Bunny's Reviews: Vampires

Showing posts with label Vampires. Show all posts

Thursday, July 25, 2024

The Collection Review Spotlight

We're celebrating the release of The Collection by K. Kirchberger! Grab a copy on July 23rd!

The Collection is an adult fantasy romance that is just the beginning of author K. Kirchberger’s dynamic series. Prepare to embark on a journey into Hell as one woman’s quest to find her friend will become something much more.

The Collection intrigues readers with a beautiful cover depicting a pair of midnight black wings on display. The wings are set on a mostly black background with a golden glow illuminating them from behind. There is a lovely golden filigree design set behind them as well, giving them the sense that the wings are on display. This image absolutely builds intrigue as to what readers will discover within these pages.

The Collection focuses on Kenna, a young woman who has a sense that this year’s Collection will be different. She believes that her time has finally come to be chosen, though it’s something that she has always hoped to avoid. However, with it just being her and her horse Willow, she sees little for her to lose. Though there is her best friend Sora whom she would dearly miss.

While Keena’s senses are spot on, it’s not her name that gets called. Instead of being like most and simply weeping and mourning the loss of her friend Kenna takes action. She decides to enter Hell herself and find her friend. Whatever court her friend may end up in Kenna intends to join her. But will it be that easy?

The Collection starts out gripping and engaging. The time for the Collection is coming and readers get a sense that Kenna will be chosen. So, it will come as a surprise (for we tend to forget) that Sora’s name is called instead. The story moves rather rapidly for the next couple of chapters. Kenna determinedly sets off to catch up with her friend. But while she makes it to the gate, nothing is what it seems. She’s obviously allowed to enter, but the price? It’s her mortality, and she’s on a clock. Guess she better hurry, huh?

As The Collection moves forward author Kirchberger keeps things interesting. You’re going to be expecting Kenna to wind up in a “waiting room” area, but she finds herself quickly in one of the courts. Things start out simple enough for her. We would have liked something to truly challenge her, but when you break it down...she might have failed before her quest even truly began.

While Kenna is at a disadvantage, relatively speaking, things overall go in her favor. For immortal creatures Kenna seems to have hit the jackpot on those who are willing to be kind to her or at least just down right decent. She comes across one or two who could be viewed as “hostile” but that real drama doesn’t begin to play out until much later in the story.

The Collection is told from the first person POV. The story focuses heavily on Kenna as she joins with another immortal who agrees to help her after she does an act of kindness for him. Thanks to his taking her under his wing (so to speak) her path forward seems like it should be a pretty easy one. We appreciate that overall Kenna isn’t an overly sassy and mouthy character. Honestly, it would truly be unnecessary and rather off-putting.

Readers who are will be waiting and looking for the romance will be made to wait. Author Kirchberger chooses to build and develop this aspect of the story between the characters. This adds a nice slow-burn element to the story which will keep you coming back for more as you wonder...”When are they going to finally cross that line?” It’s worth the wait, and the burn is absolutely delicious.

Hoping for some steamy scenes? Well, there really isn’t much to be found on these pages. You’re not getting any on page steaminess to drool over. Instead you get scenes that play right up to a certain point before it’s basically a “fade to black” and you get to use your imagination instead. No fun, right? LOL!

While Kenna is busy falling in love, that doesn’t stop her from her quest of trying to find her friend. Granted she does get more than a little “distracted” but who can blame her? Of course, while all of this is going on chaos is brewing in other parts of Hell. This chaos won’t remain where it is, but has every intent on spilling over, which you’ll see the deeper you get. Watch for the clues, because they are there.

When you draw closer to the end of The Collection, author Kirchberger has more than a few surprises in store for readers. But the biggest surprise will be the closing pages. It leads readers to look forward to the next book in this series. Will it continue Kenna’s story? Or will get Sora’s and learn what all she endured during the Trials? One can only hope.

For now, if you’re looking for a delicious adult fantasy minus the steamy scenes then this is a book for you to pick up.

4.5 out of 5 stars

The Collection

Publication Date: July 23, 2024

Genre: Adult Fantasy Romance

Loyalty
Found love
Protective MMC
Strong friendships
Hidden identities
Immortals

Once a year, a draw is held in the capital that requires four mortals from each town be given over to Hell. The mortals are taken to Hell where they will either become an immortal in one of the four courts, or perish in the trials.
One mortal is sent to the vampire’s Court of Blood. One goes to the Court of Moon, court of the werewolves. A third is sent to the Court of Spell, with the warlocks and witches. And a final mortal, always a female, goes to the Court of Song, court of the sirens.

Twenty-three-year-old Kenna hasn’t had her name called since she became eligible five years ago. She knows in her heart that this year will be the year her world changes. But it isn’t her name that is called out for Collection, it is her best friend Sora’s.
Not willing to be without Sora, Kenna quickly follows her through the gateway to Hell before it closes. Not knowing which court Sora was Collected for, Kenna must brave all four as a mortal in order to find her friend. Lucky for her, she gains the help of an alluring stranger who holds more sway in Hell than she could have hoped for.
As their fates intertwine and her heart falls fast, Kenna learns navigating a foreign and dangerous land like Hell isn’t easy, and if she isn’t careful, it could cost her everything.

AVAILABLE ON AMAZON

Thursday, June 27, 2024

A Shift in Shadows Review Spotlight

We're touring A Shift in Shadows by Maddox Grey and we are so excited to share it with you all! This is the first book in the Lost Legacies series, and we can't recommend it enough!

A Shift in Shadows is the first book in the Lost Legacies series by Maddox Grey. This urban fantasy novel is going to bring a variety of both paranormal and fantasy characters together into one book.

From the beginning, you're getting thrown into the deep end. You're meeting Nemain under a slew of dire circumstances, and those circumstances are that she's being held and abused by vampires. Why? Well, apparently there is some former romance that went sour between herself and a particular vampire. He didn't take the rejection well, and it seems he has no intentions of allowing her a life outside of him being in it. Someone should remind him that..."No, means no."

While Nemain may start out in a bad situation she doesn't stay in it for long. She gets rescued by another vamp, and then the story shifts forward in time a bit. Not a lot, but just enough that she's managed to evade Sebastian for a time. Unfortunately, that clock is running out and fast on her staying "out of sight."

A Shift in Shadows holds a lot of promise, but it comes off as really chaotic. The storyline seems direction-less. Nemain is a "finder", she's a shifter, but she has magic. She has no idea where her magic comes from, but she knows it's dangerous. She also knows that if the daemons and fae find out about that they will try to kill her. This, of course, raises a lot of questions. Like...what the hell is going on? LOL!

Nemain is a bisexual/non-coformist main character. She has multiple relationships with a variety of characters in this book. Hey, we're cheering her on all the way, because it's a refreshing twist to a typical trope. You get reverse harem vibes, without the true solid commitments. There's a reason for her aversion to giving her heart truly to someone, and the author lays that out plainly for readers.

Hoping for some really steamy scenes? Well, you're probably going to be disappointed, especially when they are pointed in CW. You get a couple here and there, but quite a few of the steamy scenes are "fade to black." Basically, you're getting a hint that something is about to go down, but you don't get the scene playing out on the page. It's a touch disappointing, but it is what it is.

We wanted to love this book with its conglomerate of various characters and drama, but it needed direction from the beginning. We needed some background on Nemain. We do get some here and there, but it needed to be done in a more cohesive manner that will elevate the story and draw this reader in more solidly. As it is, it left us with more questions than answers.

Will we continue this series? Well, that's up in the air. We might, because we're intrigued by Nemain's story, but we can only hope for a more cohesive storyline moving forward. As for this book? Well, unfortunately, it falls flat. The beginning is too all over the place, and by the time the story settles in and starts getting truly interesting, you're halfway through it.

Soft 4 out of 5 stars

A Shift in Shadows (Lost Legacies Book 1)

Publication Date: October 2021 (First Edition)

Genre: Fantasy Romance

Badass Morally Grey FMC
Revenge Quest
Hidden/Forbidden Magic
She Saves Herself
Touch Him and Die
Sweet Golden Retriever Love Interest
Morally Grey Villain Love Interest
Witty Banter
Found Family
Queer Rep (FMC is queer/bi, nonbinary characters, queer relationships)

A wicked feline shifter. A cruel warlock.

And a dark secret that can devour worlds.

A bloody heart. That has been my birthday gift every year from the warlock I once loved. He used me, so I left him. And found the love of my life. We shared a blissful life together until Sebastian destroyed it all with one sweeping declaration.

You will always be mine.

After failing in my attempt to get revenge and barely escaping. I find myself once again starting over with the support of my friends and trying to let go of the past. When I meet the sweet and adorably innocent local werewolf, Andrei, I think I might finally have a real shot at finding happiness again. I should have known better.

Sebastian has found me and he’ll do what he always does—hurt those I love. But I have a secret. The dark magic I keep chained deep within my soul is a weapon just waiting to be unleashed. I could finally claim my revenge and protect everyone important to me. But my kind of magic is forbidden. And the price for using it may be my life.

AVAILABLE ON AMAZON

CW: Explicit sex scenes and blood drinking courtesy of vampires

Wednesday, June 12, 2024

A Dream of Blood and Magic Review Spotlight

We're celebrating the release of A Dream of Blood and Magic, a gothic fantasy romance by Olivia Boothe! Pre-order now or get you copy on June 12th!

A Dream of Blood and Magic is the first book in Olivia Boothe’s Spirit Marked series. Prepare to take a deep dive into the start of a series that will keep you coming back for more. Readers who enjoy “fiesty” female characters, dark and complex vampires, and tons of magic are not going to want to miss out on this book.

A Dream of Blood and Magic kicks things off by first luring in the reader with a gravitating cover. You get the title of the book depicted in the middle of a red background enclosed with white swirls with strange symbols depicted at intervals all around. This is set on a pitch black background with feathers and bits of glass swirling all around. It draws you in and makes you want to know what secrets lie inside.

When A Dream of Blood and Magic begins readers are thrown into the past. This setting of before technology is one that will spur readers on eagerly to discover what is going to happen next. A mother, cast out of her coven for choosing to forsake one of the rules of her sister witches. In doing so, she has birthed twin girls. Unfortunately, they are not allowed to live in peace. No, something is coming...and it will threaten to tear this small family apart.

What is coming? Well, whatever it is, it’s something to be feared as you will note when you begin reading this book. Readers who are hoping that things stay in this era lacking in technology and more mundane will find themselves a touch disappointed.

After the prologue, the story will shift forward to a more modern time period where readers will be introduced to Avery, one of the three main characters of this story.

Avery is an interesting character overall. She’s been through a lot. That seems to be the trend with most FMCs. Rough childhood, in and out of foster homes because she was viewed and declared as a “problem” child. However, as you get to know her, she will show more than a little of her stubborn nature, and at times, disregard for others. Some, there is some truth to the accusations leveled against her.

But there is something unique about her. She has visions and dreams, and the things she sees...she draws. The drawings she yields are truly interesting. They are of things that she should know nothing about. To be fair, she doesn’t until the veil is ripped away from her eyes, so she is about to be thrown onto the world’s biggest learning curve. Good luck Avery! You’re going to need it!

A Dream of Blood and Magic shifts between Avery and two other characters – Kane and Azrael. Kane and Azrael are vampires...and brothers. Yes, true brothers, not the “we were sired by the same vamp so we’re brothers.” There is some dark history between these two and it’s not pretty.

An ancient prophecy has been put back in play and now Azrael has been loosed from his prison. While he’s rediscovering the world, Kane is on the hunt. But they aren’t the only ones. Two factions of witches are about to clash, and boy is it going to be epic!

A Dream of Blood and Magic is packed with drama, tension, and a lot of magic. Avery becomes a mixed bag of a character. You’ll be drawn to her one minute, and then you’ll find her irritating the next. Well, that was the case with this reader. There is one particular moment where Avery, for us, showcases herself as a selfish and self-absorbed individual.

Why do we say this you ask? Well, she knows her friend, C.J. C.J. isn’t known for calling her more than once in a row. However, instead of Avery taking a minute to stop and think, she ignores the second call and dismisses it until her friend leaves a voicemail. To most, that isn’t a big deal, but Avery and C.J. understand each other. So, for Avery to do that...for us, is a red flag. She completely forgot what her friend had JUST spoken to her about earlier that day.

Avery is a mixed bag of a character. She’ll want people to leave her alone, to respect her privacy and all that. But the minute someone says something that pricks her...she is quick to flare up, lose her temper, and reign down chaos as her magic is unlocked little by little. The good news? She feels remorse, but it doesn’t stop her from still lashing out at people for having the audacity to not know her past.

Despite all of Avery’s shortcomings, the author refrains from making her completely unbearable. She gradually grows as a character, but she could do with a lot more. Less self pity, and more on just being better.

Azrael and Kane are two interesting characters. They are like two sides of the same coin. You just don’t really know what path either of them is going to land on. With Azrael you hope for the best, and with Kane...you just don’t know. He’s a bit of an enigma, but the deeper the story goes the more it seems he’s meant to be...good?

Prepare for some twists and surprises in this book. You’ll be hoping for the best only to find it all getting derailed and falling into absolute chaos. It’s absolutely delicious to be fair. LOL!

Reader...hoping for some romance? Maybe some steamy? Sorry, you’re going to be left wanting. There are sparks, but no smoke and fire just yet. The author promises more in book two, so for now...we’ll just have to wait and be content with a yummy shower scene with Avery as the voyeur.

For the start of a new series, A Dream of Blood and Magic starts off like a fire bursting into life. It settles in and mellows for a minute, but the deeper you...the more the fire catches and will turn into a page burner. Don’t miss out.

Pros:

Engaging storyline
Interesting characters
Good amount of detail
Keeps you coming back for more

Cons:

Want more character growth

4.5 out of 5 stars

A Dream of Blood and Magic (Spirit Marked Book 1)

Publication Date: June 12, 2024

Genre: Gothic Fantasy Romance

Underworld meets Kingdom of the Wicked in this forbidden love, rivals to lovers, high stakes, slow-burn gothic contemporary fantasy romance.

Series Tropes:

Vampires, witches, and other supernatural creatures
Chosen One
Forbidden Love
Rivals to Lovers (Meant to be rivals who become lovers)
Forced Proximity
A bargain that leads to more
Spirit-Bonded (fated mates)
Slow Burn (couple doesn’t become an item until book 2, but the tension is built in book 1)
Found Family
High Stakes quest
Portal Magic
Elemental Magic
Time Travel
Spirit Guardians (familiars)
Good vs evil

A SINISTER DARKNESS BREWS, SOWING THE SEEDS OF WAR. AND AT THE CENTER OF IT ALL IS A YOUNG WITCH WILLING TO RISK IT ALL TO SAVE THOSE SHE LOVES.

When a mysterious crow crash-lands through Avery Jaxon’s Brooklyn apartment window, awakening the elemental magic dormant in her veins, Avery soon discovers her entire life has been a skillfully woven lie, and that even her new avian friend holds secrets of its own, including the answers to her shrouded past.

But pulling back the veil is only the beginning. An ancient prophecy has been set in motion, thrusting Avery into a centuries-old supernatural war between witches and vampires.

Seeking to harness Avery’s rare and ancient power, the most notorious dark arts witch hive in the world is on the hunt to find Avery before she’s captured by Kane, a vampire sworn to protect humankind from the next Spirit Marked—a foretold witch with such immense, raw magic, it will threaten to destroy all life on Earth.

Now, to save humanity and protect her friends, Avery must learn to control her potent magic, all while building an alliance with the warrior vampire sent to seize her. Their destinies are more entwined than either could have ever foreseen. But despite the magic that binds their paths and the enigmatic attraction growing between them, Avery struggles to trust the man born to be her enemy.

However, Kane’s not the only vampire thirsting for the honeyed taste of Avery’s blood...someone else also seeks to wage a war against her heart.

In the end, Avery must not only grapple with the painful truth behind her family’s past, but she’ll need to accept the journey laid out before her. For not only do the lives of those she loves depend on it, but so do the lives of every mortal and immortal creature alike.

Intended for audiences 18 years+

Triggers:

Blood and gore
Death and violence
Explicit language
Some sexually explicit content
Stalking
Abductions
Mention of young girls being trafficked for blood
Animal death (vampire killing a boar and drinking its blood)
Commentary on childhood trauma due to losing parents at a young age and having a bad experience being in the foster care system
Commentary on mental health due to childhood trauma, such as feelings of abandonment, betrayal, and issues with authority

GET IT ON AMAZON

Friday, March 29, 2024

Grave-Reaping Guardian Review Spotlight

We're celebrating the release of Grave-Reaping Guardian by Everlyn C. Thompson! Read on for more details!

Ready to continue Theo's story? Well, then get excited! Because our former human, now turned fae is

back and things...well, things haven't really improved for her per se, but hey! She's making some progress! Unfortunately, someONE or rather...someTHING (?) is being a "blocker" when it comes to her romantic aspirations, but hang in there...things begin to shift...just a little. LOL!

Theo has shown quite a lot of development over the series to this point and its been quite a fun ride. In book one readers found Theo just looking to take time for herself, but that peace kept on being interrupted by a couple of men and a "dog" who just viewed themselves as "keeping an eye" on her. Well, thankfully, for her, LOL! Things have leveled out more or less. Things are progressing with her new love interest, but is there potentially more on the horizon? Hmmm...guess we'll have to wait and see.

Author Everlyn C. Thompson writes an engaging story that takes you on a fun ride as you follow along with Theo's story. She's still acclimating to her powers, (which is no easy thing), but of course, one can expect that time isn't waiting for her to get everything under control.

The characters in this story are absolutely engaging. There was a moment here and there where someone rubbed our fur the wrong way, but the author knew exactly how to draw us back in and keep us coming back for more. Want some steamy? Good news! There is a scene (or two LOL) tucked in here for your viewing pleasure.

One thing is for sure - between the evil fae queen (no love lost there), locating a missing castle...picturing Howl? We were! That must have been a lot of fun tracking down! LOL! And yes, taming a dragon king...special care was made to avoid being roasted with ketchup, this book brings a lot to the table and leaves the door open for more.

4.5 out of 5 stars

Thank you to the author, Everlyn C. Thompson, and R&R Book Tours for the opportunity to read and review this book!

Grave-Reaping Guardian (Grave Reaper Series Book 3)

Publication Date: March 25, 2024

Genre: Urban Fantasy

⭐ Curvy FMC
⭐ Forced Proximity
⭐ Family Found
⭐ One Bed
⭐ Touch Her & ☠
⭐ Fae Guardians
⭐ Surly Vampires
⭐ Homeless Shifters
⭐ Broken Ghosts
⭐ Evil Fae Queen

When the gate between Earth and Fairie blows up and traps Theodora Edwards in the mystical realm, she must work together with her guardian and the dark prince to locate and safeguard a magical key that powers the Light Court. While learning to properly use her fae magic, Theo is forced to fend off an abduction attempt by wraiths, locate a missing castle, tame a dragon king, and have a friendly chat with the dead queen.
But with all of Theo’s efforts going toward protecting those she loves, she struggles to find time to explore the possibility of a romantic relationship—and the insecurities that come with it.

Content Warnings:

The themes and tropes explored in this book include a curvy FMC with low self-esteem regarding her body. If you find self body-shaming triggering, this series probably isn’t for you. If you find the subject of infertility triggering, again, this series probably isn’t for you. The intimate scenes (books 1 & 3) are intended for 18+.

Add to Goodreads

Get it on Amazon

About the Author

Born and raised on the beautiful Canadian prairies, Everlyn prefers to spend her time outdoors with her family kayaking, skating, fishing, and hunting. She loves reading and writing about vampires, witches, fae and zombies that get to find their own version of happily ever after.

Everlyn C. Thompson

Book Tour Organized by @RRBookTours

Thursday, January 11, 2024

Moon Flower Review Spotlight

Welcome to the book tour for Moon Flower by Heather Ewen-Foster! This is the first book in her series surrounding Sonia and the Vampires of L.A. Don't miss out!

Moon Flower is an adult urban fantasy novel by Heather Ewen-Foster. Prepare to be swept away into an engaging vampire novel that details the lives of Sonia, a 250-year-old Australian vampire, and her friend Sunny Michaels in Hollywood, California. Life is good until its not.

Sonia has lived in Hollywood for just over three decades now, and life has been quiet. She and other vampires have been living in L.A. in relative peace and quiet. However, all of that is about to take a turn when vampires start turning up missing, with the unfortunate and dark discovery of one in particular. At the time of the horrific discovery, Sonia has no idea that a power play is currently ongoing. All she knows is that something dark, sinister, and dangerous is hunting them and that more is yet to come.

Moon Flower, Vampires of Los Angeles, is one of those books that you dive into eagerly and that by the end of the book you’re looking around for more. Like a tasty treat that quickly becomes your new favorite, you’re going to be eagerly anticipating coming back to Sonia’s world when you reach the final page of this novel.

Sonia is the main character of this story as the author focuses on detailing her story. Sonia is an interesting character as she allows us glimpses into her past, back when she was still human. Sonia is showcased as typically being very careful and aware of her surroundings. She’s taken a touch of a shine to a particular human, Alex. She’s not engaged with him, yet, but all of that is about to change when an unwanted encounter with an addict pushes them towards their first interaction.

Of course, as you can imagine, for vampires staying out of the spotlight is preferable. The less attention that they draw to themselves the better. You can, of course, understand why. They tend to be striking in some form or another and are hard to forget. So when some situations begin to arise surrounding Sonia, she starts drawing unwanted attention. This in turn puts her in the eyes of someone whom she’d prefer to not be under the microscope with.

You’re probably wondering...when does the “gripping” aspect of this story kick in? Well, honestly, it kicks in pretty quickly. Sonia’s dealings with Alex will pique your interest in “What exactly is going to happen with them?” One element that you’re going to love about this book is the elegant layering of it and how everything gradually comes together.

The dynamics between Sonia and Alex are interesting and well crafted as they shift into developing further. There is definitely an attraction between the two of them, but it isn’t long before the author decides that things are going just a touch too smoothly and throws in a neat little wrench. You’re going to love it...and maybe hate it...just a little though. LOL! Of course, nothing would be complete without some fun antics from another vampire, Sunny Michaels. He’s gorgeous, famous, funny, and a touch unpredictable, but he’s definitely someone you want on your side. Sunny definitely brings some humor and unpredictability to the story that will keep you on your toes. Of course, the little surprises that Sunny himself has up his sleeve bring a breath of freshness to this story in a particular department.

Author Heather Ewen-Foster brings a nice amount of freshness to this story. She goes so far as to “debunk” some of the “myths” that surround vampires. One aspect that I truly like is how she writes her characters. Yes, they drink blood (some human, others bovine/animal) but she makes sure to emphasize key points. One in particular is that the blood vampires drinks helps them, but it’s not an immediate fix. It doesn’t go from the mouth to the vascular system like so many other stories portray vampires. Injured? Drink some blood and cue quick healing. This particular attention to detail absolutely captured our attention and definitely made an impression on us. So, we just know that it will be with you as well.

Now, where does the real threat come in? Well, it comes in subtle ways so make sure you pay attention to certain hints that the author drops in the story. One is going to come pretty early in the book. It will be easy to dismiss it and forget it, but we’re going to warn you now...don’t do it! Hold on to that tidbit of information and cling to it! Because more is coming!

The vampiric dynamic in this book is interesting as well. You’ll get a glimpse of some of the more powerful vampires that call L.A. home. You’ll also see that they really aren’t interested in the problems of the “lowers.” This point is only emphasized when vampires start going missing. While Sonia isn’t close to any of those missing, she still feels concerned as to what has happened to them and comes to the only plausible conclusion – that they are...no more. The author points out that, like with humans, vampires are known to take out each other, but this? This is something more...something darker.

The deeper Moon Flower goes the more engaging and interesting you will find this novel. It won’t be long before you find yourself halfway through the book, and looking around trying to find out what time it is. LOL! Yes, this book is that good. The deeper the story, the more intriguing it all becomes as power plays come into focus, and the true danger is unveiled.

Hoping for some romance to heat up these pages? Well, you’re going to have to wait on that. While Sunny is more than a lady’s man the author keeps his escapades off the pages beyond a bit of hinting here and there. Sonia has some sparks swirling around her, but nothing to give the sparks some tinder to cling to. Now, that doesn’t mean that nothing could happen in the future, because that is definitely possible! For us, that’s definitely something to look forward to. Especially to see where things go between not just Sonia and Alex, but Sonia and Sunny, too. He’s pretty irresistible, so...why not? LOL!

Are you hoping that there will be more of Sonia’s story to come in the future? Well, the author does say at the end that Sonia and the vampires of L.A. will be back so…that’s good news right there! You’ll be able to tell as you read this book that Sonia’s story can’t possibly end here! There has to be more to come! There just has to be!! Power struggles? Change coming? Sparks of romance? We have to return to L.A. to find out what happens next! So, for sure, we’re going to be looking forward to reuniting with Sonia and the other vampires (and humans) in the future! Hopefully, we won’t have to wait too long!

Moon Flower is an engaging novel that readers who enjoy vampires, urban fantasies, drama, and a healthy dose of intrigue will surely not want to miss!

5 out of 5 stars

Thank you to the author, Heather Ewen-Foster, and Xpresso Book Tours for the opportunity to read and review this book! We look forward to what comes next!

Moonflower: Vampires of Los Angeles
by Heather Ewen-Foster
Publication date: November 7th, 2023
Genres: Adult, Urban Fantasy

Synopsis:

Sonia, a 250-year-old Australian vampire, thought she had found peace in the quiet neighborhood of Whitley Heights, Hollywood. But when a mysterious creature starts slaughtering young vampires, Sonia is thrust into a deadly game of cat and mouse.

With her friend Sunny targeted by an ancient monster, Sonia must uncover the truth behind these brutal attacks. Desperate to save her friend and end the bloodshed, Sonia navigates the treacherous politics of the vampire world. Along the way, she finds herself torn between her irresistible attraction to Alex, the enigmatic human journalist helping in her investigation, and her deep bond with sexy and charismatic Sunny, Alpha Vampire extraordinaire.

As the sinister plot unravels, Sonia’s race against time becomes a pulse-pounding battle against an impossibly powerful foe. Will she uncover the truth before more lives are lost? And what sacrifices will she have to make to protect those she loves?

Moon Flower is a spellbinding urban fantasy that will leave you breathless. Heather Ewen-Foster’s suspenseful tale immerses you in a world of danger, romance, and mythical creatures. Get ready for an electrifying adventure that will keep you turning the pages late into the night.

Amazon: https://amzn.to/3FLbGks

Want more of this tour? Click the link below and check out everyone else!

https://xpressobooktours.com/2023/11/15/tour-sign-up-moon-flower-vampires-of-los-angeles-by-heather-ewen-foster/

Giveaway:

Tour-wide giveaway (INT)

$25 giftcard and signed copy of Moon Flower

Link: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/d04251235657/

Book Tour Organized By:

Xpresso Book Tours

Friday, November 3, 2023

The Crow Lord Review Spotlight

Another gorgeous new release to share this week! Check out The Crow Lord by J.M. Failde!

The Crow Lord is the first book in J.M. Failde's The Vampires of Malvania series. Readers who love a good vampire romance with a twisted ending, y'all are not going to want to miss out on this book.

When an author chooses to start a story off with a chase scene, understand you have my full and undivided attention. Lila, the main character of this story, is on the run. She's being chased, and the question immediately arises - is this a "life or death" chase? Or a "being hunted" chase? It doesn't take long for the author to let you know which kind of chase it is. Though to be fair, with vampires any chase could quickly turn life or death. These just like to play with their food first.

Lila is looking for her brother Marcus. He's gone missing. The vampires would have her believe that he had run away. But would he? Really? Would he have been able to manage to escape their clutches long enough to make it till daybreak when they are forced to return to their manor? Especially when you get the comparison between him and Lila. It comes off more that Lila might be able to pull something along those lines off, but Marcus not so much.

Things take a twist though when Lila does manage to wriggle away from the Vipers and gain entrance to the Crow lord's manor. What does that mean? Does it mean that she's now safe? Not a chance. Please, contain your shock. Where would the fun be if she was?! But prepare for some more twists. The Crow Lord seems "decent" enough until he says to toss her back out. Yes, cue jaw-drop. But! But!! Those others!!! Daybreak is coming, but they could still be close! Turns out, this old vampire knows how to play the game of manipulation.

So, now Lila owes him 5 favors of his choosing, and there's one more caveat. Can you guess what it is? Well, you're going to have to read, because I'm not telling. LOL!

This book is quickly engaging and draws you in the deeper you go. Lila and Ambrose strike up a relationship that seems one-sided in the beginning, but it develops over the book. Lila begins to discover just exactly who she is. Her concern for her missing brother rides her, but for now, she has to focus on staying alive. Because otherwise, what good is she to him if she's dead? While she may be under the Crow Lord's protection, she is still deep in the Viper's nest.

The romance blossoms nicely in this book. It takes a bit of time, but it's worth the wait. Honestly depending on the book, slow-burn romances tend to lead to more intense drama. Enemies-to-lovers is the perfect defining element to this book and stokes the fires between the characters beautifully.

Prepare for an ending that will leave you with mixed feelings. You're going to feel sadness, a touch of humor (due to the dramatics), and angst. Stay calm. It's all going to be okay. The author is simply setting the stage for the next book because things can't end like this!! They just can't! So, I'll just be sitting here (im)patiently waiting for the second book in this series. You're welcome to join me. LOL!

Love vampires? Love a good enemies-to-lovers book? Love family secrets and tons of drama? Then this is the book and series for you!

5 out of 5 stars

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

The Crow Lord (The Vampires of Malvania Book 1)

Publication Date: October 24, 2023

Genre: Vampire Romantasy

Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️

🖤 Enemies-to-Lovers
🩸 Who Did this to You?!
🖤 Vampire/ Human
🩸 Forced Proximity
🖤 One Bed
🩸 Good Girl
🖤 Touch Her and I’ll Unalive You!

“What will you give me?” His voice again was like melted gold. Like a whisper in the bedroom. “Anything.”

Malvania is broken into four manors ruled by vampire: the Viper Morada, the Arachnid Estate, the Maggot Mansion, and the Crow Court. After escaping the cruel and malicious Viper siblings in search of her brother, Lila Bran finds herself caught in the gaze of the Crow Lord himself, Ambrose Draven.

Beyond her better judgment, Lila strikes a bargain with Ambrose, five favors in exchange for safety. But when she ends up back in the hands of the Vipers, can she trust the Crow Lord to save her despite her desire to hate him?

Now, Lila must discover more to Ambrose Draven than his title as the Monster of Malvania in order to save her brother and fulfill her half of the bargain. As she fights to survive, she uncovers the truth behind her lineage, ancient vampire secrets, and the heart of a monster.

(Note: This book contains mature language, themes, and content that may not be suitable for all readers. Reader discretion is advised.)

Available on Amazon and Free for KU

About the Author

J. M. Failde spent just over one hundred fortnights rigorously studying the complexities of the English language at Florida International University. While she is not conjuring up stories, she can be found searching for el chupacabra, befriending the ghost in her house, or dying her hair a new shade of blue. Failde currently resides in her gothic manor on the outskirts of Atlanta, Georgia, with her partner, Mike, and her familiar—the round but feisty calico cat, Maki.

J.M. Failde

Book Tour Schedule

October 30^th

http://rrbooktours.com – Landing Page

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

https://www.instagram.com/mommas.all.booked/ - Review

https://www.instagram.com/jojos_library/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y%3D – Review

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

https://www.instagram.com/redreviews4you/ - Review

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

https://ilovebooksandstuffblog.wordpress.com - Feature

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

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

October 31^st

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

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

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

https://www.instagram.com/theoriginal_b00k_nerd/ - Review

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

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

https://www.instagram.com/TheWoollyGeek

https://tarasbookishblog.home.blog/ - Review

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

https://freelancewriterjannyc.com/ - Feature

November 1^st

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

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

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

http://ramblingmads.com – Review

https://www.instagram.com/books.highlighters.me/ - Review

https://www.ladyhawkeye.com/ - Feature

November 2^nd

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

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

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

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

https://www.instagram.com/808bookdr/ - Review

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

https://www.instagram.com/rachelfallonmcd/?igshid=MmIzYWVlNDQ5Yg%3D%3D – Review

November 3^rd

https://www.instagram.com/inkspit.blog/ - Review

https://www.instagram.com/irish_booklover89 - Review

https://www.instagram.com/demigodreading19/ - Review

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

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

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

https://bookwormbunnyreviews.blogspot.com/ - Review

http://www.crossroadreviews.com/ - Feature

Book Tour Organized By:

R&R Book Tours

Thursday, September 28, 2023

Tethered Review Spotlight

Find out why Tethered by Elayna R. Gallea is an Amazon #1 bestseller in YA dark fantasy and in new releases!

Okay, just ignore this book's gorgeous cover, because it is too mind-blowing to deal with right now. LOL! Seriously, if this cover doesn't make you stop in your tracks and give it a once or twice over...I don't know what to tell you. Well, I'll say that you are obviously missing out, because this book? It' good!

Tethered is the first book in Elayna R. Gallea's The Binding Chronicles and from the first page you are going to be hooked. The young princess is having a birthday. However, instead of celebrating it with friends, family, and those she loves most she's getting married. To a vampire. Not her choice. The vampire in question? Rumored to be deadly, blood-thirsty, and to leave a slew of bodies in his wake. Not exactly the most comforting thing to be thinking of when it comes to your future husband, right?

This marriage? It's meant to bring an alliance, but this alliance is going to do little for Luna's welfare in her mind. She thinks she has some idea of what is to come with this marriage, but she has no idea what she is in for.

The betrothed - Sebastian, is less than pleased with the arrangement himself, but when his Maker throws a twist in there...well, all bets are officially OFF. He can't believe what she's demanding of him, but let's be clear...ol' boy doesn't have a choice. Best hope to it and be quick! She looks mad! LOL

Tethered is engaging from beginning to end. You have the characters who fulfill the role of bringing Luna's horrors to life, but Sebastian is the one who attempts to more or less walk the line. As you read the book, the deeper you go, the more engaged you're going to become in the characters and their situation. Of course, the binding going sideways throws an interesting twist into the story that will literally pull you to the edge of your seat.

I'm excited to find out what happens next, but since we have time I think that I'll be checking out The Ithenmyr Chronicles and seeing what that is all about since they are set in the same world. It's something to set your teeth into while February gets here so that you can grab and devour this book for yourselves.

5 out of 5 stars

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

Tethered (The Binding Chronicles #1)

Publication Date: February 1, 2023

Genre: Dark Romantic Fantasy/ Upper YA

🦇Vampires
🦇Magical Bindings
🦇Arranged Marriage
🦇Only One
🦇Tormented Hero

What could be worse than an arranged marriage to a vampire prince?

When Luna is sold into marriage to the Prince of Darkness, she thinks she knows what to expect. Arranged marriages happen all the time, right? Wrong. No one could have prepared her for the reality of being married to the vampire prince.

Ever since the day he was Made, Sebastian has been living according to Queen Marguerite’s rules. After all, he’s only alive because of her. When she orders him to marry and Bind himself to Luna, a human hailing a neighboring kingdom, he has no choice. He agrees to the marriage but never expects to feel anything for Luna.

When their Binding Ceremony goes awry, and they are magically Tethered, everything is thrown into upheaval. Unable to leave each other’s presence, they must learn to live with each other. Or die.

Tethered is a slow-burn arranged marriage epic romantic fantasy and is filled with forced proximity, magical bindings, vampires, and world-building.

Tethered takes place in the same world as Of Earth and Flame. It can be enjoyed on its own or alongside The Ithenmyr Chronicles.

This series is upper YA/NA and has moderate steam. There are some instances of violence, language, and mature situations. Recommended for ages sixteen and up.

Add to Goodreads

Available on Amazon

About the Author

Elayna R. Gallea is a whimsical weaver of words, creating tales of romantic fantasy. Nestled in the enchanting land of New Brunswick, Canada, she lives with her husband and two younglings. When she’s not writing fantastical stories, she eats copious amounts of chocolate and cheese, reads every day, and plays with her cats and dogs.

Elayna R. Gallea