Autumn Death Review Spotlight

Welcome to the tour for Autumn Death by L.A. Brown -- a gorgeous witchy fantasy you can now read on Kindle Unlimited!

Autumn Death is the first book in the Bird Girl Witches series by L.A. Brown. Autumn Death is a YA coming-of-age fantasy novel that tells the story of a young woman using her psychic abilities to ferret out evil that is wreaking havoc in her hometown. Young women are turning up murdered, and evil is running rampant creating havoc wherever it goes. Thanks to her insights Arabel has unintentionally made herself a target. Will she be able to evade death?

Autumn Death is an engaging YA fantasy novel that draws the eye with a stunning cover. A young woman's face with a crow taking up the left side. It almost gives the impression of her being a shifter, but she's not. The crow, as readers will learn is simply her familiar. Surrounding the young woman's face and the crow is a myriad of reddish-orange flowers. The cover is simply stunning, and readers will understand the underlying meaning of the color of the flowers later on in the book. 

Autumn Death draws readers in with Arabel joining a friend at a celebration in the village. It is meant to be a happy time, but it quickly turns dark with a mysterious grey mist that permeates the surrounding area. Not everyone can see this disturbing mist, but Arabel has the sense that it is something dark and evil that hints at something worse to come. It's not long before this is brought to revelation with the striking of a celebratory fire that reveals a grisly sight to the revelers. 

Autumn Death is truly engaging. Arabel is an interesting character. She's 17, but she honestly reads like she's older than that half the time. She reads like a highly mature character, most of the time. Once the romance angle of the story spins up (which it does rather quickly), she behaves a touch more like a teen. 

The drama that author Brown has playing out on page is truly interesting. Arabel is frequently in "battle" with a grey darkness that repeatedly threatens her life. When we say threatens we mean verbally and "physically." It's a wild ride of drama when we get the magic elements. It really builds the intrigue and will work to keep readers engaged in what is going on. 

Have to say that we weren't the biggest fans of Arabel becoming sneaky primarily in the pursuit of her relationship with Eli. Author Brown paints the time period as one of "propriety" and concern for one's reputation. Arabel holds to this mindset briefly, but it's not long before she casts it aside to pursue the path that she wishes. 

We will concede that the author ties it to another aspect of the story concerning Arabel's family. It literally treads the path of "like (insert specific parent), like daughter. Not sure if we really liked that, because it's locking Arabel deeply into behavior similar to that other individual instead of allowing her to be her own self. 

The backstory with the grandmother is rather interesting. It paints a picture that allows readers to better understand, to an extent, her grandmother's behavior. However, it is also heartbreaking at the same time. You'd think that the grandmother would want to do differently to preserve the relationship with her granddaughter. Unfortunately, it gets to a point in the story that neither grandmother or granddaughter are interested in preserving or mending their relationships. Will this change as the story progresses? Well, you'll have to read the book to find out for yourself. 

We get some fascinating creatures in this book, but I really wanted more. This book has a lot going on for it, but I felt like there were some missed sequences here and there throughout the book. I could have been reading a little too quickly and missed them, but I don't think I did. 

Autumn Dreams is an interesting novel that gives readers fantasy with a touch of paranormal. You get quick romance that hints at more, but stays relatively chaste with just giving readers intense kissing. 

As this novel draws to a close, the story does get wrapped up. I wouldn't have minded it continuing with Arabel and Eli, but it's a good story with lots of drama that did it's job of keeping me engaged to the end. 

4 /5 Stars

Autumn Death (Bird Girl Witches Book 1)

Publication Date: November 13, 2024

Genre: YA Dark Fantasy/ Witches

Tropes:

The Supernatural, The Outsider, First Love, Love is the Answer, Coming of Age, Ancient Secrets, Backing into Darkness, Body Switching, Dark Family Secrets, Crime in the Family, Found Family, Fated Mates, Forbidden Love, Creepy Settings, A Foreboding Atmosphere, Mysterious Things are Happening, Magical Secrets, Fantastical Creatures, Magical Systems, Training Sequences, Powerful Artifacts, High Stakes, Happy Ending, Hereditary Witches, Hauntings

The Magnet draws them to their death!

In book one of the Bird Girl Witches series, the mystical realm of The Korvids is being terrorized by a dark force, and a young, psychic girl may be the only one who can stop it.

Arabel Spade is just 17 years old, but holds the gift of extraordinary supernatural abilities. When a series of brutal murders rock her hometown, she is determined to use her powers to solve the crimes and protect her people.
But tracking the killer puts her on a collision course with the sinister Dorojenja - evil sorcerers intent on putting an end to her investigation, if not her life. As the bodies pile up, Arabel must navigate a web of secrets, betray her cold-hearted grandmother's wishes, and forge alliances with mysterious magical factions like the Travelers.

Join Arabel's epic journey of magic, danger, and self-discovery, as she battles for the ultimate fate of The Korvids.

AVAILABLE ON AMAZON

TWs:

Three murders which happen off-page, but the bodies are found on the page. These murders are not described in detail, but it is mentioned that the bodies are naked and posed in a sacrificial manner. There is also a murder by drowning, body possession, and a murder by a vicious Death Ribbon spell. There are also ghostly attacks on our heroine and a kidnapping. There is a lot of romantic desire, but no sexual activity outside of kissing.

BGW Series blurb: Four teen witches must destroy an ancient evil to fulfill their destiny and avert a treacherous curse

 

Zipline: Aftermath Review Spotlight

Welcome to the tour for Zipline: Aftermath, the exciting follow-up to P. Anthony Michael's thriller Zipline!

 Zipline: Aftermath by P. Anthony Michael is the continuation of the Zipline series where readers are introduced to a group of friends out to have their last “hurrah” before life and responsibilities began pulling at them. This last trip was meant to be a fun zipline expedition down a mountain. However, it turned into some much bigger. Zipline: Aftermath continues the story of this group of characters, and their lives since that fateful weekend at the mountain.

Zipline: Aftermath stays true to the elements of the first book with the same color scheme for the cover. With this cover, we get a man in uniform kneeling while behind him is the outline of a city. On either side of him are glowing eyes. On one side, the eyes are glowing blue, and on the other side, the eyes are glowing orange.

Author Michael brings Zipline: Aftermath to readers two years after the end of Zipline. The friends survived the mountain, but several questions still remained. What really happened up there? What are the implications of what happened to Neal after being attacked by two different creatures up on the mountain?

Neal and Gail are married in this latest installment. Neal has joined the police force, and he’s doing a lot of good. He’s getting the bad guys off the streets and racking up quite the reputation. He’s focused on doing good, and making sure that only the bad guys go down. This has gained him both good and bad attention from the other cops on the force.

It sounds like a good thing, right? Neal uses his newfound abilities to accomplish a safer neighborhood for the people where he calls home. Working to make sure that his pregnant wife has a safe place to live is a benefit of all of this as well. But what happens when Neal starts having bizarre nightmares? Well, that’s where this story gets interesting.

Zipline: Aftermath explores the aftermath of Neal having two warring sides inside of him. He is using his new abilities to hunt criminals, but what he doesn’t know is that something is about to start hunting him in turn. Author Michael is going to put Neal to the test when the danger follows him home.

Compared to the first book in the Zipline series, Zipline: Aftermath is a step above. This novel gives readers some horror elements but focuses more instead on the suspense and thrills. A killer is roaming the streets targeting the homeless. Things get more complicated when a reporter is targeted and killed. So readers get the sense that this reporter saw something that they shouldn’t have and paid the ultimate price.

Readers get a sense of rivalry between Neal and a fellow cop, Lieutenant Clay. Neal is creeping up on Lieutenant Clay’s arrest record, and that creates a bone of contention between the two men. It’s more one-sided than anything, but Neal gets the sense that there is more going on than meets the eye.

Zipline: Aftermath is an intriguing novel that does a good job at drawing the reader in. Author Michael weaves a story that encompasses more than just Neal’s work life, but his home life as well. All of the group show up in this novel, but the story focuses mostly on Neal. That doesn’t mean that Neal’s family and friends don’t get drawn into the chaos, because they do.

When it comes to the “horror” aspect of this installment to the series, it’s there at random places in the story. However, it isn’t the focal of the story. Zipline: Aftermath is more about the suspense and drama. This book is told from the third person point of view, and works on emphasizing just how unique Neal has become.

As Zipline: Aftermath draws to a close, readers will get a sense of a solid conclusion. Author Michael is going to throw in a few answers to questions that were left to linger at the end of book one. But while you get some closure, you are also getting the sense that there is more to come. So, we’ll see where things go from here.

4 stars

ZIPLINE: AFTERMATH

Publication Date: August 1, 2024

Genre: Thriller

Gail and her friends may have escaped the mountain, but now they all have to deal with the AFTERMATH. Two years later, all have entered the workforce. Neal and Gail are contentedly married, and she’s pregnant with twins on the way. But Neal is unsettled as special abilities emerge, which he has to learn to embrace. Worse yet, he’s having strange visions of gruesome murders that actually happened as if he was there. Now Neal, Gail, and friends are wondering if he is truly going rabid. As they dig deeper into the mystery, they find the truth is far worse and more insidious than anyone could imagine. Aftermath is a mystery suspense continuation to Zip Line that will grip you from beginning until the very end.

AVAILABLE ON AMAZON

Tour Organized by: 

@RRBookTours (IG)

 

Mathsmagica: Tapestry of Shadows Review Spotlight

 An interesting fantasy novel Mathsmagica: Tapestry of Shadows is the beginning of a new epic fantasy series. This novel blends together magic and math to create some new and unique that will surely pique readers' interest in finding out more about this unique world.

Mathsmagica: Tapestry of Shadows by Daniel Georgiev is the start of an interesting series. The cover depicts a land shrouded in fog and mist. You can see a city in the background lit up with a bridge spanning across the cover to the front. In the foreground is a tall young man with blonde hair and blue eyes. Dressed in a black coat with reddish-orange accents, he clutches in his right hand a heavy sword with black mist emanating off of it. He stands poised and in control, but appears ready should anything happen to kick off.

Mathsmagica: Tapestry of Shadows has an engaging prologue that sets the stage for future scenes in this story. The introduction of Mathsmagica gives readers a clue that this story is going to be shifting points of view throughout this story. Endariel is a mysterious character. He’s in a home where a fight is raging. Lives are in the process of being lost. Endariel is on a quest to find something or someone.

Author Georgiev gives readers the sense that time is of the essence. This sense is only amplified by the fact that Endariel appears to be disintegrating. Magical cracks are spreading across his body. Violet light is permeating these cracks as his very essence appears to be dispersing. He’s not alone. His two siblings are with him, and they are on the hunt for someone. What Endariel and his siblings find is a scene where life has been lost, but hope can still be found.

As Mathsmagica proceeds we are given a new character – Sova. Sova and his sister, Nilah, are students at the Academy in the city of Mathsmagica. There is a sense of excitement from Nilah. She’s eager to get to the “Day of Happening” festival by the Shapers, but they run into a little “trouble.” It would appear that they have “offended the sensibilities” of a particular individual, and he intends to make his displeasure known.

For a brief moment, it appears that the situation may have been diffused, but trouble comes back around not long after. But while a situation is escalating, a friendly face steps up to step in and bring the escalation back down. Of course, this sets the stage for Sova and Nilah to make a friend who could be willing to look past their affinity for dark magic, which points to a dangerous secret that these twins harbor.

Mathsmagica is a slow-builder when it comes to fantasy novels. Author Georgiev takes the time to set the stage and give readers a bit of foundation before progressing with the overall storyline. The main stage setting for this book is when Sova, Nilah, and their new friend Evie fend off a dangerous dark creature that threatens a fellow classmate. This puts them in the spotlight with Director Astron, who makes the decision to elevate these three to a new and unique position.

In various places in Mathsmagica author Georgiev highlights Sova’s uniqueness. It goes beyond him being able to see the math in magic, but he appears to harbor another inside of himself. This is something that is hidden from him, but readers get to see it for themselves. This is pointed out through Endariel making appearances at random moments in this novel. Sova even begins to notice the loss of time, and that he finds himself in strange places after falling asleep.

As this story progresses Sova and his friends find themselves drawn into dangerous missions with the intent of proving that they can work together. But is there more going on than meets the eye? Between each chapter author Georgiev tucks in excerpts, notes, letters, and more along with well-detailed sketches.

These particular elements help to take Mathsmagica to another level. The sketches especially help to round out particular details of the story. The excerpts give readers a glimpse into books and letters from the past which help to give readers a glimpse into what has come prior.

The deeper that Mathsmagica goes the more engaging the storyline becomes. It draws readers in more and more so that we are encouraged to dig deeper. Author Georgiev encourages readers to look to discover secrets that are hidden from sight, but are just there below the surface.

Hoping for some romance? There is just a hint of romance that is allowed to gradually develop between the main character and a girl he takes a shine to. Secrets are gradually revealed, and author Georgiev has a surprise or two in store for us readers as well. This book has a small cliffhanger. It sets a precursor for what is to come but leaves readers eager for more at the same time.

While Mathsmagica has a slow start, as it gradually builds the story becomes more engaging and works to draw readers in. There is a nice amount of magic utilized throughout this book, and author Georgiev highlights the math elements through Sova’s eyes. With a nice sprinkling of surprises, this book and series are truly promising for what’s to come. We look forward to what comes next.

4.5 out of 5 stars

 

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.

A Court of Bones and Sorrow Spotlight

Happy release week to author Alex Frost AKA Maddox Grey! A Court of Bones and Sorrow comes out on October 29th, and we are in love!

Happy Halloween fellow readers! Thank you for stopping by to check out my post/stop for the A Court of Bones and Sorrow tour! Congratulations to author Frost on her latest release!

The original intent was to have a review for y'all today, but where I was supposed to get the book sent me the wrong file, so I'm unable to have a review for you today. But! I promise that I'll have one for you in the future! So, stay tuned and come back soon! Please check out the other reviews and spotlights that can be found on IG! 

#currentlyreading 

A Court of Bones & Sorrow (Lunaria Realms Book 2)

Publication Date: October 29, 2024

Genre: A Why Choose Fantasy Romance

- Why Choose Romance
- Rivals to Lovers
- Enemies to Lovers
- Slow Burn Romance
- Queer Nonbinary Love Interest
- Variety of Relationship Dynamics
- Vampires, Shifters, Furies, and Fae
- Fantasy world full of monsters

Nothing can be trusted in Lunaria.

The gorgeous and charming Prince Draven wants to court me. There’s just one catch – he's the enemy. Further complicating matters, I’m already entangled with two others, and harboring confusing feelings for a third. Marriage is the last thing on my mind, especially with a traitor.

But between the increasing boldness of the monsters roaming our lands and the obscured truths nestled in our history, I don’t have much of a choice. Desperate for answers, and with the Prince holding the key, it's time for game of deception to begin.

Seduce the Prince, learn his secrets, don’t let him learn mine. And most importantly, don’t die.

Our survival depends on unraveling the lies around us and the clock is ticking. With every bit of knowledge we gain, it becomes harder to tell friend from foe. And if I trust the wrong person, I might doom us all.

A Court of Bones and Sorrow is the second book in this spicy new why choose romantasy series. There will be no choosing between the sweet golden retriever love interest or the wicked ones. This story will ends on a cliffhanger and contains MF, MM, and non-binary/F relationships and is intended for mature readers only.

CW:
- Explicit sex scenes and just general reminder that this is why choose : )
- Blood drinking courtesy of vampires

GET IT HERE

Kindle Unlimited/Amazon → https://a.co/d/3818vqh

Tour Organizer: @rrbooktours

 

The Godsblood Tragedy Review Spotlight

 The Godsblood Tragedy is a gripping fantasy novel with some sci-fi/steampunk elements that readers are not going to want to miss. The Godsblood Tragedy is Passage One of the Divine Godsqueen Coda and from page one you just know that this book and series is going to be epic.

The Godsblood Tragedy kicks things off with a cover that absolutely grabs the eye and holds your attention. A massive city dominates the cover of The Godsblood Tragedy. Everywhere you look you see lights, soaring towers, and tiers of the city on full display. Whispers of mist and clouds float all around. In the foreground, a woman stands with glowing tattoos on her left arm.

She’s standing facing this city of industry and full of danger. Soaring in the sky is dragon or vvyern. It flies unchallenged while small ships sail through the air, monitoring the populace. All of these elements come together to pique the interest of readers. To call to them to pick this book up and dive in to see what it’s all about.

The Godsblood Tragedy is the first book by Bill Adams in his Divine Godsqueen Coda. This epic fantasy novel blends together magic and technology into a unique story that will pull you in from the first chapter. Here you will meet a variety of characters who will be the focal of this book as each embarks on their own personal quests and vendettas.

The first character that you will encounter in The Godsblood Tragedy is Ashe. Of course, in this first chapter, she’s essentially nameless. She is an orphan looking to discover who she is and find her family. She goes from being called “Stray Cat” to Ashe once she lands in the desert city of Drenth. There she finds chaos is brewing and erupting. But this place will be her home, so she finds a place to call “home” and settles in.

As The Godsblood Tragedy gets underway, you “officially” meet Ashe. She’s in a bit of trouble, but she’s on a quest, so trouble tends to find you along the way. What she doesn’t expect to find is more questions than answers. Something happens on this “job” that she’s taken on and it rings the bell of trouble yet to come. Of course, the situation she’s in? It just keeps getting more complicated by the minute.

Author Adams shifts the story from Ashe to his next character in mind – Cadrianna. This character will absolutely spark readers' interest. It’s all in the eyes...same with Ashe. Same, but dynamically different. It will fuel your intrigue and have you digging deeper to learn more. But Cadrianna bears more uniqueness beyond her eyes...she carries a daemon blade. This blade is so unique it’s insanely cool. LOL! Bonded with a daemon it apparently also has a wicked sharp sense of humor and wit.

Trust us on this one...you’ll snort more than once when Stix is in a scene and has something snarky to say. Safe to say that Cadrianna isn’t always interesting in engaging with her blade. But, of course, author Adams has to make this blade something truly unique. Don’t worry, we’ll leave that tidbit for you readers to discover for yourselves.

Each chapter in The Godsblood Tragedy alternates between characters that you will be introduced to one at a time. One will be especially surprising when you learn about their past. Why do we say this? Because he’s supposed to be dead!!! Were we given a heads-up about this little tidbit of information? Honestly? Yes. Did our jaw still drop when we read the revelation? Absolutely. LOL!

The deeper readers go into The Godsblood Tragedy the more you will be drawn into the lives and fights of the main cast of characters. Each has their own agenda that they are moving towards. Lojen is one such fascinating character. A drakken without his horns he’s on a quest to reclaim what was stolen from him. A quest to reclaim tinged with a quest for revenge. Will he be able to balance the two against themselves?

Each chapter focuses on the specific character of that particular moment, but then ramping up the drama when their paths clash with the other characters. One thing you can expect from this book is a ton of drama that amplifies this book to the next level.

Wanting to know what the characters look like? Using your imagination only taking you so far? Well, you’re in luck, because author Adams gives readers images of the four main characters of this story. In the (physical) book author Adams includes character plates to give readers a better idea of what the characters look like.

The Godsblood Tragedy is an epic fantasy novel that will absolutely slam-dunk its way into your top favorite reads for 2024. Twists, dragons, drama, romance, secrets and so much more are tucked away in this novel’s pages. Once you start reading this book you’ll be hard-pressed to want to put it down. So, we recommend clearing your schedule, grabbing some snacks, and getting comfortable. This book is worth every second you will dedicate to it.

Hate cliffhangers? Well, this book ends on one, but it’s one that will have the hair on your head standing up with excitement and anticipation for where author Adams is taking this series next. We can’t wait to discover the rest of this story and where author Adams takes the characters from here!

5 out of 5 stars

The Godsblood Tragedy: Passage One of the Divine Godsqueen Coda

An orphan, without a trueborn name, returns to the city of her birth to uncover her past. Hounded by the servants of the Dark God and dying from the poisonous mist that covers the land, her path leads to one of the magical seals protecting the holy ruin of Eminence.

A father, murdered and reborn, aims to bring down the floating fortress hovering over his homeland. Burdened by loss, he’s willing to sacrifice his soul to free his city and get revenge for the destruction of his family.

A mother, captured and bonded to a daemon, kills in the name of the Dark God so she can free her tortured daughter. Relentless in her vengeance, she hunts the one person who could end her suffering: the man who would destroy her vile master.

A drake, the banished hatchling of a failed advisor, seeks his father’s stolen horns. Untested, he desires to right his father’s wrongs in the eyes of the gods and restore his family’s honor.

As all converge in the occupied desert city where the world’s fuel source is mined, one family’s bond will be tested. Old betrayals will resurface, anger and resentment will flourish, but one thing remains clear: blood rules all.

About the Author

When not writing, Bill is a product manager for a company that tests food using analytical chemistry and microbiology.

During his collegiate days at the turn of the century, he began to develop his passion for writing, especially within the epic fantasy genre about unlikely heroes. It was there, Bill began to formulate the story that would eventually become Ashe’s unwanted journey and The Divine Godsqueen Coda.

Aside from writing, Bill loves movies and reading, especially SFF B-movies. He likes to know all the useless trivia, like who played who, and what the stories were behind the curtain. He is a master at Scene It. Bill’s few other hobbies include soccer, a good whiskey, a slice of pizza, and growing a beard. It is the little things he enjoys most.

Bill currently lives in the greater Chicago, IL area with his wife and young son.

Thanks to the author, Bill Adams and Indie Book Tours for the opportunity to participate in this tour! We hope you enjoyed our stop! Be sure to grab your copy of this amazing book! We look forward to what comes next! 

 

Soulbound Spotlight

 

We're celebrating the newly released Soulbound by Amelia Cole, which is the gorgeous follow up to Shadowbound! Read on for more details!

Welcome to the book tour for Soulbound! 

The intent was for me to be doing a review spotlight for you today, unfortunately, I never received the book, so instead, this will be a spotlight for Soulbound. Hopefully, I will eventually be able to get the book on my own and come back at a later time to share my thoughts with you on it. 

Be sure to come back soon for my review for Shadowbound, which is book 1 in the Druadan Legacy series! 

Thanks for stopping by and enjoy the rest of the tour! 

                                                    Soulbound (Druadan Legacy Book 2)

Publication Date: October 8, 2024

Genre: Why Choose/ Sci-Fi Dystopian

*Grumpy/Sunshine
*Why Choose/Reverse Harem
*Dangerous Mythical Horses
*Age Gap
*Sci-Fi Dystopian Western
*Spice
*Slow burn

The hidden history of the druadan is emerging from the shadows…

During the attack at Meridian, a shocking truth was revealed: my sister leads a rebel group hellbent on stealing the last druadan egg. By sheer chance, I managed to save one, but as it begins to hatch, the three Master Riders—Heath, Logan, and Carter, with whom I've developed undeniable feelings—and I must surrender the egg to Circuit officials.

To keep the egg's survival a secret, Circuit shuts down Meridian, forcing us to relocate to Blackhawk Station. There, ancient secrets await, holding the key to understanding the rebels' desire for the druadan foal, my connection to it, and the bond I share with the three master riders and their stallions.

However, tensions escalate as Logan finally faces trial for his rogue stallion, and civil unrest engulfs Venovia, with strikes and violent protests pushing the country toward war. I must tread carefully. The long-buried truths I unearth at Blackhawk could prove the world's salvation—or the catalyst for utter ruin.

See Amelia Cole's website for CONTENT WARNINGS: Druadan Legacy series is intended for 18+ readers.

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Tar and Bone Review Spotlight

 

We're back in Achten Tan, but this time we are going back in time with new characters and a new adventure! Check out Tar & Bone by Debbie Iancu-Haddad!

 Tar and Bone by Debbie Iancu-Haddad is the prequel to the Sands of Achten Tan series. We’re going back in time to link up with Kamal and D’or. Before they became G’ant and Tar-tule riders. In Tar and Bone, we get to discover Achten Tan and two friends before they became friends.

Tar and Bone depicts a desert scene in which a city is surrounded by bones and a moat of tar is in the background. In front of the city is a giant turtle and a giant ant. Each of these creatures is a “guardian” of the city of Achten Tan. In front of the tar-tule and the g’ant are the two main characters of this story, Kamal and D’or. Kamal is light while D’or is dark. They appear to be complete opposites, but they will complement each other and balance each other out.

Tar and Bone is a standalone prequel to the Speechless in Achten Tan. This book introduces readers to characters who will be depicted in Speechless in Achten Tan. Told from a dual POV this story will alternate between Kamal and D’or.

Kamal will be the first character that readers meet in this book. He’s found injured and alone in the desert. He’s a gnome child, but the woman who finds him, she withholds the truth of who and what he is. Instead, she takes him home, adopts him as her own, and raises him. His leg which was severely injured, never heals correctly which leads to him having a disability.

Kamal’s dream is to become an An’cher. It's not an easy goal with a problematic leg, but it’s one that he’s determined to achieve. Only so many cadets are accepted each year, so Kamal has to do his best if he hopes to get accepted in. With his disability, he’ll have to work twice as hard as everyone else, because to be a part of this team you must prove yourself worthy of it.

D’or is a half-elf. D’or’s father is a G’ant rider, but D’or chose the path of being a Tar-tule rider. He has no idea that he even has powers until one day, a group of bullies pushes him just a little too far. With his magic unleashed it brings down danger upon him and his family. A cult wants to “guide” him in the path of an evil wizard, while a group of elves wants to murder him for having these strange powers.

Tar and Bone details how these two boys meet and gradually become friends. Readers will like how things aren’t perfect between these two boys. There seems to be a bit of a “rivalry” between the An’chers and the Tar-tule riders, but they all know that they must work together for the protection of the city.

Tar and Bone details the trials that Kamal must endure in order to achieve his dream. What he doesn’t expect along the way is to find himself falling for the cute Tar-tule rider, D’or. Sparks definitely fly between these two characters, but they aren’t the only ones who have a few hearts in their eyes when they look at each other.

Tar and Bone is a story that is relatively appropriate for most readers in their teens as this is a YA book. Despite there being a scene or two that takes place in a “brothel” this book is still teen-appropriate because author Iancu-Haddad keeps things very PG. You don’t get any inappropriate content in this book.

Tar and Bone is an engaging story that draws readers in and will leave them eager to continue discovering more about Achten Tan. The scene that Achten Tan is set in is a desert land with a city set in the middle of the bones of an ancient leviathan. Surrounded by a moat of tar this city is isolated but unique. Elves, gnomes, and humans all call this place home. Predominately though, this city is called home by elves and humans.

We get to watch the development of the friendship between D’or and Kamal. Initially, it will be disappointing how the two treat each other. The usage of slurs to describe each other, and the way the author showcases how both boys are uncomfortable with who they are.

Tar and Bone has magical elements sprinkled throughout. D’or discovering that he has magic, and the dangers of it. An evil wizard who is on a quest to gain more power, and D’or is his newest target. There is also LGBTQ representation in more ways than one.

Tar and Bone is a fantastic addition to the Achten Tan series and whether you have read Speechless in Achten Tan or not, this is a great book to start with. It gives readers the background to work with and move forward on with Kamal and D’or which will have readers eagerly looking forward to the next book in the series and wanting more Achten Tan stories to fill in all the gaps.

Readers who love a good fantasy novel with massive “sea” turtles, giant ants, magic, sweet romance (no spice), and a gripping storyline this is the book and series for you.

Pros:

• Engaging storyline
• Interesting characters
• Fascinating creatures
• Sweet romance

Cons:

• None of merit

5 out of 5 Stars

                                        Tar and Bone (The Sands of Achten Tan Book 1)

Publication Date: August 24, 2024

Genre YA Fantasy Adventure (Ages 12 to 18)

* Magic
* Adventure
* Disability & LGBTQ rep
* Friendly Giant ants!
* Non-European Setting
* A weird Desert town in a ribcage.
*No spice 🚫🌶️🚫

Thirteen-year-old Kamal has been waiting his whole life to join the An'chers - the giant ant riders who protect the desert town of Achten Tan. Despite his disability, a crooked leg caused by a childhood injury, he's determined to succeed in the try outs and become a cadet. To overcome the challenge, he strikes a bargain with an unexpected ally.

D'or is a half-elf with a dark secret. When the young giant Tar-tule rider agrees to help Kamal, his hazardous magic and the enemies it attracts put both boys in harm's way.

Now they must evade the fanatic high elves who see D'or's very existence as an abomination, and the dread sorcerer C'naga, whose interest in the boy threatens to lead them both down a dark path, from which there is no return.

Tar and Bone is a standalone prequel story to Speechless in Achten Tan. It includes themes of friendship, coming of age, and making tough choices. PG content is suitable for younger teen readers.

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Misbalance Review Spotlight

 Misbalance is the first book in Amber Peterson’s Balance series. This fantasy crosses galaxies to come to Earth. The princess of a distant planet was sent to Earth to hide. Her memories were wiped away to keep her safe, and her powers bound. Now, something has come...someone has come to bring her “home.” If she is to survive what is coming...she’ll need to find a way to unleash her powers.

Misbalance has a beautiful cover that depicts a place of beauty. The sky has swirling blues and purples with stars mixed in. Two moons float on either side of galactic clouds and stars. Underneath them sits a range of mountains in the background. In the foreground, a once beautiful garden now lying desolate with a fountain that still flows.

Misbalance is told from the first person perspective and depicts Mandy’s story. Mandy is just your everyday high schooler, but today? Everything for her is about to change. Her day is about to go from “good” to down right terrible. An assailant attacks her school and takes her sister hostage. But it’s Mandy he wants.

Mandy is a fighter which readers will quickly see. Her younger sister Chloe is no twittering little girl who needs to be told twice to run from a bad situation. Rather refreshing to be honest. But while Mandy has some skills, she’s no match for this particular fighter. What happens next...utter heartbreak and shock.

When the news breaks Mandy is able to get free from her captivity, but now she is on her own. But it won’t be long before she finds some help in the form of a young man and his...drunk of a father. While now she has a place to hide and recover, her life will never be the same.

Of course, Misbalance isn’t solely Mandy’s story. No, we get multiple other characters who will make appearances as well. The first of the others we’ll be introduced to is Rose. She’s a feisty character and one we quickly took a shine to. Rose is strong, but she has her own demons that she’s battling. Big the question quickly becomes...what is her connection to Mandy?

Misbalance is a mix of a coming-of-age and YA fantasy novel with sci-fi elements mixed in. The magic from the primary main character is slow in coming, but you just need to exercise a touch of patience. Mandy has no idea who she really is, but the truth is coming to the surface piece by piece.

While Mandy is “hiding” from the world after her loss, the young man she crossed paths with helps her find a safe haven. Granted his father is someone to be avoided. Readers, beware there is abuse of a character or two in this book. As noted previously, Brian’s father is a drunk and when he gets deep into his cups he’s violent.

Readers will learn more about Brian and his backstory concerning what happened to completely break their family. It’s a heartbreaking story, but it is by no means an excuse for why he is made to endure what he must. With Mandy, Brian finds some happiness and a few moments of peace. Romance sparks up as well. The romance is clean for the time being. Can’t say for sure that it will stay clean, but for right now this book reads like a suitable YA fantasy for most readers.

As Misbalance continues Mandy makes quite a few discoveries. She has quite a few close calls with death and capture, but she discovers not all is as it seems. Rose and Moz are some dynamic characters who have a connection to Mandy. Author Peterson fills readers in on their history and clues readers in on why Rose is the way that she is.

Luke is another character readers will learn about. We won’t tell you much about him right now, but he’s an interesting character, too. Just...beware his younger brother. He is the definition of “unhinged.” Luke’s brother will probably have your jaw on the floor a couple of times in this book. But one thing is for sure...you will never be bored when he’s on the page.

Overall, Misbalance is an engaging and easy-to-read novel. Author Peterson does an overall good job with the details. But there are some details that we need more of. The time aspect of the story is hard to follow. You’ll think that only days or weeks have passed, but more time than that has gone by. We needed time to be more noted than it is.

We aren’t the biggest fan of Mandy throughout the book. Maybe it’s because of the over usage of the word “snapped.” Mandy does a lot of it - snapping. It honestly gets annoying and makes her appear to be a petulant teenager. Granted, yes, the word is used with other characters in their speech as well. However, it is overly used with Mandy. She’s constantly snapping at everyone, and add in she wants to view herself as the victim in certain scenarios...it gets exhausting. We wish that the author had used different adjectives in place of “snapped” that could have just as accurately represented it.

Misbalance is an interesting beginning to the Balance series. Reading the blurb gave us “Sailor Moon” vibes, but that’s not what you get when you actually get into this book. Author Peterson gives readers more than a few jaw-dropping surprises which will definitely keep you on your toes.

Misbalance ends on a mild cliffhanger. It’s enough to tease readers into being curious as to what happens next in the story, but not enough to leave you howling for more. Author Peterson leaves readers with the knowledge that Mandy is getting stronger now that she’s unlocked her powers. The threat is real, but there are still pieces of the puzzle that remain to be uncovered. It’ll be interesting to see where things go from here.

Pros:

• Interesting storyline
• Nice cast of characters
• Twists and surprises
• Fantasy element of the story is a gradual build

Cons:

• Passage of time is vague and difficult to decipher quantitatively speaking
• Over usage of the word “snapped”

4.5 stars

 

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

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