your heart, with out overshadowing it doesn’t mysteriousness of the novel was fabulous.

This novel was filled with compelling characters and I really liked everything that each of them brought to this story throughout the novel. They each had their role to make this a tense reading experience. So many secrets that you will find yourself questioning everyone along with their motives. The book is rich in atmospheric details, along with the pitch perfect dialogue that is authentic for the time period. The gothic style writing is absorbing and I couldn’t get enough. The setting and tone was a joy to read.

I highly recommend this book this book with its secret society and treachery set to a lovely historical mystery.

Loved piecing all those puzzle pieces together, I am sure you will too Cavanagh, heir to Loxby Manor. Even though things didn’t work out for them. She shelved her feelings or lost love to the back of her mind even know her heart never really got over it,

Charity is a gracious young lady, quite and attentive.

Recently returned from being away for five years at Ceylon, she is now a houseguest at her childhood friends home at …Loxby Manor. While she was away with her parents at Ceylon, an Irreversible incident occurred. Happy to unite with her vivacious friend Seline, things take on a sinister track. When her friend doesn’t return after an secretive nighttime escapade Charity steps up and questions her friends disappearance, even though she faces challenges from Seline Cavanagh’s own family.

Abigail Wilson weaves a stunning mystery here in the story along with rich period details. The author writing definitely stands out, with her seamless narration that holds the plot line together. The twists are perfectly executed and you won’t see them coming. Her ability to create a second chance romance, that captures your heart, with out overshadowing it doesn’t mysteriousness of the novel was fabulous.

This novel was filled with compelling characters and I really liked everything that each of them brought to this story throughout the novel. They each had their role to make this a tense reading experience. So many secrets that you will find yourself questioning everyone along with their motives. The book is rich in atmospheric details, along with the pitch perfect dialogue that is authentic for the time period. The gothic style writing is absorbing and I couldn’t get enough. The setting and tone was a joy to read.

I highly recommend this book this book with its secret society and treachery set to a lovely historical mystery.

Loved piecing all those puzzle pieces together, I am sure you will too

Abigail Wilson combines her passion for Regency England with intrigue and adventure to pen historical mysteries with a heart. A registered nurse, chai tea addict, and mother of two crazy kids, Abigail fills her spare time hiking the national parks, attending her daughter’s gymnastic meets, and curling up with a great book. In 2017, Abigail won WisRWA’s Fab Five contest and in 2016, ACFW’s First Impressions contest as well as placing as a 2017 finalist in the Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Mystery/Suspense.

She is a cum laude graduate of the University of Texas at Austin and currently lives in Dripping Springs, Texas, with her husband and children.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads

Tuesday, January 19
Review at Chicks, Rogues and Scandals

Wednesday, January 20
Review at Pursuing Stacie

Thursday, January 21
Review at Gwendalyn’s Books

Friday, January 22
Review at The Green Mockingbird

Monday, January 25
Review at Jorie Loves A Story
Review at Library of Clean Reads

Tuesday, January 26
Guest Post at Novels Alive

Wednesday, January 27
Review at Books, Cooks, Looks

Thursday, January 28
Review at Read Review Rejoice

Friday, January 29
Review at Heidi Reads
Review at View from the Birdhouse

Saturday, January 30
Review at Nursebookie

Monday, February 1
Review at The Caffeinated Bibliophile

Tuesday, February 2
Review at Amy’s Booket List

Wednesday, February 3
Review at Passages to the Past

Thursday, February 4
Review at Hallie Reads
Review at Bitch Bookshelf

Friday, February 5
Review at The Lit Bitch
Interview at Books & Benches

Enter to win a copy of The Vanishing at Loxby Manor by Abigail Wilson! Five copies are up for grabs!

The giveaway is open to the US only and ends on February 5th. You must be 18 or older to enter.

Loxby Manor
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WAITING FOR THE NIGHT SONG

Hello again honeybees,

and welcome to my stop on Waiting For The Night Song

Forge Books
Publisher : Forge Books; 1st edition (January 12, 2021)
Language: : English
Hardcover : 336 Pages

On Sale: 01/12/2021
ISBN: 9781250269188336 Pages 

Praise for WAITING FOR THE NIGHT SONG“Julie Carrick Dalton’s deftly constructed, urgent yet slow-burning debut novel reads like a warning from the frontlines of our rapidly deteriorating natural world.” —Omar El Akkad, American War“Both a timely and timeless literary mystery, Waiting for the Night Song is as seductive as it is smart, blending the allure of Julie Dalton’s beloved rural New Hampshire setting with the dark undercurrents of a community’s racial divisions and betrayals. This is a story of love, of home, of friendship and family, of a childhood’s innocence and an adult’s comeuppance, all of which are in the line of fire in this beauty of a page turner.” —Michelle Hoover, award-winning author of Bottomland and The Quickening“Human nature clashes with Mother Nature in this riveting and heartbreaking coming of age story— gorgeously written, and wonderfully told. With its combination of powerful themes and intensely immersive setting, fans of Delia Owens will swoon to find their new favorite author. A phenomenal debut!” —Hank Phillippi Ryan, award-winning author of The First to Lie“Dalton writes masterfully of human relationship and the fraught relationship humanity has with ecology…put it on your lists NOW.” —Michael Zapata, author of The Lost Book of Adana Moreau“I marvel when I come across a book that is at once timely and timeless…It’s a novel that burns–figuratively and literally–with sharp prose and uncommon wisdom. Do yourself a favor and have a look for yourself.” —Peter Geye, award-winning author of Wintering“Waiting for the Night Song is a beautiful book that is also a hell of a read. Complex characters, unforgettable setting, taut storyline, big ideas.” —Ashley Shelby, author of South Pole Station“Smart and searingly passionate, Dalton’s absorbing mystery debut explores many timely issues including global warming, female friendships, childhood secrets, and the lengths we take to protect them — Waiting For The Night Song is an illuminating snapshot of nature, betrayal and sacrifices set in the evocative New Hampshire wilderness.” —Kim Michele Richardson, award-winning author of The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek“A killer, gorgeous debut that tackles love, racism and even climate change. Waiting for the Night Song will break your heart, leave you breathless and wanting more.” —Rachel Barenbaum, bestselling author of A Bend in the Stars“Dalton weaves the vagaries of friendship, the wonder of the natural world, and the power of truth to create a powerful and unforgettable story.” —Erica Ferencik, bestselling author of The River at Night and Into the Jungle“Dalton’s debut is a story of friendship, family, and the consequences of acting out of fear, especially when those actions are performed to protect those we love. The storytelling is made even more vivid by the way the novel practically breathes the woods of New Hampshire.” —Booklist

“Stirring…a taut novel that builds suspense to the very end.” —Publishers Weekly

A startling and timely debut, Julie Carrick Dalton’s Waiting for the Night Song is a moving, brilliant novel about friendships forged in childhood magic and ruptured by the high price of secrets that leave you forever changed.

Cadie Kessler has spent decades trying to cover up one truth. One moment. But deep down, didn’t she always know her secret would surface?

An urgent message from her long-estranged best friend Daniela Garcia brings Cadie, now a forestry researcher, back to her childhood home. There, Cadie and Daniela are forced to face a dark secret that ended both their idyllic childhood bond and the magical summer that takes up more space in Cadie’s memory then all her other years combined.

Now grown up, bound by long-held oaths, and faced with truths she does not wish to see, Cadie must decide what she is willing to sacrifice to protect the people and the forest she loves, as drought, foreclosures, and wildfire spark tensions between displaced migrant farm workers and locals.

Waiting for the Night Song is a love song to the natural beauty around us, a call to fight for what we believe in, and a reminder that the truth will always rise.

You can purchase Waiting for the Night at the following Retailers:

       

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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

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Waiting for the Night Song is about a deep childhood friendship that’s shattered by a dark secret. The story follows two young girls, Cadie and Daniela, through a summer full of adventure and minor misdeeds until a traumatic event drives them apart.

“Truth hides in fissures and hollows, in broken places and empty parts. It can be buried, crushed, or burnt, but the truth will always rise

Waiting for the Night Song is about a deep childhood friendship that is shattered by a dark secret. Cadie and Daniela witnessed a traumatic event over twenty ago.

Cadie Kessler is a entomologist researching the pine beetle from the Rockies to her New Hampshire hometown where the beetles are laying waist to the trees. Leaving them dead and perfect for forest fires.

When she hears from estranged childhood friend, Daniela Garcia. It seems the past has come back, to haunt both Cadie and Daniela when a body is discovered from twenty seven years earlier.

A thrilling coming-of-age book intertwined with a murder mystery. Waiting for the Night Song shifts between the present and “The Summertime ” when the friendship was shattered, and the events happened that the two girls have tried so hard to forget.

A thrilling book that draws you in with its suspense, racial issues, and climate change.

It also is about friendship and family ties.

Photo Credit: Sharona Jacobs

Julie Carrick Dalton grew up in Maryland and on a military base in Germany. As an adult, she bounced around from Seattle to Dallas to Virginia, before finding her true home in Boston, where she has lived for more than twenty years. Her writing has appeared in The Boston Globe, BusinessWeek, The Hollywood Reporter, Electric Literature, and other publications. She contributes to The Chicago Review of Books, DeadDarlings, and The Writer Unboxed. A Tin House alum and graduate of GrubStreet’s Novel Incubator, Julie holds a Master’s in Literature and Creative Writing from Harvard Extension School. She is a frequent speaker on the topic of writing fiction in the age of climate crisis. Mom to four kids and two dogs, Julie is a passionate skier, hiker, and kayaker. She also owns and operates an organic farm. Please excuse her dirty fingernails.

        

WEEK ONE – REVIEW & INTERVIEWS

JANUARY 11th MONDAY JeanBookNerd INTERVIEW

JANUARY 12th TUESDAY Kait Plus Books INTERVIEW 

JANUARY13th WEDNESDAY Two Points of Interest REVIEW

JANUARY14th THURSDAY BookHounds REVIEW & INTERVIEW 

JANUARY14th THURSDAY Movies, Shows, & Books GUEST POST

JANUARY 15th FRIDAY Welcome to MLM Opinion’s Reviews REVIEW 

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WEEK TWO – REVIEWS

JANUARY 18th MONDAY Casia’s Corner REVIEW

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JANUARY 20th WEDNESDAY J.R.’s Book Reviews REVIEW

JANUARY 21st THURSDAY Nay’s Pink Bookshelf REVIEW 

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*JBN is not responsible for Lost or Damaged Books in your Nerdy Mail Box*

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In the Garden of Spite Book Review

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• Publication Date: January 19, 2021
• Publisher: Berkley Publishing Group
• Author: Camilla Bruce
• Genre: Historical Fiction
• Page Count: 480

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

An audacious novel of feminine rage about one of the most prolific female serial killers in American history–and the men who drove her to it.

They whisper about her in Chicago. Men come to her with their hopes, their dreams–their fortunes. But no one sees them leave. No one sees them at all after they come to call on the Widow of La Porte. The good people of Indiana may have their suspicions, but if those fools knew what she’d given up, what was taken from her, how she’d suffered, surely they’d understand. Belle Gunness learned a long time ago that a woman has to make her own way in this world. That’s all it is. A bloody means to an end. A glorious enterprise meant to raise her from the bleak, colorless drudgery of her childhood to the life she deserves. After all, vermin always survive.

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In the Garden of Spite tells the chilling tale of Belle Gunness also known as the Black Widow of LaPorte. Belle is considered to be one of the first female serial killers in America.

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 is a true crime historical fiction account of the notorious Belle Gunness

This is grisly and dark book that will have you mentally messed up.

A brilliantly executed nightmare-inducing tale. The notorious Belle Gunness, known as “the Black Widow of the Midwest” who is thought to have murdered at least fourteen and quite possibly up to forty people between the years of 1884 and 1908.

Let’s go back to the reason why she has become this Momonstrous prolific serial killer. Brynhild Paulsdatter Storset, a young girl born into a family of poor farmhands in Selbu, Norway. In Bruce’s reconstruction of Brynhild’s backstory, our protagonist becomes pregnant at seventeen, but when she demands the father to marry her, the young man tries to kill her instead. As the body count keeps rising she emigrates to American!

I warn you this is not a tale for the faint. You should know this right now.

The Last King by M.J. Porter Blog Tour + Giveaway

Hello and welcome to my stop on The Last King by M.J. Porter, hosted by  Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tours

#TheLastKing #MJPorter #HFVBTBlogTours

The Last King
by M.J. Porter

Publication Date: April 23, 2020
Paperback & eBook; 314 pages

Series: The Ninth Century, Book One
Genre: Historical Thriller

 

 

They sent three hundred warriors to kill one man. It wasn’t enough.

Mercia lies broken but not beaten, her alliance with Wessex in tatters.

Coelwulf, a fierce and bloody warrior, hears whispers that Mercia has been betrayed from his home in the west. He fears no man, especially not the Vikings sent to hunt him down.

To discover the truth of the rumours he hears, Coelwulf must travel to the heart of Mercia, and what he finds there will determine the fate of Mercia, as well as his own.

Amazon US | Amazon UK

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.

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The Last King by MJ Porter is the first installment in The Ninth Century Trilogy

A bold and bloody start to a military historical fictional series of the last king of independent Mercia. Ceolwulf a Saxon warrior who later becomes king.

A fast moving book that centers on Ceolwulf close band of hardened warriors fighting of the never ending hoards of the Viking Raiders. If you enjoy in-depth detailed military battle scenes than this is a book for you. The author doesn’t hold anything back, with her in your face language and gore. Do take note this not a book for the light hearted historical fiction readers. The author MJ Porter uses first person POV to give Ceolwulf’s story. This insightful look at what this warrior and those that follow him go through as they face the trials set before them to hold back an invading force. What immediately grabbed my attention in this story was the perseverance of the characters. An rip roaring charged book, that grabs your attention, as you are thrown into this warrior tale.

Atmospheric, riveting and intensely entertaining!

I’m an author of fantasy (Viking age/dragon-themed) and historical fiction (Early English, Vikings and the British Isles as a whole before the Norman Conquest). I was born in the old Mercian kingdom at some point since 1066. Raised in the shadow of a strange little building, told from a very young age that it housed the bones of long-dead Kings of Mercia and that our garden was littered with old pieces of pottery from a long-ago battle, it’s little wonder that my curiosity in Early England ran riot. I can only blame my parents!

I write A LOT. You’ve been warned!

Not sure where to start your journey through Early England? Here are some pointers.

If you like action-adventure, with a heavy dose of violence, foul language and good old camaraderie – The Ninth Century series is for you, starting with The Last King, or The Seventh Century, starting with Pagan Warrior, has a little more politics to go with the set-piece battles.

If you like stories about the forgotten women of history, then the Tenth Century series, starting with The Lady of Mercia’s Daughter, is a good place to begin. Or, The First Queen of England, with a little more romance.

If you’re interested in the last century of Early England (before 1066) then The Earls of Mercia series is for you.

If you want to read it all, then you can read in chronological order, or mix it up. The series weren’t written in chronological order.

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Monday, January 11
Review at Hoover Book Reviews

Tuesday, January 12
Review at Bibliostatic
Guest Post at Novels Alive

Wednesday, January 13
Review at Rajiv’s Reviews
Excerpt at Historical Fiction with Spirit

Thursday, January 14
Feature at Bookworlder
Review at Books, Cooks, Looks

Friday, January 15
Review at Pursuing Stacie

Saturday, January 16
Excerpt at Passages to the Past

Monday, January 18
Interview at Books & Benches

Tuesday, January 19
Review at Impressions In Ink
Excerpt at Madwoman in the Attic

Wednesday, January 20
Review at Gwendalyn’s Books

Thursday, January 21
Review at Books and Zebras
Excerpt at Chicks, Rogues and Scandals

Friday, January 22
Excerpt at Coffee and Ink
Excerpt at A Darn Good Read
Interview at Jathan & Heather

Enter to win a copy of The Last King by M.J. Porter! Two paperbacks are up for grabs!

The giveaway is open to the US only and ends on January 22nd. You must be 18 or older to enter.

The Last King
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The Good Doctor of Warsaw Review

Hello Bookish Friends

Today I have a Review of The Good Doctor of Warsaw

@HolocaustLegBks #LoveStory @gwendalyn_books

@elisabeth04liz #TheGoodDoctorOfWarsaw!

The Good Doctor of Warsaw

By Elizabeth Gifford

Set in the ghettos of wartime Warsaw, this is a sweeping, poignant, and heartbreaking novel inspired by the true story of one doctor who was determined to protect two hundred Jewish orphans from extermination.

Deeply in love and about to marry, students Misha and Sophia flee a Warsaw under Nazi occupation for a chance at freedom. Forced to return to the Warsaw ghetto, they help Misha’s mentor, Dr Janusz Korczak, care for the two hundred children in his orphanage. As Korczak struggles to uphold the rights of even the smallest child in the face of unimaginable conditions, he becomes a beacon of hope for the thousands who live behind the walls.

As the noose tightens around the ghetto, Misha and Sophia are torn from one another, forcing them to face their worst fears alone. They can only hope to find each other again one day . . .

Elisabeth Gifford grew up in a parsonage. She writes for The London Times and the Independent and has a Diploma in Creative Writing from Oxford University and a Masters in Creative Writing from Royal Holloway College. She lives in Kingston upon Thames in England.

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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

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A gripping emotional book set in Nazi-occupied Warsaw.

A young couple Misch and Sophie meet at lecture being given by the respected and renowned Dr Janusz Korczak. Seen through their eyes, Elisabeth Gifford has based this heart wrenching story on true and actual events inspired by the Polish communities that suffered the affects of the Nazi occupation during World War Two.

A moving novel, that has been meticulously researched Misha and Sophia’s true love story comes to life. Dr Korczak, the humanitarian child psychologist and advocate for children. Passionate both Sophia and Misha find themselves working for the great doctor. Eventually there relationship deepens and the two become engaged. The war is weighing down and hitter moves to take Poland. Thinking it will be like the first war with Germany occupying Poland, no one is prepared for what happens next

Elisabeth Gifford brings the past to life, and those that were affiliated with Dr Korczak. The doctor was famous for his humanitarian work with children, a child psychologist and renowned writer. This is a exceptional book written so we the reader feel the struggles and heartbreak of the people coming together to take care of children. In 1940, German created the Warsaw Ghetto, the doctors orphanage was relocated The storyline is all consuming and writing flows as you are pulled into Misha and Sophia take as it unfolds. The city of Warsaw and its people see some of the most brutality besides those sent to the death camps. This is a heroic tale of the people who cared for so many, the children and that of Warsaw it’s self.

Dr Korczak went with the children even though he had repeatedly been offered shelter on the “Aryan side”. He always refused these.

THE GIRL FROM THE CHANNEL ISLANDS

Welcome to my stop for THE GIRL FROM THE CHANNEL ISLANDS

@JennyLecoat @gwendalyn_books @HarperCollins @GraydonHou

THE GIRL FROM THE CHANNEL ISLANDS 

Author: Jenny Lecoat

ISBN: 9781525806414

Publication Date: February 2, 2021

Publisher: Graydon House Books

An extraordinary story of human triumph against impossible odds

The year is 1940, and the world is torn apart by war. In June of that year, Hitler’s army captures the Channel Islands–the only part of Great Britain to be occupied by German forces. Abandoned by Mr. Churchill, forgotten by the Allies, and cut off from all help, the Islands’ situation is increasingly desperate.

Hedy Bercu is a young Jewish girl who fled Vienna for the island of Jersey two years earlier during the Anschluss, only to find herself trapped by the Nazis once more–this time with no escape. Her only hope is to make herself invaluable to the Germans by working as a translator, hiding in plain sight wIth the help of her friends and community–and a sympathetic German officer. But as the war intensifies, rations dwindle, neighbors turn on neighbors, and Hedy’s life is in greater danger every day. It will take a definitive, daring act to save her from certain deportation to the concentration camps.

A sweeping tale of bravery and love under impossible circumstances, Hedy’s remarkable story reminds us that it’s often up to ordinary people to be quiet heroes in the face of injustice.

Buy Links: 

Harlequin 

Amazon

Barnes & Noble 

Books-A-Million

Powell’s

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 GIRL FROM THE CHANNEL ISLANDS is a riveting unforgettable tale of bravery, friendship, and love. Based on a true story of a young Jewish girl named Hedwig Bercu (Hedy) during World War II.

Jenny Lecoat debut novel has propulsive storyline, offering both drama and historical authenticity to appeal to anyone interested in WWll historical fiction.

Set in the English Channel Islands, 1940. Hedy is a Jew who recently escaped Austrian Anschluss to the island of Jersey.

Leaving behind the horrors of Vienna Austria Hedy Berkus arrives to the shores of Jersey, located in England’s British Isles. Fleeing for her life because of her Jewish Heritage. Hoping she is safe far away from the long arm of.Nazi regime.

Everything comes crashing down when in June 1940. The inhabitants of the Channel Island of Jersey can only watch as the German army invades.

The invading force takes complete control of their island without any opposition to stop them. They have been abandoned by the British, and forced to fend for themselves. The locals of Jersey are resilient people endure a lengthy occupation that will last to the very end of the war.

Hedy Bercu nightmare has become her reality, again she finds her nationality under persecution. This is immersive novel that show the local of Jersey island as strong willed and courageous people. Hedy is a wonderfully developed character, and the author seamlessly writing flows perfectly as the storyline develops. She is brave and driven by inner strength as she tries to hide her identity an takes a job at the German headquarters as a translator. When her paths cross with the German officer Kurt, nothing prepares both of them. The romance is done in a way that doesn’t overshadowed the true theme of the novel, but you will your heart captivated by it.

The Girl from the Channel Islands by Jenny Lecoat’s is compelling book

It will significant interest those readers who enjoy World War II based historical fiction

Jenny Lecoat was born in Jersey, Channel Islands, where her parents were raised under German Occupation and were involved in resistance activity. Lecoat moved to England at 18, where, after earning a drama degree, she spent a decade on the alternative comedy circuit as a feminist stand-up. She also wrote for newspapers and women’s magazines (Cosmopolitan, Observer), worked as a TV and radio presenter, before focusing on screenwriting from sitcom to sketch shows. A love of history and factual stories and a return to her island roots brought about her feature film Another Mother’s Son (2017). She is married to television writer Gary Lawson and now lives in East Sussex. The Girl from the Channel Islands is her first novel.

Social Links:

Author Website

Twitter: @JennyLecoat

Instagram: NA

Facebook: @JennyLecoat

Goodreads

Jersey, Channel Islands

Summer 1940

THE SUN’S HEAT HAD BEGUN TO MELLOW, AND the gulls were cruising for their final catch of the day when the siren sounded. Its wail climbed and fell, calling out over the jumbled slate roofs and church spires of the town, and across the patchwork of potato fields beyond. In St. Aubin’s bay, where the waves lapped and fizzed on the sand, its warning finally reached Hedy’s ears as she lay dozing by the sea wall, and woke her with a jolt.

Rising in slow motion, she scanned the sky. Now she could also hear a faint, tinny whine in the east. She tried to steady her breathing. Perhaps it was another false alarm? These warnings had become a daily event these past two weeks, each time the reconnaissance planes merely circling, then disappearing back out to sea with cameras crammed full of blurry images of main roads and harbor walls. But this time something was different. The engine sound contained a note of brutish intent, and now several tiny black dots were emerging in the distant blue. The whine became a hum, and the hum a strident drone. Then she knew. This was no reconnaissance mission. This was the start. 

For days now, the islanders had watched the black smoke rise and mushroom on the French coast, felt the vibration of the distant blasts pulse through their bellies and rattle their bones. Women had spent hours counting and recounting the tinned foods in their larders, while the men squashed into banks to withdraw the family savings. Children had yelled their complaints as gas masks were forced over their heads. By then, all hope had vanished. There was no one here to deter the aggressors, nothing between them and their shimmering prize but flat blue water and an empty sky. And now the planes were on their way. Hedy could see them clearly now, still some distance away, but from the outline she guessed they were Stukas. Dive-bombers.

She spun around, looking for shelter. The nearest beachside café was almost a mile away. Stopping only to grab her wicker bag, she sprinted for the stone steps leading to the walkway above,and took them in three bounds. At the top she scoured the promenade; a hundred meters toward First Tower was a small seafront shelter. It contained nothing but a single wooden bench on each of its four exposed sides, but it would have to do. Hedy hurtled toward it, grazing her shin as she mistimed the leap onto the low plinth, and threw herself

 against the bench. A moment later she was joined by a panic-stricken young mother, probably not much older than herself, gripping a small white-faced boy by the wrist. By now the planes were over St. Helier harbor, one arcing across the bay toward them, the noise of the engine so thunderous that it drowned out the boy’s screams as the woman pushed him to the ground. The violent rat-a-tat of machine-gun fire stung Hedy’s ears as several bullets found the sea wall and zinged off in random directions. A second later, a distant explosion shook the shelter so hard Hedy thought the roof might collapse. “Was that a bomb?” The woman’s face was ashen beneath her tan.

“Yes. Near the harbor, I think.”

The woman gave her a brief, confused look. It was the ac- cent, Hedy knew—even in a moment like this it still set her apart, marked her out as an alien. But the woman’s attention quickly turned back to her child.

“Oh my God,” she muttered, “what have we done? My husband said we should have evacuated when we had the chance.” Her eyes fixed on the sky. “Do you think we should have gone?”

Hedy said nothing, but followed her companion’s gaze upward. She thought about her employers, the Mitchells, staggering onto that filthy, inadequate cargo boat with their screaming child, and nothing but a change of underwear and a few provisions stuffed into a brown packing case. At this moment, with the aroma of burning aviation fuel in her nostrils, she would have given anything to be with them. Her knuckles turned yellow on the slatted bench. Corkscrews of charcoal smoke drifted across the bay, and she could hear the little boy beside her sobbing. Hedy swallowed hard and focused on the questions bouncing around her brain like a pin- ball. How long now before the Germans landed? Would they round people up, stand them in front of walls to be shot? If they came for her, then…? There was no point finishing that thought. Anton, the only person on this island she could call a friend, would be powerless to help her. The shelter vibrated again, and she felt its fragility.

Hedy remained crouched silently, listening to the planes loop and dive and the crack of explosions a mile away, until at last the sound of the engines began to fade into the distance. An aging gentleman with disheveled white hair stumbled toward them, and stopped to peer into the shelter.

“The planes have gone,” he called. “Try to get home as quickly as you can. It can’t be long before they get here.” Hedy’s eyes fixed on his jacket, which was covered in dust and uneven patches of blood. “Don’t worry, it’s not mine,” the man assured her. “Old fellow walking near the harbor took a bullet in the leg—we had to get him to the hospital.” “Are there many hurt? Or…?” Hedy glanced toward the

little boy, not wanting to finish the question.

“Some, yes.” The man’s voice faltered a little, and Hedy felt a surge of anguish. She pressed her fist to her lips and swallowed again before he continued: “They bombed a line of potato trucks waiting to unload at the harbor. I mean, for God’s sake, what’s the point of that?” He shook his head and gestured toward his destination. “Hurry now.”

The man hastened away. Hedy hauled her shaking body to its feet, wished the woman good luck and set off along the promenade toward the town, wondering how on earth she would get back to the Mitchells’—assuming the house was still there. She tried to hurry, but her skinny legs felt weak. She imagined Hemingway cowering beneath the sofa in the empty living room, his gray feline fur stiff with terror. Already she was half regretting disobeying Mr. Mitchell’s instruction to have him put down. The animal’s trusting eyes had melted her heart at the door of the vet’s surgery. Now she wasn’t even sure if she’d be able to feed herself, never mind a cat.

By the time she reached the outskirts of St. Helier town she could hear the bells of the ambulances and the random shouts of desperate men trying to work as a team. Smoke rose in missing, some wandering aimlessly, and one old couple on a bench, sobbing. Hedy walked on, forcing herself to put one foot in front of the other, deliberately edging her mind to- ward reality. The seas around the island were probably already full of U-boats. Soon she would once again be surrounded by those gray-green uniforms and hear the barking of orders. She pictured the bang on the door, Wehrmacht hands grabbing at her elbow, the house abandoned with dirty dishes still on the table. Anything was possible now. She recalled only too well the way the Germans had behaved in Vienna.

Especially toward Jews.

She pressed on, pushing her body weight forward, willing herself home. She needed to reach Hemingway and give him a hug.

Excerpted from The Girl from the Channel Islands by Jenny Lecoat, Copyright © 2020 by Jenny Lecoat Published by Graydon House Books

Restitution By Janet Lee Berg

Hello Readers,

Today I am partnering with The Coffee Pot Book Club and the author

Janet Lee Berg in promoting her fabulous book: Restitution

Please enjoy the featured Excerpt

Book Title: Restitution

Series: Sequel to “Rembrandt’s Shadow”

Author: Janet Lee Berg

Publication Date: 30th September 2020

Publisher: Koehler

Page Length: 262 Pages

Genre: Historical Fiction

“Restitution” is the riveting, multigenerational story of Sylvie Rosenberg, a Holocaust survivor traumatized by the memory of her art dealer father forced to trade paintings with the Nazis in an attempt to save their large extended family.  Sylvie’s adult life in 1970s New York is plagued by survivors’ guilt and bitterness.  But when her self-destructive ways threaten to upend the life of her Vietnam-vet son, Sylvie finally needs to face her demons.  She returns to Holland to confront her past and fight the Dutch judicial system for the return of the masterpieces, but the battle proves far more difficult than Sylvie imagined…

 

Weaving in tragic true events from her own family history, Berg offers a sensitive story of history, romance, and humoralong with detail from the extensive research of Lynn H. Nicholas, the world’s leading expert on art pilfered during WWII. Over 80 years later, the real family still awaits justice and the return of artwork that continues to hang on museum walls, without noting their tragic history…    

 

Buy Links:

Amazon UK • Amazon US • Barnes and Noble • Books-a-Million

Michael blamed his mother for many things, including letting  his father walk out on them. My father’s a stranger to me. I lost him  the same day I lost my first tooth. Michael could still see his six-year old self in the mirror staring hard at the hole where the tooth had  been, the toothbrush bristles against his sore gums. He remembered  his tears running into his mouth, the salty taste mixed with blood.  But he could hardly remember the back of his father’s head when  he had slammed the front door and walked out without looking  back. Maybe by the time a new tooth replaced the empty spot his  father would be back. But he didn’t come back, not even long after  Michael’s adult tooth emerged. 

 

Mom forgot to put a quarter under my pillow that night. What  did I know, a dumb little Jewish kid? I never enjoyed the splendor of  the Easter Bunny or Santa Claus . . . no way was I ever going to believe  in the tooth fairy. Or in my father. I kept that pain to myself. I guess  we all collect our own little secrets. 

 

Michael wasn’t just an only child. He was a lonely child. He didn’t  have much of a family and he wondered why, trying to put the puzzle  together: his famous grandfather, the world-renowned art dealer;  his grandmother, the socialite who had the servants dress the four  children in their best clothes. Michael envisioned them running  through the three-story house in Holland all those years ago. 

 

Michael heard a few obscure anecdotes about the once aristocratic family he’d never met; her siblings were still living in  Europe. He could see the angst on his mother’s face as she told him, particularly when she mentioned Gretta’s name. 

 

One thing his mother made perfectly clear was that people were  not to be trusted, even family. “The ones you especially have to be  leery about,” she had said, “are the ones that profess their love for you.” 

 

He knew in the later years exactly who she was referring to. His  mother wanted to be the only one in Michael’s life because she would  never abandon him—not like his father had done. Never! And she  had done everything in her power to keep her only Jewish son apart  from that gentile girl named Angela. 

 

After a night out drinking with the guys, Michael had become  irrational. With a hangover, he had enlisted in the Army the next  morning. He immediately knew he had made a grave mistake. Soon  after, he and Angela separated. The girl was right all along—Michael  wasn’t strong enough to stand up to his mother. Ironically, when  Michael had lost his will to live, Sylvie reached out to his Christian  girlfriend and told her where to find him. “Tell him the truth, Angela.  Only you can. Tell him the secret his mother kept from him his  entire life.” 

 

Michael finally confronted her. 

 

“How could you not tell me that I have a brother, Mom? You  could have told me ten, fifteen years ago. He could have been part  of our family after Dad walked out.” 

 

“I’m sorry, Michael,” she had repeated over and over through  the tears. “I know it was a terrible secret to keep from you. Believe  me, I lived with the guilt.” She turned away. “I can’t talk about this  right now. Please, don’t make me . . . I never could tell you because  I wasn’t sure you’d forgive me. I wasn’t sure I had forgiven my own  sin,” she whimpered. 

 

“Stop! I don’t believe in sins. Being human means you’re allowed  to make mistakes. And mistakes can be forgiven.” 

 

Sylvie had covered her mouth in shame. “I was so young,  Michael.” 

 

“I would have understood,” he said.

 

Michael imagined his mother as a young girl who missed her  father and who had only known about showy dresses and expensive  jewelry back in her homeland. She had witnessed the suffering of  others during the war and feared the same horror could befall her  own family. Still, it was difficult for him to ignore her shallow lifestyle. 

 

During college, Michael rebelled against Sylvie’s materialism. He  practiced meditation, read Indian philosophy, and smoked a lot of  weed. It wasn’t until the day he met Angela, when he shed his sandals  on the beach and ran into the ocean waves to rescue the gentile girl,  that he saved himself from going under.

 

Janet Lee Berg 

 

Janet Lee Berg is a native New Yorker with a residence in Charleston, SC.  She is also author of several other works of fiction and children’s books and has had her work featured in the local, regional, and national press.  A journalist in the Hamptons, Janet Lee Berg has interviewed numerous celebrities and pursued an MFA in Creative Writing, under the direction of published professors including Frank McCourt, author of Angela’s Ashes.  

 

Author’s Social Media Links:

 

Website • Facebook • Twitter • Instagram • Goodreads

You can also pick up a copy at your favourite independent bookstore

A Man of Honor, or Horatio’s Confessions

Welcome to my stop on the blog tour for A Man of Honor by J.A. Nelson! @JANelsonAuthor @hfvbt  

#AManofHonor #JANelson #HFVBTBlogTours

A Man of Honor, or Horatio’s Confessions
by J.A. Nelson

Publication Date: December 9, 2019
Quill Point Press
Paperback, eBook & AudioBook; 414 pages

Genre: Historical/Thriller/Mystery

 

 

Winner of two silver medals
Best First Book, Fiction
Best Cover, Fiction
Awarded by the IBPA (2020)

2020 Notable Indie, Top 100 – Best Indie Book Awards, Shelf Unbound

Finalist, Literary Fiction
14th Annual National Indie Excellence Awards (2020)

A Man of Honor tells the fictional tale of how one mans oath gave birth to the legend of Hamlet.

How far would you go to keep a deathbed promise?

Surrounded by the bodies of slain monarchs, a dying prince extracts a promise from his friend, Horatio: “Tell my story.”

Rival kings of warring nations strive to lay claim to the throne, now vacant, but what will happen to the people who live there, at Helsingr’s Krogen Castle? How will Horatio preserve his honor and the prince’s legacy while surviving this murderous kingdom and the men who would rule it?

Despite the odds and threats against him, Horatio persists, weaving the story of his dear friend into the fabric of one of their oldest and most revered medieval texts.

But when a nefarious Spaniard thwarts his plans, Horatio must once again risk everything to fulfill his oath.

With the help of some unexpected allies in the form of Margrete, a courageous lady-in-waiting, and Lanier, a disgraced French nobleman, Horatio undertakes this perilous quest that will lead him on a journey none of them could have ever predicted, to a place none of them ever thought they would see.

And after their hard-fought journey will it all be for naught?

Will Hamlet’s glory be Horatio’s downfall?

Amazon | Apple Books | Audible | Barnes and Noble | Google Play

Praise

“Like a train, A MAN OF HONOR’s narrative builds speed and takes off into an often gripping adventure of love,war, and discovery. Author J.A. Nelson’s novel follows in the tradition of historical fiction. Nelson creates a beautiful but terrifying sixteenth century where numerous factions struggle for power and influence. The main characters are loyal but fallible, and the reader identifies with their struggle to keep moving forward–to finish what they’ve started…. Nelson has developed a timeless story…. A MAN OF HONOR may be set in a distant time and place, but Horatio’s search for the truth about his late friend, Hamlet, is an internal journey of discovery to which many readers will relate.” – IndieReader Reviews

“With its literary flourishes and exciting scenes, A Man of Honor addresses ethical questions in fascinating ways….Setting and moods…capture the flavor of Nordic sagas…. A literary novel featuring taut action and strong characters who address questions about the nature of integrity.” – Clarion Reviews

“The story of Hamlet survives, truthfully told…. Horatio is the perfect character to carry on Hamlet’s story…. An intriguing twist…. Among the pages of an adventure is a story of one man’s commitment to his sense of honor and duty, as well as the importance and worth of legends.” – The US 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

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Are you lover of Shakespeare?

I have often wondered what happened after the curtain fell on one of Shakespeare plays.

This is a riveting historical continuation of the Shakespearean tragedy, Hamlet. Set during the late Middle Ages of the sixteen century of Scandinavia. A lonely commoner, Horatio cradles his dying friends head and commits to an Oath. This oath will commit him to an epic task to tell the tale of of his friend, Hamlet.

This Christian oath might very well be Horatio’s undoing. A treacherous undertaking to keep a moral promise, made to his beloved friend. Horatio will suffer with his internal conflict that binds him to his daunting task. His moral and Christian compass weights him down. Fearing he will be unable to follow through with his promise, he struggles to keep his soul from spiritual damnation. A war is looming on the horizon as both Fortinbras II of Denmark and Cristiern of Norway seek to proceed the thrown of Denmark that has been left vacant.

The author has done a suburb job in creating a continuation of the ramifications of the death of Hamlet. It’s a fast moving novel that kept me up late. The characters are well executed and developed. The growth of of our main POV is done exceedingly well. There are so many nuisance for Horatio to over come, including his station in life. This undertaking will see him through multiple trials and tribulations. Battlefields and a villainous Reynaldo. Horatio will become embroiled in the power grab for the throne of Denmark. He will find himself out of his elements, along with another character that I really enjoyed reading about a noble woman named Margrete. There is notable nod to the notorious text, Gesta Danorum, which includes the story of Amleth, (Hamelt). An ancient text that may have been where Shakespeare drew part of his information from when he wrote his famous play. The period and the details are wonderfully brought to life through the authors exceptional writing.

The propulsive storyline, offering both complex drama and historical authenticity to appeal to anyone interested in rich historical fiction.

J. A. Nelson’s passion for exploring connections between history, literature, and evidence in written texts has shaped her life—from a BA (Occidental College) and MA (The George Washington University) in cultural studies to a two-decade career at the National Archives of the United States, working with historical documentary treasures and helping people access unique stories in those records. Ms. Nelson is a native of Culver City, CA, a Los Angeles suburb. She lives with her husband in Northern Virginia. A Man of Honor, or Horatio’s Confessions is her debut novel.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | BookBub | Goodreads

Sunday, January 3
Excerpt at Bookworlder
Review at Pursuing Stacie

Monday, January 4
Review at Books, Cooks, Looks

Wednesday, January 6
Feature at Reading is My Remedy

Friday, January 8
Review at @the.b00kreader
Interview at The Whispering Bookworm

Monday, January 11
Review at Rajiv’s Reviews

Thursday, January 14
Feature at CelticLady’s Reviews

Monday, January 18
Review at Gwendalyn’s Books

Wednesday, January 20
Feature at What Is That Book About

Thursday, January 21
Excerpt at Journey in Bookland

Friday, January 22
Review at Amy’s Booket List

Monday, January 25
Review at Passages to the Past

Wednesday, January 27
Interview at Passages to the Past

Friday, January 29
Feature at Chicks, Rogues, and Scandals

Monday, February 1
Review at YA, It’s Lit

Wednesday, February 3
Review at A Book Geek

Friday, February 5
Review at Historical Fiction with Spirit

Saturday, February 6
Review at Bibliostatic

Monday, February 8
Review at Books and Zebras

Wednesday, February 10
Review at Impressions In Ink

Friday, February 12
Excerpt at The Book Junkie Reads

Monday, February 15
Excerpt at Novels Alive
Review at Coffee and Ink
Review at Little But Fierce Book Diary

Enter to win a $10 Amazon Gift Card!

The giveaway is open to the US only and ends on February 15th. You must be 18 or older to enter.

Man of Honor
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All Manner of Things, Book #2 +Book Tour + Review

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Falling Pomegranate Seeds:

All Manner of Things, Book #2

By Wendy J. Dunn

Publication Date: January 15th 2021.

Genre: Historical Fiction.

Publisher: Poesy Quill Publishing

Print Length: 449 Pages

 

 

 

Winter, 1539

 

María de Salinas is dying.

Too ill to travel, she writes a letter to her daughter Katherine, the young duchess of Suffolk. A letter telling of her life: a life intertwined with her friend and cousin Catalina of Aragon, the youngest child of Isabel of Castile. It is a letter to help her daughter understand the choices she has made in her life, beginning from the time she keeps her vow to Catalina to share her life of exile in England.

Friendship, betrayal, hatred, forgiveness – All Manner of Things tells a story of how love wins out in the end. 

 

Promotional Trailer:

 

 

Buy Links:

Amazon UK • Amazon US • Amazon CA • Amazon AU

 

 

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Praise for All Manner of Things.

 

“A timeless story of friendship and love, which will stay with the reader long after the last page is turned, All Manner of Things is Wendy J. Dunn’s best novel yet…”

Lauren Chater, author of The Lace Weavers and Gulliver’s Wife.

 

“To read this book is like tasting a succulent pomegranate that swells and ripens and reveals the luscious fruit…”

Glenice Whitting, author Pickle to a Pie and What Time is it There?

 

“A sensitive and inspiring portrait of faith and friendship, framed around the devotion inspired by a remarkable queen. Wendy J. Dunn has written another gem of a novel for Tudor enthusiasts!”

Gareth Russell, author of Young and Damned and Fair: The Life of Catherine Howard, Fifth Wife of King Henry VIII (US title) (2017), The Darksome Bounds of a Failing World: The Sinking of the Titanic and the End of the Edwardian Era (2019).

“This is a story ripe with passion and rich in historical detail. All Manner of Things draws the reader deep into the heart of Henry’s Tudor court, with its machinations, betrayals and very human stories of love and loss…”

Rachel Nightingale, author of The Tales of Tarya.

“A finely wrought tale that resurrects the indomitable spirit of Katherine of Aragon, breathing new life into her oft-told story… Yet another spellbinding novel from Wendy J Dunn!”

Adrienne Dillard, author of Cor Rotto and The Raven’s Widow.

“I’m so fussy about historical fiction, but Wendy J Dunn never fails to please. Dunn breathes life into Catalina and Maria in this celebration of true friendship. Their story seemed to reach through the ages to truly touch me. Beautiful, just beautiful”

Claire Ridgway, author of The Fall of Anne Boleyn: A Countdown.

“…this book made me fascinate over times long ago, times when ancient buildings were brand new, faded portraits were still sharp and striking and faith and loyalty were absolute; times when women had so little autonomy it was never an option for them to venture out on their own and just ditch this damn place.”

Angela Wauchop, Backstory Literary Journal.

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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

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Falling Pomegranate Seeds:

All Manner of Things, Book #2

By Wendy J. Dunn

This exquisitely written novel begins with a letter penned by María de Salinas to her daughter. María de Salinas is approaching the end of her life and wants to convey her journey that has included her time served with her close childhood friend, Catalina of Aragon.

Dona María de Salinas was a the Spanish born lady in waiting to the Queen of England Katherine Argon. This intimate tale takes place from the time the princess leaves her home 1501, until her death in 1536.

Catalina of Aragon (Katherine) is sent to wed the prince of England, next in line to the English throne, Author Tudor. Who is also Henry Tudor’s older brother.The narration is seen through the eyes of the ever present lady in waiting, Maria.As the the princess and her ladies leave everything they have ever known. From the light and warm of the sun of their beloved Castile. They travel from it’s beautiful scenery and leave behind their loved ones. When the princess’s entourage reach the persistently grey and cold shores of England doubts began to set in.

They find themselves unprepared for its foreign food and drastic climate difference. Even the way people dress and courtly manner is completely different. Adaptability and survival becomes all consuming, as the English coldness eases into their bones.

Nothing is what it it seems, as Marie and her longtime friend and confidant Catalina come to find out. They try settle in and try to survive in the treacherous politics of courtly life of England.

Maria’s own story is beautifully conveyed, both captivating and intriguing. I fell in love with strength of all the women depicted in this lovely compelling book.The meticulous attention to detail is impeccable, the author Wendy J. Dunn seamless narration has captured the turbulent years of the great lady Catherine Argon Tudor.

The rich, atmospheric imagery, exceeded my expectations. Placing the reader within story as Maria tells it. The life and times of courtly life for the Maria and the princess, who eventually becomes the Queen, is nothing short of phenomenal.

Maria’s own life takes its own turn away from her beloved queen and she will find some of life’s happiness. She will also face her own battles and make hard decisions, that will leave her with regrets and sadness.

The characters are three dimensional, and come to life under Dunn wonderful depiction. The pacing is solid as author weaves together the lives of these fascinating people. A riveting historical Tudor fiction, that will stay with long after you close the book. So much drama and intrigue for those that find themselves within the court of the tyrant King, Henry VIII.

If you enjoy absorbing historical fiction, than this a must read for you. A wonderful and perfect addition to my ever growing library

The Canterbury Murders Blog Tour + Giveaway

Hello Bookies,

Today I have wonderful book to share with you.

The Canterbury Murders by EM Powell

Read my my thoughts on this historical fiction book and enter to win the giveaway at the end of this post

#TheCanterburyMurders #EMPowell #HFVBTBlogTours

@empowellauthor @hfvbt  

The Canterbury Murders
by E.M. Powell

Publication Date: November 12, 2020
Crosshaven Press

Series: Stanton & Barling, #3
Genre: Historical Fiction/Mystery

 

 

A fire-ravaged cathedral. An ungodly murder.

Easter, 1177. Canterbury Cathedral, home to the tomb of martyr Saint Thomas Becket, bears the wounds of a terrible fire. Benedict, prior of the great church, leads its rebuilding. But horror interrupts the work. One of the stonemasons is found viciously murdered, the dead man’s face disfigured by a shocking wound.

When King’s clerk Aelred Barling and his assistant, Hugo Stanton, arrive on pilgrimage to the tomb, the prior orders them to investigate the unholy crime.

But the killer soon claims another victim–and another. As turmoil embroils the congregation, the pair of sleuths face urgent pressure to find a connection between the killings.

With panic on the rise, can Barling and Stanton catch the culprit before evil prevails again—and stop it before it comes for them?

THE CANTERBURY MURDERS is the third book in E.M. Powell’s Stanton and Barling medieval murder mystery series. Combining intricate plots, shocking twists and a winning–if unlikely–pair of investigators, this series is perfect for fans of Ellis Peters’ Brother Cadfael or C. J. Sansom’s Shardlake.

Available on Amazon

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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

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The Canterbury Murders, is the third installment in the Stanton and Barling series.

Long time friends Thomas Beckett and King Henry II, soon clashed over clerical privilege. Henry stated that the church was subject to the law of the land, but Becket insisted that the Church was above the law.

Four of Henry’s knights slayed Becket upon The High alter in the church of Canterbury. Set only seven years after Becketts Murder in the year 1177.The Christ Church of Canterbury has become a famous holy place for pilgrims.

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In the year 1174, a devastating fire destroys the roof and the famous choir of Canterbury Cathedral where the mortal remains of Saint Thomas Beckett reside.

Prior Benedict is overseeing the massive restoration and rebuilding of one the. Most holiest of sites in the 12 century of England.

Hugo Stanton and Aelred Barling, the King’s clerk set out on a pilgrimage to the tomb of Saint Thomas Becket.

Soon after their arrival Benedict the Prior and The Archbishop Richard summons both Barling and his young assistant Stanton. They discloses that a stonemason has been found murdered. The Mason’s face was mutilated. A cut deep into his forehead, the holy Cross of Christ. There is urgency because count Philip of Flanders is on his way to visit the Martyrs tomb. Not wanting to out done King Henry is making his way and will arrive in four days. Barlings own personal reason for visiting the the tomb will have to wait. Now that they must find the killer.

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As the two move through the investigation process, each men have their own unique way have gathering information. Things take a dark turn, and soon the body count becomes quite high.

This medieval thriller takes on a different turn with Barling, being so wrapped up in his own personal unrequited guilt. Leaving the investigation to Stanton this time. All the while Stanton is feeling at a loss as to why his friend, Barling has become so distant and reserved. Barling is struggling emotionally, dealing with his own internal turmoil.

This was a highly addictive read. It took off exceptionally fast. You are catapulted into the twelfth century. The atmospheric imagery, along with details of the people’s lives and their religious beliefs are brought to life. This meticulously researched historical was phenomenal. The plot line keeps you flipping through the pages and the rich details made me feel like I was front and center.

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The characters were splendid and well developed, and the sub characters should be noted also The murder mystery takes center stage as the storyline unfolds and there are some intriguing twists. The two main POV’s will come to heads, as the intensity of finding the perpetrator mounts along with the death toll. It’s a riveting historical murder mystery for sure, and I felt invested into the lives of the characters within the pages.

This was a great exceptional written historical mystery set to the famous Christ Church of Canterbury during the the 12th century!

E.M. Powell’s historical thriller and medieval mystery Fifth Knight and Stanton & Barling novels have been #1 Amazon and Bild bestsellers.

The third Stanton & Barling mystery, THE CANTERBURY MURDERS, will be released in November 2020.

Born and raised in the Republic of Ireland into the family of Michael Collins (the legendary revolutionary and founder of the Irish Free State), she lives in northwest England with her husband, daughter and a Facebook-friendly dog.

E.M. Powell is represented by Josh Getzler at HG Literary.

Find out more by visiting www.empowell.com. You can also find him on Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads.

Monday, January 11
Guest Post at Novels Alive
Review at Passages to the Past

Tuesday, January 12
Review at Reader_ceygo

Wednesday, January 13
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Fly Free Book Tour

Today is my stop on the Storytellers, Fly Free Book Tour, Allison Rose’s YA Fantasy novel, Fly Free, book one in her Light of Faerie series.

★Make sure you Enter The Giveaway At The End Of The Post★

FLY FREE
BY ALLISON ROSE

SERIES: Light of Faerie (#1)

PUBLISHED: September 20, 2020

GENRE: Fantasy

AGE GROUP: Young Adult

PAGES: 252 (Print Length)

In the land of Faerie, lies are easily disguised as truths. 

They were raised like sisters, the heir to the Court of the Day and her guardian.

And as rebellion darkens the land of the Day—and the faeries of Court fall under a dark magic that disconnects them from the land, dooming them to a slow, agonizing death—they will question all they know to be true.

Sevelle, the Light of the Day, is destined to rule one day. She possesses a rare form of magic, the ability to heal the powerful connection between faeries and the magic in the land, the connection that gives them life—if only she could figure out how to use this magic, or even find it within herself.

Jae lives in the shadows, watching over Sevelle as her guardian and listening to the whispers of Court brought to her by the winds. She longs for a life outside of Court, but knows her duty to Sevelle is more important than her own desires.

But when an unexpected proposition comes from none other than Lex, son of the rebel leader, Sevelle and Jae realize their lives will never be the same—and that evil may be within their own court more so than in the rebels that oppose them.

Walking paths far different than they imagined separates the sisters, but then a secret is revealed that may break them apart forever.

GOODREADS

AMAZON

BOOKBUB

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

Fly Free by Allison Rose, is the first installment in the Light of Faerie Series.

A delightful book with courtly drama and faeries. The even paced adventure will keep interested with plenty of intrigue and adventure.

Sevelle and Jae, share a bonding friendship, one is the heir to the Day Court, the other is tasked with protecting “The Light of Day.

The story takes off as more fairies are falling victim to a vicious blight, a sickness that cause the fairies to die a slow death. That along with the imposing threat of the rebel factions, that have been stirring up chaos in the territories.

Sevelle, a fairy who struggles to embrace and control her rare form of magical powers. Not being able to fell them because they lay dormant. She is the only one to show the power of the sun in a very long time. She is meant to be a salvation to her people, only she can’t feel her magic. She is Called “Light of the day”,

Sevelle’s mother, The Glorious Shayna leader of the day court, is losing her patience with her daughter. Jae a confidant and guardian, to Sevelle, has a hidden guarded secret. One that could threaten loyalties. In a series of events an attack causes Sevelle’s mother to want to use brute force to stop the rebellion.

When Lex, the rebel’s leader son makes a proposition that takes Jae and Sevelle on a quest to uncover secrets that may have dire consequences.

Alternatively between two POV’s, that of Sevelle and Jae, the reader is given front row seats, in this fantasy romance aventure. Engaging with a steady pace, this magical book has some strong themes. The characters were interesting and I even enjoyed the Villain in the story. Some delightful twists along with the world building and magical system, will have you flipping those pages until the end.

If you like stories with fairies and romance, make sure to be up you copy of this creative adventure.

Driven by a lifelong passion for words and reading fantasy novels, award-winning author Allison Rose writes YA fantasy stories featuring faeries, magic, and strong heroines. She has a BA in psychology and is fascinated by how other people think, but her love for reading and writing is greater. When Allison isn’t writing, she is editing and proofreading the works of others. Allison lives with her husband, collie mix, bunny, and chinchilla in the place of wild weather also known as Buffalo, New York.

 

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Prize: Fly Free by Allison Rose – One (1) of three (3) paperbacks – US Only
Starts: January 10th, 2021 at 12:00am EST
Ends: January 17th, 2021 at 11:59pm EST
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A Crown of Echoes by Brindi Quinn

Hello and welcome to my stop on A CROWN OF ECHOES By Brindi Quinn

@tbrbeyondtours @brindifulon

#BrindiQuinn #TBRBeyondTours #ACrownofEchoes

Genre: New Adult Fantasy
Publishing date: June 11, 2020

Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

“I’ve wondered what you taste like for so damn long. You taste better than I ever could have imagined… my queen.” 
He shouldn’t be calling me that. Beau was his queen. 
And I had a problem. 
I wasn’t supposed to feel this way. 

Queen Merrin might be the least queenly queen in all the realms. After all, queens don’t typically sneak out at night to drink with their guards. When her best friend and neighboring queen, Beau, goes missing, Merrin won’t leave rescue to the knights. She sets out from the civilized world and into the wilds to retrieve her lost friend, but with ancient hexes, stolen power, and a mountain of giants’ bones, Merrin stumbles into something much greater than a simple rescue mission. Get ready for a swoony whirlwind of dark magic and forbidden romance, as Merrin finds strength in the whispers of the forest and comfort in the arms of a guard with tantalizing abilities. 

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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

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A Crown of Echoes by Brindi Quinn, is a delightful fantasy adventure tale.

This is the first installment in a brand new fantasy series by the author Brindi Quinn.

Queen Merrin, is the perfect heroine for me, with her unruly lioness hair, and her compassionate nature. When a friend who is a neighboring Queen goes missing there is only one thing to do. Merrin must find out what has happened to her sister friend Beau.

Merrin takes things into her own hands and assembles a band of allies to seek and find out what has become of her dearest Queenly friend. Joining forces in this entourage are her knights Rafe a young man who harbors a secret. Albie who has much like a father figure to Merrin. Then there is Windley, the missing Queen’s own

Spirite knight.

Merrin struggles to comprehend why she has assumed Beau’s powers. Theses strange and deadly magic that enables her to speak to the forest. Along with her growing attraction to Windley, who possesses unimaginable powers.

This was a wonderful magical experience that has a lovely budding romance. One thing the storyline focuses on is the power of friendship. The dialogue and banter between the characters was enjoyable and made for a memorable read. The world building and magic system was creative and I am excited to see expanded in the next installment.

A swoon worthy, magical adventure, that I couldn’t put down.

I can see why this author has a steadfast following her writing is absorbing, making this book a compulsive read.

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COMING FEBRUARY 2021**⁣

COMING FEBRUARY 2021**⁣
⁣
Under the orphic light of the ballroom, Windley’s frosting had never looked better.⁣
As he walked by, he dallied at my back, drawing a hand along the small of it, leaning forward darkly to whisper: ⁣
“Tonight, I feast.”⁣
⁣
With the echoes off searching for another royal to corrupt, Merrin and Windley turn their efforts elsewhere: after Ascian’s stolen ring and in the direction of a certain honey-voiced doppelganger with deeper ties to Merrin than any of them know. As ancient truths are uncovered and fresh alliances formed, it’s up to Merrin to master the sparkly new power budding in her chest before destruction can have its way, but that may be easier said than done with multiple magical targets on her back. Sweet reunions and steamy moments aren’t all that await in the lair of a spider, where Merrin’s faith will be tested and her heart pulled in more ways than one.⁣
⁣

“Not just another vampire romance.” – Amazon Reviewer 

Brindi Quinn is a fantasy/paranormal author from Minnesota specializing in world building and romance. She is an advocate of quirky love and firmly believes that banter makes the heart grow fonder. 

Since 2011, Quinn has written over a dozen young adult novels beginning with her debut epic fantasy series,Heart of Farellah. Her works often blur the lines between paranormal romance, science fiction and fantasy, and her series have been hailed as addictive, unique reads within the YA genre by reviewers across platforms. Her bestselling series,The Pursuit of Zillow Stone, made it to #12 in the science fiction romance category on Amazon.  

Quinn has a bachelor’s in general communication studies and is contracted through Never & Ever Publishing. She considers herself an avid fangirl, indulging heavily in video game lore and good SF TV. 

Be sure to catch her latest epic fantasy series, A Crown of Echoes. 

Website | Instagram | Facebook | Goodreads

 

A Deadly Fortune by Stacie Murphy

Today I’m really excited to be taking part in the Book Tour of,

A Deadly Fortune: A Novel,by Stacie Murphy, which is being hosted by HFBT!

Publication Date: January 5, 2021

Pegasus Crime

Genre: Historical Mystery

A historical mystery in the vein of The Alienist, in which a young woman in Gilded Age New York must use a special talent to unravel a deadly conspiracy.

Amelia Matthew has done the all-but-impossible, especially for an orphan in Gilded Age New York City. Along with her foster brother Jonas, she has parleyed her modest psychic talent into a safe and comfortable life. But safety and comfort vanish when a head injury leaves Amelia with a dramatically-expanded gift. After she publicly channels an angry spirit, she finds herself imprisoned in the notorious insane asylum on Blackwell’s Island. As Jonas searches for a way to free her, Amelia struggles to control her disturbing new abilities and survive a place where cruelty and despair threaten her sanity.

Andrew Cavanaugh is familiar with despair. In the wake of a devastating loss, he abandons a promising medical career—and his place in Philadelphia society—to devote himself to the study and treatment of mental disease. Miss Amelia Matthew is just another patient—until she channels a spirit in front of him and proves her gift is real.

When a distraught mother comes to Andrew searching for her missing daughter—a daughter she believes is being hidden at the asylum—he turns to Amelia. Together, they uncover evidence of a deadly conspiracy, and then it’s no longer just Amelia’s sanity and freedom at stake. Amelia must master her gift and use it to catch a killer—or risk becoming the next victim.

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | IndieBound

Advance Praise for A Deadly Fortune

“The 1893 world of the infamous lunatic asylum on Blackwell’s Island comes alive in frightening and horrific detail as a string of murders for profit is discovered when a young woman with a gift for contacting the dead becomes an accidental patient. She must fight for her life as well as her freedom in this engrossing mystery that reveals that all was not golden in Gilded Age New York.” —Rosemary Simpson, author of Death Brings a Shadow: A Gilded Age Mystery

“This engrossing mystery, rich in period detail, probes the dark side of Gilded Age New York and the even darker side of life at the insane asylum on Blackwell’s Island. Plucky Amelia Matthew rises to the considerable challenges that surround her, uncovering increasingly dangerous secrets that point to the presence of a murderer in the asylum. Amelia has a special gift that both helps and complicates her search for the truth, making her a unique heroine. A Deadly Fortune builds to a satisfying conclusion that will whet the reader’s appetite for more of Amelia’s adventures!” —Clarissa Harwood, author of Impossible Saints and Bear No Malice

“Stacie Murphy proves herself to be a masterful storyteller with A Deadly Fortune—an elegantly written, fast-paced mystery that blends the dark side of the Gilded Age, great characters, and a paranormal twist. Impossible to put down.” —Julie McElwain, author of the Kendra Donovan Mystery Series

“Murphy serves up a dark side of the Gilded Age with intrigue, historical detail, and captivating characters. This is a mystery to savor!” —Dianne Freeman, award winning author of the Countess of Harleigh mysteries.

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  ❀ღ✿•*`Gwendalyn’s Books ¨`*•✿ღ❀

A historical mystery in the vein of The Alienist, in which a young woman in Gilded Age New York must use a special talent to unravel a deadly conspiracy.

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.

An exceptional written, dark historical fiction.

In post gothic era 1893, Amelia Matthew makes her living by fortune telling for a gentlemen’s club in Gilded Age New York City. Amelia. Along with her self adopted brother Jonas, they survie by using their wits. Amelia has a talent laying dormant, a gift of foreshadowing that is awakened to its fullest by a dangerous head injury.

Unable to control her newly acquired skill she suffers the consequences when a incident happens to her involving a angry spirit in a public place. She is alone without Jonas there to help her, or speak up for her. Unable to make a coherent response, she is sent to a place that houses the mentally disabled. The notorious Blackwell’s Island insane asylum, a place that one your sent there, it’s highly unlikely that you will ever escape.

When Amelia comes to her senses, she realizes that she has been mistakenly placed on an island faraway from downtown New York. A place that houses societies incurables, those suffering from mental conditions brought on by inherited factors or caused by effects of trauma. Some were in the stages of neurosyphilis, alcoholism, and then their are the women who are sent to the hospital for no other reason than to make them disappear.

Amelia encounters a newly hired doctor, Dr. Andrew Cavanaugh, who has left his family and his life behind. Compassionate Andrew, is unnerved by the callous treatment that he sees at the asylum. When Amelia has a frightening episode that involves Dr Cavanaugh, the doctor might well question his own sanity.

A thrilling ride with fast moving storyline that intensifies as the tale progresses.

In a series of events that has the return of Amelia friend, Jonas, together along with the good doctor, things really take off.

All three will have to work together carefully to uncover clues as they seek out answers to uncover a massive conspiracy, before the killer makes Amelia the next victim. This book will keep you engaged as you follow along with the narration as it holds your attention. I was on the edge, as I read late into night. This is one exceptional written book that I throughly enjoyed.

Stacie Murphy grew up near Nashville, TN. She began writing A Deadly Fortune in 2017 as a way to force herself to stay off Twitter in the evenings. She lives in Northern Virginia with her husband, daughter, and the worst cat in the world.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads

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Review at Passages to the Past

Enter to win a copy of A Deadly Fortune by Stacie Murphy & a $50 Gift Card to Amazon or your favorite Indie store. Winner’s choice.

The giveaway is open to the US only and ends on February 5th. You must be 18 or older to enter.

Loxby Manor
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THE CONJURER LUANNE G. SMITH |Review|

𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝘾𝙤𝙣𝙟𝙪𝙧𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙪𝙖𝙣𝙣𝙚 𝙂. 𝙎𝙢𝙞𝙩𝙝. 47𝙉𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙝 @𝙡𝙪𝙖𝙣𝙣𝙚𝙜𝙨𝙢𝙞𝙩𝙝

THE CONJURER
LUANNE G. SMITH

Series: The Vine Witch #3
Genre: Historical, Paranormal
Publisher: 47North
Pages: 242
Publication date: January 12th 2021

GOODREADS | AMAZON | BOOK DEPOSITORY

Sidra didn’t murder her husband. Yet even a jinni can’t wish away a wrongful imprisonment. Determined to prove her innocence, she returns to her adopted home—a French village renowned for its perfume witches—with her friends Elena and Yvette by her side. Here is where Sidra’s true destiny awaits, but danger also lurks in the village’s narrow lanes.

On her trail is Jamra, another jinni, who’s after more than revenge for the murder of his brother. He also seeks vengeance for the indignities inflicted on jinn by mortals over the centuries. When he learns of an ancient relic capable of unleashing chaos on the world, and that the weapon is in the hands of his murderous sister-in-law, he vows to destroy Sidra to get it.

Relying on a sisterhood of magic, a mysteriously faithful dog, and a second-rate sorcerer, Sidra defends herself using the village’s greatest asset: its perfume. It’s as beguiling a lure as it is a formidable shield. But is it enough for Sidra to protect herself and those she loves from powers yet to be released?

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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 𝘾𝙤𝙣𝙟𝙪𝙧𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙪𝙖𝙣𝙣𝙚 𝙂. 𝙎𝙢𝙞𝙩𝙝. 47𝙉𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙝 @𝙡𝙪𝙖𝙣𝙣𝙚𝙜𝙨𝙢𝙞𝙩𝙝

𝚂𝚌𝚎𝚗𝚝 𝚖𝚊𝚐𝚒𝚌, 𝚟𝚎𝚗𝚐𝚎𝚏𝚞𝚕 𝚓𝚒𝚗𝚗, 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚊 𝚕𝚘𝚜𝚝 𝚛𝚎𝚕𝚒𝚌 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚌𝚊𝚗 𝚠𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚔 𝚑𝚊𝚟𝚘𝚌 𝚘𝚗 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚠𝚘𝚛𝚕𝚍.

The last installment of The Vine Witch series. This is a spectacular trilogy, one that all three books captured my heart.

I highly recommend reading the first two books, but you still can enjoy this as a standalone.

The author has created an engaging and courageous heroines, and her highly accomplished writing ensures that the reader is swept along in this magical tale.

Luanne G. Smith is truly a gifted storyteller, and her seamless narration flows perfectly. This is a fasted moving plot that kept me up late past my bedtime.

The characters are well developed, and I love all the magic. The plot line is on point with this book. There are several suspenseful twists, along with some action packed scenes that I really enjoyed. The foundation of the book is friendship and the bonds of women. A riveting tale that will have sad that this the last installment.

I am anxious waiting for more literally work from this delightful author.

The Ruthless Lady’s Guide to Wizardry

The Ruthless Lady’s Guide to Wizardry by the very talented author C.M. Waggoner

@acerocbooks @c.m.waggoner @Berkley

by C.M. Waggoner (12th)

Dellaria Wells, petty con artist, occasional thief, and partly educated fire witch, is behind on her rent in the city of Leiscourt—again. Then she sees the “wanted” sign, seeking Female Persons, of Martial or Magical ability, to guard a Lady of some Importance, prior to the celebration of her Marriage. Delly fast-talks her way into the job and joins a team of highly peculiar women tasked with protecting their wealthy charge from unknown assassins.

Delly quickly sets her sights on one of her companions, the confident and well-bred Winn Cynallum. The job looks like nothing but romance and easy money until things take a deadly (and undead) turn. With the help of a bird-loving necromancer, a shapeshifting schoolgirl, and an ill-tempered reanimated mouse named Buttons, Delly and Winn are determined to get the best of an adversary who wields a twisted magic and has friends in the highest of places.

Buy it: Bookshop | B&N | Amazon | IndieBound

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 first is a riveting story about a feisty petty thief turned badass bodyguard trying to keep a young lady safe from assassins,

Let’s go back to the very inventive world of C.M. Waggoner, we were first introduced to the imagery alternative Victoriana in stunning book Unnatural Magic. In that book we meet our snarky heroine Dellaria Wells.

Dellaria Wells is charismatic guttersnipe with a charming personality. She definitely spunky and runs petty cons in order to keep a roof over her head and look after her even more no-good mother who’s drug addiction.

An uncommonly talented fire witch, who his in dire need of funds, joining a team of mismatched bodyguards. Their job seems quite easy, protecting a wealthy lady in the following weeks leading up to her marriage. But alas all is not what it seems and in this bawdy steampunk fantasy adventure. Full of magic, and a delightful queer romance made for a spectacular read. The characters are well developed and I have to say I highly enjoyed reading this from start to finish.

The original dialogue was in really creative, the authors writing style was absorbing and I sped through the pages. An fresh and imaginative historical fantasy, full of atmospheric details.

I really liked the heroine in this romp of a storyline, she is partial to excessive drinking, and free spirited. The romance was well depicted and it will melt your heart.

When Delly joins a misfit team of female bodyguards protecting a wealthy woman in the weeks before her marriage, she thinks it will be easy money—until horrifying necromantic mechanical spiders are sent to attack her boss’s carriage. The culprit who unleashed them slips through the team’s fingers, leading Delly and the other bodyguards on a hunt to bring her to justice (and, more importantly to Delly, to collect the reward money their boss is offering). In between a grisly murder, several extortions and explosions, and encounters with an extremely unsettling zombie mouse, Waggoner finds plenty of room for wry humor and a refreshingly wholesome relationship between Delly and fellow bodyguard Winn Cynallum. With this winning ensemble adventure, Waggoner again proves her skill at crafting immersive, historically flavored fantasy