The Kinder Poison Book Tour + Review + Giveaway

Hello Bookish Friends Today I have a Fabulous Ya Fantasy

 

The Kinder Poison (The Kinder Poison #1)

by Natalie Mae
Publisher: Razorbill
Release Date: June 16th 2020

Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy

Perfect for fans of Victoria Aveyard and Holly Black, this enthralling fantasy adventure follows a teenage girl chosen to be the human sacrifice in a deadly game between three heirs who will do anything for the crown.

Zahru has long dreamed of leaving the kingdom of Orkena and having the kinds of adventures she’s only ever heard about in stories. But as a lowly Whisperer, her power to commune with animals means that her place is serving in the royal stables until the day her magic runs dry.

All that changes when the ailing ruler invokes the Crossing: a death-defying race across the desert, in which the first of his heirs to finish—and take the life of a human sacrifice at the journey’s end—will ascend to the throne and be granted unparalleled abilities.

With all of the kingdom abuzz, Zahru leaps at the chance to change her fate if just for a night by sneaking into the palace for a taste of the revelry. But the minor indiscretion turns into a deadly mistake when she gets caught up in a feud between the heirs and is forced to become the Crossing’s human sacrifice. Zahru is left with only one hope for survival: somehow figuring out how to overcome the most dangerous people in the world.

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.

” All good stories start with bad decisions. Kinder Poison

Kinder Poison by Natalie Mae is an exceptionally written YA Fantasy,

This book will grip from the very first page, to the dramatic shocking ending.

Zohra is a lowly Whisperer able to communicate with animals, living in a land where magic and the ones born to it are supreme. Her best friend Hen hatch a plan that if all goes well she will be able to accompany her friend and be a spectator in a deadly competition. When things go wrong, and Zohra miscalculates the outcome of using her mothers name. She is thrown into an epic survival adventure of a lifetime. When she is forced to join the race as the unwilling sacrifice. She will need use all her wits just to stay alive.

The god-king, the Mestrah is very ill and has invoked a deadly competition called The Crossing to choose between out of his three offspring who will ascend his throne.

Magnificent book with rich detailed world building, and a stellar magical system that will appease hard core fantasy lovers. You are thrown right into a beautiful, vivid and established world with fully fleshed out characters, with betrayal, sibling rivalries. This book was so entertaining and extremely hard for me to put down. I raced through this edge of your seat thrill ride of a book. Political intrigue, and most powerful and esteemed lord over the lesser.

I absolutely loved the narration and writing as it flows seamlessly. Zohra character is incredible her snarky vibrant personality is one you can relate to. All of the other characters were three dimensional and well fleshed out. The storyline pace was brisk and vividly rendered. You find yourself completely immersed in this world all the way through the stellar ending that will make you crave the upcoming sequel.

NaTaLiE MaE is an ex-programmer, dessert enthusiast, and author of young adult novels. She has also been a freelance editor and Pitch Wars mentor, and feels it notable to mention she once held a job where she had to feed spiders.

She now writes full-time at home with a bag of dark chocolates in one hand and a leopard cat on her lap. She is most definitely not checking Instagram right now.

June 10th

The Unofficial Addiction Book Fan Club – Welcome Post

June 11th

NovelKnight – Guest Post

L.M. Durand – Review

Gwendalyn’s Books – Review + Favourite Quotes

Books and Zebras – Review

TheGeekishBrunette – Review + Favourite Quotes

June 12th

Belle’s Archive – Review + Favourite Quotes

Book Briefs – Review

dinipandareads – Review + Favourite Quotes

Books Over Everything – Review

Lauren Bodiford – Review + Favourite Quotes

June 13th

BookCrushin – Guest Post

Colbywilkens – Review

Starlight Reads – Review + Favourite Quotes

Dazzled by Books – Review

Allisa White’s Book Blog – Review

June 14th

Sometimes Leelynn Reads – Review + Playlist + Dream Cast

mckenzie.reads – Review + Favourite Quotes

Pacific Northwest Bookworm – Review

The Reading Chemist – Review + Favourite Quotes

bloomingbibliophile – Review

June 15th

Emelie’s Books – Review

Library of a Book Witch – Review

BiblioJoJo – Review + Favourite Quotes

@onemused – Review

Mowgli with a book – Review

June 16th

Kait Plus Books – Interview

The Reading Corner for All – Review + Playlist

Books Less Travelled – Review

Sincerely Karen Jo – Review + Favourite Quotes

A Bookish Dream – Review

Popthebutterfly Reads – Review

GIVEAWAY
Prize: Win (1) of (5) copies of THE KINDER POISON by Natalie Mae (US Only)
Starts: 10th June 2020
Ends: 24th June 2020

ENTER👇🏻

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

 

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A Royal Kiss Blog Tour + Review

A Royal Kiss & Tell

London, Julia 

FICTION/Romance/Historical/Victorian 

Mass Market | HQN Books | A Royal Wedding #2

On Sale: 5/19/2020 

9781335136978

$7.99

$10.99 CAN

SUMMARY:

Every prince has his secrets. And she’s determined to unravel his…

Every young man in London’s ton is vying for Lady Caroline Hawke’s hand—except one. Handsome roué Prince Leopold of Alucia can’t quite remember Caroline’s name, and the insult is not to be tolerated. So Caroline does what any clever, resourceful lady of means would do to make sure Leo never again forgets: sees that scandalous morsels about his reputation are printed in a ladies’ gossip gazette…all while secretly setting her cap for the rakish royal.

Someone has been painting Leo as a blackguard, but who? Socially, it is ruining him. More important, it jeopardizes his investigation into a contemptible scheme that reaches the highest levels of British government. Leo needs Lady Caroline’s help to regain access to society. But this charming prince is about to discover that enlisting the deceptively sweet and sexy Lady Caroline might just cost him his heart, his soul and both their reputations…

 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.

Royal Kiss and Tell is the story of Caroline and Leopold who we met in the first of this series, The Princess Plan.{ The Princess Plan }

Julia London’s -A Royal Wedding Series-

The story begins where book one, A Princess Plan leaves set in Victorian times, London delightful series is set in the authors fictional country of Alucia .

Lady Caroline Lady Caroline Hawke is beautiful, is an overindulged breathtaking beautiful woman. At opening of the book she is attending the wedding celebration of her very dear friend, Eliza Tricklebank. Who is marring a prince Sebastian, who happens to be in line to thrown.

She is completely happy for her friend but finds herself drawn to another prince, Prince Leopold. He is non other than Sebastian’s brother, Leopold the second son of the King of Alucia. Being the second in line always tends to make anyone have a little chip on their shoulder. Living the drunkenly rakish lifestyle that only a spare royal prince could possibly lead. Tall, swoon worthy handsome. Extremely cocky and arrogant, He he sees lady Caroline as a vain and brash woman.

Lady Caroline, is not all what she seems to be, but she is definitely headstrong and demanding.

A delightful an entertaining lovely romance, with a great cast of characters. I really enjoyed the enemies to lovers trope and all the wit full banter between the the main protagonist. There is a little mystery along with some serious twists that makes the book really intriguing.

AUTHOR BIO:

Julia London is a NYT, USA Today and Publishers Weekly bestselling author of historical and contemporary romance. She is a six-time finalist for the RITA Award of excellence in romantic fiction, and the recipient of RT Bookclub’s Best Historical Novel.

SOCIAL LINKS:

 www.julialondon.com/newsletter

 www.facebook.com/julialondon

 www.twitter.com/juliaflondon

 www.instagram.com/julia_f_london

BUY LINKS

A Royal Kiss & Tell

London, Julia 

FICTION/Romance/Historical/Victorian 

Mass Market | HQN Books | A Royal Wedding #2

On Sale: 5/19/2020 

9781335136978

$7.99

$10.99 CAN

 

 

HOOD Book Tour + Reviews + Giveaway

H͎a͎p͎p͎y͎ ͎R͎e͎l͎e͎a͎s͎e͎ ͎D͎a͎y͎

Hello Bookish Friends

Today Is My Stop

The Hood Blog Tour

Brought To You By The Incredible Tour Company The The Fantastic Flying Book !

@theffbc @jennyeldermoke

@disneybooks

Hood

by Jenny Elder Moke
Publisher: Disney-Hyperion
Release Date: June 9th 2020

Genre: Young Adult, Historical Fiction, Retellings, Fantasy

You have the blood of kings and rebels within you, love. Let it rise to meet the call.

Isabelle of Kirklees has only ever known a quiet life inside the sheltered walls of the convent, where she lives with her mother, Marien. But after she is arrested by royal soldiers for defending innocent villagers, Isabelle becomes the target of the Wolf, King John’s ruthless right hand. Desperate to keep her daughter safe, Marien helps Isabelle escape and sends her on a mission to find the one person who can help: Isabelle’s father, Robin Hood.

As Isabelle races to stay out of the Wolf’s clutches and find the father she’s never known, she is thrust into a world of thieves and mercenaries, handsome young outlaws, new enemies with old grudges, and a king who wants her entire family dead. As she joins forces with Robin and his Merry Men in a final battle against the Wolf, will Isabelle find the strength to defy the crown and save the lives of everyone she holds dear?

Thank you so much, Disney-Hyperion, and Patricia @ FFBC tours, for the gifted e-copy! The opinions expressed are my own and material is courtesy of the publisher, FFBC Tour, and the author.

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

Hood is a brilliant coming of age story, of a young sixteen year old girl, Isabelle of Kirklees. Having lived most of her very secluded life, behind the walls of the Priory of Kirklees along with her mother Marien, who is the residing as Prioress.

Things come to a halt when Isabelle is arrested and thrown into a cell, while defending an innocent villager. Her mother covertly releases her, and tells her life is a risk.

She sends Isabelle on a quest, cloaked, and alone. She must travel three days south, to find a man named Thomas, at the Blue Boar Inn and deliver an urgent message….

“ The Wolf Is Back “

Three days running for her life, half starved, living off berries and living in terror.

She arrives the Blue Boar Inn and with the help of Thomas she escapes into Sherwood Forest. But not before she is saved by two younger Merry men, who know Thomas very well. Right before she sent with the offspring of some of members of the Merry Men, Thomas reveals a truly incredible truth about her parentage. Traveling with the small group she develops a friendship with, all the while keeping her secret guarded. Once they meet there destination She discovers an extensive and elaborate camp within Sherwood Forest. There the band of the Merry Men and their families reside.

This was a superb reimagined tale of the folk story. The author Jenny Elder Moke, cleverly has changed the original story and gave it her own creative twist. While leaving some of the details of the well known histories of the renowned Robin Hood and his band of Merry Men. John Lackland is serving as the regent of England, while his brother Richard the Lionhearted is off fighting the crusades. John’s excessive taxation is crippling the common folk into starvation. Robin Hood and band of vigilante outlaws have taken it upon themselves to rob from the rich and giving to the needy.

The author seamlessly narration flows perfectly making it a solid young adult historical adventure. Her ability to create a stunning adventurous storyline with beautiful atmospheric imagery. I was connected with her characters and I loved Isabelle, and was invested in her story and struggles. The romance is tension building perfection, wonderfully done for YA and adult readers alike. A wonderful faced paced adventure story that you won’t forget.

 

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*A little Interesting info*

Here is some wonder information about, Kirklees Priory and Robin Hood’s Grave from the very informative website Yorkshire Guides

http://www.yorkshireguides.com/index.htm

The priory is connected with the medieval legend of Robin Hood, England’s outlaw hero. The upper room of the gatehouse is where the legendary Robin Hood is said to have breathed his last, it is approached by an outside staircase and there are interesting ornamental foliated work carved into the beams which include an appropriate hunting scene with stag and hound. A monument in the woods near the River Calder claims to be Robin Hood’s grave. He was traditionally supposed to have been bled to death by the prioress of Kirklees. In the “Lytell Geste of Robyn Hode” the earliest surviving ballad about Robin Hood, the prioress is referred to as “The Pryoresse of Kyrkely”. The identity of the prioress is the subject of much debate as indeed is the date of Robin Hood’s death.

Legend relates that Robin, who was unwell, decides to be bled by his kinswoman, the prioress of Kirklees, a woman “skilled in physic.” Robin sets out on the journey accompanied by his faithful comrade in arms, Little John. On their arrival at the nunnery, the prioress takes Robin into the gatehouse and sends Little John away. She then proceeds to bleed Robin accompanied by her lover, the convent priest Red Roger of Doncaster. Realising he is being bled to death, Robin summons Little John to his assistance by blowing three blasts on his hunting horn. When Little John arrives it is too late to save Robin, but he helps him fire his last arrow from

The alleged gravestone of Robin Hood’s closest living companion at the time of his death, Little John, who was said to be with Robin on the day he died by treachery at the hands of the Abbess of Kirklees, is found in St. Michael’s Church graveyard in Hathersage, Derbyshire, under a yew tree. The inscription reads:

Here Lies Buried Little John The Friend & Lieutenant of Robin Hood,
He Died In A Cottage (Now Destroyed) To The East of The Churchyard The Grave Is Marked By This Old Headstone & Footstone And Is Underneath The Old Yew

In 1784 Captain James Shuttleworth exhumed the grave to find the bones of a man over seven feet tall.

GIVEAWAY
Prize: Win (1) of (2) copies of HOOD

by Jenny Elder Moke (US Only)
Starts: 3rd June 2020
Ends: 17th June 2020
Embed Code: a Rafflecopter giveaway

Jenny Elder Moke writes young adult fiction in an attempt to recapture the shining infinity of youth. She was a finalist in the 2017 Austin Film Festival Podcast Competition, and studied children’s writing with Liz Garton Scanlon.

When she is not writing, she’s gathering story ideas from her daily adventures with her two irredeemable rapscallions and honing her ninja skills as a black belt in Tae Kwon Do. Jenny lives in Austin, TX with her husband and two children.

Her debut novel, HOOD, about the daughter of Robin Hood and Maid Marien, will release from Disney/Hyperion in Spring 2020. She is represented by Elizabeth Bewley of Sterling Lord Literistic.

June 3rd

The Unofficial Addiction Book Fan Club – Welcome Post

June 4th

Bookish Looks – Guest Post

Moonlight Rendezvous – Review + Favourite Quotes

Write, Read, Repeat – Review

Adele Is Reading – Review + Favourite Quotes

The Clever Reader – Review

June 5th

My Bookish Escapades – Jenny’s Favourite Quotes

L.M.Durand – Review

Foals, Fiction & Filigree – Review + Favourite Quotes

Utopia State of Mind – Review

Sincerely Karen Jo – Review

June 6th

Grownup Fangirl – Guest Post

Library of a Book Witch – Review

Kati’s Bookaholic Rambling Reviews – Review + Favourite Quotes

A Dream Within A Dream – Review

Bookishly Nerdy – Review + Favourite Quotes

June 7th

Captivated Reading – Review

Sometimes Leelynn Reads – Review + Playlist

Popthebutterfly Reads – Review

Willow Writes And Reads – Review + Playlist

Becky’s Book Blog – Review

June 8th

Wishful Endings – Interview

Hauntedbybooks – Review + Favourite Quotes

BiblioJoJo – Review

Vee Reading – Review

Cafeyre – Review

June 9th

Books.Bags.Burgers – Review

Gwendalyn’s Books – Review

What She Will Read – Review + Favourite Quotes

The Bibliophagist – Review

Words of Hannah Kay – Review

Saving the Music

Hello Book Friends, 

Thanks for joining me today,  

as I kick off This amazing Book Tour 

Saving the Music by Vincent B. “Chip” LoCoco

#SavingtheMusic #VincentBLococo #HFVBTBlogTours

Saving the Music by Vincent B. “Chip” LoCoco

Publication Date: March 1, 2020

Cefalutana Press

Hardcover, Paperback, and eBook

Series: Bellafortuna, Book #2

Genre: Historical Fiction

 

It is the winter of 1942, and the world is at war. A few Jewish musicians attempt to flee the Nazi death grip, each desperately trying to navigate his own path to safety. With the courageous aid and kindness of strangers, they soon find themselves in Rome, where under the highly secret help of the Vatican, they are hidden in Bellafortuna, a small village in Sicily. The residents of Bellafortuna welcome them and care for them, and for a fleeting moment, the horrors the musicians are facing are forgotten while residing in the beautiful, idyllic landscape of Sicily. But word soon reaches the small village that Italy has surrendered, now making Germany at war with Italy. War quickly comes to the village as the Germans storm into Sicily to repel the Allied advance. As Bellafortuna becomes front and center in the raging war, the villagers rise as one to try and protect and save the Jews hiding in their midst. Failure to keep them hidden will mean death to those under their protection…and perhaps even to the villagers themselves.

An intricately plotted and meticulously researched novel, Saving the Music demonstrates how, in the face of death and unspeakable horror, the strength of the human spirit of ordinary people can shine bright through the darkness.

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | 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.

From the incredible New Orleans author, Chip LoCoco, comes his second novel, Saving the Music.

Bellafortuna, has been nationally recognized, being named a Short List Finalist in the William Faulkner Writing Competition and awarded the B.R.A.G. Award in Historical Fiction. Mr. LoCoco is a member of the Italian American Writers Association.

Chip LoCoco’s latest novel, Saving the Music, is an exceptionally written thought provoking historical fiction.

This is an emotional charged, faced paced, gripping tale that portrays the horrors and suffering the people endured under the weight of the Third Reich.

Ludwig Adler and his family, along with several musicians barley escapes the Nazis regime, as they seek to eradicate all Jews from every territory that is German occupied. Fleeing for their lives, they journey through Switzerland, and eventually they make to Italy.

There they find help within Catholic Church. As the Holy Church’s stealth mission, to save as many Jewish people lives from the death grip of the Nazis. They are Smuggled to a very tiny village in mountains outside of Palermo.
The courageous actions of the cautious, diplomatic, Pontificate of Pope Pius XII, along with the large complex web of priest, together with Italian villagers help to secure the fleeing Jews. Lulled by the picturesque landscape and musicians almost forget the horrors, until Italy announces its surrender.

Chip LoCoco writing is with precision and depth, he keeps the pace brisk and vividly rendered.
The authors seamless narration, beautiful prose will have you completely immersed within this absorbing book. The fleshed out characters were incredibly realistic and endearing. A stunning heartwarming dynamic historical fiction, that I found myself captivated by the first page.

An incredible compassionate novel, that captures the heroism of the people, who risked everything to help those who were targeted by horrific third Reich.

This book is a superb novel, that will transport you with its historical atmospheric imagery, and engaging musical elements. An absorbing riveting book, that will stay with you long after you close the book.

Advance Praise

“In Saving the Music, author Chip LoCoco writes of the efforts undertaken by common villagers, priests, and even a Pope to protect Jews from the Nazis. He vividly depicts the horrors faced by the Jews as they confront the Holocaust. Filled with real heroism and high drama, this book brings perspective and depth to its subject. It’s an exciting read on an important topic, and I strongly recommend it.” -Ronald Rychlak, Author of Hitler, the War, and the Pope

“This is a well-composed novel that captures key moments of the Holocaust as it relates to the Italian people. I highly recommend it.” -Professor Vincent Lapomarda, S.J., Author of The Jesuits and the Third Reich

“This is a well-researched novel and reflects the situation as it then existed, hopefully, never to return.” -Fr. Peter Gumpel, S.J., postulator of the cause of beautification for Pius XII

“Chip LoCoco’s novel, Saving the Music, is a realistic fact-based story of pain, fear and true heroism. The premise is solidly grounded on documented facts of the actions of the Catholic Church under the Pontificate of Pope Pius XII down to priests and individual Catholics. Saving the Music is an exciting and engrossing read, which joins the list of wonderful truth-based books of late that is shedding light on the truth ending the worst character assassination of the 20th Century. Bravo.” -Gary L. Krupp, Author of Pope Pius XII and World War II- The Documented Truth

 

About the Author

Chip LoCoco was born and raised in New Orleans. His first novel, Tempesta’s Dream, became an Amazon Bestseller.

His second novel, Bellafortuna, has been nationally recognized, being named a Short List Finalist in the William Faulkner Writing Competition and awarded the B.R.A.G. Award in Historical Fiction. Mr. LoCoco is a member of the Italian American Writers Association.

His newest work, Saving the Music, which is Book 2 of his Bellafortuna Series, was just recently released.

Chip, who is an attorney, is married to his wife of over 20 years, Wendy. They have two children, Matthew and Ellie and a beagle, named Scout. They reside in their beloved city of New Orleans, where if you try to find them on a Sunday in the Fall, they will be somewhere rooting on their Saints.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Wednesday, June 3
Review at Gwendalyn’s Books

Friday, June 5
Feature at What Is That Book About
Review at Books, Writings, and More

Monday, June 8
Review at Passages to the Past

Tuesday, June 9
Feature at Chicks, Rogues and Scandals

Wednesday, June 10
Interview at Passages to the Past

Friday, June 12
Review at Donna’s Book Blog

Monday, June 15
Review at 100 Pages a Day

Thursday, June 18
Review at Impressions In Ink

Giveaway

During the Blog Tour, we are giving away a paperback copy of Saving the Music! To enter, please use the Gleam form below.

Giveaway Rules

– Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm EST on June 18th. You must be 18 or older to enter.
– Paperback giveaway is open to the US only.
– Only one entry per household.
– All giveaway entrants agree to be honest and not cheat the systems; any suspicion of fraud will be decided upon by blog/site owner and the sponsor, and entrants may be disqualified at our discretion.
– The winner has 48 hours to claim prize or a new winner is chosen.

Enter Link:

⬇️

Saving the Music

 

 

 

Queen To Ashes~ Review+Giveaway

Hello Bookish Friends Everywhere,
welcome to my stop on the Queen to Ashes Mallory McCartney Book Tour, which is hosted by RRBookTours

#BLOGTOUR | Queen To Ashes – Mallory McCartney @MalMcCartney @RRBookTours1 #QueentoAshes #BlackDawn #Fantasy #YABooks #RRBookTours #amreading #bookblogger #bookreview

Are you ready for the next installment in the Black Dawn series?

Check out Queen to Ashes by Mallory McCartney — Read the excerpt and enter the giveaway to win a signed hard copy of the book!

Queen to Ashes (Black Dawn #2)

Publication Date: April 21st, 2020

Genre: YA Fantasy

“You lived your entire life feeling like half of you was missing. Fight for the missing part. Fight for this.”

Emory Fae has abandoned everything she thought she knew about her previous life on Earth. Stepping up to her role as Queen of Kiero she makes a startling sacrifice- feigning her allegiances to Adair Stratton, the man who murdered her parents and casted Kiero into ruin. Emory’s memories slowly piece together, and she soon realizes the Mad King may not be all he seems— and the man who was once best friend, may be fighting beneath the surface.

With the King’s attention on her, can she buy Black Dawn Rebellion enough time to recuperate their forces? And when the times comes, will she be able to kill Adair, ending his tyranny and rising herself as the rightful Queen? Fighting to hide her secret, Emory navigates the brutal trials of the Mad King, trying not to lose herself in the process.

Sequel to Heir of Lies, now a bestselling series, the sparks are ignited, as Emory learns the cost of freedom, and her heritage. Will the rebels unite in time? A sinister force has spread across the land, stripping everyone bare- their betrayals, their secrets, their intentions. But above all, what will their decisions cost? By refusing to give in to the darkness, will Emory rise as Queen?

Add to Goodreads

The Black Dawn series was re-releasing April 21 2020!

The newest version of Mallory McCartney’s Queen to Ashes is incredible, with meticulously work by Mallory and her team, with fresh edits and an exclusive Map!

A highly compulsive read here, that is an action suspense fantasy, that will sure to please any young adult and adult fantasy fans alike.

You are thrown right into a beautiful, vivid and established world with fully fleshed out characters, and engaging adventure of magic

The story picks up with Emory Fae memories are slowly coming back, with that she must keep up the pretenses and pretend allegiances with very people who murdered her parents. Deceitful people surround her. Her notable rise to the top of Kiera’s elite is ultimately stealing the thunder from the mad king. An expansion cast of characters, that drive the storyline forward.

A thrill ride of adventure, that is incredibly faced passed, with dark violent fantasy

along vast world building. Emory character growth is stunning, as she steps into the roll she is destined for.

What a stunningly satisfying book, I cannot quite say just how impossibly good this is. From the first page I was completely drawn into this epic fantasy world. I flew through the pages at lighting speed. It is an addictive, dramatic and hugely gripping story that flawlessly entwines, political intrigue and action adventure within a stunning, captivating, fantasy.

Excerpt

The darkness kissed her, embraced her. Squinting, Emory tried to make sense of where she was but was met with a black, dense wall. Sweat pooled at the base of her neck, warmth flaring through her body. Fear choked her then as she gulped down stale air. She knew she wasn’t alone because she felt them before they said anything. “Emory, you need to wake up.” Memphis’s voice, just barely a whisper, caressed her. Right beside her left ear, another voice sounded. “Em, wake up.” Brokk’s rough voice was harsh and clear, but she felt her body still being pulled, pulled down into the black abyss. A third voice then sounded; one she could only recognize from her dreams. “Emory, darling, wake up.” Her mother. Her voice danced all around her, and she clawed blindly, trying to connect with her lost friends and family. Trying to find them. Silence landed heavy, and a putrid smell enveloped her senses. It smelled of rotting meat. Bile rose in her throat as a she felt a slimy, boney hand wrap hard around her wrists, pulling her toward it. She couldn’t scream; she couldn’t move. Sweat drenched every inch of her body as the creature she couldn’t make out leaned closer, whispering right in front of her, “Emory, I have found you.” Swivelling around, she was met with darkness until the monster pulled her closer, its breath tickling her ear. “And you belong to me.” The knife slid in between her ribs, pain blossoming, and cackles spun around her. Then, she was dragged down into the darkness.

Screams tore from her chest as she shot up. Drenched in a cold sweat, it took her several minutes to register where she was and the guard standing at the foot of her bed, arms crossed and eyebrows raised. She screamed again, pulling her blankets around her, her nightdress clinging to her curves. “Who gave you permission to be in here?” she demanded. Smirking arrogantly, he said, “I did.” Blinking, she recognized the man as the same one that guarded her down in the cells. Rubbing her eyes, she tried to shake the feeling of that damp death-like hold of the creature in her dream. She pointed to the door. “Get the hell out.” He scoffed, rolling his eyes. “It’s time to start your day. The king awaits.” Throwing a bundle at the bottom of her bed, he turned his back, briskly stating, “You have five minutes to get ready. I’ll wait outside.” Shutting the door, he left her in stark silence. It was time. Panic clutched her heart, squeezing it, threatening to break it. She couldn’t breathe. The walls seemed stretched too thin.

She could do this—she had to do this. Emory would grant the rebels the time they needed, the time she needed. Dying wasn’t an option. Besides, she was already dead to the people who had believed in her. Leaning forward with shaking hands, she opened the parcel. Several stacks of light black clothes spilled out, including shirts, pants, and undergarments. A blood red sash sat atop them all. Lovely. Sitting on top all of this, though, was a light, sheer, gold chest plate. Squinting, she leaned closer to inspect it. Markings she didn’t recognize adorned all the edges, and its sheerness was unearthly. She was so close, her breath was fogging it, her reflection lost. Strong leather buckles joined at the shoulders; its back plate just as impressive. She shimmied out of bed, quickly dropping the armor. Emory went through the motions of getting dressed numbly. Braiding her long ebony hair back, she looked in the mirror behind her. She didn’t recognize the woman standing before her, the stark cheekbones, emptiness in her eyes, bruised skin underneath them. Tying her sash tightly, she set her resolve. Emory Fae of Earth was dead. Everything had led up to this moment. Her parents shaped their world, defying the paths they were told to go down: A warrior from the Shattered Isles and a Prince of Kiero were never supposed to break away and build a refuge— The Academy—for peace. In her heart, Emory knew they had made mistakes, but their life’s dream was to fight and to ensure everyone, no matter their ability, would have a place to call home. Emory loosened a breath. She would not let her parents’ dream die. If Adair wanted a challenge, he would get one. She would make him pay. For her family. Her friends. For herself.

Amazon | B&N | Indigo

Giveaway: For your chance to win a signed hardcover, click the link below!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

About the Author

Mallory McCartney currently lives in Sarnia, Ontario with her husband and their three dachshunds Link, Lola and Leonard. When she isn’t working on her next novel or reading, she can be found day dreaming about fantasy worlds and hiking. Other favorite pastimes involve reorganizing perpetually overflowing bookshelves and seeking out new coffee and dessert shops.

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June 1st

Reads & Reel (Spotlight) http://readsandreels.com

I Love Books & Stuff (Spotlight) https://ilovebooksandstuffblog.wordpress.com

Vick’s Bookish Writing Blog (Review) https://vicksblogcom.home.blog/

June 2nd

Librorum In Sepiternum (Spotlight) http://libroruminsempiternumhome.wordpress.com

Entertainingly Nerdy (Spotlight) https://www.entertaininglynerdy.com

Gwedalyn’s Books (Review) https://gwendalynbooks.wordpress.com/

Jessica Belmont (Review) https://jessicabelmont.wordpress.com/

June 3rd

Bookish Ayushi (Spotlight) https://bookishayushi.com/

Literary Dust (Spotlight) https://literarydust.wordpress.com/

The Magic of Wor(l)ds (Spotlight) http://themagicofworlds.wordpress.com

Cocktails and Fairytales (Spotlight) https://www.facebook.com/CocktailsFairytales

June 4th

Dash Fan Book Reviews (Spotlight) https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/

Banshee Irish Horror Blog (Spotlight) www.bansheeirishhorrorblog.com

The Faerie Review (Spotlight) http://www.thefaeriereview.com

Lecari’s Live Journal (Review) http://www.lecari.co.uk

Blog Tour Organized By:

R&R Book Tours

The Good Stranger Book Review

The Good Stranger
by Dete Meserve
Release Date: May 19, 2020

From the bestselling author of Good Sam—now a Netflix feature film—comes another Kate Bradley story about the nature of generosity and finding unexpected connections with strangers. Watch Good Sam on Netflix: https://www.netflix.com/title/80998967

TV reporter Kate Bradley arrives in Manhattan ready to take on a challenging new position as a national news correspondent. When a massive power outage plunges New York City into darkness, the disaster she expected to cover takes an unexpected turn. Someone is leaving thousands of mysterious gifts throughout the city, and the only clue to the giver’s identity is the occasional note from “A Stranger.”

Together with handsome TV series host Scott Jameson, Kate must make sense of these random generous acts, which quickly escalate in scale and capture the attention of viewers across the country. In early-morning stakeouts and late-night surveillance, they crisscross the city hunting down leads, but the elusive Stranger is always one step ahead.

Menacing letters and videos addressed to Kate threaten to derail the investigation, but she’s determined to uncover the identity of the benefactor. The closer Kate gets to the truth, the more clearly she sees that even the smallest act of generosity can bring about powerful change. And it just may take her own selfless act of kindness to solve the feel-good mystery of the year.

“There has never been a better time for a book like this…In her third book of the Kate Bradley series, Meserve expands her hallmark mission of putting goodness in the world, but adds a fresh take, and an even deeper one…Meserve’s take on the mystery genre is both uplifting and compelling and not to be missed.”—Camille Di Maio, bestselling author of The Memory of Us

“Dete Meserve’s warm-hearted mystery, The Good Stranger, captures the kindness of strangers and its long-lasting ripple effect. A timely story of compassion and selflessness, Meserve restores faith in the world while reminding us that goodness does exist.” —Rochelle B. Weinstein, USA Today bestselling author

“The Good Stranger is a satisfying conclusion to the Kate Bradley trilogy. Kate is on her own in NYC, but trouble soon finds her in the form of anonymous gifts that are being left all over New York. Will Kate figure out who’s sending them or will the stranger remain a mystery? A fun premise mixed with suspense and humor.” —Catherine McKenzie, bestselling author of I’ll Never Tell and You Can’t Catch Me

“As refreshing as it is uplifting, The Good Stranger takes us on another thrill ride in the Kate Bradley series. Dete Meserve constructs a mystery bound in good deeds, and reminds us of how we are all connected. In today’s twenty-four hour cycle of doom and gloom, this novel is a much needed respite, and we enjoyed every last word.” —Liz Fenton & Lisa Steinke, authors of How To Save A Life

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.

The Good Stranger is next installment in Dete Meserve’s Kate Bradley series

Kate Bradley is a daughter of senator who has recently relocated to New York

Wanting to avance her career as news correspondent but her moving to the big apple, comes with more than she thought it would. Her long term boyfriend has decided to end their relationship and New York City has a rolling black out.

In a series of events a mysterious individual A “Stranger” with a keen insight that seems to know the needs of average everyday people. Takes upon himself to do incredible random acts of kindness to random people. Kate sets off an invitation

A light mystery interwoven in a thought provoking novel that captures human kindness. A feel good book that is engaging and fast paced. From start to finish I was enthralled by the storyline and seamless narration. Well developed characters that will have immersed as the story unfolds.

I’m highly recommend this one as a must read for anyone who enjoys reading though provoking contemporary fiction

Dete Meserve is the award-winning, bestselling author of three novels in the Kate Bradley Mystery Series: Good Sam, Perfectly Good Crime, and The Good Stranger (coming May 19, 2020) and a fourth standalone mystery/suspense novel The Space Between. Her first non-fiction book, Random Acts of Kindness, co-authored with journalist Rachel Greco was published in March 2019.

 

Her novel, Good Sam, was produced as a feature film for Netflix Original Film and was released worldwide to strong acclaim in May 2019. The film was produced by Meserve based on a screenplay by Meserve and Teena Booth. The film stars Tiya Sircar (The Good Place). 

When she’s not writing, she is a film and television producer in Los Angeles and a partner and CEO of Wind Dancer Films. Her 2019 credits include Executive Producer of What Men Want (Paramount), Executive Producer of Ready Jet Go (PBS), and Producer and Screenwriter of Good Sam (Netflix). 

Meserve lives in Los Angeles with her husband and three children–and a very good cat that rules them all. For more on the author and her work, visit www.detemeserve.com 

On Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Dete-Meserve/e/B00JH4RLQQ%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share

On Bookbub:  https://www.bookbub.com/profile/dete-meserve

On Goodreads: https://bit.ly/2JVbJ07

Social Media:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoodSamBook/

Facebook (Random Acts of Kindness Public Group): https://www.facebook.com/groups/RandomActsofKindnessBook

Facebook (Dete Meserve, Author. Invitation Only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/164954857495769/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/detemeserve

Twitter: @DeteMeserve

May 18th – Lindas Book Obsession https://www.facebook.com/lindasbookobsession

May 19th – Dani Reads https://instagram.com/dani.reads.1225

May 20th – White Nest Mama Reads https://instagram.com/whitenestmamareads

May 20th – Britt Reads Thrillers https://instagram.com/britt.reads.thrillers

May 21st – The Caffeinated Reader https://instagram.com/the.caffeinated.reader

May 23rd – Sealed With A Book https://instagram.com/sealedwithabook

May 24th – Miss W Book Reviews https://instagram.com/misswbookreviews

May 24th – Nurse Bookie https://instagram.com/nurse_bookie

May 25th –  Teatime With A Book https://instagram.com/teatime_with_a_book

May 25th – Books With Bethany https://instagram.com/books_with_bethany

May 26th One Chapter At A Timehttps://instagram.com/one.chapteratatime

May 27th -Biblio Reviews https://instagram.com/biblioreviews

May 29th – DB Reads https://instagram.com/db.reads

May 29th – Reading With Mere- https://instagram.com/readingwithmere

June 1st – Gwendalyn Books https://instagram.com/gwendalyn_books_

June 1st – Flight Nurse https://instagram.com/flightnurse70

June 4th Niks Nook https://instagram.com/niks_nook

June 4th – Jennifer Tar Heel Reader – http://www.jennifertarheelreader.com

https://instagram.com/tarheelreader

June 5th – Bookish Heidi https://instagram.com/bookish.heidi

June 9th –  Megs Book Club https://instagram.com/megsbookclub 

June 12th – Love My Books 2020 https://instagram.com/lovemybooks2020

June 13th – Carol Doscher https://instagram.com/carol_doscher_reader

June 15th  – Always With A Book – https://instagram.com/k2reader

June 17th – Girl Loves Dogs Books Wine https://instagram.com/girl_loves_dogs_books_wine

June 18th – Coffee Dogs Books https://instagram.com/coffeedogsbooks

Jo & Laurie Book Tour + Review

Jo & Laurie

by Margaret Stohl & Melissa de la Cruz
Publisher: G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers
Release Date: June 2nd 2020

Genre: Young Adult, Historical Fiction, Romance, Retellings

Bestselling authors Margaret Stohl and Melissa de la Cruz bring us a romantic retelling of Little Women starring Jo March and her best friend, the boy next door, Theodore “Laurie” Laurence.

1869, Concord, Massachusetts: After the publication of her first novel, Jo March is shocked to discover her book of scribbles has become a bestseller, and her publisher and fans demand a sequel. While pressured into coming up with a story, she goes to New York with her dear friend Laurie for a week of inspiration—museums, operas, and even a once-in-a-lifetime reading by Charles Dickens himself!

But Laurie has romance on his mind, and despite her growing feelings, Jo’s desire to remain independent leads her to turn down his heartfelt marriage proposal and sends the poor boy off to college heartbroken. When Laurie returns to Concord with a sophisticated new girlfriend, will Jo finally communicate her true heart’s desire or lose the love of her life forever?

Win a tea tin when you pre-order JO & LAURIE

(US ONLY)

Pre Order Link

⇣⇣
 https://woobox.com/8jrorg

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.

                                                         Jo & Laurie,

The authors, Melissa de la Cruz and Margaret Stohl have written a delightful romantic reimagined telling of the beloved classic Little Woman by by

Louisa May Alcott

A fabulous representation to storyline, the authors seamless writing is engaging and this book does something so creative. It takes a step sideways and redesigns the character Jo in a completely new fashion. Allowing the reader to except the posed question what if Jo feels romantically drawn to Laurie.

Both authors did a stunning tribute to Little Woman. One that will delight any reader who loves really good fiction. A captivating romanticized ya fiction, that draws in dedicated readers ofLittle Woman, and inspires them to broaden their mindset, while giving new readers something that engages them in a heartwarming tale.

Following the style of Ms Alcott’s and adding their own nuances to create a compelling and wonderful book. The book is set between two of Ms Alcott’s notable novels. In between the release date of Little Woman, 1868 and that of the publication of my favorite, Good Wives in 1869.

I was completely immersed in this book, I love the authors boldness and creativity.

An exceptional book for all ages.

Prize: Win a copy of JO & LAURIE

by Margaret Stohl & Melissa de la Cruz

(US Only)
Starts: 27th May 2020
Ends: 10th June 2020

Direct

⇣⇣

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/d9681b86504/

 

 

Before You Begin . . .
The story that we now think of as Little Women was originally published as two separate volumes written by Louisa May Alcott in 1868 and 1869.
In those pages, Jo March—one of young adult literature’s most beloved writers and sisters—writes and publishes the story of her life with her family at Orchard House.

Our own reimagined story takes place between the two volumes, after the success of the first, as Jo struggles to write the second.
Just as we expect “Lu” did.
—MS & MdlC
Prologue
Little Women
The Offices of Roberts Brothers, Publishers and Bookbinders
Washington Street, Boston, Massachusetts
1868
“Little Women? That’s the title?” The author looked concerned. Above her light brown eyes and beneath her threadbare linen cap, the chestnut curls that framed her face were shaking. Miss Josephine March was all of seventeen years old, and though her girlish curves were slight, her spirit was immense.
There was nothing little about her, or her characters.
Or so she had thought.
The book in question—a volume of domestic stories, loosely inspired by her own family—was one she hadn’t wanted to write, had in fact steadfastly refused to write, until her editor had offered a notably unrefusable royalty, instead of the usual piffling advance. Only then had she dashed off a dozen chapters in a fit of pique. To her dismay, he’d loved them, and she’d had no choice but to finish the final chapters, which she’d come to deliver now.
And lo—insult beyond injury—it would be called Little Women.
“Isn’t it perfect?” Mr. Thomas Niles beamed at her over his spectacles. Her editor at Boston’s (moderately) respected and (moderately) solvent Roberts Brothers Press, Niles felt he had developed some (moderate) expertise in the publishing industry. His authors, at times, disagreed.
This was one of those times.
“Far from it!” Jo drew a worn cambric handkerchief square from her pinafore pocket and dabbed dramatically at the corner of her left eye, although both author and editor knew there was no actual tear to be wiped away.
Only fury, and there’s not a cambric square big enough in the world for that—
“It’s dismissive!” Jo seethed. “It’s pap!”
“Oh?” Niles pushed his spectacles back up the bridge of his bulbous red nose. “How so?”
“It’s . . . trite!” Jo dropped the handkerchief upon the bundled pages in front of her. They were tied with string, the requested final chapters, as painstakingly inked as the others before them. Her hands hovered, as always, just above the parcel; it was never easy, letting go of the fruit of so many stolen hours in her damp writing garret under the attic eaves, where she’d burnt her last saved stumps of candle-wax—as well as her fingers—and ruined her eyes in the service of one of these so-called little stories. The nerve!
Niles sighed.
“Trivial!” Jo huffed.
“When you say trivial,” Niles began, “do you mean—?”
“For starters, that’s not a title, it’s a literal restatement of the very essence of the plot,” Jo interrupted.
He eyed the parcel hungrily. “Yes, and I’m told it’s charming.”
Jo’s head-shake was very nearly violent. “It’s not charming. I’m not charming.” After making a living writing her customary blood-and-thunder tales—or so she thought of them—this business of feminine tradition and treacle was all very unfamiliar. To be fair, with the exception of her sisters, Jo knew and liked hardly any girls at all.
“You’re very charming, Miss March. Nearly as charming as your book,” Niles said, looking amused. “And a tribute to little women everywhere.” He pulled a tin from his outer vest pocket. “Peppermint?”
Buying time with sweets, again. Niles offered them up only when he found himself in a tough conversational crossroads, Jo knew.
So that’s it, then.
There really is no changing the title.
“Thank you, no.” Jo looked out the window as a horse and carriage clattered up Washington Street, spraying mud in every direction, including onto the glass of the (moderately) well-kept Roberts Brothers offices. She tried not to wring her hands in despair and failed. “I suppose it is what it is. Perhaps it doesn’t matter what you call it. I dashed the thing off in weeks, and for what?”
“Money,” Niles said. “The almighty dollar. Which you happen to need, not unlike the rest of us. Speaking of earning your wage, are those the chapters you owe me?” He reached for the bundled pages between them.
“It’s not about earning my wages,” Jo said, tightening her grip on the manuscript. “Not just about that.” She’d written it on assignment, because Niles was experimenting beyond the standard Continental Gothic that came flowing from Jo’s pen so easily.
And, yes, because of the money.
The result was a collection of domestic moments, sure, but it had surprised even her; it wasn’t just feminine drivel, even if the title might perhaps now doom it to be. She hadn’t expected it to come as quickly as it had, or as pleasantly. Not that she would admit that to her editor. “Money’s not a reason. Not a proper one, anyway.” Even if we are poor as rats.
“Many people—most—seem to think otherwise,” Niles said, yanking his handkerchief from his pocket and mopping his brow, which was beginning to perspire as they argued. He was never without a handkerchief; decades of sobbing authors, Jo suspected, had trained him thus.
“Not all people,” she sniffed.
“Certainly my investors do. You aren’t the only family with war debts, you know.”
Jo had no answer for that, for he was right. She supposed she would never be considered a real writer now, never be taken seriously by the public. Never invited to lecture at the Athenaeum with Ralph and Henry and . . . Who was that other chap? Perhaps this was what happened to feminine scribblers who aspired above their little place in the Concord world.
Strike another blow to the weaker sex—and all that rot.
“Charming,” she sighed.
“Ideally, you’ve written equally charming last chapters as well.” Niles eyed the stack hopefully. “Seeing as my typesetters have very nearly caught up with you.”
Jo snorted, which was a good indication of her feelings concerning the process that put her words on the page. Lottie Roberts, who manned the letterpress, had once changed “Christopher Columbus!”—Jo’s most oft-uttered oath—to “My Heavens!” and Jo had never forgiven her. This was, truthfully, not an isolated event; “Blazes!” had been mysteriously printed as “How sad!”—“Hell” as “The Down Below”—“Blow me down!” as “No!”—and “A French pox upon you, Adventuress!” had been eliminated altogether.
“Your typesetters go too far.” She glared, repeating the warning not to change a word of her text for the twentieth time.
“Yes, well.” He snapped shut his peppermint tin. “When women of polite society are allowed to speak like common sailors, you are welcome to terminate their employment yourself, Miss March.”
“And I look forward to the day, sir.” Jo pursed her lips.
“I am confident you shall meet it.” Niles smiled. For despite all indications to the contrary, the two were fond friends. Niles reminded Jo of her father, who had left Concord years earlier to join the Union army as a chaplain. Mr. March had come home only once in all that time—when the Union prevailed and the war was won, three years ago. Shortly thereafter, he’d left once more to volunteer in the Reconstruction efforts in the South, helping to build schools and churches for previously enslaved people. And though his letters usually came frequently, the March women felt his absence keenly.
But Jo still had Niles, and if they fought, they fought well, each considering the other the more harmless version of their species. (The dollar a story Niles paid to run Jo’s wild romantic adventures didn’t hurt, either. Neither did the fact that subscriptions to his circular, The Tall Taler, had gone up by forty-three since engaging her. Forty-three!)
“Call it what you will. No one will read it, anyway.” Jo tapped her fingers along the brown-paper-wrapped parcel. “I don’t know why you believed you could sell it.”
“Perhaps.” Niles nodded.
“I should have used a different name instead of my own,” she sighed. “Eustacia. Thomasina.”
“Possibly.” He nodded again. “Eustacia Emerson is lovely. I’m quite partial to Thomasina Thoreau, but Hildegarde Hawthorne could also do just fine.” He winked.
Hawthorne. That was his name, the other Athenaeum chap!
“Fine.” She picked at the string about the parcel. “Take my daft little book of scribbles and do with it as you will.”
“I’ve seen dafter. Trust me.”
“Trust you? You have no sense of anything, least of all publishing! Why, you couldn’t sell Romeo and Juliet if I wrote it for you.”
“Admittedly a bit somber for my taste—I do prefer a happy ending to my sensation stories. So do our Tall Taler readers. Why couldn’t Romeo have married Juliet and settled down in a nice Tuscan villa? A sequel by any other name . . .”
The author bit her lip; it kept her from responding in a discourteous manner.
“Now give it here,” the editor said, sliding his fingers impatiently across the blotter atop his desk and taking the manuscript from her hands.
“Take it.” She scowled.
Manuscript obtained, Niles traded his peppermints for the bottle of peppermint schnapps he kept in the bottom of his drawer for special occasions.
“A toast!” he offered, pouring two thimblefuls into two cups.
Jo grudgingly accepted.
“To our Little Women!” her publisher cried. “And to the bright future of Jo March, Thomas Niles, and Roberts Brothers! May 1868 prove to be a banner year for us all!”
Jo clinked her glass against his. It seemed rude otherwise. With a final sigh and a shake of her curls, the author drank to her defeat. The editor drank to her success.
Little Women it was.
Excerpted from Jo & Laurie by Margaret Stohl and Melissa de la Cruz. Copyright © 2020 by Melissa de la Cruz and Margaret Stohl, Inc.. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.

Original link: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/594970/jo-and-laurie-by-margaret-stohl-and-melissa-de-la-cruz/

 

 

Melissa de la Cruz

She is the New York Times and USA Today best-selling author of many critically acclaimed and award-winning novels for teens including The Au Pairs series, the Blue Bloods series, the Ashleys series, the Angels on Sunset Boulevard series and the semi-autobiographical novel Fresh off the Boat.

Her books for adults include the novel Cat’s Meow, the anthology Girls Who Like Boys Like Boys and the tongue-in-chic handbooks How to Become Famous in Two Weeks or Less and The Fashionista Files: Adventures in inch heels and Faux-Pas.

She has worked as a fashion and beauty editor and has written for many publications including The New York Times, Marie Claire, Harper’s Bazaar, Glamour, Cosmopolitan, Allure, The San Francisco Chronicle, McSweeney’s, Teen Vogue, CosmoGirl! and Seventeen. She has also appeared as an expert on fashion, trends and fame for CNN, E! and FoxNews.

Melissa grew up in Manila and moved to San Francisco with her family, where she graduated high school salutatorian from The Convent of the Sacred Heart. She majored in art history and English at Columbia University (and minored in nightclubs and shopping!).

She now divides her time between New York and Los Angeles, where she lives in the Hollywood Hills with her husband and daughter.

Margaret Stohl

She is a #1 New York Times bestselling nerd, world-builder, video game creator, comic book writer and festival founder.

As an award-winning young adult author, she has been published in fifty countries and thirty-two languages and has sold more than ten million books worldwide. Beautiful Creatures debuted as the Amazon #1 Teen book of the year; seven of Margaret’s books have reached bestseller lists around the world.

She has published fifteen novels and graphic novels, as well as contributed to several games and countless comics since her debut. Her last book, Cats Vs Robots: This is War, was a family affair, illustrated by her child, the artist Kay Peterson, and co-written with her husband, Lewis Peterson. It also starred three of her family’s five cats.

After Beautiful Creatures was released as a feature film from Warner Brothers and Alcon Entertainment, Margaret began working with Marvel on her bestselling Black Widow: Forever Red duology; in 2017 she began writing the ongoing Mighty Captain Marvel comic, followed by the acclaimed Life of Captain Marvel miniseries, where she established a new origin story for Carol Danvers in preparation for the theatrical debut of Brie Larson as “Captain Marvel” for the MCU.

When not roaming the halls of Seattle game developer Bungie – where she oversees the creation of new global IPs – Margaret can often be seen at a Comicon or at one of the teen and youth book festivals she co-founded, YALLFEST (Charleston, SC) and YALLWEST (Santa Monica, CA), the largest in the country. Wherever she goes, you can find out more about her (and invariably her cats) at @mstohl on twitter or margaret_stohl on instagram or margaret_stohl on snapchat or at mstohl.com.

May 27th

The Unofficial Addiction Book Fan Club – Welcome Post

May 28th

Moonlight Rendezvous – Review + Favourite Quotes

Belle’s Archive – Review

Adventurous Bookworm – Review + Favourite Quotes

The Clever Reader – Review

Ya It’s Lit – Review + Favourite Quotes

May 29th

A Gingerly Review – Review

Happily, Hedy – Review + Favourite Quotes

Colbywilkens – Review

justicereads – Review + Favourite Quotes

Books Over Everything – Review

May 30th

L.M. Durand – Interview

Bookishly Nerdy – Review + Favourite Quotes

Gwendalyn’s Books – Review

Emelie’s Books – Review + Favourite Quotes

Jill’s Book Blog – Review

May 31st

The Shelf Life Chronicles – Review + Favourite Quotes

Book Briefs – Review

Kayla Reads and Reviews – Review + Favourite Quotes

ReadwithMiki – Review + Dream Cast + Favourite Quotes

Heidi Reads… – Review

June 1st

Biblioxytocin – Review + Favourite Quotes

@onemused – Review

Ohana Cascadia – Review + Favourite Quotes

Nose Stuck in a Book – Review

Paperbacks and Pen – Review + Favourite Quotes

June 2nd

Kait Plus Books – Interview

Odd and Bookish – Review

Sometimes Leelynn Reads – Review + Playlist + Dream Cast

Hauntedbybooks – Review + Favourite Quotes

Eating Between the Lines – Review

THE ARCHER AT DAWN~Book Tour+Review +Giveaway

THE ARCHER AT DAWN
BY SWATI TEERDHALA

https://fantasticflyingbookclub.blogspot.com/2020/04/tour-schedule-archer-at-dawn-tiger-at.html

The Archer at Dawn

 (The Tiger at Midnight Trilogy #2)

by Swati Teerdhala

Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books

Release Date: May 26th 2020

Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy, Romance, India, Cultural, Mythology

@theffbc, @whatmakespatri, @swatiteerdhala, @epicreads, @katherinetegenbooks and @wunderbookspr

---

The Sun Mela is many things: a call for peace, a cause for celebration, and, above all, a deadly competition. For Kunal and Esha, finally working together as rebel spies, it provides the perfect guise to infiltrate King Vardaan’s vicious court.

Kunal will return to his role as dedicated Senap soldier, at the Sun Mela to provide extra security for the palace during the peace summit for the divided nations of Jansa and Dharka. Meanwhile, Esha will use her new role as adviser to Prince Harun to keep a pulse on shifting political parties and seek out allies for their rebel cause. A radical plan is underfoot to rescue Jansa’s long-lost Princess Reha—the key to the stolen throne.

But amid the Mela games and glittering festivities, much more dangerous forces lie in wait. With the rebel Blades’ entry into Vardaan’s court, a match has been lit, and long-held secrets will force Kunal and Esha to reconsider their loyalties—to their country and to each other. Getting into the palace was the easy task; coming out together will be a battle for their lives.

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.

A mind plowing action packed sequel, to The Tiger At Midnight.

This fast passed engaging series draws its clever inspiration from some of ancient Indian history and mythology.

The second installment takes off right at the end of, The Tiger at Midnight.

We were introduced to Kunal and Esha’s characters are otherwise known as a Senap soldier, and the Viper in the first book. Esha is a legendary legend, no one knows her true identity is except for her best friend Prince Harun.

Kunal has been in training as a soldier since childhood to be a highly skilled Senap.

When a celebration and a deadly competition in Jansa, called Sun Mela, is to take place the two will travel there for diplomatic reasons. On the other hand one of the reasons is to rescue Dharka’s long lost princess Reha.
A Princess who might be able to save the land. The rebels will infiltrate the royal court to rescue the princess who has hidden away by a tyrannical king.

A lush and vibrant Ya Fantasy that will keep you on your toes, with electrifyingtwist.

Kunal and Esha’s relationship is a passionate secret, as they find themselves having to sneak amongst the shadows.

A pulsating adventurous book of royal intrigue, and captivating well developed characters will have you submerged within its fantasy action pages

 

Prize: Win a copy of THE TIGER AT MIDNIGHT

and THE ARCHER AT DAWN by Swati Teerdhala

(US Only)
Starts: 26th May 2020
Ends: 9th June 2020
Embed Code: a Rafflecopter giveaway

Swati Teerdhala is the author of The Tiger at Midnight series, which has appeared on both Barnes and Noble and Book Riot’s Most Anticipated Novels lists.

After graduating from the University of Virginia with a BS in finance and BA in history, she tumbled into the marketing side of the technology industry. She’s passionate about many things, including how the right ratio of curd-to-crust in a lemon tart. She currently lives in New York City.

Swati is represented by Kristin Nelson of Nelson Literary Agency.

May 26th

The Unofficial Addiction Book Fan Club – Welcome Post

May 27th

Library if a Book Witch – Review

The Reading Fairy – Review + Favourite Quotes
Stuck in the Stacks – Review + Playlist
Confessions of a YA Reader – Promotional PostMay 28th

Sometimes Leelynn Reads – Review + Playlist
Books Over Everything – Review
Back Shelf Book – Review + Favourite Quotes
Grownup Fangirl – Promotional Posts

May 29th

Gwendalyn’s Books – Review + Favourite Quotes

A Bronx Latina Reads – Review
The Tsundoku Chronicles – Review + Favourite Quotes

May 30th

Nay’s Pink Bookshelf – Review + Favourite Quotes
Adventures and Reading – Review
books_n_sunshine – Review
Bookish Looks – Promotional Posts

May 31st

My Fangirl Chronicles – Review + Playlist + Favourite Quotes
Shut up, Shealea – Review
A Logophile’s Love – Review + Favourite Quotes
Annej Reads – Promotional post

June 1st

Lauren’s Boookshelf – Review + Playlist
The Paperback Voyager – Review + Favourite Quotes
Books and Zebras – Review
Books and Dice – Review + Favourite Quotes

The Highlander’s English Bride

Welcome to my stop on wonderful book tour

The Highlander’s English Bride, by Vanessa Kelly,

which is being hosted by HFBT!
♥♥♥♥♥
#TheHighlandersEnglishBride #VanessaKelly #HFVBTBlogTours

The Highlander’s English Bride
by Vanessa Kelly

Publication Date: May 26, 2020
Zebra Books

Series: Clan Kendrick, Book #3
Genre: Historical Romance/Scottish

In this dazzling new novel from bestselling author Vanessa Kelly, the wildest member of Clan Kendrick has found his purpose as a government agent. Now he must also meet his match…

Lady Sabrina Bell has never been so embarrassed in her life. Not only did her new suitor fail to appear for their morning rendezvous in Hyde Park, but a thief pushed her into the Serpentine. Being rescued by a burly Highlander just adds to her humiliation. Nor is he content with rescuing her just once. Even when Sabrina travels to Edinburgh as part of King George’s entourage, Graeme Kendrick is there, interfering, exasperating, and so very tempting…

Once notorious for being the most unruly Kendrick brother, Graeme now runs dangerous missions for the King’s spymaster. Yet nothing has prepared him for Sabrina. The only child of a wealthy earl, and the pampered goddaughter of the king himself, she is stubborn, impetuous, and far too good for him. He doesn’t deserve her, but he can protect her and then send her safely back home. But the bonny Sassenach has her own ideas—and a plan for seduction that no red-blooded Highlander could resist…

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | 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.

The Highlander’s English Bride by Vanessa Kelly is the third installment in the Clan Kendrick series.

Headstrong, Lady Sabrina Bell is a wealthy heiress, does the the unthinkable against all propriety of any sensible gentil lady. She has agreed to meet a gentleman in the very early hours of daybreak at Hyde Park. Instead she accosted by a mugger, who pushes her into the Serpentine. Rescued by a very big and burly Scotsman Highlander Graeme Kendrick, who happens to be working as one of England’s spymasters.

Graeme has definitely met his match with bonny Sassenach, Lady Sabrina.

The sassy Sabrina needs rescuing several times, and the unruly Kendrick brother, Graeme, comes to her rescue.

Graeme and Sabrina find themselves drawn to each other as their chemistry ignites a seductive romance.

On a mission for the king, Graeme heads to Scotland, putting as much distance between himself and Sabrina. Sabrina is in the Kings entourage, as they arrives in Edinburgh much to Graeme dismay. The Kendrick’s are a very close-knit family and Sabrina fits right end. Grease me doesn’t have a chance against her persistence.

Then things really take off, as this thrill ride historical romance has smugglers, a pot against the kings. You name it along with romantic banter, makes for a engaging storyline.

Vanessa Kelly is a USA Today Bestselling, award-winning author who was named by Booklist, the review journal of the American Library Association, as one of the “New Stars of Historical Romance.” Her Regency-set historical romances have been nominated in a number of contests, and she has won multiple awards, including the prestigious Maggie Medallion for Best Historical Romance. Her books have been published in nine languages.

Vanessa’s first Clan Kendrick book, The Highlander Who Protected Me, was a USA Today, Barnes & Noble, and BookScan bestseller. The Highlander’s Christmas Bride, her latest book, hit the top 50 on both the Barnes & Noble mass-market bestseller list and on BookScan. The Renegade Royals Series was a national bestseller, as was The Improper Princesses Series. My Fair Princess was named a Goodreads Romance of the Month and is a USA Today and BookScan bestseller.

When she’s not dreaming of plots for her next Regency novel, Vanessa is writing USA Today Bestselling books with her husband, under the pen name of V.K. Sykes.

You can find Vanessa at vanessakellyauthor.com or at vksykes.com. For all of Vanessa’s latest news and contests–and to receive a free story–please sign up for her newsletter on her website.

Clan Kendrick Facebook Group | Facebook Author Page | Pinterest | Twitter | Goodreads

Tuesday, May 26
Review at YA, It’s Lit

Wednesday, May 27
Review at Amy’s Booket List
Feature at What Is That Book About

Thursday, May 28
Review at Gwendalyn’s Books
Feature at I’m All About Books
Review & Interview at The Romance Dish
Excerpt at Books In Their Natural Habitat

Friday, May 29
Review at Bookish Bellee
Review at View from the Birdhouse

Monday, June 1
Excerpt at The Lit Bitch
Review at Rose is Reading

Tuesday, June 2
Review at Historical Romance Lover

Wednesday, June 3
Feature at Books, Cooks, Looks
Review at The Nerdy Bookworm

Thursday, June 4
Review at Historical Fiction with Spirit

Friday, June 5
Review at Books and Zebras
Feature at Donna’s Book Blog

Saturday, June 6
Review & Interview at Jorie Loves A Story

Monday, June 8
Review at Jessica Belmont
Review & Excerpt at Robin Loves Reading

Tuesday, June 9
Review at A Bookish Affair

Giveaway

During the Blog Tour, we are giving away a paperback copy of The Highlander Who Protected Me & The Highlander’s Christmas Bride & a $20 Amazon Gift Card! To enter, please use the Gleam form below.

Giveaway Rules

– Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm EST on June 9th. You must be 18 or older to enter.
– Paperback giveaway is open internationally.
– Only one entry per household.
– All giveaway entrants agree to be honest and not cheat the systems; any suspicion of fraud will be decided upon by blog/site owner and the sponsor, and entrants may be disqualified at our discretion.
– The winner has 48 hours to claim prize or a new winner is chosen.

The Highlander’s English Bride

Masquerade at Middlecrest Abbey

Hello lovelies,

Welcome to my stop on the 
Masquerade at Middlecrest Abbey
by Abigail Wilson, Book Tour,
which is being hosted by HFVBT  

✿✿✿✿

Masquerade at Middlecrest Abbey
by Abigail Wilson

Publication Date: May 26, 2020
Thomas Nelson
Paperback & eBook; 336 Pages

Genre: Historical/Regency/Christian

 In this new Regency romance, Elizabeth knows she must protect her heart from the charm of her new husband, Lord Torrington. She is not, however, prepared to protect her life.

When the widowed Lord Torrington agreed to spy for the crown, he never planned to impersonate a highwayman, let alone rob the wrong carriage. Stranded on the road with an unconscious young woman, he is forced to propose marriage to protect his identity and her reputation, as well as his dangerous mission.

Trapped not only by her duty to her country but also by her limited options as an unwed mother, Miss Elizabeth Cantrell and her infant son are whisked away to Middlecrest Abbey by none other than the elder brother of her son’s absent father. There she is met by Torrington’s beautiful grown daughters, a vicious murderer, and an urgent hunt for the missing intelligence that could turn the war with France. Meanwhile she must convince everyone that her marriage is a genuine love match if her new husband has any hope of uncovering the enemy.

Determined to keep her son’s true identity a secret, Elizabeth will need to remain one step ahead of her fragile heart, her uncertain future, and the relentless fiend bent on her new family’s ruin.

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | 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.

An Immersive gripping gothic style manor is the backdrop to this mystery book.
Abigail Wilson, newest book is a gothic tale interwoven into the perfect regency period romance.

1815 Southeastern England.

Elizabeth Cantrell is  fiercely independent woman who has known much heartache. Having shouldered the burden of being an abandoned unwed mother of a precious little boy Isaac. Elizabeth is on her way to Dover to take a position as a housekeeper when her carriage comes crashing to its side. A mysterious would be highway man makes a disastrous mistake, causing a series of events. That ultimately changing Elizabeth’s path in life, when she is rushed into a marriage of convenience.
To none other than Lord Adrian Torrington, the brother of the man who betrayed her.

Finding herself the lady of Middlecrest Abbey, she and Adrian must keep up the pretense of the marriage. So as not to draw attention that marriage was not an actual love match.
Middlecrest Abbey has its own secrets as a questionable death rips the very seams apart in this suspenseful tale. Elizabeth and Adrian, along with his daughters and the other residents of Middlecrest, are thrown into a thrilling mystery. When clues and suspicions mounts this tale slowly comes together in this stellar complicated mystery.

The Abbey’s inhabitants are in question, when threatening notes appear in Elizabeth room. Trying to keep her young son safe, along with the sudden duties of being lady Torrington, Elizabeth will need to keep her wits about her. All the while she is falling for her captivating husband.

Darkish ominous atmospheric imagery, and the character driven storyline makes for an enjoyable experience. When the secrets start to mount you find find yourself completely immersed and guessing all the way to the satisfying end.                             

An exceptional written book with intriguing characters and a little espionage makes this a delightful regency style mystery romance novel. A book that captures the heart in the benefits of forgiveness and love.

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, May 26
Review at Bitch Bookshelf
Review at The Green Mockingbird

Wednesday, May 27
Review at Historical Fiction with Spirit

Thursday, May 28
Review at Gwendalyn’s Books

Friday, May 29
Review at Heidi Reads
Review at Amy’s Booket List

Saturday, May 30
Feature at Journey in Bookland
Feature at What Is That Book About

Sunday, May 31
Review & Excerpt at Robin Loves Reading

Monday, June 1
Review at Probably at the Library
Interview at Jorie Loves A Story

Tuesday, June 2
Feature at I’m All About Books
Feature at Just One More Chapter

Wednesday, June 3
Review at Rhodie Girl Reads
Review at Rejoice in Reading

Thursday, June 4
Review at Jessica Belmont
Review at A Chick Who Reads

Friday, June 5
Review at View from the Birdhouse
Review at Foals, Fiction and Filigree

During the Blog Tour, we are giving away 5 paperback copies of Masquerade at Middlecrest Abbey! To enter, please use the Gleam form below.

Giveaway Rules

– Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm EST on June 5th. You must be 18 or older to enter.
– Paperback giveaway is open to the US only.
– Only one entry per household.
– All giveaway entrants agree to be honest and not cheat the systems; any suspicion of fraud will be decided upon by blog/site owner and the sponsor, and entrants may be disqualified at our discretion.
– The winner has 48 hours to claim prize or a new winner is chosen.

Middlecrest Abbey

THE JANE AUSTEN SOCIETY

Hello lovelies,
Join the virtual online book tour of THE JANE AUSTEN SOCIETY, Natalie Jenner’s highly acclaimed debut novel May 25 through June 30, 2020. Seventy-five popular blogs and websites specializing in historical fiction, historical romance, women’s fiction, and Austenesque fiction will feature interviews and reviews of this post-WWII novel set in Chawton, England.

 

Tales of Ming Courtesans Book Tour + Review + Giveaway

Hello Bookish Friends,
How Are You Today ?
I’m really excited to be taking part in the
Book Tour of, Tales of Ming Courtesans, by Alice Poon
which is being hosted by HFBT!

Tales of Ming Courtesans
by Alice Poon

Publication Date: June 1, 2020
Earnshaw Books
Paperback; 354 Pages

Genre: Historical Fiction

From the author of The Green Phoenix comes a riveting tale of female friendship, honor, and sacrifice for love, set in 17th Century China and featuring the intertwined stories of three of the era’s most renowned courtesans, escorts skilled in music, poetry and painting who could decide themselves whether or not to offer patrons bed favors.

Inspired by literary works and folklore, Tales of Ming Courtesans traces the destinies of the three girls from the seamy world of human trafficking and slavery to the cultured scene of the famously decadent pleasure district of the city of Nanjing, evoking episodes in Memoirs of a Geisha.

The girls all existed – Rushi was a famous poet, Yuanyuan became the concubine of a general who changed the course of Chinese history by supporting the Manchu invasion in 1644 and Xiangjun challenged the corruption of court officials to try to save her lover. Rushi’s daughter, Jingjing, gradually pieces together the stories of the three from a memoir left to her by her mother.

Betrayal, tenacity and hope all come together in a novel that brings to life an important era in China’s history, and particularly highlights the challenges faced by independent-minded women.

Amazon |Barnes and Noble | IndieBound

Praise for Tales of Ming Courtesans

“In Tales of Ming Courtesans, Alice Poon masterfully brings to life three fascinating women who had a lasting impact on China’s culture and history. This beautiful telling of their turbulent lives and devoted friendship is a reverential testament to their memories.” – Kelli Estes, bestselling author of The Girl Who Wrote in Silk

“Tales of Ming Courtesans is a poignant and captivating exploration of the lives of three extraordinary women…. Ultimately an enduring tale of the power of sisterhood and the bonds between women.” – Jeannie Lin, USA Today bestselling author of The Lotus Palace

“Tales of Ming Courtesans is a brilliant, ‘own voices’ alternative to Memoirs of a Geisha….An exquisite reading experience. Highly, highly recommended.” – M. H. Boroson, author of The Girl With Ghost Eyes

“Alice Poon’s excellent Tales of Ming Courtesans follows the intertwined lives of three seventeenth-century courtesans….. Poon’s real achievement is to create believable depth to her characters’ known histories….She has clearly written Tales from the heart.” – David Leffman, author of The Mercenary

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.

From the author of The Green Phoenix comes a riveting tale of female friendship, honor, and sacrifice for love. An inspirational tale of strength and fortitude

Alice Poon sets her latest novel in 17th century China and featuring the intertwined stories of three of the era’s most renowned courtesans, Liu Rushi, Chen Yuanyuan,

Li Xiangjun.

Poon brings forth three iconic legendary women in Chinese history.

Their incredible lives are seen through the exquisitely written pages of, Tales of Ming Courtesans. Liu Rushi, Chen Yuanyuan, Li Xiangjun, all had a lasting impact on China’s culture and it’s noble history.

This eloquent saga is steeped in real life historical people, living in the turbulent times in between the Ming, and the Qing dynasties. Where social classes were defined and woman had little or no voice of their own.

Tales of Ming Courtesans, is a richly textured, mesmerising and captivating story that is full of rich history and the most compelling and intriguing characters. The storyline is a thought provoking, fascinating story. A book that is written in such a way that these memorable three women’s history comes to stunning to life.

I can see why this talented author is loved by so many. Poon’s appealing way of weaving fact and fiction, along with her absorbing seamless narration. This is a book that you will find yourself contemplating the lives and struggles of these memorable women, long after you close the book.

A meticulously researched book that captures the historical elements and traditions of the Chinese people. This is a masterpiece of a tale, that depicts the economics and the cultural mind set that was placed on woman during this era. The resilience and the quiet but powerful strength, that these ladies show within the book is nothing short motivational.

The plot twist with betrayals and longing and much heartache. Poon knows how to transport the reader, with her richly descriptive atmospheric imagery. The lush and vibrant, historical world building is stunning. An emotional book that it’s quick paced from start to finish.

Inspired by literary works and folklore, Tales of Ming Courtesan, traces the destinies of the three girls from their young humble beginnings to their awe-inspiring accomplishments.

About the Author

Born and raised in Hong Kong, Alice Poon steeped herself in Chinese poetry and history, Jin Yong’s martial arts novels and English Literature in her school days. This early immersion has inspired her creative writing.

Always fascinated with iconic but unsung women in Chinese history and legends, she cherishes a dream of bringing them to the page.

Her new historical novel Tales of Ming Courtesans will be released by Earnshaw Books on June 1, 2020.

She is the author of The Green Phoenix and the bestselling and award-winning non-fiction title Land and the Ruling Class in Hong Kong. She now lives in Vancouver, Canada and devotes her time to writing historical Chinese fiction.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads

Blog Tour Schedule

Monday, May 25
Excerpt at Journey in Bookland
Review at Historical Fiction with Spirit

Tuesday, May 26
Review at Gwendalyn’s Books

Wednesday, May 27
Review at 100 Pages a Day

Friday, May 29
Review at Reader then Blogger

Monday, June 1
Review at A Chick Who Reads

Wednesday, June 3
Guest Post at Chicks, Rogues and Scandals

Friday, June 5
Review at YA, it’s Lit

Monday, June 8
Interview at Passages to the Past

Wednesday, June 10
Feature at What Is That Book About

Friday, June 12
Review at Passages to the Past

Giveaway

During the Blog Tour, we are giving away a copy of Tales from Ming Courtesans! To enter, please use the Gleam form below.

Giveaway Rules

– Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm EST on June 12th. You must be 18 or older to enter.
– Paperback giveaway is open to the US only.
– Only one entry per household.
– All giveaway entrants agree to be honest and not cheat the systems; any suspicion of fraud will be decided upon by blog/site owner and the sponsor, and entrants may be disqualified at our discretion.
– The winner has 48 hours to claim prize or a new winner is chosen.

Tales of Ming Courtesans
https://widget.gleamjs.io/e.js

THE BONE THIEF Book Tour

Hello Booklovin Friends.
Welcome to my stop on this fabulous book tour adventure. 
Today I’m really excited to be taking part in the Book Tour of,
The Bone Thief by Breeana Shields.
which is being hosted by FFBC !

♥♥♥♥♥

---

Make sure to check out the rest of the tour posts by clicking here

The Bone Thief (The Bone Charmer #2)

by Breeana Shields
Publisher: Page Street Kids
Release Date: May 26th 2020

Genre: Fantasy, Young Adult

“I was absolutely swept away by the world of The Bone Charmer.” – Kendare Blake, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Three Dark Crowns series

A deft exploration of the weight of grief and cost of revenge, Breeana Shields’s Bone Charmer duology reaches its spine-tingling conclusion in this high-octane fantasy-thriller.

Saskia returns to Ivory Hall to train in bone magic, determined to stop Latham from gaining the power of all three Sights—past, present, and future. But danger lurks within the fortress’s marrow. Trials are underway for the apprentices, and the tasks feel specifically engineered to torment Saskia, which is exactly what Latham wants.

As she grows increasingly more suspicious, her thirst for revenge becomes all-consuming. Together with the friends she can trust and the boy she loved in another lifetime, Saskia traces clues from Latham’s past to determine what he’ll do next. Their search leads them across Kastelia and brings them to a workshop housing a vast collection of horrors, including the bones Latham stole from Gran, and the knowledge that the future isn’t all that’s in jeopardy—but the past as well.

Gwendalyn’s Books

All included quotes have been taken from an ARC and may not match the finished publication. Thank you so much to Page Street Kids for providing me with a print copy of The Bone Thief, in exchange for an honest review!

✿ From The Desk of ​Gwendalyn Anderson✿

The Bone Thief   
Breeana Shields

The Bone Thief by Breeana Shields is the second and final book in The Bone Charmer series. The Bone Charmer left so many loose ends that I have been in agony patiently waiting on pins and needles for this next sequel. I was definitely not disappointed.

An addictive fantastic duology that will suck you in, with masterful executed writing. Absorbing fantasy fiction, with a stunning intricate magic system, that was completely easy to follow. A book to leave you breathless, as perfectly paced storyline unfolds.

Shields takes the reader alongside our protagonist, Saskia’s. In her emotional struggles of despair and longing for her loved ones that spurn her toward her quest for revenge. At the ending of the first book Bone Charmer, Saskia’s two life paths became one. She arrives back at the Ivory Hall to continue her training in Bone Magic, all the while cleverly hiding the fact that her mother had illegally trained her. She keeps her tattoo hidden that could expose her secret. Saskia’s stuck in a life path that is different than the one her mind remembers. Sorrow and rage drive her in an all consuming quest to catch Latham. Her course is set on retrieving her mother’s and grandmothers bones, and bring Latham to justice before she becomes another one of his casualties. As her training excels, There is an announcement that of The Bone Games, and all must participate. Teams are formed and partnerships and friendship are strengthened. Saskia’s will need the help and the alliance not only in The Bone Games, but also with the havoc that Latham is casting over her life.
This was a nonstop read from the moment I opened the book. I was captivated by the books characters and felt fully immersed into Saskia’s overwhelming desire for vengeance and her loss for her mother. I thought the romance was perfect. The drama and world building was excellent, but what I really appreciated was the message that was underlying element within these stunning magical, atmospheric pages.

The story takes a hard look at the ultimate effect of revenge and bitterness that clouds our judgement and stints our growth, when what really is needed is forgiveness. This allows you to move forward in the healing process of  recovery from death and grief.

A wonderful completely thrilling satisfying conclusion to an enjoyable fantasy duology.

GIVEAWAY
Prize: Win a copy of THE BONE THIEF by Breeana Shields (US/CAN Only)
Starts: May 20th 2020
Ends: June 3rd 2020

Direct Link ↓

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/d9681b86501/?

 

Breeana Shields is an author of fantasy novels for teens including The Bone Charmer, The Bone Thief, Poison’s Kiss, and Poison’s Cage.

When she’s not writing, Breeana loves reading, traveling, and playing board games with her extremely competitive family. She lives near Washington D.C. with her husband, her three children, and two adorable, but spoiled dogs.

May 20th

The Unofficial Addiction Book Fan Club – Welcome Post

May 21st

NovelKnight – Guest Post
A Court of Coffee and Books – Review + Favourite Quotes
The Reading Corner for All – Review
Bookishly Nerdy – Review + Favourite Quotes
Here’s to Happy Endings – Review

May 22nd

Ya It’s Lit – Review + Favourite Quotes
Mythical Books – Review
Starlight Reads – Review + Favourite Quotes
A Dream Within A Dream – Review
@the.magicalpages – Promotional Post

May 23rd

Kait Plus Books – Interview
PopTheButterfly Reads – Review
Foals, Fiction & Filgree – Review + Favourite Quotes
Life Within The Pages – Review + Playlist
Camillea Reads – Review

May 24th

Bookish Looks – Guest Post
Shelf-Rated – Review
Bookishaestha – Review + Playlist + Dream Cast
BiblioJoJo – Review
Annej Reads – Promotional Post

May 25th

Sometimes Leelynn Reads – Review + Playlist + Dream Cast
books_n_sunshine – Review
Gwendalyn’s Books – Review + Favourite Quotes
A Bookish Dream – Review
Bookablereads – Promotional Post

May 26th

L.M. Durand – Interview
Book-Keeping – Review
Nay’s Pink Bookshelf – Review + Favourite Quotes
Books and Zebras – Review
Crazykidjournal – Review

May 20th

TUABFC

May 21st

NovelKnight
A Court of Coffee and Books
The Reading Corner for All
Bookishly Nerdy
Here’s to Happy Endings

May 22nd

Ya It’s Lit
Mythical Books
Starlight Reads
A Dream Within A Dream
@the.magicalpages

May 23rd

Kait Plus Books
PopTheButterfly Reads
Foals, Fiction & Filgree
Life Within The Pages

May 24th

Shelf-Rated
Bookishaestha
BiblioJoJo
Annej Reads

May 25th

Sometimes Leelynn Reads
books_n_sunshine
Gwendalyn’s Books
A Bookish Dream
Bookablereads

May 26th

L.M. Durand
Book-Keeping
Nay’s Pink Bookshelf
Books and Zebras
Crazykidjournal

Of Darkness and Light – Book Tour + Review + Giveaway

Hello Bookish Friends, Are you a reader of historical fiction?

Today I’m really excited to be taking part in the Book Tour of, OF DARKNESS AND LIGHT by Heidi Eljarbo, which is being hosted by HFBT!

Those of you who like WWII fiction will be captivated by, Of Darkness and Light. Fans of Art historical fiction, will be immersed within this stunning dual storyline.

#giveaway #OfDarknessandLight #HeidiEljarbo #HFVBTBlogTours

Darkness and Light
by Heidi Eljarbo

Publication Date: May 12, 2020

Series: Soli Hansen Mysteries, #1
Genre: Historical Mystery

 

In this first book of a new historical mystery series, a young art historian faces a tough choice in German-occupied Norway.

“Artful prose and at a pace that makes for a can’t-put-down, first-class literary voyage.”–Melissa Dalton-Bradford, bestselling author of Global Mom

Oslo, 1944. Soli Hansen’s passion for art history is and always has been a way of life for her. While she spends her days working in an art shop, WWII is taking its toll on everyone. Apprehensive of the consequences, Soli avoids becoming entangled in the war resistance efforts. She closes her eyes in hopes the enemy will retreat and leave her beautiful country for good.

But when a woman is found dead in the alley alongside the art shop and a painting from the last auction goes missing, Soli is thrown into the thickest of the fray involving both Nazi art theft and the Norwegian resistance.

Once Soli finds her courage, there’s no turning back. Her personal life is turned upside-down with danger, lies, spying, and an incredible discovery.

In this dual timeline novel, Heidi Eljarbo paints a vivid picture of what people are willing to do in desperate times. With unforgettable characters and rich historical details, Of Darkness and Light will keep the reader mesmerized until the last satisfying page.

Perfect for fans of Kate Morton, Lucinda Riley, Katherine Neville, and Kate Mosse.

Available on Amazon

Praise for Of Darkness and Light

“Interspersing love, hope, and courage, the participants are drawn together in mysterious paths.”–Pauline Isaksen, bestselling author of Dying for Justice

“Of Darkness and Light will reel you in and keep you hooked until the end.”–Mette Barfelt, bestselling author of The Solvik Series

From The Desk Of Gwendalyn G Anderson:

In this first book of a new historical mystery series,

Of Darkness and Light, is an incredible new book by the wonderful author Heidi Eljarbo.

A riveting WW2 historical fiction, set to the backdrop of Norway.

1944, Oslo a town on Norway’s southern coast. It’s been four years since German invasion of Norway. Solveig Soli Hansen, is living in Oslo which is located off the southern coast of Norway.

Having left her widowed father home in Kelemtstrud, south of Oslo. She now rents a room from her Uncle and Aunt. She is able to continue her life’s passion in Art History by working at Mr Holm’s Fine Art Shop.

When the mysterious death of the shops cleaning woman, Mrs Gundersen. Soli will be drawn into a mystery, that she will need to use her talents as an art historian to uncover an art theft and intriguing murder mystery.

This astounding book tale set creatively in two time periods, WWII Nazi occupied Norway, and that of 1600s Valletta, Malta.

I tore through this brilliantly executed novel, as it also includes Italian painter Caravaggio and his efforts to win the love of a beautiful young Jewish woman whose portrait he paints.

Eljarbo’s compellingly narration, along with incredible imagery of the war torn Norway is depicted with stunning atmospheric elements. You feel completely immersed into Soli life, and the struggles of the people living in this turbulent time in Norway’s history. Character development and complex relationships, and the setting and both time periods are brought to life with unique details. I found the books pacing brisk and vividly rendered. The intense drama will pull you forward as this impressive plot line twists. The author seamless narration is engaging as it switches from Soli tale to that of the renowned sixteen century artist, Caravaggio.

As the story unfolds, Soli will leave her somewhat normal life behind. She will risk all, and together with her new friends in Norwegian Resistance, they will do everything with in their power to thwart the efforts of Germans to confiscate Norways priceless art.

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.

About the Author

Heidi Eljarbo is the bestselling author of Catching a Witch. She grew up in a home filled with books and artwork and she never truly imagined she would do anything other than write and paint. She studied art, languages, and history, all of which have come in handy when working as an author, magazine journalist, and painter.

After living in Canada, six US states, Japan, Switzerland, and Austria, Heidi now calls Norway home. She and her husband have a total of nine children, thirteen grandchildren–so far–in addition to a bouncy Wheaten Terrier.

Their favorite retreat is a mountain cabin, where they hike in the summertime and ski the vast, white terrain during winter. Heidi’s favorites are family, God’s beautiful nature, and the word whimsical.

If you would like to know more, please visit Heidi’s website. You can also follow her on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Goodreads.

Tuesday, May 12
Review at Passages to the Past

Thursday, May 14
Review at Gwendalyn’s Books

Friday, May 15
Feature at What Is That Book About

Monday, May 18
Review at A Chick Who Reads

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Feature at Reading is My Remedy

Thursday, May 21
Review at 100 Pages a Day

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Feature at Hopewell’s Public Library of Life

Monday, May 25
Review at Foals, Fiction, and Filligree

Tuesday, May 26
Feature at Books and Backroads

Thursday, May 28
Feature at Bookworlder

Monday, June 1
Review at History + Fiction + Adirondack Spirit

Tuesday, June 2
Interview at Jorie Loves A Story

Wednesday, June 3
Review at Jessica Belmont
Review at Chicks, Rogues and Scandals

During the Blog Tour, we are giving away one copy of Of Darkness and Light in paperback! To enter, please use the Gleam form below.

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– Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm EST on June 3rd. You must be 18 or older to enter.
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– The winner has 48 hours to claim prize or a new winner is chosen.

Of Darkness and Light
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Death at High Tide 📖 Review

#deathathightide #hannahdennison

Death at High Tide by Hannah Dennison

By a Hannah Dennison

An Island Sisters Mystery #1

Publishing Date: 18 Aug 2020

(An Island Sisters Mystery #1)

 

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In the first installment in the delightful Island Sisters series, two sisters inherit an old hotel in the remote Isles of Scilly off the coast of Cornwall and find it full of intrigue, danger, and romance.

When Evie Mead’s husband, Robert, suddenly drops dead of a heart attack, a mysterious note is found among his possessions. It indicates that Evie may own the rights to an old hotel on Tregarrick Rock, one of the Isles of Scilly.

Still grieving, Evie is inclined to leave the matter to the accountant to sort out. Her sister Margot, however, flown in from her glamorous career in LA, has other plans. Envisioning a luxurious weekend getaway, she goes right ahead and buys two tickets–one way–to Tregarrick.

Once at the hotel–used in its heyday to house detective novelists, and more fixer-upper than spa resort, after all–Evie and Margot attempt to get to the bottom of things. But the foul-tempered hotel owner claims he’s never met the late Robert, even after Evie finds framed photos of them–alongside Robert’s first wife–in his office. The rest of the island inhabitants, ranging from an ex-con receptionist to a vicar who communicates with cats, aren’t any easier to read.

But when a murder occurs at the hotel, and then another soon follows, frustration turns to desperation. There’s no getting off the island at high tide. And Evie and Margot, the only current visitors to Tregarrick, are suspects one and two. It falls to them to unravel secrets spanning generations–and several of their own–if they want to make it back alive. 

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#deathathightide

This is wonderful delightful first in a new cozy series by the Hannah Dennison,

which features two sisters struggling with their own personal problems.

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Evie Mead is devastated, when her husband Robert has a heart attack.

While going through his things she discovers a intriguing note addressed to her her that reads…

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For My Darling Wife: In the Event of My Death—

If you are reading this letter, it means you are the proud owner of Tregarrick Rock Hotel. The note indicates that Evie may own the rights to a crumbling Art Deco hotel on Tregarrick Rock, one of the Isles of Scilly, off the coast of Cornwall.

Evie along with her Hollywood sister, Margot the two travel to the hotel. Excepting it to be something they can open as a boutique spa hotel, instead they arrive to find a rundown hotel that once was occupied by a a detective novelists. Their they also find a interesting cast of quirky characters along a murder mystery that makes for a thrilling read.

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A delightful cozy mystery perfect for an enjoyable escape.

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