Forgotten Ashes Review Spotlight

 Forgotten Ashes is the first book in the Iolite Academy series by Kathryn Covens, and readers who love upper YA fantasy romance novels will absolutely devour this book.

Forgotten Ashes draws readers in with a gorgeous cover. Swirling branches and briar dance around the cover of this book. Gates of iron stand proudly in the center of the cover, rising up through a sliver of the moon. Beneath, swirl licks of flames as they rise up around the gates while embers dance higher into the air. Forgotten Ashes has a truly stunning cover that grabs the eye and makes one curious as to the story that lies inside.

Forgotten Ashes is book one in the Iolite Academy series. Author Covens has imagined a world of shifters, demons, witches, and other creatures. Get ready to meet a young woman by the name of Briar. There is something truly unique about Briar, and only a select few know her secret. To know the truth about her? It’s a dangerous thing, and it will mean the end of Briar. Why? Because she’s not supposed to even be alive.

Things are shifting in Briar’s world, and it’s not a good thing. As the Beta to her pack’s Luna. She’s earned her place, but not everyone is taking it in stride. A certain Enforcer is holding onto a tight grudge, and it’s causing some ripples of trouble. Sooner rather than later these ripples will impact everything.

But first things first, yes? Briar is getting ready to head to the Iolite Academy where she is supposed to take her place as Luna. Her packmate, Grayson is already there as the Alpha. Things between them? Oy vey. They are not what they used to be. You’ll find out really fast what caused a shift between them.

Forgotten Ashes is a page-turner of a novel, so when do you start this book? Buckle up. Settle in. Make sure you have some drinks and snacks because you’re not going to want to put this book down once you start reading it.

Forgotten Ashes starts out outside of Iolite Academy, but once it shifts there that is where the drama really ramps up. The tension and drama between Briar and Grayson is everything. They are packmates, so you’d think that he would be supportive of her. Nope! This guy undermines her at every turn! It will drive you absolutely crazy! But it will also have you digging deeper into this book to find out what Briar will do.

Typically when authors say “feisty female” they mean a female character who thinks that being overly sassy, mouthy, and brash. Let’s be real...for this reader, we absolutely HATE those types of female MCs. They typically detract from the storyline and have us (we personally) rolling our eyes every time she opens her mouth. LOL! Briar, thankfully is a truly unique character in that she is balanced, fun, and has just enough strength and sass to give some spice to the story.

Author Covens...you did that. Pat yourself on the back. Briar is a fun character. She’s strong when she has to be, but she also has a softer side. She stands up for those who are under her protection. We love her sense of humor and how she chooses to handle various situations. Honestly, she does better than we would have when it comes to Grayson’s constant undermining.

There are moments where she finally reaches her limits and we are not ashamed to say...we cheered her on. LOL! Another character that readers are absolutely going to love is Kenna. Girlfriend is a stick of dynamite in the best way. We worried that she’d be that “mean girl” character, but the friendship that sparks up between her and Briar is everything.

Get ready to laugh quite a bit when Kenna is on the scene. She is so out of the box you’re going to be “Team Kenna and Briar” before you know it. It’s rather funny since Kenna is the one that Briar is going to have to fight to obtain the title of Luna at the Academy. The knee-jerk reaction is to want to “hate” the person Briar is going to have to go up against, but Kenna is one shifter you’re going to love.

The drama isn’t contained to just the Academy grounds though. Though of course, you’re going to find a fae (teacher) you’re going to want to smack into another world, and that’s on top of the bs going on with Grayson.

Grayson is one of the most infuriating characters in this book. Author Covens does this delicate dance with him though. One minute you want to smack him for being a jerk to our girl Briar, and then you see those sparks of romance trying to kick up. You don’t know whether you want the sparks to take hold and ignite, or if you want Briar to just give him the cold shoulder or pull a Ceelo Green and say “F--- You!” LOL!

Forgotten Ashes is told from a dual POV. The story focuses heavily on Briar (The Rose) and then a second character, who you get to guess about (The Moon). Initially, we thought that it was one character, but then...it didn’t make sense when certain details were laid out. Author Covens does this to keep us on our toes. We’re sure of it. LOL! But then it appears to shift more solidly into one character’s direction and settle there.

Are there new sparks of a potential future romance building? Can we hope? Dare we hope? Well, we’re going to hope because...well, what’s the harm in it, right? Right!?! LOL! Things are sounding like maybe, so we’re going to just cling to it, and sit tight for book two...yeah.

Things aren’t supposed to exist anymore and proving that they do. The secret that Briar is clinging to is becoming more and more in danger, and with that so is her life. The future is becoming more and more uncertain. With one exposure Briar’s life will soon be under threat.

Forgotten Ashes ends on a cliffhanger that will have you howling for book two. Trust us on this one...we’re ready to get down on our knees and beg author Covens for book two...because we need it now!!

Forgotten Ashes blends fantasy, small glimpses of romance, dynamic characters, intrigue, and more than a little suspense. Nothing is what it seems and this book is an absolute feast. Readers who enjoy all of the above...grab this book and dive in! You will not be disappointed.  

5 out of 5 stars

Pick up your copy today! 

Amazon US 

 

Insatiable Hunger Review Spotlight

We are thrilled to be celebrating C. Hebert's newest release, Insatiable Hunger! This is the next book in the Living Nightmares series!

 Author C. Hebert is back with a new deliciously dark addition to their Living Nightmare series. Be forewarned, if you weren’t a raving fan of this author before this book...you will be once you finish – Insatiable Hunger.

The first thing that you’re going to notice when you see this book? The cover showcases a wendigo skull adorned with blood, and gravestones, with tree branches coming down to tangle with the antlers of the skull. Insatiable Hunger is a complete temptation for readers who are lovers of fantasy and horror simply based on the cover alone.

Insatiable Hunger is the second book in the Living Nightmares series, but this book can be read as a standalone novel. This dark romance fantasy novel is going to grip readers from the beginning and keep you page-turning eager for all the deliciously gorey and twisted details contained inside.

We will remind readers of this one simple fact – there is an appropriate caution warning in the beginning of this book for readers who are sensitive to certain subject matter. Read it. Unless you are a devourer of horror like we are. Honestly, we read caution warnings to see what tantalizing treats lie inside and nothing more. LOL! If anything they fuel us to want to dig deeper and get all the details. LOL!

Okay, moving on to the actual book, shall we? Insatiable Hunger begins the book with a prologue that sets the stage of what is currently unfolding in the story. Surprise twist...the author draws you in with the present situation of the FMC, Alaska, before boomeranging you back to the beginning to find out how it all actually unfolds.

The first chapter is definitely something truly tantalizing and will leave you...in need of a nice cool shower or a little alone time. Author Hebert takes readers from a horrific situation unfolding to the FMC getting down and dirty with her guy on the side in a cemetery.

Secret rendevous, “forbidden” love, the FMC is seemingly “trapped” in a relationship that she just doesn’t know how to get out of. Where exactly are things going from here? Well, you’ll just have to wait and see. Don’t worry the author is getting there. If we just jumped off back into the chaos from the prologue then this would be one short story.

Gradually, as Insatiable Hunger unfolds author Hebert draws readers in a little at a time with the horror creeping closer a little at a time. With Alaska, her boyfriend, and three other friends going on a ghost-hunting adventure the majority of them have no idea of the danger that they are walking into.

A cemetery outside of a small town boasts of the disappearances of multiple people over the years. Will Alaska and her friends become the newest losses to come? Something sinister haunts this place, and there is a reason why no one makes it out alive.

Insatiable Hunger is packed with drama that unfolds between Alaska and her lover, Lazarus. They both want more from each other, but with Alaska being in a toxic relationship with Cain, well, that’s easier said than done for her. You get the sense that there is something darker going on that keeps her involved with Cain, but it takes time for it to truly come to the forefront.

Meanwhile, you get Alaska and Lazarus sneaking around and having lots of steamy moments together. It’s absolutely delicious, but if you think that those are the only steamy situations you’ll find in this book...guess again. What fun would that be if that were the case? All the more reason to absolutely devour this book. LOL!

Author Hebert really brings horror to this book. You get a dark twisted story with monsters, demons, zealots, and tons of unexpected moments. It is more than safe to say that author Hebert is not one to shy away from the twisted and horror.

If this book were to be made into a movie understand this – we would watch it LOTS of times in the theater, and the minute it DVD we’d have it in our greedy claws. This book is sheer perfection when it comes to the author’s storytelling, the way the drama unfolds, and the ending? OMG!! Give me more!! Please!

Insatiable Hunger will leave you a fan of this author, and keep an eye out for all of their work – past, present and future! If you are a lover of horror...do not miss out on this book! You will absolutely devour it and be begging for more. We 1000% cannot wait for author Hebert to write their next book.

Pros:

• Twisted
• Dark
• Pageturner
• Steamy
• Leaves you wanting more

Cons:

• None of merit

5 out of 5 stars

Thank you to the author, C. Hebert, and R&R Book Tours for the opportunity to read and review this book. We can’t wait for what comes next!  

Insatiable Hunger (Living Nightmares Book 2)

Publication Date: June 10, 2024

Genre: Dark Fantasy Horror/ Dark Romance

𝕿𝖗𝖔𝖕𝖊𝖘 + 𝕿𝖍𝖊𝖒𝖊𝖘
🩸Dark Romance
🩸Dark Fantasy
🩸Lovers to Enemies
🩸Stalking (hunter/prey)
🩸Ghosts + Creatures
🩸Cult Behavior
🩸Horror/Thriller
🩸Final Girl
🩸80's/90's Grunge

When a group of friends investigate the rumored ghost hauntings of a notorious cemetery, the band of complicated friends never expected their late night adventures would lead them to stumble into the hunting grounds of an ancient evil lurking nearby, enslaved by an unnatural fleshly craving.

Everything and everyone that they know is not as they seem...

AVAILABLE ON AMAZON & KU

Tour Organizer: @rrbooktours

 

The Curse of King Midas Review Spotlight

Welcome to the book tour of The Curse of King Midas. Readers who enjoyed the story of King Midas are not going to want to miss out on this dynamic and in-depth retelling of this eternal story. Keep reading for our review, and more about this book and the author. 

 

 The Curse of King Midas is the first book in author Colleen M. Story’s the Midas Legacy series, and readers who enjoyed the story of King Midas as a child will not want to miss out on this novel!

The Curse of King Midas draws readers in with a cover depicting a man standing in a parapet looking out over his kingdom and city. His back is to the reader, a crimson and cream colored cloak drapped over his shoulders with a sword in his right hand. Ahead of him, the sun is descending in the sky, while a river runs away into the distance. Is this the fateful king himself looking ahead to where he hopes to expand his kingdom? Only one way to find out.

The Curse of King Midas is an engaging historical fantasy style novel. This book takes the familiar story of King Midas and gives it some meat to make it into a dynamic tale. Readers can even think of this book as the “origin” story for King Midas. Sorta. It holds this thought process in the beginning, but the story shifts and takes a different turn.

When readers meet young “Midas” he goes by a different name. He is living a different life, and he had a small sister. He was a young tribal boy living in the grasslands. Until that fateful day when everything changed. On that day, he lost everything he knew and loved, and he almost lost his life, too. But for the intervention of one...he would no longer be of this world.

The Curse of King Midas will originally unfold like a story of revenge. He is out to recover something precious to him that was stolen. When the story starts he’s a young boy, but when the story shifts forward in time, he is a king of many years now, grown children, and...he still has not recovered what he lost. Cue eyebrow raise, right? One would think he’d have accomplished by now, but he hasn’t.

His enemy still stands. His enemy still holds what he once claimed was so important to him. Can he still claim it, if he has had over 20 years to reclaim it, but has failed at every turn? Did he, at some point, give up hope for being successful? Has his enemy proven to be that clever and powerful to thwart him at every turn? Or is there something else going on here?

The Curse of King Midas is a book built with a ton of intrigue and mystery. Never think that you’ve figured it all out, because until you hit a certain point in the story...understand...you have not. Just keep reading and it will begin to make sense in due time.

This book is written in the third person, so there will be a lot of shifting around. You’ll get King Midas, you’ll get his trio of advisors, his two grown children, and a variety of other characters who come in and make appearances. It gets a little chaotic from time to time but author Story works to keep readers from getting too confused by all that transpires in this story.

The fantasy element of this story isn’t necessarily front and center, but it is there. When we say not “front and center” we mean that there aren’t any “fantastical” creatures, or epic scenes packed with magic that remind you that this is a book based in fantasy. The fantasy element is more subtle, but it’s still there and bold enough that readers are able to see and acknowledge it.

The Curse of King Midas absolutely reads like a cautionary tale of “be careful what you wish for.” King Midas has one wish – to defeat his enemy, and for that he needs unlimited funds. This pushes him to make a foolish wish, but it’s the subtle manipulations along the way that throw everything into chaos. It reminds us of dealing with a genie. You have to make sure that you close all the loopholes so that stuff doesn’t come back and bite you in the butt. But of course, why should that cross Midas’s mind when he wishes for the golden touch? We never think of the consequences until it’s to late, and then? Well, then it’s always someone else’s fault that we’re in the predicament that we’re in.

One element of this book that we loved so much is how the truth gradually is unearthed. Midas struck a deal as a child, and he allowed the deal to falter. He was at fault for the chaos reigning at his door, but because he allowed another to dictate, his enemy gained a foothold. It’s wild, but it makes for an absolutely delicious story that will grab you and keep you coming back for more.

As this story draws to a close, do not expect a happy resolution. Things will not go back to the way they were. That can never be no matter what one may claim. But because of this...”gray lie” another round of revenge will be born. Yep, things will continue in a new vein. How exactly? Well, we’ll just have to wait and see, because remember, this is just the beginning.

The Curse of King Midas is a fresh and refreshing take on an old classic. With new life and a little bit of magic, this historical fantasy novel is sure to entrap readers within it’s pages and leave them eager for the next book in this series. We can’t wait to find out what happens next.

Pros:

• Engaging storyline
• Dynamic characters
• Twists and surprises
• Well written
• Page-turner

Cons:

• None of merit

5 out of 5 stars

Black Phoenix Book Tours

June 10-13

The curse of King Midas is real.

In the ancient kingdom of Phrygia, tribal boy Karem Savas thirsts for revenge against King Sargon II, the man who killed his mother and kidnapped his sister. A deal with the dark goddess of the underworld propels him to a powerful position of leadership with a mighty army and thousands of loyal subjects. Crowned as King Midas, he rules from the prosperous capital city of Gordium, where the future shines bright for his two royal children, Prince Anchurus and Princess Zoe.

But Midas is unable to shake his traumatic past. As his deal with the dark goddess turns sour, he seeks help from another, never realizing it will be his undoing. Burdened with a cursed power and floundering against the savvy King Sargon II, Midas must right his wrongs and save his children before it is too late.

Packed with myth, magic, and vengeance, this captivating tale of King Midas begins the new mythological fantasy series from Colleen M. Story.

About the Author

 Colleen M. Story is a novelist, freelance writer, and speaker with over 25 years in the creative writing industry. "The Curse of King Midas," her newest novel, was recognized as a top-ten finalist for the Claymore Award prior to publication. Her previous novels include "The Beached Ones" and "Loreena’s Gift," which was a Foreword Reviews’ INDIES Book of the Year Awards winner.
Colleen's series of popular success guides for writers—"Your Writing Matters," "Writer Get Noticed!" and "Overwhelmed Writer Rescue"—have all been recognized for their distinction. She frequently serves as a motivational speaker, where she helps attendees remove mental and emotional blocks and tap into their unique creative powers.
A lifelong musician, Colleen plays the French horn in her local symphony and pit orchestras. When not writing, she’s exploring the beautiful Pacific Northwest and making up more challenging games for her smart German Shepherd to play. Find more at colleenmstory.com and writingandwellness.com.

https://colleenmstory.com
https://writingandwellness.com
https://twitter.com/colleen_m_story
https://www.instagram.com/colleenmstory/
https://www.amazon.com/stores/Colleen-M.-Story/author/B016CMG616
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14418039.Colleen_M_Story
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/colleen-m-story
https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-m-story-81408034/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ColleenMStoryteller

Soul Cage Review Spotlight

 

Soul Cage is the newest book and the first in a new series by L.R. Shulz. This fantasy novel? Yeah, you’re not going to want to miss it. It is going to grab you, grip you, and keep you page-turning to the very end.

Soul Cage is book one in author Shulz’s Soulbreaker series. We think you’ll agree that author Shulz has struck gold with this book. You’re going to get danger, epic fights, tons of magic, dynamic characters, and twists that will leave your jaw on the floor.

Readers who enjoy flawed characters will absolutely devour this book as it is packed with characters who struggle with who they are, what they are, and the power that weighs on them. Literally. Carrying the souls of thousands is no easy thing, and if you’re not strong enough? They will break you...and destroy everything you love.

The first thing that readers are going to notice is this book’s cover. Depicted on the cover is a character on a swirling green background, clothes tattered, chest cracked and broken open with souls appearing to pour out. This book’s cover gives readers just a glimpse of what awaits them in this book. It’s enough to whet the appetite and have you eager for more. With the lines “Souls are the currency. Death is the price.” That’s sure to spur more than a reader or two to go and grabthis book.

When you dive into this book author Shulz drops readers into a scenario already rife with danger. An attack is being launched, fear is rampant, and death appears to be knocking on their door. You will meet Myddrin, one of the main characters in this story will follow. Myddrin is a humble teacher at this point in the story, but all of that is about to change. Lives are under threat. Their souls are at risk of being lost and absorbed by their killers. But if those sworn to protect, the Knights of Aen, can hold off the threat sweeping down on them, the Skullsworn, they just might stand a chance.

Unfortunately, while Myddrin makes it out alive, it’s in this fight he loses something important to him. In the process, he is also burdened with a huge amount of power. It’s a twist of fate that this power should become his, but his it does become, and while it may not be immediate he will one day be called upon to utilize that power to help save a kingdom.

Soul Cage gives readers multiple POV from several different characters. Don’t worry it won’t be a huge number of characters that you cycle through as you read this novel. You’re going to get Myddrin, a young boy you’ll meet at the beginning by the name of Will and a young woman who is struggling with her quest for power, Tvora.

Will reads like a boy on the spectrum. We won’t classify him as anything specific, but that’s how he reads. Will is a character who struggles. From the way this book unfolds, the fight that he survived really took a toll on him, but there’s more going on than meets the eye. Just wait for it though, because more will be revealed about Will as the story unfolds.

As Soul Cage unfolds Will will prove to be a challenging character. He has lots of struggles. He wants to be a Knight of Aen, but because of his differences he’s looked down upon. Will is even bullied by some of his own peers because of his differences. It’s sad to see. Though, he doesn’t make it easy for himself either. The fact that he takes things so literally makes it a challenge for people to talk to him.

The beauty of Soul Cage is that as the book unfolds and the story progresses, Will gradually grows as a character. It’s not something that will happen quickly, so be prepared to exercise some patience with him. It may get a touch frustrating at times, but that’s one way of knowing that you’ve got yourself a good book.

Tvora is another interesting character. She’s soul-broken. What does that mean you ask? Well, we could tell you, but where would the fun be in that when you could simply grab this book and dive in? It’ll be more enthralling to discover the truth behind her for yourself. Her magic is truly strong, but with the amount of souls she carries...it’s not surprising.

What makes Tvora truly unique are the fact that she carries three companions with her. You’ll meet two of them rather quickly as part of Tvora’s quest is to gain enough power to allow them to “exist” for longer outside of herself. Tvora isn’t a “black” character to be deemed “evil” or a “white” character to be deemed “good.” No, Tvora is more of a gray character. Flawed, struggling even, but she still has some morals.

Soul Cage is packed with tension, drama, and danger. You get chapters that shift between the three main characters and each lends their various perspectives. You’ll see the danger unfolding not just in the camp of the enemy, but even at home where you’d think some should be safe.

Author Shulz creates a dynamic tapestry of a storyline that will keep readers page-turning to find out what happens next. Hoping for some epic battle scenes? Get excited, because those are definitely included in this book.

As Soul Cage draws to a close, don’t let the final chapters fool you. While things may unfold a particular way, don’t allow author Shulz lull you into a state of complacency. Remember, Soul Cage is just the beginning. Of course, there are going to be a couple final surprises, and the ending? Brace yourself. Trust us on this one. As we were reading the final paragraphs of this book...our final thought was “Oh shit.” LOL! One thing is for sure...you’re going to be looking forward to book two.

Readers who enjoy a gripping fantasy novel then you’re not going to want to miss out on checking out Soul Cage. You’re going to get a dynamic cast of characters, epic drama, and so much more. For us? This book is a must read and earns a place in our top 10 for 2024.

Pros:

• Engaging storyline
• Dynamic cast of characters
• Epic drama
• Page-turner
• Plenty of twists & surprises

Cons:

• None of merit

5 out of 5 stars

Thanks to the author L.R. Shulz for the opportunity to read and review this book. We look forward to what comes next in book two!  

Of Song and Darkness Review Spotlight

Of Song and Darkness is now available and we're thrilled to share it with you all this week!

 Of Song and Darkness is a standalone fantasy romance novel with plenty of Little Mermaid vibes, for readers who thoroughly enjoyed that movie/story. Just remember, this is not your typical “Little Mermaid” story. Of Song and Darkness is something fresh and new.

The god of the sea, Poseidon, is gone. Dead. Fallen from this world. What happened to him? Well, that is a question that will be something trails readers as they dive into this story. But with Poseidon gone, so is his protection. While he lived, Poseidon kept the Dark Water at bay. But with him gone, the Dark Water is plaguing the oceans and destroying everything that it comes across.

Many have said, “The Dark Water is a myth.” But Princess Rhea is determined to find out the truth, and truth she will find. Dark Water? It’s real, and little by little it is destroying everything in the ocean. There is only one way to destroy it, and this is not going to be an easy undertaking for Rhea. She must go and find Medusa...and destroy her.

Of Song and Darkness reads with a lot of elements taken from the Little Mermaid story with some pieces thrown in from a familiar cartoon from my childhood called, Pirates of Dark Water. Loved that show. Princess Rhea, like so many royals we read about, is being pushed into a bubble.

What bubble is that? Well, she’s told to “stay safe,” “Don’t wander off,” “Meet your new fiancee that you really have no say in wanting.” Cue that this guy was previously engaged to her now deceased sister, and yuck.

Okay, so he’s not ugly on the outside, but he’s giving ugly vibes on the inside. You’re going to get the sense that he’s truly angling for a shot at the throne, and that at the end of the day? Rhea is just a means to an end.

Rhea isn’t about to let her life be dictated to her, and so she goes on the hunt for answers. She’s quick to find them, which is good, because it speeds the storyline along. Also, it’s not like time is on her side. With each passing day the Dark Water creeps closer to where she and her family live. Her quest for answers takes her to...can you guess? Yep! A sea witch with her own goals and ambitions.

Is this sea witch setting Rhea up for failure? The odds aren’t exactly in Rhea’s favor. It seems like a simple enough thing to do as the witch demands, but things are rarely, if ever...THAT simple. Prepare to be pulled deeper into the depths of this story with each turn of the page.

Of Song and Darkness is a slow-burn romance fantasy novel. It definitely is giving and measuring up to the “enemies to lovers” trope. Kai is a monster hunter. He’s suffered loss and his zealous engagement in the hunting of the creatures of the seas hints that his loss is connected to one of them. Does that mean that all should pay for the crimes of one? Most would say no. Kai? Would say he doesn’t care as long as it’s a job that pays.

Rhea is an interesting character. She has some really nice engaging elements about her. She’s a siren, a princess, and she’s determined to protect her people. She doesn’t care what she has to do, but she’ll do what she must. Even if means partnering with Kai.

The romance sparks slowly between these two characters. It starts out with long looks, small amounts of admiration mixed together with irritation. Let’s be honest...that’s typically how it goes. LOL! Rhea showcases her bravery quite often in this story. Kai can’t decide whether to praise her or lose his mind.

Of Song and Darkness promises a HEA and absolutely delivers in that respect. This reader would have liked more drama and a couple more epic scenes with lots of intense moments, but all in all this is a story worth reading. Especially if you love retellings of some of your favorite classics.

4.5 out of 5 stars

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

Of Song and Darkness

Publication Date: June 3, 2023

Genre: Romantic Fantasy/ Standalone/ No Spice

🧜🏻‍♀️ Who did this to you
🏴‍☠️ Touch her and 💀
🧜🏻‍♀️ Enemies to lovers
🏴‍☠️ Sirens and pirates
🧜🏻‍♀️ Greek mythology
🏴‍☠️ Morally grey MMC
🧜🏻‍♀️ Fade to black romance
🏴‍☠️ Found family

Poseidon has fallen. The world won’t be far behind. Unless she can stop the rising darkness.

The world beneath the waves is in chaos.

Without Poseidon to hold it at bay, Dark Water is slowly spreading, devouring anything it touches. Even the mighty King Manta has given up hope.

But his daughter hasn’t.

Rhea, the siren princess of Aquarius, will do anything to save her world. Even if it means hunting down the mythical Medusa—and partnering with a notorious pirate captain.

Blackheart Kai has more dangerous secrets than Rhea can fathom. He’d rather kill her than help her save her people. She knows he can’t be trusted.

But knowing that doesn’t stop her from needing him…or wanting him.

With the survival of the seven seas hanging in the balance, can Rhea and Kai overcome their hatred and work together when it matters most? Or are they destined to share Poseidon’s dark fate?

Of Song and Darkness is a standalone fantasy romance with The Little Mermaid vibes and no-spice romance. Happily ever after guaranteed. Download today for a love story of mythic proportions.

AVAILABLE ON AMAZON

Tour Organizer: @rrbooktours

 

Way of the Wizard Review Spotlight

 

Your next fantasy read is here. 

Way of the Wizard is the first book in author Michael Michel’s newest series, and whether you are a fan of this author or not...DO. NOT. MISS. THIS. BOOK! This epic fantasy novel is just the beginning, and it is packed with a gripping storyline, fantastical creatures, and the promise of more to come.

The first thing that is going to catch your attention for the Way of the Wizard is the amazing cover. Depicted on the front is a character who appears to be a wizard. Magic flows from his hands down to the ground, and standing in front of him is...a minotaur! This is no regular minotaur. Ooooohhhh no. No, author Michel is giving readers one with four arms. Yes, people! Four!

But this is not some mindless creature people! Oh no! Don’t for one second think that. You’ll notice the lines of blue that streak across and around his body...those are the magical “chains” that bind him. As you read this book, you’ll understand exactly what this creature truly is. So get excited people! Honestly, if this cover alone doesn’t have you racing off to grab this book, I don’t know what will. Okay, well, maybe the promise of an engaging storyline. Because honestly, this book? Yeah, it’s definitely got that.

For now? Let’s go ahead and get into what you can expect from this story.

Readers who are familiar with Michael Michel know that they are going to get a fascinating story with a character who is more than likely going to have a tough road ahead. Is it a path that will be insurmountable? Well, what fun would that be if that were the case? Will the main character have a tough road ahead that will challenge them and push them to become more? Absolutely! One thing is for sure...this book will keep you page-turning to the end.

Way of the Wizard is the story of El. He’s a 16-year-old boy living in poverty with his mother in a small village. For one so young, El has already lost so much. He watched almost every one of his family members die one by one. It’s truly heartbreaking. His sister? Murdered by the Stormseye Brotherhood. The rest of his family? Starvation and disease. Only his mother is left to him, and she is slowly succumbing to disease tortuously slow. It’s heartbreaking knowing that El is having to watch his mother suffer like this and that he can do little to nothing. But does he get to be there in her final moments? No. Why? Well, you’ll have to read to find out.

All we’ll tell you is that El is forced to leave her, and when he comes back to his home...she’s gone. What happened to her? Well, that’s where author Michel allows readers to use their imagination and piece together what happened to her and what her final moments might have been like.

El crosses paths with an Elder though. Who is this strange man? What is this object that he offers El that he says will take him down a path that promises new opportunities? You must be brave if you are to succeed. But when the opportunity to become a Seeker is offered...it is one that El views has hard to pass up.

It’s no small thing to run into the wilderness, but that is the task that El is set with by the Elder. Opportunity only knocks once...but sometimes...your destiny will give you a second chance.

Way of the Wizard is a novel that moves at a pretty quick clip. You are constantly plagued with the question of “What is going to happen next?” when it comes to El’s story. When the storyline takes a certain path, you can’t help but wonder where is El’s journey going to take him.

One can easily guess that as this is book one of a new series by author Michel that El’s story will end soon in this book or anytime soon. If that were the case then we really wouldn’t have much of a story now, would we? LOL! Granted, his friend Trin could pick up his story by choosing to chase after him, but while he thinks of her often, she’s but a side character for the moment.

El is just 16, soon to be 17, but life doesn’t care. He’s going to have to work hard to prove himself if he is to achieve his dream of becoming a wizard. The object that he is given will be his guide, but only if he does EXACTLY as it says. Any deviation will lead to a destruction and there will be no coming back for him. It’s not easy to always follow what you are instructed to do, but if he can do that? Well, you can guess that success will be in his future.

Way of the Wizard has an interesting cast of characters. El is the main focus of the story as the story is told from his perspective. El shows some juvenile attributes, but in this world that author Michel has created, El is going to have to do some growing up...and quickly. The good news? He’s going to have some help along the way. El will make a friend or two along the way when he is found by and joins a cabal. You’ll find that the wizard who takes him in doesn’t expect much of him. In fact, this wizard has such low expectations of El that he doesn’t believe that El will live past 6 months. Talk about setting the bar low! LOL! Granted, El is determined to prove him wrong. #TeamEl all the way!

With some guidance and sheer determination El progressively improves a day at a time. One element that we appreciate about this book is that author Michel doesn’t rush the storyline. This isn’t a story of where one day El is struggling to throw a spear and hit a target, and then within a week he’s a “pro.” No, you get to watch as El gradually improves. Of course, that doesn’t mean that he doesn’t get thrown into the deep end a few times.

Hoping for some fantastical creatures? Be patient! They are coming! We may or may not have done a few rounds of excited bouncing when author Michel introduces certain monsters at various points throughout the story. When the minotaur featured on the cover makes an appearance we became GLUED to the pages. Honestly, it was like author Michel was reading our mind when we started to wonder “When exactly is the monster featured on the cover going to make an appearance?” Trust us...it’s worth the wait, but there will be others to draw you in in the meantime.

Way of the Wizard is a “short-ish” novel when it comes to an “epic fantasy.” But don’t let that get you down. Every page gives you another fascinating aspect of the story. There is nothing boring to be found within the pages of the Way of the Wizard. We can promise you that. Now, are you wondering if there is a cliffhanger ending? Kinda sorta? LOL! Honestly, we got in a bit of a huff when the book comes to a bit of an “abrupt” end, but it was honestly a good stopping point. We know you’ll agree when you read this book. LOL!

Look at this way though! You’ll be excited for book two! Way of the Wizard is honestly one of our top favorite books of 2024. Author Michel does an excellent job keeping readers engaged in the fate of his main character, El. Pay attention to the small details because the author is laying the groundwork and some hints for what will be to come concerning El and some individuals he may know. Things are just getting started and we can’t wait for more.

Pros:

• Great storytelling
• Engaging storyline
• Interesting characters
• Fantastic creatures
• Nice attention to detail

Cons:

• None of merit

5 out of 5 stars

Thank you to the author, Michael Michel, for the opportunity to read and review this book! We look forward to what comes next!

Fantasy book lovers unite and grab this book!  

A Pursuit of Madness Review Spotlight

A Pursuit of Madness is a standalone fantasy novel that takes Alice in Wonderland and gives it a brand new twist. This isn’t the Alice you remember, so brace yourself for a darker more twisted version that will keep you page-turning.

A Pursuit ofMadness’s cover cues you in on the darkness within its pages with a beautifully dark cover with elegant silver framing that is delicate, but draws the eye. In the center of this book’s cover is a keyhole with roses adorning either side of it. Below that is a beautiful crown with a silver pocket watch sitting in the very center of the crown. The cover doesn’t necessarily scream “Wonderland” but it will pique your interest in what the cover hides inside.

A Pursuit of Madness is the first book in author Amber Bunch’s A Twisted Princess Collection. As stated above, this book is a standalone novel with a nice steamy HEA at the end. Technically Alice isn’t a princess, but don’t think that that means that there aren’t any princesses in this book. There is, but you just need to wait a minute before she makes an appearance.

A Pursuit of Madness gives readers a multiple POV throughout this book. You can expect not two, not three, and definitely not four POV with this book. Nope! You get five! Yes! We’re getting spoiled with the POV in this novel. It will for sure keep you on your toes as the author takes you back and forth between the world we are familiar with, and Wonderland.

There is something interesting in how author Bunch depicts Wonderland. Wonderland mimics a lot of what is already familiar to us. They have cars, their own version of the internet, and other technological advances. What they don’t have though...is freedom. Their Queen keeps them shackled in fear. Magic is outlawed. Outrageous, right?! I mean, seriously! Come on! Is it because the Queen fears someone using magic to usurp her? (Which she totally deserves to happen.) Or is it simply so that she can keep the citizens in fear of her assassins and Jabberwocky?

One thing is for sure when it comes to A Pursuit of Madness you are getting two dynamic factors with this novel – 1) dark (which we absolutely loved) and 2)...steamy. Lots of steamy.

One of the things that we absolutely loved about this book is the level of darkness in Alice’s chapters. She’s a very dark character, but she does certain “dark” things...for good. So, she’s a dark character with the intent and plan to make the world...a better place. So, basically, you gotta love her...or she’ll kill you. LOL! Just kidding!! No, seriously, we promise….we’re kidding. LOL!

Think that Alice is the only dark character in this book? Of course, she’s not! We have the twins – Dom and Dean in Wonderland, though Hatter has some darkness in him, too. But of course, we have the assassin pair, too. Now, they are the ones that you don’t want to cross. The Queen’s assassins who do her bidding of hunting down those who are found doing magic. Merciless killers who more than enjoy what they do. You get to witness one of their hunts, but the hunt plays out quickly. We would have liked a touch more detail since they are so feared. You’d think that they’d play with their “food” more than they do. The good news is that you get some of that detail with Alice when she goes on her own “hunt.”

A Pursuit of Madness really brings the drama and the steamy. You get multiple scenes sprinkled through that will keep you entertained and coming back for more. It is a lot of no-holds-barred steamy that at times will dance the fine line of consent. But let’s be clear...consent is always given, so don’t think that anything is done against anyone’s will. Well, except for Princess Rose when she is made to use her tracking magic on the citizens of her kingdom.

A Pursuit of Madness is part of the Twisted Princess Collection. Yet, the story doesn’t give readers a lot of the princess in this story. It’s an expectation that fails to be met. Which is disappointing. You can call Alice “princess” if you want to, but it’s not truly applicable, because she’s not a princess. It would simply be just giving Alice a nickname and nothing more. We really wanted more of Rose with this story, despite the fact that this is an “Alice in Wonderland” style novel.

A Pursuit of Madness has a lot of drama, but what you also get is a lot of...things going the way for the characters. Are there some “hiccups” that force them to reassess and rethink certain situations? Yes. Could there have been more of them? Again...yes. This book honestly needed more of them. We just wanted more drama and for the characters to really have to fight to reclaim what it is that they are after.

Hoping for an epic battle that sees the Queen taken down? Perhaps an epic fight with the assassins that sees their reign of terror ended? This is a potential spoiler, so...read on at your own risk. This story is lacking in an epic fight between the primary character(s) that have been deemed the bad guy(s). It’s honestly disappointing. Th expectation is there for this big fight to come. Granted, the Queen is not depicted as a fighter, so...then that shifts the expectation to the assassins. It’s a disappointment that none of this pans out after all the hype that the characters do of shouting about “taking down the queen and restoring Wonderland.”

A Pursuit of Madness reads like a standalone novel, and so you can expect a full storyline and a HEA ending with a nice little time gap at the end. When we say “time gap” we mean that you get a little passage of time before the author revisits the characters again and shows where they are now. Get ready for one of the most deliciously steamy moments in the book. Saving the best for last. LOL!

A Pursuit of Madness is a dynamic twist on a classic story, and one thing is for sure and that is author Bunch does this story proud. Alice is a character who draws you in, but she works well together with the other characters to create a fun story that will appeal to your dark side and leave you begging for more with the steamy.

Pros:

• Engaging story
• Deliciously dark elements
• Steamy scenes
• Twisted characters

Cons:

• No epic fight between the main bad guys of the story
• Wanted more drama

4.5 out of 5 stars