Of Threads and Oceans Review Spotlight

 

 Looking for a clean YA fantasy novel and series to dive into? Want something with a forbidden romance angle? Well, Of Threads and Oceans, the first in the Threads of Magic series will be a book that you don’t want to miss out on.

Of Threads and Oceans by Camilla Tracy draws the eye with a young woman standing proudly front and center on the cover. Her brown hair is being swept to the side with the wind. She has a staff in her hand slung behind her back, not quite resting on her shoulders. Around her shoulders is a small green snake with what appears to be an energy lingering around it.

The young woman’s outfit draws the eye downward from the vest to the red scarf wrapped around her waist, to the skirt and pants below. On either side of her are two animal “familiars.” A gorgeous tiger and a fluffy poodle, both with an ethereal element of energy swirling all around them. You absolutely will be intrigued by this book simply based on the cover.

Of Threads and Oceans opens up with the main character, Thali bartering with a merchant. You can tell that things aren’t going well...for the merchant. Thali obviously has the upper hand, but the merchant? He thinks that he’s about to come out on top...until she plays her trump card. Well, played Thali. Well played. Though, she turns around into some trouble. (Don’t worry, she’ll be fine. LOL)

The beginning Of Threads and Oceans is engaging and heartwarming with the introduction of Thali and her brother, Rommy. Readers will get a sense of excitement as Thali heads back home to her merchant family. Unfortunately, author Tracy throws a heartbreaking moment for Thali and her family. The loss of Thali’s brother, Rommy.

He had like...not even five minutes in the story before he disappears! What!?! Why?! Well, this tragedy is utilized to push Thali in the direction that the story needs her to go. With the loss of her brother, Thali’s parents are determined to do whatever they must to protect their remaining child. What does that mean? Well, for her, it means that she will be shipped off to a school. Not that she needs to go, but they feel that it will be what’s best for her.

Of course, this change for Thali is one that she’s not 100% on board with. Why? Well, it’s not like she needs the education that this trade school provides. She’s been doing what the other students are learning since she was able to start walking. Now, instead of being challenged by the sea and merchants trying to get one over on her, she’ll have to deal with students her own age. Add in that she must hide her ability to “speak” with animals, and it sounds pretty simple, right? No pressure! LOL!

Of Threads and Oceans is an engaging YA fantasy novel that focuses on Thali as she navigates the trade school and all the drama that lingers in and around it. Of course, it doesn’t take Thali long to catch the eye of a guy while out at the market. It’s not just any guy whose eye she catches either. It’s someone who will cause her to fear her family’s reaction.

Author Tracy details an engaging story that draws readers in as Thali navigates school and the ins and outs of it. She manages to make some friends, but those friendships? Well, not everything is what it seems, and sadly Thali learns this the hard way. Thankfully, in Of Threads and Oceans, she has a friend by her side...most of the time. Her friend from home, Mia, is someone who is with her the majority of the time.

However, if you think that the animals on the cover are just there for decoration, you’ll be pleased to know they make frequent appearances in the story. Bardo, the snake, is one that is often with Thali throughout the story. Her tiger, Indi, and Ana, the poodle, while they have to stay home at first, become a staple of Thali’s life at school.

If you’re expecting Thali to be sitting around having conversations with her animals, you’ll be disappointed with that particular aspect of the story. She communicates with them, but there isn’t a running dialogue between them. That is strictly reserved for the human characters of this story.

If we had to rate the level of fantasy in this story, we’d rate it as “low.” Thali has her magical abilities, but they are kept pretty much under wraps. She allows her love interest to know about her magic, but outside of close friends and family, no one else really knows.

The romance angle is focused on in the story, but the “fear of family discovering who he really is” is teased. It’s teased, but nothing really comes of it...for now. We’ll have to see what happens as the story continues to play out, but for book one, there really isn’t anything there. Instead, we get reassurances from family and others in the merchant/trade business who promise her that she has nothing to worry about.

We hate to say it, but that’s a disappointing aspect because it robs readers of the suspense of the entire situation. It’s like defusing the situation before things can really come to a head. Of course, anything can really happen, so we’ll just have to exercise some patience and see where the following books lead us in that particular area.

The majority of the story focuses on Thali at school. Don’t worry we don’t get bogged down in the day-to-day school life. We get snippets, and it’s just enough to engage you in the story and give readers a glimpse of what Thali experiences. As the story draws to a close, that’s when things start to get more interesting.

Of Threads and Oceans, readers get a potential love triangle, mysterious islands, and a mysterious character towards the end of this book. The beginning chapters and the final chapters hold the majority of thrilling bits, and they will push readers to look to dive deeper into the series.

Of Threads and Oceans is an engaging start to the series, and we’re eager to see where things go from here. We’re really hoping for more drama concerning Thali’s relationship and her family. We’ll have to wait and see, but anything is possible.

This book is a very clean romance, with low amounts of magic (Thali is the only one with magical abilities at this point). Author Tracy is leading readers to believe that there is another magical being to be found, so we’re excited to continue this series and find out what happens next.

Looking for a good fantasy novel with an overall engaging storyline? Well, you can’t go wrong with Of Threads and Oceans.

Since We're Here Spotlight

 

It's release week and we are thrilled to be touring this adorable and spicy romance by Chrissy Hopewell!

Since We’re Here: A Grumpy Sunshine Irish Romance

Genre: Romance/ Interconnected Standalone

Publication Date: September 9

• Grumpy sunshine

• Irish setting

• Close proximity

• He falls first

• Fish out of water

• Main characters in their 30s

• Just once to get it out of our system

• Pet sheep

• Open door/ medium spice

Nine messy breakups, nine jobs lost. When restaurant manager Maddie Hart learns that number ten—a surf instructor based in the Caribbean—is cheating on her, she changes her destination flight (but not the contents of her suitcase) to Ireland. She’ll delay disappointing her family and figure out how to get her life back on track, while also planning her oldest sister’s pre-wedding Irish road trip. Except the groom-to-be’s best friend isn’t replying to her emails.

Ex-pro soccer goalkeeper Patrick McNulty has deep roots in the seaside town of Dingle, Ireland. He’s got clear priorities: be there for his aging parents, support his sister and nieces, and take over the family brewery while also managing his pub. None of that includes dating, because after one disastrous engagement, Patrick is done with relationships.

When the sunshine-y American tourist who asked him to kiss her in the pub turns out to be the same woman emailing for help planning a road trip, Patrick vows to keep it platonic. Especially after his pub manager quits and Maddie jumps in to help. Their sizzling chemistry leads them to sleep together just once, but it’s not nearly enough for either of them.

Maddie knows her future isn’t in Ireland—or with Patrick. And he needs to stay focused before his carefully planned life unravels with the distraction of the American tourist. The Irish road trip is their last chance…Will Patrick be able to convince her (and himself) that fighting for number eleven is worth the journey?

AVAILABLE ON AMAZON

Vesselless Review Spotlight

Have you read Vesselless by Cortney L. Winn yet? We really think you should, especially if you loved; Fourth Wing, Serpent and Wings of Night, and From Blood and Ash!

Looking for your next exciting fantasy read? Vesselless is going to be that book. Trust us on this one. The minute we began this book we were swept away and kept coming back for more. This is first in the series, and we are already like -- okay, where is book two? We need to know what happens next. LOL! 

The kingdom was stolen. That is what the people believe that Nizzara and her family rule over. When you get to the meat of the matter...their not far off on the truth on that one. The kingdom was taken through bloodshed and fighting. When you learn the true gist of the story...it matches up. But now, danger is coming home. 

Nizzara is different from her family. She doesn't like the heavy-handed methods that her father chooses to utilize against the people. You'll quickly get an understand as to what is going on when you start reading this book. Author Winn is quick to point it out to readers and it will have your jaw on the floor. 

Author Winn works to quickly draw readers in by shifting the story to our ghostly MMC, Dagen. When he makes his appearance it's quite the jolt. He's supposed to be dead...and well, he is. LOL! But he's about to be given an offer that will be too tempting to turn away. He knows the dangers of striking this bargain, but temptation is a devil. 

Dagen sees his opportunity to have some revenge, reclaim what is rightfully his and be free, even if it for only 100 years. But hey, revenge will make it all the sweeter. The only problem? The target. He doesn't intend to begin to fall for her, but fall he does. What does that mean? He knows the consequences should he fail, but there is more going on here than meets the eye. 

Vesselless is a true page-turner of a fantasy novel. You're not going to want to put this book down once you start reading it. 

5 out of 5 stars

A hot-headed heiress, duels her way through a deadly tournament to end her betrothal, teaming up with a wickedly handsome enemy who is HALF GHOST and all charm.

Vesselless (The Merciless Realms Series Book 1)

Publication Date: May 23, 2024

Genre: Romantic Fantasy

She’s heiress to the throne. The throne her father stole from him.

Nizzara has always been able to perceive spirits better than the average caster. When she enters a deadly tournament to end her betrothal, she's determined to win without succumbing to the addictive spirit magic she channels or taking a life in the duel ring. Finding herself outmatched, Nizzara must face her fear of power and team up with Dagen—an enemy who is half-ghost and all charm—to survive the tournament.

Dagen, the last King of Zarr, was killed by Nizzara’s father ten years ago. Now a half-ghost—able to phase between his human and spirit form—he is stuck in another realm, hunting wretched souls. When his keeper offers him a chance to reclaim his freedom in exchange for Nizzara’s soul, Dagen takes the deal.

There’s only one catch: she must freely give it to him by the tournament’s end or his own soul is forfeit.

Fourth Wing meets The Serpent of Wings & Night in the first instalment of this action packed romantasy as they deal with the bargain hanging over their heads. Family, love, power and deception collide as Nizarra and Dagen make decisions that could change their realm forever.

AVAILABLE ON AMAZON & KU

 

The Healer Academy Review

 The Healer Academy is the first book in Marinda Misra’s Healer Academy series. This series will depict the story of a young girl as she discovers exactly who she is. She’s been shunned all her life and told by the people of her village that she’s “cursed.” However, that is all a lie, and the truth? The truth is going to come out and it is going to be something truly shocking.

The Healer Academy piques readers interest with a beautiful cover. The cover shows the close up face of a young girl with violet eyes. Behind her are trees while in her hands are glowing blue lights floating all around her. All of these are hints and clues of what the reader can expect to find in this story.

The Healer Academy tells the story of young girl named Kailin. Kailin has been raised all her life in a small village near the Holy Forest. Her life hasn’t been easy due to her heritage. The villagers believe that she is a “bastard” child and that her mother had a child out of wedlock. So they treat her with disdain and shame her at every turn. The only person that she appears to have is her aunt Beredith. But Kailin’s opportunity is coming – with the entrance exam to the Healer Academy.

The Healer Academy gradually draws readers in with hints of Kailin’s capabilities. She’s a truly capable healer on her own thanks to her aunt’s skill. While Kailin may be skilled, she is, unfortunately, prone to a touch of panic. This will cause an issue during the exam, and her one chance to advance to another level in life...is going to be taken away from...based one...simple...mistake.

Kailin’s quest is unfortunately going to be derailed, but the chance won’t be completely gone. Instead, her aunt will push for her to go with a Healer. But instead of being a student, Kailin will be a servant. This is not the way that Kailin had hoped to reach the Healer Academy, but she will discover more and more as time goes by.

The Healer Academy is an engaging YA fantasy novel that pulls readers in with hints of magic here and there throughout the story. This book wouldn’t be classified as “high fantasy” where magic is “essential” to the storyline. The Healer Academy is more of a “low fantasy” novel at this time. Who is to say what the future will hold when it comes to the magic levels, but for now, this is the case.

Kailin is a multi-faceted character. She shows some good character development throughout the story. She goes from being a scared child to a strong young woman a little bit at a time. There are some in the story who could seriously care less about her. She’s a Peasant girl who has come to the Academy to be a servant. Simple. Cut and dry. Right? But she’s more than that and capable of much more.

Kailin seems to have a tendency to get herself into trouble, but each time it leads to something more. She experiences various situations and in the process learns new things about not just herself, but the powers that she possesses. One thing is for certain – Kailin doesn’t truly want these powers. Why? Well, they scare her. Once you dive into this story you’ll get a better understanding as to why she fears them.

There are moments in The Healer Academy that Kailin will probably try your patience. LOL! She’s very vocal at times, and despite the fact that she is supposed to be a servant she hardly behaves like one. Kailin is not alone in this story. She makes friends with some of the other servants, and a girl that she grew up with goes from friend...to former friend. That “friendship” falling apart is rather sad to witness.

The overall storyline is engaging and is sure to keep readers page-turning as we wonder what is going to happen to Kailin. She’s made it to the Healer Academy, but she’s a servant. She’s working there instead of having the opportunity to study and learn more. Add in that she has caught the eye of a “notorious” Noble known for and that alone spells trouble for her. Why exactly? Well, you’ll have to read to find out.

The Healer Academy has it’s twists and surprises packed into places where you’re not going to expect them. Author Misra reminds readers that the peace that is found in this story is tenuous at best. War is brewing, and the land that Kailin lives in is preparing bit by bit. Men below the station of Noble are being rounded up, and the lower people...are beginning to fight back.

The story doesn’t simply stay at the Healer Academy though. While the majority of it is, the author takes readers to Kailin’s home, and then to another place that is supposed to be neutral ground. Kailin is really going to have her hands full with all of the drama that she will be experiencing throughout this story.

Hoping for some romance? Well, you’re definitely going to get that. Since this is a YA novel, the romance will be kept clean. There will be some hints of “more” between some characters, but there won’t be anything that takes place on page. As for anything happening between Kailin and any boy, things will be kept to just kissing for now. Who knows what the future will bring as the story continues to progress.

The end of this first book doesn’t have a cliffhanger. So, for readers who absolutely hate those...smile. LOL! The Healer Academy comes to a nice neat close with all seeming to be well with Kailin for the time being. Everything is far from perfect, but for the moment she’s happy and things are looking up. Who’s to say what will happen in book two.

Pros:

• Good storytelling
• Engaging storyline
• Nice attention to detail
• Page-turner

Cons:

• None of merit

4.5 out of 5 stars

 

Uncharted Desires Spotlight

We have the perfect book for your summer reading list! Check out this adorable rockstar romance by Jillian Sharp!

Uncharted Desires: A Forced Proximity, Rockstar Romance

Publication Date: May 14, 2024

Genre: Rockstar Romance/ Spicy

• Forced Proximity

• Indigenous Rep

• Island Survival

• Rockstar MMC

• Unrequited Love

• Love interests in their 30s

• Sexy Action/Adventure

• Interracial Couple

• Romcom with Angst

It took just one misstep to send musician Kat Brooks and arrogant rock star Weston

Monroe tumbling from his luxury yacht. Now she’s stranded on a deserted island with the

man who’s ruined her life. Things, surely, couldn’t get any worse...

Katrina Brooks has spent years in the background dreaming of the chance to share her voice.

Instead, Kat’s music career is destroyed when her boss, the king of romantic rock songs, Weston

Monroe announces his surprise retirement during their end-of-tour vacation. To add insult to

injury, Kat's misguided rescue attempt lands her floating in the Indian Ocean with Weston and no land in sight.

Weston’s reasons for early retirement aren’t anyone’s business but his—even if his piano-playing

background singer thinks otherwise. Drifting in the ocean with nowhere to hide, he is forced to

confront Kat and years of their unresolved sexual baggage, without a drop of whiskey in sight.

After washing ashore on an uncharted island, they discover it’s not just the natural world

hindering their survival. Making it back to civilization in one piece, and without breaking each

other's hearts, just got more complicated.

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

Clowders Book Blitz

Welcome all! Do you love horror? How about cats? Are you looking for your next horror packed novel that is filled with mysterious cats? Then look no further! We have a special treat for you today - Clowders is FREE! So, if this book intrigues you...keep reading and be sure to grab yourself a copy! 

                 Clowders by Vanessa Morgan

Genre: horror, supernatural thriller, cats

Age group: for adults

Description

Clervaux, Luxembourg. This secluded, picturesque town in the middle of Europe is home to more cats than people. For years, tourists have flocked to this place – also known as “cat haven” - to meet the cats and buy cat-related souvenirs.

When Aidan, Jess and their five-year-old daughter, Eleonore, move from America to Clervaux, it seems as if they've arrived in paradise. It soon becomes evident, though, that the inhabitants' adoration of their cats is unhealthy.

According to a local legend, each time a cat dies, nine human lives are taken as a punishment. To tourists, these tales are supernatural folklore, created to frighten children on cold winter nights. But for the inhabitants of Clervaux, the danger is horrifyingly real.

Initially, Aidan and Jess regard this as local superstition, but when Jess runs over a cat after a night on the town, people start dying, one by one, and each time it happens, a clowder of cats can be seen roaming the premises.

Are they falling victim to the collective paranoia infecting the entire town? Or is something unspeakably evil waiting for them?

Their move to Europe may just have been the worst decision they ever made.

Inspirations

Although the book's location – Clervaux in Luxembourg – exists in real life, Clowders is actually is inspired by Japanese cat islands, such as Tashirojima and Aoshima. where tourists visit to meet and play with cats. On these islands, cats outnumber the human population, and they are known for their cat-themed decorations and merchandise. The only difference is that these cat islands aren't cursed.

Cat tourism not a new concept, but it's gained popularity in recent years. Destinations like cat cafes and cat islands attract tourists from all over the globe who want to interact with cats. These places often have themed decorations and merchandise centered around cats. Cat-related tourism offers a unique experience for animal lovers and travelers alike.

Are you interested in knowing more about these destinations? Then check out the author's blog, Traveling Cats, which is all about cat tourism.

About the author

Vanessa Morgan is the editor of the movie reference guides When Animals Attack: The 70 Best Horror Movies with Killer Animals, Strange Blood: 71 Essays on Offbeat and Underrated Vampire Movies, and Evil Seeds: The Ultimate Movie Guide to Villainous Children. She also has had one cat book (Avalon) and four supernatural thrillers (Drowned Sorrow, The Strangers Outside, A Good Man, and Clowders) published. Three of her stories have been turned into movies. She has written for myriad Belgian magazines and newspapers and introduces movie screenings at several European film festivals. She is also a programmer for the Offscreen Film Festival in Belgium. When she's not working on her latest book, you can find her reading, watching movies, eating out, or photographing felines for her blog Traveling Cats.

What others have to say about Clowders

"A startling new voice in horror" - Lucky McKee (director)

"Vanessa Morgan has the gift of pacing and spookiness." - Scott Nicholson (author)

"One very fine writer for both books and screen - Vanessa has a style that is intoxicating." - Grady Harp (Amazon Top 100 Reviewer)

"The female version of Stephen King." - Pedro Chaves (director)

"A first-rate horror story." – Port Jericho (blog)

"A surprisingly scary book." – With Love For Books (blog)

"An intelligent piece of classic horror with a family at the heart of the story." – The Shades of Orange (blog)

"Clowders is a book that reminded me a lot of vintage, small-town European horror from the likes of Herbert, Hutson, Clark, and Campbell. Vanessa Morgan weaves a creepy, suspenseful tale about urban legends and rural superstitions, with a plot that feeds on paranoia and fear." - Sally Bend (author)

"I think Clowders has a Children of the Corn vibe. Replace the corn with cats, and replace the kids with adults. You'll find the same theme." - Kathy Finfrock (author)

"A horror novel written in a way that has me picturing its scenes as though I'm watching a horror movie." - Miranda Burski (author)

"Great story. Solid characters. Well crafted suspense." – Hatched Mouth (YouTube)

"A good shiver-causing read." - Toni Lesatz (author)

"Really terrifying." – Bookshelf Life (blog)

"Full of suspense and terror." – Warm Days Will Never Cease (blog)

"It's riveting and chilling and unlike anything I've ever read. I can already see it as a movie." – Melissa's Mochas, Mysteries, and Meows (blog)

"I really enjoyed having no idea if the impending doom was real or just a figment of the townspeople's imagination. It really left me second guessing what was truly going on." – The Book Return (blog)

"My hats are off to Vanessa Morgan for her ending. She didn't settle, and she hit the right plot points." – The Literary License (podcast)

"Ms. Morgan has certainly scratched out a special niche in the horror genre with Clowders." – Tome Tender (blog)

Links

Website: https://traveling-cats.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelingcats

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelingcatsblog/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/TravellingCats

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/eeriestories/

Amazon Author Page: https://amzn.to/3WwZ0Y9

GIVEAWAY

Blitz-wide giveaway (INT)

• 5x ebook of your choice from the list below (see image attached):

Link: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/d04251235750/

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Division X Spotlight

I’m not me when I kill people. At least, that’s what I tell myself. I wake up, and I know I’ve done something horrible. My hands are covered in blood, my clothes are gone, and my stomach feels full. I don’t remember what I did. All I remember is the pain. It’s impossible to forget...

                                                                            Division X

Publication Date: October 2022 (First Edition)

Genre: Paranormal Horror

The monster killing business isn't all it's cracked up to be.

We all have a monster within... understatement of the year. For 24-year-old Randi Matheson, she quite literally does. On every full moon, it rears its hairy head. She wasn't always like this. Ever since her attack, the animal comes out to play. And on one full moon, the beast inside tries to eat her younger brother.

Division X, a paramilitary group hellbent on the eradication of monsters, intervenes and saves Randi's brother from being devoured. They take Randi far away and imprison her in a place no monster can escape. Held captive, Randi is given an ultimatum. Work for Division X as a new weapon in the fight against evil or be dissected. Without a real choice, she chooses the former and experiences the dark underbelly of reality as she faces off against vampires, demons, and redneck serial killers. Promised a cure to her condition along the way, Randi does her best to stay alive.

CW: Violence, gore, adult content

GET IT ON AMAZON

 

Road Kill Texas Horror Vol 8 Anthology Review Spotlight

Looking for something darkly delicious? Well, Black Tide Book Tours and HellBound Books has got you covered! Brace yourself for a book packed with twisted horror stories from the minds of some pretty epic Texans. Read on at your own risk! Hope you enjoy! 

 Road Kill Texas Horror by Texas Writers Vol 8 is packed from stem to stern with horror novels written by...yep, you guessed it, Texas authors. So, basically what we’re getting is some of the best quality work you can find out there, right? Because Texas is just that great. LOL! Hey! Stop looking at me like that...I’m completely UNbiased here. So I claim as a Texan myself and proud of it. LOL!

But for real, for real...this anthology is packed with horrorific tales from the twisted minds of many of these authors that will leave you with a mixed bag of reactions. Some will draw you in and keep you page-turning...to the rather abrupt endings that they tease you with. While others will leave you with the macabre horrors that their characters suffered and the twisted fates that saw their ultimate downfall.

In Road Kill Texas Horror, there is a little something for everyone. You’re going to get stories that take you back in time before racism became the more “toned-down” entity that it is today. You’re going to get stories that will flick at your conscious like a snake’s tongue as it hunts for its next victim. You’re going to be treated to stories with ghosts that re-enter the world through a portal that...honestly...should not be, but hey...who cares about the “rules” when horror? Horror is meant to break them like bones and grind them into dust.

There are some seriously delicious hidden gems tucked away inside this anthology. Twisted stories that will grip you and keep you coming back for more. The desire riding you hard to find out...how does this play out for this particular character? What twisted fate does this author have in store for them? Bring on the macabre you’ll shout! But don’t say it too loud or something just might answer...and not in the way you’ll be hoping.

With the start of Road Kill Texas Horror you are gifted an introduction by Bret McCormick. This individual tells you about all the submissions that they went through to piece together this particular anthology. A lot of work and detail went into it, that’s for sure. A lot of rejections from the sounds of it as this person went to the lengths of trying to find the perfect collection to bring this anthology to life. Were they successful in their endeavors? Well, all readers are fickle creatures, and we are no exception. Some will say yes, others...eh, not so much. But all that matters at the end of the day dear reader...is you.

This collection starts things off with a story that will challenge your conscious. It will beg the moral question concerning the young character who is the focus of this story. “What would you have done, if you were in her shoes?” “Lonely Death on a Wednesday, 1 pm, at a Motel Outside Marfa, is a story that sticks with you in the most intriguing way. Is because there is a gruesome murder with blood spatter everywhere? No. Is it a tragic death of someone who has been left to rot in an abandoned motel room completely forgotten? No. It’s a tragedy that could have been avoided.

The young character who bears witness to the tragedy...is written as aloof. Like there is some form of disconnect concerning the child. But what is it exactly? You’ll find yourself questioning her behavior. You’ll honestly find yourself questioning the entire scene that unfolds. It’s a sad tale, but brings more of a horror of humanity to the forefront.

Nature lovers...or haters...LOL! Whichever end of the spectrum you may find yourself on...”Nature Calls” by E.R. Bills is going to be one that either you’re going to greedily devour...or one that will have you forever swearing off any outdoor excursions. Ya know...just in case something that is depicted in this twisted story...could actually happen. LOL!

The beginning of “Nature Calls” starts out interestingly enough. Something fast, huge, and scary is killing humans. What is it? Well, author Bills insists on keeping you in the dark. What could it be? What is it? Is there any way to escape this dangerous thing as it appears to destroy everything it crosses?

Well, we recommend that you settle in on this story, because the interesting bits? They’re scattered throughout...much like how this creature leaves it’s victims. Too soon? LOL! Though, when the revelation comes of what it is...and the acceptance of the characters...well, that’s going to take some time, but it’s worth it. The ending? Jaw-dropping.

Want to know which one pretty much blew our mind? Well, that’s easy enough...”That’s a Peculiar Stain on the Carpet.” This story...this one we should have recorded our facial reactions because...boooooy howdy! We did NOT see any of author Jae Mazer’s twisted imagination coming at us by a long shot. This book is packed with twisted elements that are NOT for the faint of heart. For some readers...it’s going to be down right cringy. So...you’ve been warned. Proceed with caution. LOL! But honestly? For us? The weirder, the better, and author Mazer delivers in spades. We didn’t like some of the elements of this book *coughs – the cat scene* especially, but this is one of the stories where you just cannot predict what is going to happen next. Honestly, those are the best kinds. LOL!

Another story that we absolutely devoured? “Sundown” by Jonathan Louis Duckworth. OMG! This is another one that just grabbed us and kept us page-turning to the end. Anything with some form of twisted lore, and the consequences in dabbling in it...we are going to eat it up. Author Duckworth takes his time laying out the foundation for what’s coming, but the wait is worth every second! While you’re waiting, you’re not bored. You’re curious about the characters. Your curiosity is going to drive you to dig deeper and to learn more. It’s absolutely riveting.

Now, we could give you a taste or glimpse about more stories in this collection, but then...what would motivate you to grab a copy and dive in yourself? So, we’ll leave things with those few that we’ve given you a tiny taste of. There is literally something for everyone in this collection. Some will keep you page-turning, while others...(for us) may end up lulling you to sleep. But one thing is for sure...Texas is beautifully represented in this collective of twisted deliciousness.

Horror lovers unite, because Road Kill Texas Horror is not be missed...or you’ll regret it.

4.5 out of 5 stars

Pros:

• Gripping stories
• Twisted characters
• Twisted situations
• Deliciously gorey
• Page-turners

Cons:

• None of true merit

A huge shout out thank you to all of the authors who participated in this anthology, HellBound Books, and Black Tide Book tours for the opportunity to read and review this book! It was a lot of fun! As always, I look forward to what comes next with Black Tide Book Tours and the darkly delicious books from HellBound books.  

Road Kill: Texas Horror by Texas Writers - Vol 8

by Texas Authors; Compiled & Edited by Patrick C Harrison III

Black Tide Book Tours

May 7-10

Mind the moon when you leave the theater! Road Kill: Texas Horror by Texas Writers returns, and Vol. 8 definitely goes Splatterbump in the night!

It’s a monstrous mosh of fallen angels, prepubescent prescience, tempestuous incest, intergalactic blues, a Gulliverian massacre, cynophile racists, murderous rodents, a prehistoric Devil Head, the return of Bram Stoker’s forgotten hero, and so much more...

Featuring stories from the grand master of horror himself, Joe R. Lansdale, Emma E. Murray, Jae Mazer, Bret McCormick, Madison Estes, Chris Miller, James H. Longmore, Jonathan Louis Duckworth, Robert Stahl, Matt Micheli, Elford Alley, Iphigenia Strangeworth, Jacob Austin, R. L. Olvitt, Lawrence Buentello, Tom Bont, Bev Vincent, and the incomparable E. R. Bills.

Universal link for the book on Amazon

About the Editor

Patrick C. Harrison III (PC3, if you prefer) is an author of horror, splatterpunk, and all forms of speculative fiction. His current publications include GRANDPAPPY, 100% MATCH, A SAVAGE BREED, and VAMPIRE NUNS BEHIND BARS, among others. His works can also be found in various anthologies, including AND HELL FOLLOWED and ROAD KILL: TEXAS HORROR BY TEXAS AUTHORS VOL. 4.

PC3 is also an editor, having worked on numerous books for Death's Head Press, D&T Publishing, and Fedowar Press, as well for popular authors like Aron Beauregard and Danel J. Volpe. For editing services, feel free to contact PC3 at pc3@pc3horror.com.

Follow PC3's FREE substack—pc3horror.substack.com—for frequent horror and exploitation movie reviews, as well as updates on his fiction.

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

 

Of Blood and Aether Review Spotlight

We're celebrating the release of stunning new dark fantasy novel, Of Blood and Aether by Harper Hawthorne! Read on for more details!

Of Blood and Aether is the latest book with engaging characters and a wicked storyline that is going to keep you coming back for more. Understand, when you start reading the prologue alone...author Harper Hawthorne's intent is to keep you glued to the pages to learn what unfolds next. 

Of Blood and Aether will first captivate your attention with its gorgeous cover. Beautiful colors that immediately catch the eye. A skull of what appears to be a bird with embellishment on the tip with gorgeous flowers blooming all around with a dagger discreetly placed behind the skull. This book's cover alone is a feast for the eyes and makes you want to know more about what is contained inside. 

As you proceed into the actual novel the prologue is going leave you begging for more and for answers. You get a king, a queen and their son proceeding to a particular place. They are seeking a test for the boy to see if the prophecy that has been spoken is to be found in him. The answer that they find there? It's an interesting one, especially when it comes to what plays out next. 

We'll leave you in a twist of mystery and curiosity because well...that's where we left as well. LOL! As the story proceeds it moves to one of the main characters - Arken Asher. Arken is on her way to Sophrosyne: the City of the Gods. She's hoping to find answers here and at the same time keep the secret(s) that she harbors deep inside. 

Now, when Arken meets with a group of specific characters we were literally on the edge of our seat. Why? Because when you're asked a specific question we want to know...are you going to lie? Or tell the truth? Well, Arken lies and so then we were like...will the lie be detected? Or will things go the way of the character for the sake of the storyline. Well...what do you think happens? It's mildly disappointing, but there's always the hope that there will be a twist later on in the story. 

This book has a dual POV between Arken and Kieran, Captain of the Elder Guard. He bears the scars of his past. But he's good at his job and it shows. He commands the shadows and utilizes them at will when he deems the need to do so. He's clever, handsome, and a ton of trouble. But right now? He's on the case for multiple abductions. Conduits have been and are being kidnapped. What is happening to them is the question. 

Of course, things take a turn when our two MCs cross paths and cue attraction in less than 3 seconds. Yep, no countdown allowed! LOL! It's just BAM! Of course there is the chase and that definitely adds to the slow-burn because you just sit there and wonder...okay when are they going to unleash that steamy connection brewing between them? LOL!

We don't know about you but we do love ourselves a good slow-burn novel and this book fits that. The tension just grows and grows heating up with each turn of the page. Arker makes it known to Kieran that she is not going to fall easily for him. But the steamy moments are coming. You'll have to wait, but they are coming. The big question becomes...what happens next? The prophecy is coming into play, but at what cost? What will it cost them in the end? Or can they survive together what is coming?

Of Blood and Aether is a page-turner of a novel, and for readers of engaging fantasy novels it's one that will not disappoint. We can't wait to find out what happens next. 

5 out of 5 stars

Thank you to the author Harper Hawthorne, and R&R Book Tours for the opportunity to read and review this book! We look forward to what happens next! 

Of Blood and Aether (Harbingers #1)

Publication Date: April 17, 2024

Genre: Dark Fantasy Romance

• Shadow Daddy MMC

• Dual POV

• Dark Prophecy/Dangerous Secrets

• Tension/Angst/So Much Yearning

• Slow Burn/ Scorching Spice

• Addictive Banter

• Arcane University

• Increasingly Questionable Interpretations of the Word "Platonic"

A rare conduit of Light, drawn to the Shadows. A spymaster who can’t seem to stay away.

For as long as she can remember, Arken Asher has been searching for answers—driven by an insatiable hunger, a need to understand the meaning behind her dangerous arcane secrets. She’s finally taken that leap into the unknown, leaving her simple life behind to attend the Arcane Studium: a prestigious college of magickal arts & sciences nestled in the heart of Sophrosyne: the City of the Gods.

As the Scouting & Reconnaissance Captain of the Elder Guard, Kieran Vistarii deals in Shadows, blood and subterfuge. Scarred by his past but dedicated to safeguarding Sophrosyne’s future, Kieran’s self-imposed isolation is easily masked by charm and cocksure energy. Strange disappearances have kept his cadre busy as of late, and yet the captain finds himself sidetracked, distracted by the inexplicable allure of a certain golden-eyed Conduit and her curious mind.

They both know better than to get involved, but the Fates have other plans. The dark threads of prophecy were woven long ago, and the ties that bind just might be what it takes to mend these broken, star-crossed souls… or what forges a deadly bond that could damn them all.

Of Blood & Aether is the first book in the Harbingers series, a captivating and character-driven dark romantasy saga. Rife with sizzling tension, gut-wrenching angst, addictive banter and ever-growing stakes, the Harbingers series is perfect for fans of A Court of Thorns & Roses, Fourth Wing and From Blood & Ash.

CW: This book is intended for adults only, and contains subject matter that may be difficult or disturbing for some readers. Sensitive material includes, but is not limited to: frequent profanity, violence, torture, murder, child abduction, the tattooing of a child without consent (on-page), emotional abuse, explorations of implied mental illness (depression, anxiety) & neurodivergency (adhd, autism), socio-economic power imbalances, frequent mentions of blood, references to cults and sex work. 

Of Blood & Aether also contains explicit, open-door sexual content, as well as explorations of kink and BDSM themes that will escalate over the course of the series. 

Reader discretion is advised. 

Available on Amazon

About the Author

Harper Hawthorne is an adult fantasy, romance & speculative fiction author in love with telling dark, emotionally evocative, and character-driven tales. Her stories feature neurodivergent experiences, honest explorations of mental health, and queer-normative worlds in her favored realms of fantasy.

Though she was born and raised on the beaches of Los Angeles, CA, she currently resides in the forests of the East Coast with her husband, her collie, and a demonic entity disguised in the form of a very large tuxedo cat.

When not lost in the throes of drafting one to three novels simultaneously, she can be found wandering the woods, hunting for mushrooms, befriending local frogs, practicing witchcraft and screaming into the void.

Harper Hawthorne

 

Tour organized by @rrbooktours