Showing posts with label 4 Stars. Show all posts

Friday, August 16, 2024

The Price of Vengeance Review Spotlight

Welcome to the final day of the book tour for the novel, Price of Vengeance by Kurt D. Springs. Looking for a new scifi novel to sink your teeth into? Then Black Phoenix Book Tours has something for you right here. Vengeance is a dangerous thing...what price are you willing to pay to have it?

Price of Vengeance is a deep space scifi novel by Kurt D. Springs. This novel will take readers to a planet and a people in the fight for their lives. A young man, orphaned as a child is about to have his entire life disrupted yet again when an alien intelligence utilizing dangerous bugs to threaten the place he calls home.

Price of Vengeance will grab readers attention with a cover depicting a soldier in the forefront. It can be assumed that the soldier is Liam himself. He’s holding a weapon and walking forward as if to exit the cover. Behind him is a trio of soldiers off to his right (our left) jogging along as if in a hurry. The ground appears to be wet from a recent rain, and the lights are lit on buildings and signs behind them.

While the cover doesn’t depict a sense of chaos and danger that will be found within the pages of Price of Vengeance, it’s there. So while the cover may not give you the chaotic vibes you’re looking for that will tempt you to dive into this book, go ahead and give it a chance.

Price of Vengeance will give the false impression of “not being that long” of a book due to it’s small number of chapters, but these chapters are chonky! LOL! We would have preferred shorter chapters though. We say this because it would have helped spread things out more throughout the story without everything taking place in the first chapter or two.

As Price of Vengeance kicks off we’re immediately introduced to Liam and the individuals who will become his foster/adopted family. Liam is a small child when his biological parents are killed. It’s tragic, learning of their quick departure. You’ll worry that Liam and Randolf will have some tension in the beginning, but author Springs is quick to assuage those fears.

We don’t spend any time watching Liam develop over the years. Instead author Springs has readers leap frog ahead in time in Price of Vengeance to “present” day of Liam being a grown man serving in the military.

The fight is still on going against the chitin, but many things have changed. The planet that they live on has become more isolated. They’ve been cut off and have no means of getting off the planet or anyone being able to come in. The military might that the people used to have has been destroyed due to one person’s actions. Their quest for power. Now, the next move in this deadly game of chess is at hand.

Price of Vengeance has a slow start, but the story will gradually pick up steam. Author Springs will drop hints here and there to readers that...something is going to go bad sooner than later. This can be in the simplest form of Liam, especially, taking great pains to cover for someone else. That sense that you’ll feel in those scenes especially? Hold on to them. You’re still going to find yourself with your jaw on the floor, but you’ll probably recover a little quicker.

Price of Vengeance descends into a military drama fraught with chaos and a lot of death. Keep your eyes peeled for traitors and lots of betrayal, especially in the first round of chaos that reigns. No one is going to know who to trust. There will be some sparks of romance in the beginning, but author Springs makes sure to keep it as a passing thing that only gets more attention closer to the ending.

Price of Vengeance will focus on Liam fighting for his life, getting revenge for what has happened to his family, and doing his best to bring down an evil that threatens them all.

Throughout the Price of Vengeance author Springs explores Liam’s uniqueness and his abilities that he has had since he was a child. Now, Liam has help to improve what he has and what he knows if he is going to face off with the intelligence behind the chitin that are invading the city and killing it’s people.

Piece by piece this story becomes more interesting and engaging. Liam is the focus of the story, but author Springs also shifts to his brother from time to time as well, so that readers can get things from his perspective. Also, we get viewpoints from Azurius, the dangerous enemy who is looking to conquer the planet in the name of the Rebellion. Azurius has his own collection of secrets, and one by one they will come to light.

As Price of Vengeance draws to a close author Springs is quick to remind us readers – this is just the first book in the Dreamscape Warriors series. Liam and his brother may be getting a nice little “happy ending” for right now, but there is another player getting ready to step into the game. Does this mean that Liam and Randolf will be pushed to continue the fight? Or will there be someone new? Well, we’ll just have to wait and see.

4 out of 5 stars

Price of Vengeance

by Kurt D. Springs

Black Phoenix Book Tours

August 13-16

What is the price of vengeance?

One could understand why Liam was angry. He was orphaned at the age of two by a group of giant carnivorous insects called the chitin. Taken in by High Councilor Marcus and his wife, Lidia, Liam was raised with their older son, Randolf, in New Olympia, the last remaining city on the planet Etrusci.

As an adult, Liam becomes a soldier. After being cut off from the city, Liam finds that there is an alien intelligence behind the chitin. To defeat it, he must discover who he is and how to use his powers. Then, Liam discovers that a traitor, responsible for his birth parents' deaths, had murdered his beloved foster parents. Will the price he has to pay in his quest for vengeance prove to be an even more unbeatable foe?

Universal link for the book on Amazon

About the Author

Kurt D. Springs is presently an adjunct professor of anthropology and archaeology in New Hampshire. He holds a PhD. in anthropology from the State University of New York at Buffalo, as well as a Master of Literature in archaeology from the National University of Ireland, Galway, and a Master of Liberal Arts in anthropology and archaeology from the Harvard University Extension School. His main area of interest is megalithic landscapes in prehistoric Ireland.

Kurt also writes reviews on Kurt's Frontier.

Professor Springs currently lives in Manchester, New Hampshire.

https://kurtsprings.com/
https://twitter.com/kurtsprings1
https://www.facebook.com/Price.of.Vengeance.1
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7824275.Kurt_D_Springs
https://mewe.com/kurtsprings/posts
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/kurt-d-springs

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Friday, June 7, 2024

Satan Rides Your Daughter Review Spotlight

Black Tide Book Tours and HellBound Books are back with a new anthology fellow horror lovers! Are you ready for something fresh, disturbing, and sure to be riveting? Well, then dive into Satan Rides Your Daughter!

Welcome to the book tour! We hope you enjoy your stay.

Satan Rides Your Daughter is a dynamic collection of hellish stories that depict scenes that, in some cases, will be hard pressed to be removed from your brain. From stories about a strange wicker basket that a boy's father brings back from the war overseas, to an "innocuous" looking goat statue that sits in a garden...that must NEVER be moved, to a "Groundhog Day" style story of a Mad Max style road race/battle.

Let's cut to the chase shall we? There's sure to be a story in here for everyone. Each story is unique, and while not all will be someone's cup of blood, there will be sure to be one that draws you in and pushes you to learn more about the particular author who wrote that story.

Satan Rides Your Daughter is an interesting collection of horror stories. The first one that we read centered around a young boy. His father has returned from the war (recent times) and you immediately get the sense that the war broke this man. I mean, he comes home, strips it off at his "Welcome Home" party and immediately burns it in front of everyone. Yep, cue jaw-drop moment for us for sure!

Talk about...wow! But what is curious are the items that he brought back with him. A wicker basket, a pipe, and a couple other strange items. You can't help but wonder...is there something special about them? Well, the focus of the story will shift to the basket. So make sure you pay attention. You can bet that the boy, the main character of this story, will.

One of my favorite aspects of this story, is how the author draws me in. The basket seems innocuous enough, but the child...he senses what we do not. He senses the evil emanating from that basket and it when it becomes too much? He leaves the room. But fate is a fical thing and it won't be long before the boy hits a snag...that should end his life.

Warren, the boy, ends up with a close encounter that leaves him in-debted. What is going to happen from there? Well, you'll jus have to read to find out! LOL!

The Pit and the Basket is an interesting story for sure, and for us, one of the standouts for this anthology. Our only poke of dissent towards it is some of the actions that Warren takes later on. He strikes a deal, but then we don't really get to find out the aftermath. He must become a murderer, but one particular murder is hinted at being particularly gruesome. We wanted details. Unfortunately, all we get is a reaction from a side character, and nothing more. It's rather disappointing.

Another story that really stuck out for us, is The Goat. No, not the Greatest of All Times. No, it's actually about a goat. Sorta. Curious? Good. LOL! When we first started reading this story, we really didn't know what to make of it.

It starts off sounding like the typical, "child left home, doesn't want to return because of....insert whatever reason they chalk up." Well, that's part of the story, but wait for it, because there's more.

For us, the backstory that comes is truly fascinating. It is definitely going to give some "Drag Me to Hell" vibes and we loved it! Of course, if you're hoping to know EVERYTHING that happens with the character in this story? Well, you're going to be left waiting. Okay, more like the author will encourage you to use your imagination and conjure up what you believe happens next.

Some of the stories moving forward are hit and miss for us. Some just don't draw us in, others the pacing leaves something to be desired. But the deeper you in...it's like that's where the meat shows up. The good stuff people! Brace yourself to be sucked in and then to be the one sucking these stories dry as you devour them whole and dig deeper to find the marrow...(as in learn more about the authors who wrote them).

There are some deliciously hellish stories to be found in this anthology, so if you're a fan of horror be sure to grab this collection and dive in!

4 out of 5 stars

Thanks to BlackTide Book Tours and HellBound books for the opportunity to read and review this book! We look forward to what comes next!

Black Tide Book Tours

June 4-7

In our spine-chilling homage to the late, great Dennis Wheatley and the inimitable Hammer Horror films spawned from his works, HellBound Books presents twenty superlatively satanic stories guaranteed to have you fearing for your very soul?

A whole host of Hell's denizens skulk within these pages, waiting with growing impatience for brave of heart - or the relentlessly foolhardy - to make their otherworldly acquaintance, so please, do venture inside.If you dare?

Featuring hellish tales from: L. G. Merrick, Henry Myllylä, Alan Derosby, A.K. McCarthy, Brian James Lewis, C. C. Parker, Chisto Healy, Leo J. Winters, R.C. Mulhare, Henry Myllylä, J.B. Toner, Glen Damien Campbell, Nathan Blake, Gerald Dean Rice, Ricki Whatley, Carlton Herzog, Len M. Ruth, Vivian Kasley, Carson Demmans, Mark Towse, and Alexander Marais

Universal link for the book on Amazon

About the Publisher

HellBound Books are the veritable tour de force in the independent publishing world — for eight years and counting, they have published novels, novellas, and bestselling anthologies of exemplary horror, bizarro, and all things dark — the type of tales from exciting new authors guaranteed to keep you wide awake in the small hours and checking the inky-black, coagulating shadows beneath your bed just one last time…
They are incredibly proud to be champions of the newest, brightest upcoming authors as well as home to more established writers. Their objective is to bring to you — wonderful readers — the very best in the dark genres. They are proud to say all HellBound books titles are available in traditional-sized paperback and ebook, along with a few very special hard cover books, too.

https://hellboundbookspublishing.com/
https://twitter.com/HellBoundBooks
https://www.instagram.com/hellboundbooks

Tuesday, May 21, 2024

The Shadows of Wren Review Spotlight

Welcome to the tour for The Shadows of Wren by Jen Bliton. Book one of The Light in the Shadows series! Read on for more details!

The Shadows of Wren is the first book in the Light in the Shadows series and this romantic fantasy promises some interesting elements and aspects along with some truly fantastic creatures. Prepare for some quick romance, but if you’re hoping for some steamy moments...that’s where the slow-burn is going to kick in. So try to exercise some patience.

The Shadows of Wren gifts readers with a gorgeous cover that teases you with the promise of an engaging storyline with beautiful flowers dripping and surrounded by shadows. Does this cover truly give readers insight in what to expect of this storyline? No, however it does draw you to the book and the promise of what it holds inside.

The Shadows of Wren is a slow to moderately paced novel. It is the first in the Light in the Shadows series and immediately introduces readers to the main character of the story, Wren. Wren is a Shadow mage. This a secret that only a handful of people in her village know about. They know that she is capable of magic, but only a few know exactly what magic she holds inside.

Wren is not comfortable with her powers, but when an attack comes to her home and witnesses the burning of her library, she knows that she must act. She’s heard of the burnings and attacks of other town’s libraries. Someone is on the hunt for something, and they don’t care how they acquire the knowledge that they after. When things come close to home before their fateful attack, Wren crosses paths with a Necromancer. Is he part of the group causing the chaos across the land? Or he is someone she can call friend and ally?

The overall storyline with The Shadows of Wren is slow-moving to moderate at times. The story focuses heavily on Wren and tells the story from the first person perspective. Wren isn’t necessarily a brash or even sassy character. She’s, kind of….bland to be honest. Yes, she has this unique and interesting magic, but she rarely has any moments that truly stand out when it comes to her character.

Wren has some moments of bravery scattered throughout the story, but she tends to come off as more of a foolish girl than a strong young woman. There are prime examples scattered throughout, but the starkest one will be when she takes it upon herself to go after the Sentinels when they are investigating something near the woods and almost gets herself killed. She has no true fighting training, but has the thought process that she can be of some help. Does she end up being helpful? Yes. Did she almost end up losing her life first? Yes.

When she decides that she wants to do something then she moves ahead with it. These decisions tend to orbit around the love interest that is quickly introduced in the form of the Necromancer, Tyran. Readers will want to hold back a touch in the event that Tyran proves to be a “devil in disguise” but Wren is quickly head over heels for the man which goes to showcase her youth and naivety. Of course, as of this book, the author allows things to go in Wren’s favor concerning the romance angle, and things appear to be “all’s well.”

As promised there are some truly unique and interesting creatures that the author gives readers throughout this book. Wren meets one, and is rescued from certain death by Tyran. This particular “monster” is a wild combination of multiple creatures. Your eyes might bug out of your head a bit, but your imagination will have a grand time as it conjures up this monster’s appearance. Then there is another later on in the story, that is allowed to escape death thanks to Wren’s soft heart. Plus, the creature is truly beautiful, and it would be a shame for it to have been slaughtered for simply following it’s nature.

There are some twists and turns and surprises scattered through The Shadows of Wren, we just would have liked more drama. More intensity, and more edge of your seat moments. There is honestly little to grab you and keep you page-turning at a rapid pace to make you eager to find out what happens next. It’s a touch disappointing. The book is interesting, but it falls short of being fantastic. There are a few explosive moments here and there, but it fails to give this book the jolt that it desperately needed in the energy department.

The Shadows of Wren is the first book in this series, however, if you’re a reader who hates cliffhangers...do not worry. There will be none of that here. In fact, the book ends with a sweet moment between Wren and Tyran. Unfortunately, this sweet moment will do little to whet your appetite to look forward to book two. For that, you’d probably have to stop more than a few pages before the end. LOL!

This storyline and series have potential, but the characters are going to need more than a little bit of fire and drama to get there.

We’ll have to see where things unfold from here. For now, this is an okay romantic fantasy novel. It’s hit and miss in the drama department. Would we continue this series? The answer is probably as long as things pick up in book two with some serious energy.

4 out of 5 stars

Thanks to the author, Jen Bliton, and R&R Book Tours for the opportunity to read and review this book. We look forward to what comes next.

The Shadows of Wren (The Light in the Shadows)

Publication Date: August 30, 2023

Genre: Romantic Fantasy

Ancient Magic
Mythical Creatures
Friends to Lovers/ Insta Love
Large Scale Battles
Trauma Healing
Mental Health Rep

May the Valiant Prevail.

After decades of peace within the lands of Caldumn ruled by the Red Kingdom, the southern towns have come under attack. Their libraries burned and ancient texts stolen by an ominous force.

An unlikely alliance between two magic kinds is formed when Wren, a nineteen-year-old Mage, finds herself in the middle of a conflict that will take her outside of the peaceful life she's known. Along her journey, she meets Tyran, whose Necromancer magic is not widely trusted, and learns they share a deeper ancient magic that has long since disappeared.

Together with the help of all magic kinds, they must unite the towns to save their lands, and themselves, while the threat of the Red Kingdom looms.

SEE AUTHOR’S BIO FOR PURCHASE LINKS

Monday, March 4, 2024

Soul Masters: The Hunting Grounds Review Spotlight

Soul Masters: The Hunting Grounds is the first book in K.R. Gastreich's Soul Masters series. Prepare to embark on a world-blending novel as Mayela comes to learn more about who she is and the dangers that she unwittingly embarked upon. Now, she must face the consequences of her actions and work to come out the other side alive.

Soul Masters: The Hunting Grounds piques readers' interest with a forest-style cover with what appears to be a portal. Where does this portal lead to? Is it a new fantastical world? Or is there something dark and insidious on the other side? The only way to find out is to delve into this story and explore as the story unfolds.

Soul Masters: The Hunting Grounds is the first in this new series, and it alternates between the present and the past. You get get to see some of Mayela's childhood. Mayela remembers events that happened but she thinks that they are just hallucinations from overly stressed mind. But is the truth something else? As you reflect at random moments back to her childhood you'll see that there is more going on than meets the eye.

Is Mayela in denial as to the things that she is seeing? The answer to that question is a touch complex and one that requires you to delve deeper into the story to truly understand what is going on.

The dynamics between Mayela and Nathan, when he enters the picture, is interesting. She's drawn to him not realizing what is actually going on. That there is already a connection between them. But what is with this other guy? The coffee shop owner's financial advisor? The way that he behaves is extremely off. Is he dangerous? Is he something like Nathan?

These questions will push at you more than once when he makes an appearance at the oddest of times. We literally reared back at one specific unexpected appearance. You get the sense that something bad is about to happen, but...she's saved by the sound of heels on flooring! Think it's Nathan coming to her rescue? You may want to guess again.

Soul Masters: The Hunting Grounds is an interesting story, but we feel like it could have benefited from having a prologue. A prologue would have given readers a foundation to build on. As it is, Mayela remembers certain things that readers have no idea even transpired already. It's like we're rushing to play catch-up to something already in motion.

There are other things that just hit wrong when it comes to the storyline. When the truth starts to come out Mayela gets upset and claims that Nathan has been dishonest with her. We were really thrown by this because there is no sign that they were even texting back and forth that heavily before the date. So it translates to her being over-dramatic...and for what?

The boat rocks a bit from time to time with the back and forth between the characters, but it does even out here and there. You get some questions answered, and others you're left with, but this is just the first in the series, so who knows where things will go from here.

4 out of 5 stars

Thank you to the author, K.R. Gastreich, and Bewitching Book Tours for the opportunity to read and review this book.

Soul Masters: The Hunting Grounds

Soul Masters

Book One
K.R. Gastreich

Genre: Paranormal Romance
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Date of Publication: February 7, 2024
ISBN: 978-1509253302
ASIN: B0CP6GMWRK
Number of pages: 320
Word Count: 90k
Cover Artist: Kristian Norris

Tagline: He wants to claim her soul. But can she capture his heart?

Book Description:

On a hike through the forest, Mayela stumbles into a terrifying world where immortals hunt souls. To survive she secures protection from a Soul Master. When he demands payment, Mayela fights back. But how can she fight the desire consuming her heart?

Every soul Nathan claims expands the power of his realm. In Mayela, he finds a rare gift that could guarantee his place among the Soul Masters. All he must do is secure her allegiance without losing his heart. And Nathan has no heart to lose. Or does he?

With eternity at stake, Mayela and Nathan ignite a transcendent passion that breaks all the rules. Among the Soul Masters, a malevolent force awakens. The final hunt is on…

Amazon BN Bookshop

Excerpt:

Then everything froze. Joni, the customers, the cars outside. All movement simply stopped. The chime on the front door sounded. My throat went dry. Somehow, I knew what was happening. I knew who had arrived, though I didn’t understand how or why.

Twisting around, I peered over the rim of the booth. Standing in the doorway was the man from my hallucinations, a creature of the dark plains. Tall and slim, broad-shouldered, dark in aspect. That same man had beheaded a snake in my kitchen. Not my kitchen, I reminded myself. The illusion of my kitchen, part of the same hallucination of an impossible world. The Hunting Grounds, he’d called it. Where we go to hunt souls.

My mind spun with the impossibility of what I was seeing. He couldn’t be real. Yet here he was, in Joni’s shop. Except, he looked different. His hair was peppered gray instead of black. His skin seemed a shade darker. Or maybe lighter? It was like wrapping my head around a mirage, trying to remember what he looked like in my nightmares. But the simple force of his presence, the quiet luminescence of his spirit, was unmistakable. That was him.

Without so much as a glance in my direction, the man stepped into the shop and started toward the counter. Everything stirred at once. Several people looked his way. Joni let go a long, low whistle.

“Well, I’ll be!” she exclaimed. "We haven’t had anyone that drop-dead gorgeous walk in here since…Well, ever!”

She kept staring, mouth agape, as he ordered coffee. Then her face lit up, and she jumped into action, wiping down the table next to me.

“I’ve got an idea,” she said. “I think you should go for him.”

“What?” I croaked.

“He’s totally your style.”

“I don’t date men in suits.”

“What are you talking about?” She laughed. “Look at him! It’s fate. I can feel it.”

“Joni –”

“Sir!” She called. “Sir, we’ve got an empty table right over here. Next to the windows.”

Holy crap! I sank deeper into my seat. “I’m serious, Joni! Send him somewhere else.”

“Straighten up, beautiful.” She patted me on the shoulder. “Give it a shot. What’ve you got to lose?”

Then she was gone. I cast about frantically for an escape, but there was no back exit from the booth. Unless I wanted to crash through the window. Could I do that? Crash through the window?

Yeah, I could do that. But I’d have to leave my insects behind, and –

And there he was, taking the table next to me. His chair scraped against the floor. His clothes rustled as he settled in. Minutes passed while my heart pounded inside my chest. I kept my face turned, pretended to stare out the window, wondered whether it would hurt to feel the glass shatter against my skin.

Idle talk filled the coffee shop. Customers came and went, orders were taken, steam forced through frothing milk.

Still the man said nothing.

I snuck a glance in his direction. Damn, he was handsome. Heart stoppingly so. Desire tugged at my gut, a strangely familiar sense of attraction, as if we’d known each other before this moment. As if I’d been bound to him in a time before memory.

About the Author:

K.R. Gastreich is a recipient of the OZMA Award for fantasy fiction and the Andrews Forest Writer’s Residency, as well as a winner of the Women on Writing Flash Fiction Contest. Her fantasy novels feature high-stakes romance, gripping battles, and darkly lyrical prose. In addition to Soul Masters and The Silver Web trilogy, she has published short stories in Zahir, Adventures for the Average Woman, 69 Flavors of Paranoia, and World Jumping.

A proud native of the American Midwest, K.R. Gastreich lived for many years in Texas and then in Latin America before returning to the Kansas City Metro where she grew up. When not writing she enjoys hiking, camping, studying dance, and spending time with her family.

To learn about new releases and other events, visit K.R. Gastreich’s website at krgastreich.com, or follow her on Instagram @EolynChronicles.

Website: https://www.krgastreich.com

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/EolynChronicles

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063135194840

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4431702.K_R_Gastreich

Monday, February 5, 2024

The Fate of Elysian Review Spotlight

Welcome to the tour for The Fate of Elysian by Theresa Sherron! Read on for more details!

The Fate of Elysian is the first book in Theresa Sherron's The Fate of the Empyrean series. Prepare to dive deep into a world that was once familiar, but no longer is. This dystopian fantasy novel is an eye-opening and engaging novel that will keep you coming back for more.

It's Faye's 18th birthday. The time has come for her to make her journey to the City. The place where she is meant to meet her "soul-mate" and lead a life similar to the one that her father and her mother lead. Will her life be full of as much love and happiness as theirs was? While it lasted? Before tragedy struck and left her mother a shell of who she used to be?

All life on Earth was nearly lost when famine and drought struck the world creating shortages and millions of lives lost due to starvation. A new world order arose. One that brought about a change that helped save life. But the life that awaits Faye...is it the one that she wants?

The Fate of Elysian starts off slow, but you just have to be patient as the author works to set the stage utilizing Faye. The author gives readers background on young Faye and the things that she has experienced up to this point. It's a mix of happiness and sadness at what the world has become and then to the point where it is shifting. Of course, her "journey" to the city is rather bizarre, but that's just the beginning.

As the story gains its footing, it gradually gains ground and becomes more engaging. Faye decides that the life that is "planned out" for her may not be the one that she wants anymore. Why shouldn't she get to choose her own path and who she wishes to be with? This, of course, always leads to trouble, but what fun would a book be without some drama mixed up in it?

This book gives you twists, secrets, and a few surprises here and there. By the time you reach the final page the author has artfully set the stage to leave readers eager for what comes next.

4 out of 5 stars

Thank you to the author, Theresa Sherron, and R&R Book Tours for the opportunity to read and review this book. We look forward to what comes next!

The Fate of Elysian

Publication Date: May 2023

Genre: Dystopian Fantasy

Will you live a life that is predestined and controlled from your first breath of air? A life full of darkness, destruction, and pain, where your existence is owed to the survival of humanity.

Faye’s eighteenth birthday turns her life upside down, just like the rest of the teens who walked this planet before her. She must travel to the city; she knows she would never return the same…if she ever returns!

In a futuristic world founded to cope with the effects of a famine that altered the course of humanity, there are certain commandments to follow to live a prosperous life. Faye steps into the city of dreams with several unanswered questions. All she has is a mysterious symbol to find her soulmate, who was predestined at birth. Not knowing who her symbol will light up for, she must trust her judgment – or destiny. Will her judgments be right?

Her rebelliousness leads her to uncover a disturbing truth about the city, which is known as their Elysian. But is it just that? Along with others, Faye is determined to find the missing pieces and bring justice to herself, her family, and her friends. She is fearless; she’s not afraid to challenge those who are in power.

Has her entire life been a lie? Does she want to fight to be with the love of her life or settle with the ‘soulmate’ chosen by the city at the time of her birth?
Faye must decide.

Available on Amazon

Book Tour Organized By: @rrbooktours

Thursday, January 18, 2024

Crimson Promises Review Spotlight

Welcome to the tour for Jocelyn Bleu’s Crimson Promises. Read on for more details!

Crimson Promises is Jocelyn Bleu's debut novel, and the first in what promises to be a truly gripping series.

The first thing that you notice about Crimson Promises is the gorgeous vibrant colors that quickly catch your eye. You're going to simply want to take a minute to study and admire this cover before you delve into the blurb to learn more about this book. For readers who enjoy books about angels, demons, and secrets then this is a book that you're going to want to check out.

Crimson Promises begins with a prologue that is going to build the intrigue as to what is going on. What has truly transpired that brings us characters lingering in the rain? A promise extracted with another promise of a better tomorrow, a release from a bond? Tasked with a mission that will either mean Bennett's salvation...or his doom should he fail. 21 years...he has to just hold out for 21 years.

The story shifts forward to Aurora, the main character of this story, and Bennett's ward. Told from the first-person perspective, you get the sense immediately that Aurora is a loner. Not necessarily by choice, but it suits her. As you read the book you'll come to understand exactly why. So, quell your disappointment as you learn that Aurora isn't the most interesting character. Give her some time though, once the story really gains traction things will begin to get more interesting.

Crimson Promises alternates POV between Aurora and Bennett when he comes out of the shadows. When you read this book you'll see where he's told to stay out of sight, but the closer she gets to that "magic number" age-wise, it seems that the darkness is stepping up its game to claim her. So, what's a guy to do other than move ahead and step out of the shadows to better protect her? Too bad it's going to make things more complicated...for both of them.

Author Bleu's story has a slow, but steady pacing for the first half of this book. This is going to cue an exercise in patience. There is going to be a lot of back and forth between Aurora and Bennett. She wants to pursue things, but he knows the risk that he'll be taking. However, God forbid another guy shows interest in Aurora because then cue "caveman" behavior. LOL! Honestly, these moments bring some spark and a touch of spice to the story to liven things up. So, that's definitely a plus.

Wondering if there is some serious spice in this book? Unfortunately, there isn't. There is some heat and a touch of steamy scenes, but the "steamy" scenes aren't really that steamy. If we had to rate the scenes on a steamy meter it'd be about "3 out of 5"...maybe "2.5 out of 5." The lead-ups are where the steam really builds in a couple of scenes, but when it comes to the real action...those who like it spicy will find that lacking.

When this book hits the halfway point, the action really begins to kick in. This is fantastic because the book needs it to breathe life into it. The drama picks up, and the tension really begins to build. Brace yourself for some major secrets to come to the forefront as well. Wondering if your jaw is going to be on the floor? The simple answer? Yes. LOL! Seriously though, prepare for it, because it's coming.

From the way that this book draws to a close, it's safe to say that there will be more to come. There is no way that the story can just end there and be done. Nope. So, keep an eye out for another book to come, because this? This is just the beginning.

4.25 out of 5 stars

Thank you to the author, Jocelyn Bleu, and R&R Book Tours for the opportunity to read and review this book. I look forward to what comes next!

Crimson Promises

Publication Date: December 27, 2023

Genre: Romantic Fantasy/ Paranormal Romance

Secrets untold. A stranger’s allure. A choice that could ignite a war of worlds.

🖤Enemies-to-lovers
🖤Morally Gray
🖤Dual POVs
🖤Forced Proximity
🖤Touch Her & Di3
🖤Secrets

To escape her dangerous secret, Aurora James flees to Arch Cape University. When she meets Bennett Caelum, her life takes an electrifying and terrifying turn. Bennett is alluring and aloof. As a fallen angel with his sights set on revenge, Bennett has managed to keep a safe distance while guarding Aurora’s angelic gifts and protecting secrets of his own.

Aurora doesn’t know that the very past she is running from is Bennett’s sworn duty to protect.

A fiery attraction ignites between the two, threatening to sway Bennett from his path of vengeance. Aurora is forced to decide between two worlds as she discovers more about her abilities.

Linked by a prophecy as old as time, unexpected truths could spell downfall for all. But sinister forces lurk in the shadows, intent on claiming Aurora, as decisions kindle the flames of war.

All is fair in a battle of secrets and betrayal. The only way to survive is freedom or death.

Available on Amazon

About the Author

Jocelyn Bleu is a tea, matcha latte, notebook collecting kind of girl. She can be found binging
Grey’s Anatomy, One Tree Hill, or Friends. When she’s not reading or writing, she is with her
family or friends or walking (most likely to get some source of caffeine).
She has a master’s degree in creative writing and a bachelor’s degree in history. She is
obsessed with all things supernatural, and anything JRR Tolkien related.

Jocelyn Bleu

Book Tour Schedule

January 15^th

http://rrbooktours.com Landing Page

https://www.instagram.com/jennlovesreading86?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D – Review

https://www.instagram.com/badwitchesbookcoven/ - Review

https://rissreviewsx.wixsite.com/website - Review

https://www.instagram.com/theromantasybookcorner._/ - Review

https://www.instagram.com/angels_gp17/ - Feature

https://www.instagram.com/smut_hussie/ - Feature

https://www.instagram.com/emerald.moon.reads/ - Feature

Jan 16^th

https://www.instagram.com/im.booked.on.a.feeling/ - Review

https://www.instagram.com/bookishcaitt - Review

https://www.instagram.com/lanixlaniherrera_fantasyauthor/ - Review

https://www.instagram.com/mandyisreading_/ - Review

https://www.instagram.com/bookishmom1/ - Feature

http://ramblingmads.com – Feature

January 17^th

https://instagram.com/the_bookish_cave_of_wonders?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA== - Review

https://www.instagram.com/novelnchill/ - Review

https://www.instagram.com/over.on.my.bookshelf/?hl=en – Review

https://www.instagram.com/yggdrasil_dreams/ - Review

https://www.instagram.com/kels.lovesbooks/ - Review

https://www.instagram.com/hardcovers.withhans/ - Feature

https://lshadowlynauthor.com/ - Feature

https://www.instagram.com/_marinainwonderland/ - Feature

January 18^th

https://www.instagram.com/lit.and.Elle/ - Review

https://www.instagram.com/gothgirlonthetrain/ - Review

https://www.instagram.com/bingingbooksandcoffee/ - Review

https://www.instagram.com/squeakeysundergroundlibrary/ - Review

https://www.instagram.com/spiritedbookishbabe/ - Review

https://www.instagram.com/darkfantasyreviews/ - Review

https://darkfantasyreviews.wordpress.com

https://www.instagram.com/samanthainfantasyworld/ - Feature

January 19^th

https://ilovebooksandstuffblog.wordpress.com - Review

https://www.instagram.com/ilovebooksandstuffblog/

https://www.instagram.com/winning.reads - Review

https://www.instagram.com/shandyreadsromantasy/?igshid=MjEwN2IyYWYwYw%3D%3D – Review

https://www.instagram.com/reading.withv/ - Review

https://www.instagram.com/alexandriavwilliams_?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D – Review

https://www.instagram.com/robin.bookish.escape/ - Feature

Tour organized by @rrbooktours

Tuesday, January 9, 2024

A Heart of Onyx Flame Review Spotlight

“You’re dangerous.” He whispered and his eyes darkened. “You have no idea.” And I swung against his block with all my strength.

Welcome to the tour for Lina Ravenhill’s brand-new book A Heart of Onyx Flame! Read on for more details!

A Heart of Onyx Flame is a YA fantasy romance novel by Lina Ravenhill. Brace yourself to be dropped into this story, much like the FMC as she has to discover where she is and try to find a way back home. Of course, nothing is that simple, and she's going to find that out a little at a time. But what's she going to do when she accepts a task to help protect one of the students? It's not going to be easy, but if it's her only way of having a chance at getting back to her own world...then it's what she's going to have to do.

When A Heart of Onyx Flame begins you're literally dropped into the middle of things, just like the main character, Bohdana, and really aren't going to have much of a clue as to what is going on. She's disoriented and confused and understandably so. What she quickly learns is that she has been transported to another world altogether and that she is nowhere near home. Of course, things only keep going from there because she's at a school. Let's just say that...she's far from pleased with her circumstances. Understandably so to be honest.

It's never fun to be dropped into the middle of things, but that's exactly what's going on. Bohdana struggles to deal with the reality of her situation. She's gone from a major fight that she was in the middle of, to a school where girls are expected to learn "menial" tasks to become "good wives" and the boys get to learn how to fight, the art of war, and other things deemed important for them to learn. Well, the warrior in Bohdana is not about to be made to wear dresses and learn how to sew.

You are quick to get the sense that she's a tough cookie and determined to find her way back home. Cue up her getting into some nasty situations because of how uninformed she is about this new world. Of course, the author is quick to show not just her but us as the readers as well that there is much to be aware of concerning this new place. Magic? It's around, but it's not exactly appreciated per say by all who call this place home. Not everyone is equal.

When she's approached to help protect a student, she takes it, because it's the only way she's told she'll be able to get home. Her charge though is an aloof student who is quick to point out...that they don't need or want her help. Too bad they're going to get it regardless. LOL!

This story is a touch slow-moving in the beginning. The story takes a minute to gain it's footing and really engage the reader into what is going on. This is in part to how it all begins and there not really being much of a background to build on. The author does go back and fill in some gaps as to how our main character ends up where she does, but you're going to have to wait a little bit before that scene surfaces.

The back and forth between Bohdana and her new charge is interesting. She's constantly faced with bullies herself and even steps in frequently to help other students who are in need of some help. It's nice to see and to watch her as a character. She creates quite the collection (unintentionally) but it's humorous nonetheless.

The deeper the story goes the more interesting it becomes and the pace even begins to pick up the more you become engaged in the story. Piece by piece the story comes together revealing what is going on and why she has been chosen to help protect this particular student. While no one else at the school may claim to know, there is definitely something going on that points to something huge on the horizon.

Despite the bumpy start of this book it's a good novel to check out and gives readers a nice amount of fantasy and romance to keep you coming back for more.

4.25 out of 5 stars

Thank you to the author, Lina Ravenhill, and R&R Book Tours for the opportunity to read and review this book. I look forward to what comes next.

A Heart of Onyx Flame: A YA Shifter Academy Romance

Publication Date: January 3, 2024

Genre: YA Fantasy

🧡Sweet Romance
🧡Shifters
🧡Dark academy
🧡Strong characters
🧡Alpha FMC
🧡He falls first
🧡Enemies to Lovers
🧡Dark Secret
🧡High Fantasy
🧡HEA

Step into a world where the line between predator and prey is blurred.

At the mysterious Shifter Academy, where hidden desires and forbidden secrets reign, a young human girl finds herself entangled in an alluring and dangerous alliance with a brooding, enigmatic fellow student.

As their passions ignite and unearth ancient prophecies, she must navigate the treacherous halls of power and learn that love might be the most perilous transformation of all in a world of unfathomable darkness.

Available on Amazon

About the Author

Lina Ravenhill lives in Massachusetts with her husband, Ben. Lina writes messy, funny, and action-filled paranormal romance, fantasy, and suspense. Vampire romance, dragon quests, and witches are simply more fun to write than the plain, normal stuff.

Lina’s first title, Aforetime, is a long-time project, that turned out to be both a pleasure to write and a huge pain to put together.

Lina loves music, especially classic rock, and Lana Del Rey, of course. She enjoys watching a good movie and rereads at least one Jane Austen novel a year.

Lina Ravenhill

Book tour organized by

R&R Book Tours

Thursday, November 9, 2023

The Root of Fey Magic Review Spotlight

We’re celebrating the release of Callie Pey’s latest The Root of Fey Magic! Read on for more details!

The Root of Fey Magic is a standalone fantasy romance novel with a HEA for readers who love them by author Callie Pey. This novel promises to bring you some humor scattered throughout, steamy situations with a "why choose" addition. Absolutely love it!

The Root of the Fey takes place on a distant planet with the characters referring to way back when they left Earth here and there. This book alternates between the main characters of this book: Lorsan, Aralia, and Rux.

Lorsan starts this book off, and I have to admit, his reaction to his aunt coming in in hysterics...I smirked/giggled. Don't scowl at me!! The woman is literally being overly dramatic! Lorsan is obviously overly familiar with her behavior because he can barely restrain himself from rolling his eyes! LOL! You're going to be laughing, but he is dealing with a serious situation. A poison is spreading across his land, and his people...well, apparently they aren't the brightest. I mean...they "misuse" magic to the point of where it creates explosions and chaos?! Cap the magic like the king declares! At least, until they can better handle themselves and it.

The story alternates between the characters, but it's not in a predictable manner that this goes in. Wherever the author feels the attention is best directed is where the storyline goes. So this book tends to be heavier towards Aralia. This is understandable as she is the primary focus of the storyline overall. It all basically revolves around her.

The Root of Fey Magic is an engaging story that is overall pretty well balanced. You get a good amount of drama, the romance is allowed to develop and flesh out without feeling rushed and overdone. There were a few places where I wanted more detail, but I appreciate the overall pacing and how the author develops the characters as well.

My only "major" issue concerning this book is the "before we left Earth" references. It takes me out of the story. I kept feeling like that created a missing puzzle piece that didn't need to be there. Now, if there had been a prologue that detailed this then I feel that it would have benefited the story. As it is, the random references tended to jolt me out of the story.

The ending is sweet, and gives the characters their HEA that they have worked hard to acquire not just for themselves, but for their people as well.

4 out of 5 stars

Thank you to the author, Callie Pey, and R&R Book Tours for the opportunity to read and review this book. I look forward to what comes next.

The Root of Fey Magic

Publication Date: November 3, 2023

Genre: Fantasy Romance/ Why Choose/ Steamy

🥀Why choose (MFM)
🥀Spicy Fantasy
🥀Bodyguard
🥀Fae, Satyrs, & Nymphs
🥀Stand alone HEA
🥀Friends to Lovers
🥀Enemies to Lovers
🥀Possessive MMCs
🥀Angst
🥀Fated Mates
🥀Royalty Romance
🥀Multiple 1st Person POVs

Aralia

I may have been “healed”, but one fact remains beyond a shadow of doubt: I’m dying.

Leaving my twin sister and my home grove was never in the plan. I knew where my place was. Waking up in the Feylands threw me into a spiral I wasn’t ready for. They said I was sick and had to be separated from the only life I knew. They said they gave me a cure. I just needed to give it a few days. Now I’m trapped in between the man I pushed into the arms of another and a childhood crush that is running trials for the woman who would stand at his side. I can’t wait around to experience losing them and fortunate enough for me, I won’t have to.

Rux

I’d give anything to save her life, even if a decades long feud means that she will never understand how I feel about her. Everything in my world began and ended with her since the day I won the ryne trials. Then Aralia succumbs to an illness that I can’t fix and I’m left to turn to the neighboring fae kingdom for help. The change of scenery just might be the repair we need to kindle this flame that I know exists between us, if only she’d give me the chance.

Lorsan

I thought I could go along with the plan, and then I met her. Being king of the fae wasn’t a position I’d asked for. I didn’t want a queen, but with the rise of the shadow mages and the illness on the fey populace, I’m out of options. Now I’m forced to take a fae queen from the winner of the perilous trials in honor of our goddess, Aine. Now, nothing will stand in my way of owning her, not even a queen.

Add to Goodreads

Available on Amazon

About the Author

Callie Pey is the steamy fantasy romance author responsible for The Dryad Chronicles. She loves fantastical worlds and epic stakes that embrace love in all its forms with a heavy dose of adventure. A current Austinite, she enjoys reading almost as much as writing, painting, and finding even the smallest moments to capture joy. With one completed series behind her, Callie is now embarking on two brand new series to come: A dark fantasy not for the faint of heart and a paranormal romance that will feature parts of Texas!

Callie Pey