Tag: fantasy

Monthly Features – January 2025

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Dear Pink by Michelle Angelle

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Synopsis: Do bears play polo? Can cats wear berets? Do happily ever afters exist? Often there are more questions than answers, and sometimes you find love on a bicycle.

Ever since Hannah caught her ex-boyfriend with another woman, she’s been stuck in a romance rut. When a hot guy in fancy bike gear corners her in the elevator, she lets him slip through her fingers, although his hard muscles and adorable grin never leave her thoughts.

Gabe is sick of plastic women who only see him as a piece of meat. Surprised by a funny woman in an elevator, he forgets to introduce himself and accidentally insults her instead. Convinced he’ll never see her again, he resigns himself to a life as a crazy cat man.

Will an unexpected bucket list change Hannah and Gabe’s life forever? Dear Pink is a romantic comedy where two lost souls collide with fate and find love in the most unlikely place.

Summary: If you like modern romances that are adorable with touches of humor this book would be for you. 

See the full review here: Dear Pink
Purchase here

 

 

Wicked by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Synopsis: Twenty-two year old Ivy Morgan isn’t your average college student. She, and others like her, know humans aren’t the only thing trolling the French Quarter for fun… and for food. Her duty to the Order is her life. After all, four years ago, she lost everything at the hands of the creatures she’d sworn to hunt, tearing her world and her heart apart.

Ren Owens is the last person Ivy expected to enter her rigidly controlled life. He’s six feet and three inches of temptation and swoon-inducing charm. With forest-green eyes and a smile that’s surely left a stream of broken hearts in its wake, he has an uncanny, almost unnatural ability to make her yearn for everything he has to offer. But letting him in is as dangerous as hunting the cold-blooded killers stalking the streets. Losing the boy she loved once before had nearly destroyed her, but the sparking tension that grows between them becomes impossible for Ivy to deny. Deep down, she wants… she needs more than what her duty demands of her, what her past has shaped for her.

But as Ivy grows closer to Ren, she realizes she’s not the only one carrying secrets that could shatter the frail bond between them. There’s something he’s not telling her, and one thing is for certain. She’s no longer sure what is more dangerous to her—the ancient beings threatening to take over the town or the man demanding to lay claim to her heart and her soul.

Summary: Wicked places us in a world where there is more than meets the eye and introduces us to the ship that is Ivy and Ren. I felt connections throughout the story in different ways, like how much Ivy likes variety in her cereal so much so that she has 12 boxes of cereal on hand at all times or like how despite having a job to support herself and a future seemingly laid out for her already, Ivy still strives to do more with her life; to be more.  The book takes you on an emotional roller coaster through the sad and the happy, through friendship and betrayal, uncertainty, and romance. I know it sounds cheesy and stereotypical, but I promise this book is definitely worth the read. All I can say is that I can’t wait to read the other two books in this series and that I will make no promises to not stay up until 4am to finish them.

See the full review here: Wicked
Purchase here

 

 

Review: Beyond the Father by Opëshum

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Synopsis:

The first of 8 books that will give you pause and make you ponder…
“Beyond the Father” sets the scene for the 8-book Sci-Fi Epic “gods on Trial: The Series™,” delving into life’s determination to transcend all limitation.

A uniquely different world to explore…
Set on the planet Xżyber, citizens of the Sub-Median Region, imperfectly reborn into metal, oppress those who are organic. Elsewhere, in the Central Kingdom, religion supports royalty’s brutal domination of the lowest class.

Rife with mounting tension…
War over scarce resources is coming, revolution within each region is brewing, and none know of the eccentric god who created them. This being watches, has fascinating conversations with his often-wiser companion, occasionally learns, and rarely intervenes.

A struggle for survival and existence...
The many levels and threads of struggle distract nearly all from a far greater threat. Meanwhile, the young Prince Anglid’s vision quest into the unexplored Area X may ultimately change everything. However, just when you think you know the direction of the story, the author has yet another surprise.

Favorite Lines:

“One’s inheritance is not necessarily a gift.”

“Yet as an artist, it is not my place nor my cause to decide what beauty is – or is not…In portraiture, I believe it is only my place to make the truth eternal…but it is not my place to help others run from it. As a painter of portraits, I believe it is my duty to capture what is truly there.”

My Opinion:

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Beyond the Father is an epic fantasy novel that masterfully intertwines political intrigue, spirituality, and complex character development. Set in the richly imagined world of Xżyber, the story delves into themes of power, class, and identity, offering readers a thought-provoking journey.

The narrative follows King Thio of the Central Kingdom, who maintains control over his subjects through stringent religious doctrines. In contrast, his son, Anglid, embarks on a vision quest that challenges his beliefs and principles, providing a compelling subplot that explores personal growth and rebellion. The dynamic between father and son adds depth to the storyline, highlighting the tension between tradition and change.

Opëshum’s world-building is both expansive and detailed, featuring a diverse cast that includes technologically enhanced beings, disillusioned soldiers, and interventionist deities. The interactions between the temperamental god Flexix and his companion offer philosophical insights and moments of levity, enriching the narrative. These dialogues are among the highlights of the book, providing readers with reflective pauses amidst the action.

The author’s prose is vivid, bringing to life the intricate settings and complex emotions of the characters. The pacing is well-balanced, maintaining suspense while allowing for character development. Notably, the plot takes unexpected turns, particularly in Anglid’s storyline, keeping readers engaged and eager to discover what happens next.

Summary:

Overall, Opëshum has crafted a narrative that is utterly unique. It not only entertains but also invites reflection on deeper societal and personal themes. I would recommend Beyond the Father to readers seeking a rich and immersive blend of fantasy/sci-fi. Happy reading!

Check out Beyond the Father here!

 

Monthly Features – December 2024

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Navigating Yesterday by Anthony Dean

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Synopsis: Banner Dawson spends seventeen long years in cryosleep aboard the damaged Valkyrie-198 as it limps along towards the small void just beyond the orbit of Saturn. During those years, back on Earth…

Jack works with relentless determination to develop the skills and knowledge needed to rescue Laura from the cryogenic pod under the mountain….

Alexis rises through the ranks of the Independent Order of Valkyries…

Maestro seeks to help and then heal a king…

The leader of the Society authorizes increased activities in the Borderlands, and Ranger Stone is lost as a result…

Ranger Stone’s son Brian, the boy with one blue and one brown eye, comes of age and learns a family secret that places him at the center of a great conflict…

And Bucky the horse continues to chew on nothing.

At the end of Beyond the Lemon Tree Moon, Number One, Annabelle, and many from the Potato arrive in the Earth System. But what awaits them when they return to their ancestral home?

Find out in Navigating Yesterday.

Summary: Overall, this was another great addition to Dean’s The Voided Man series and I am excited to see where he takes it next. This book (and series) is for anyone who is interested in quirky and humorous science fiction, especially sci-fi that touches on space travel and what it means to be human. 

See the full review here: Navigating Yesterday
Purchase here

 

She Tames the Sea by E.M. Etheridge

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Synopsis: Men fear a woman on the sea. They say women bring about bad luck and anger from the gods who rule the waters. Estella Bohem fears being aboard Captain Eric Price’s ship, amongst the pirates who kidnapped her for her abilities. It was the Bohem family who used magic to tame the beast of the sea decades ago. They trapped it in an ancient spell to make the waters safe to travel, but it was the vagabonds of the sea who wanted to free it, tame it, and use it for their own ambitions. All her life Estella never had control of her future, but as the notoriously brutal Captain Edward Laggatt hunts her down for the key to the beast’s cage, she has no choice but to trust the same men who stole her away from her socialite life in Charleston South Carolina.

She Tames The Sea is an adult dark fantasy novel that delves into the complications of familial relations, magic and mythology.

Summary: Overall, I LOVED this book. A creative dark fantasy featuring witches, pirates, romance, action, adventure, and magic, I cannot recommend this book enough and am crossing my fingers that we will see more in this series in the future!

See the full review here: She Tames the Sea
Purchase here

 

Review: The Mantle of the Past by Lewis A. D’Ambra

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Synopsis:

The Mantle of the Past is a Literary Titan Gold Book Award winner and the first book in the A Scattering of Leaves Series. Set in the world of Kolgennon, a place where myth, legend and reality clash.

The King of Kings has fallen. His vast domain teeters on the brink of civil war as his generals squabble over his legacy, conquered peoples plot rebellion and old foes seek to reassert themselves.

The dust has only just begun to settle on the conquests of Tekolger, King of the Doldun, who exploded out of the east to forge an empire not seen since before the ancient cataclysm known as the Dusk. His body has not yet been brought home, his armies have not yet returned from his final campaign, but already plots have begun, factions are forming, and rivalries ancient and new are starting to stir.

All the while old powers thought long passed into memory, or simply fictions of fevered imaginations, are once again troubling the minds of men and showing themselves on the fringes of civilisation.

Will the rise of the Doldun prove to be a false dawn? Or will the conquests of the King usher in a new age of peace and prosperity for Kolgennon.

Favorite Lines:

“Strange how children can make such statements and misunderstand things with such enthusiasm.”

“She allowed herself to drift and be taken in by the sacred waters and time seemed to slip away, like none of the worries and stresses of the world above mattered anymore, a supreme ecstasy washed over her and with it came clarity. Just like a gentle hand, it seemed to take her in its embrace, the water wrapping around her. Sanae began to drift into a serene nothing.”

“Find your blood, find your home and you will know.”

My Opinion:

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

As the first installment to the A Scattering of Leaves series, The Mantle of the Past takes place in the world of Kolgennon which seems to be inspired by the Mediterranean and Near East regions. The king of kings, Tekolger, has died and those he leaves behind suddenly find themselves locked in a power struggle over who will rule the empire in his wake. The Doldun are on the move to conquer as much of the world as they can while old powers thought to be only myths begin to awaken from their slumber.

This story had echoes of an epic to me and I was trying to recall the last time I read one such as this; all I could come up with was The Odyssey.  In this first book of the series, D’Ambra crafts a world where the interplay of war, politics, and divine forces shapes not only the fate of kingdoms but also the very identities of its characters. With a richly detailed setting and a sprawling narrative, the book invites readers to experience a world on the brink of transformation, where every action—whether personal or political—carries monumental weight.

At the heart of the story is the kingdom of Kolgennon, a realm teetering on the edge of both internal and external conflict. What sets this book apart is the depth with which D’Ambra builds his world—its history, cultures, and the subtle ways in which the divine and mortal realms overlap. The author’s extensive background in history, military service, and political experience is evident in the way he approaches the political landscape of Kolgennon. His world feels grounded, believable, and alive with tension, as characters grapple with the changing tides of power, ambition, and legacy. It’s a world that feels as if it could exist just beyond the pages, a product of meticulous world-building and a deep understanding of human nature.

D’Ambra’s ability to weave such a carefully crafted world with multiple, intricate character subplots is what really drove home the sense of this being an epic to me. The novel introduces several key protagonists, each of whom is navigating their own personal struggles amidst the broader political turmoil. D’Ambra doesn’t rush the story—rather, he takes his time to establish the setting, the conflicts, and the characters’ emotional landscapes. For some readers, this might feel like a slower progression, but for those who enjoy layered storytelling and deep world-building, this approach enhances the richness of the narrative. 

Summary:

Overall, this was a rewarding read. Touching on themes of loyalty, identity, politics, leadership, and what it means to be human, this book weaves personal struggles with a larger narrative that results in a story that resonates on both a character-driven level and a more epic, world-changing scale. I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys stories with complex world-building, and intricate-driven plots revolving around political intrigue, divine mythologies and warring conflicts. If you enjoy epics, this book is for you. Happy reading!

Check out The Mantle of the Past here!

 

Monthly Features – November 2024

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The Callista Alignment by Steve Gay

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Synopsis: ‘No one remembers the moment they were born, but I do… the second time at least’.

Abducted and thrust into a bewildering alien world, Kali has no idea that she’s the only Earth-born ‘natural’ in a population of enslaved humans scattered across the stars. She’ll push the limits of her captivity, turn her owner’s life upside down, and challenge everything he believes about her species. Then, when the public spotlight suddenly turns to her, she’ll drag him into a revolution.

The Callista Alignment is the first instalment in a new science fiction series, an epic saga of prejudice, redemption, and human courage in all its forms. Join a new kind of heroine for an extraordinary adventure in an alien civilisation.

If you enjoyed reading ‘Divergent’ or ‘Silo’ you’ll be captured by The Callista Alignment and swept into a world you’ll never forget.

Meet the cast:

The Professor:
Yan Feyrsten is worried that he’s made a big mistake. The human he’s just bought is upending his quiet academic life. Kali won’t settle, won’t eat, won’t comply. She can’t even grasp that here on Antaris, she’s nothing more than an animal.

The Naturalist:
Henik Varkesen understands why. He’s imagined meeting an Earth-born ‘natural’ his entire professional life. But he realises the trouble Kali could bring, that she’s either a wonderous scientific discovery or the most dangerous human on the planet.

The Bounty Hunter:
Torsta Jai knows an opportunity when she sees one. Reduced to hunting feral humans in the Derelict Zone, the disgraced police chief is looking for a way to restore her position. She realises Yan’s human could give her the political leverage she needs, and will stop at nothing to possess her.

The Human:
Kali is just trying to get by in a baffling alien world. She’ll start with Yan, use her gift with language to confound his expectations, force him to reassess everything he believes. But when she is stolen away from him and thrust into the public spotlight, she’ll discover the truth, that a restive human population has been waiting for a sign, waiting for their moment. They’ve been waiting for her.

Summary: Overall, if you are a fan of science fiction that touches on philosophical and political topics surrounding prejudice, humanity, and what it means to be human, then this book could be for you!

See the full review here: The Callista Alignment
Purchase here

 

Rescue Me Twice by Melody Carson

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Synopsis: Bound by duty, torn by love—a cowboy’s struggle to choose between obligation and destiny.

I’m Clay, billionaire heir to a vast ranch, bound by an ironclad contract that requires my marriage by the tender age of thirty.

Josie’s gold-digging claws dig deep as the wedding chaos consumes me. Seeking some peace, I retreat into the wilderness, only for a riding accident to knock me out of the saddle and steal my memories.

Badly injured, found by Caitlin, a skilled Search and Rescue beauty, and her canine companion, Arro, I slowly recovered in the tranquility of her cabin. Robbed of my memory, I found a solace and love I didn’t know was possible. A searing love blooms, unknowingly putting Caitlin’s life in jeopardy.

But as my memory returns, so does the horror of the looming forced wedding, tearing at the seams of our newfound passion.

When the wedding bells toll, I’m forced to choose between honor and my heart. But who knew Arro would come to my rescue again? In an instant, he changed the course of our lives, exposing staggering deceit and reminding me that true love is worth risking it all.

Summary: Overall, this is an opposites attract, small town contemporary romance that features billionaire cowboys, mystery, love, and adorable canine companions. If you are a fan of any of those things then this book could be for you.

See the full review here: Rescue Me Twice
Purchase here

 

Beyond the Lemon Tree Moon by Anthony Dean

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Synopsis: Twelve years have passed since the events detailed in Ascending the Hourglass.

Persius remains restless and hopes to learn much more about the phenomenon he calls jumping. Jack and Banner are now young men, and they assist him in his research.

Al’s family continues to grow, and Pete develops a new love interest.

The moon that orbits the planet Royal has been an idyllic home for many years, but will it remain that way? And if not, is there any possible method by which Prisoner Number One’s family might return to Earth?

Discover what waits for them all Beyond the Lemon Tree Moon.

Summary: Overall, this was another excellent addition to Dean’s The Voided Man series and I continue to be impressed with where Dean takes this series in each book; I am excited to see where he takes it next! This book (and series) is for anyone interested in quirky and humorous science fiction.

See the full review here: Beyond the Lemon Tree Moon
Purchase here

 

Hustling the Mob by Don Spillane

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Synopsis: What is the difference between robbing a bank and robbing a Mafia bank?

Sara and Joshua are about to find out.

Joshua is a world class hacker and his partner, the alluring Sarah, is a master safe cracker who make their living pillaging other criminal’s bank accounts.

An attempted assassination puts them on the run. In return for help from a middle Eastern spy chief, they’re tasked with disrupting an arms deal being negotiated by a crooked banker in the Cayman Islands. This same banker launders money for his main client, a New Jersey mafia boss.

A huge pot of money proves too big a temptation and, in this international, absorbing crime thriller, Sarah and Joshua must outsmart a growing list of bad guys.

Summary: Overall, this was quite a suspenseful story full of complex characters, a thrilling plot, and dangerous situations. I would recommend this to anyone interested in fictional espionage stories that involve organized crime, suspenseful thrillers, and action. 

See the full review here: Hustling the Mob
Purchase here

 

Light Locked by A.K. Chandler

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Synopsis: Humanity is about to unravel, and Clea Hart holds the final thread.

A light-wielding warrior known as a Veilin, she’s stolen the cursed Deadlock Medallion—an artifact of legend that could spell doom for mankind’s last three cities. Escaping from enemies she once called friends, Clea knows she has to destroy it, and that means returning home.

The forest of Shambelin is the only thing standing in her way, but it’s rife with traps, tricks, and beasts. She can’t survive it alone. In desperation, she accepts the help of a mysterious man named Ryson.

The forest is his domain, and Clea and Ryson are as different as the sun and moon that shape its illusions. Together, they face the wilderness, the medallion’s influence, and the woes of their declining world. These challenges unite them, but when Ryson’s secrets come to light, Clea realizes that the horrors of the forest are nothing but a playground to his past.

Their connection is undeniable, her mission is critical, but trusting him could be the last mistake she ever makes.

Summary: Full of emotional depth, thought provoking philosophy, fast-paced action, and unexpected plot twists, this book has it all for anyone who is interested in fantasy. I found this to be a refreshing take on some familiar fantasy themes and I am beyond excited to see what Chandler comes up with next. 

See the full review here: Light Locked
Purchase here

 

 

 

Review: Light Locked by A.K. Chandler

~ likelystory18 ~ 2 Comments

Synopsis:

Humanity is about to unravel, and Clea Hart holds the final thread.

A light-wielding warrior known as a Veilin, she’s stolen the cursed Deadlock Medallion—an artifact of legend that could spell doom for mankind’s last three cities. Escaping from enemies she once called friends, Clea knows she has to destroy it, and that means returning home.

The forest of Shambelin is the only thing standing in her way, but it’s rife with traps, tricks, and beasts. She can’t survive it alone. In desperation, she accepts the help of a mysterious man named Ryson.

The forest is his domain, and Clea and Ryson are as different as the sun and moon that shape its illusions. Together, they face the wilderness, the medallion’s influence, and the woes of their declining world. These challenges unite them, but when Ryson’s secrets come to light, Clea realizes that the horrors of the forest are nothing but a playground to his past.

Their connection is undeniable, her mission is critical, but trusting him could be the last mistake she ever makes.

Favorite Lines:

“Her mother had always warned her that an injured mind could kill to.”

“I’m sorry, my deep interpersonal issues and dark past compelled me to do that.”

“Clea wanted to exist. The desire to die whole had never been about the cause of her death. She just didn’t want to die before knowing who she was. She didn’t want to die a fractured symbol, known to the world, but never known to herself.”

My Opinion:

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

This story takes place on a continent that is on the brink of extinction and follows Clea, a Veilin princess, and Ryson, a Kaletik warrior, as they embark on a treacherous journey to destroy the cursed Deadlock Medallion in an attempt to bring light and life back to a shadowed, dying land. Full of fantasy, adventure, action, magic, and much more, this book had me hooked early on and I had a hard time putting it down!

Chandler did an amazing job at creating a world that is uniquely its own. I felt transported to the world that came to life on the pages and, while an in-depth fantasy land, I didn’t feel lost in any concepts as can so often times happen with fantasy. Chandler’s descriptions were meticulous without dragging on and the pacing felt just right to me. I found that I was able to follow along as the story unfolded without difficulty and was quickly turning page after page to see what happens next.

I also really enjoyed the character writing throughout this story as Chandler has managed to craft complex but relatable characters that are truly the heart of this book. We get to follow along as we dig deeper into the characters of Clea and Ryson and watch as they develop throughout the story; I especially enjoyed their relationship evolving in new ways and found myself addicting to finding out what happens next between the two of them. Without spoilers ,Chandler I have a bone to pick with you on this.

I was shocked to discover that this is Chandler’s debut novel as I found it to be so masterfully crafted and well balanced. Chandler does an excellent job at weaving together elements of fantasy, romance, and philosophy to bring a refreshing and compelling new work to life. I cannot stress enough how talented and, quite frankly, beautiful I find Chandler’s storytelling abilities to be. Her ability to tell a story so poetically while still incorporating a compelling narrative was truly the highlight of this book to me.

Summary:

Full of emotional depth, thought provoking philosophy, fast-paced action, and unexpected plot twists, this book has it all for anyone who is interested in fantasy. I found this to be a refreshing take on some familiar fantasy themes and I am beyond excited to see what Chandler comes up with next. Happy reading!

Check out Light Locked here!

 

Monthly Features – October

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Mr. Bingley: Just As A Gentlemen Ought To Be by Brandon Dragan

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Synopsis: “Finally, a novel that reveals the true Bingley! Heartily recommend to all Bingley-philes!” — Crispin Bonham-Carter, Mr. Bingley in the BBC Miniseries, Pride & Prejudice

For centuries Jane Austen’s classic novel, Pride and Prejudice, has been dearly loved he world over. However, few people know the hidden truth about Mr. Darcy’s closest friend, the affable Mr. Bingley—who is much more than he appears on first impression.

Mr. Bingley: Just as a Gentleman Ought to Be is the previously untold story of a young man who unwittingly uncovers an evil cabal among the British Empire’s aristocracy. Bingley finds himself confronting an enterprise so nefarious, he cannot help but act to redress it, even if it costs him his own reputation and the love of his life, the angelic Miss Jane Bennet.

Follow Mr. Bingley down a rabbit hole of intrigue and corruption, as he fights to protect the country’s most vulnerable alongside friends old and new. Can he set things right before he loses Jane forever?

Summary: Overall, I really enjoyed this book and thought it was a creative and unique twist to the familiar Pride and Prejudice world. I would recommend to anyone who is a P&P fan who wants a new take on a familiar character, and even those who are less familiar with P&P but love literature set in the 19th century that feature action, mystery, comradery, and a touch of romance.

See the full review here: Mr. Bingley: Just As A Gentleman Ought To Be
Purchase here

 

Her Dark Promises by E.H. Raven

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Synopsis: Stuck in a dead-end job and unable to afford independence, Jamila’s dreams of success fade daily. Desperate, she agrees to an arranged marriage orchestrated by her father, but it backfires, deepening her depression. 

She finds solace in horror movies about demonic possession, leading her to research real-life cases. Discovering some achieve success through dark means, she decides to summon her demon, hoping to change her fate. Possession grants Jamila immense confidence and success, but the dark alliance exacts a steep price.

The demon consumes her sanity, blurring reality and nightmare.

Can Jamila escape the darkness she unleashed?

Summary: Overall, while this was my first book from Raven, I am confident that it won’t be my last. This was the perfect blend of creepy, thrilling, and addicting and I would recommend to anyone who is a fan of horror and psychological thrillers.

See the full review here: Her Dark Promises
Purchase here

 

The Ultimate Baby Boomer Word Search by Hazel Woods

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Synopsis: Step back in time for a classic experience with “The Ultimate Baby Boomer Word Search Large Print.” This nostalgic large-print word search book features amusing historical facts and timeless fashion trends, sure to bring back cherished childhood memories. Your Time Machine is Ready to Go!

Summary: Overall, this is a fun word search puzzle book full of nostalgic and interesting facts from the 1940s-1980s. While this would probably be more appreciated by the baby boomer generation, I think it can be enjoyed by anyone who enjoys word searches. 

See the full review here: The Ultimate Baby Boomer Word Search
Purchase here

 

Focused on Love by Melody Carson

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Synopsis: Rodeo nights and a city girl who’s all trouble. I must protect this damsel at all costs.

I’m Shane, a lonely cowboy and billionaire bronc rider with a memory I can’t shake.
Then enters Zoey, a sexy city fashion photographer, stirring up dust in my private world.
Sparks fly as we’re instantly drawn to each other.

But, then Zoey unknowingly captures a kidnapping on film
and our attraction takes a very dangerous turn.
I must protect her from the shadows as we unravel an unspeakable
crime that threatens everything.

I’m not only wrestling with broncs,
but I’m protecting the only woman who’s ever stolen my heart.
Together, we’ll face the evil in this small-town mystery that threatens to tear us apart.

This rodeo holds more than bronc riding –
it may just be the place where two hearts find their way home.

But, first, we must outsmart the danger and find our love amidst the chaos.

Summary: Overall, if you like contemporary romances featuring cowboys, small town love, action, suspense, intrigue, and of course romance, then this book could be for you.

See the full review here: Focused on Love
Purchase here

 

Lost Grove: Part One by Charlotte Zang and Alex J. Knudsen

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Synopsis: For fans of Twin Peaks and Stranger Things, Lost Grove is the first in a paranormal mystery duology that explores the twisted legends and mysteries in one small town.

In the eerie, enigmatic town of Lost Grove, where secrets whispered among the rustling pines are as thick as the fog rolling in from the sea, the discovery of Sarah Elizabeth Grahams’ lifeless body on the windswept beach is but the first note in a haunting symphony of mysteries.

Sergeant Seth Wolfe, the town’s tenacious lawman, penetrates the cryptic and labyrinthine secrets veiled beneath the town’s cheerful facade. A connection to Sarah Elizabeth, one he could never have fathomed, begins to take shape, blurring the lines between his own existence and the mysteries that enshroud the town. Suspects multiply like whispers in a haunted forest, but each lead unravels, and the mysteries of the case deepen.

Meanwhile, a group of local teenagers embark on their own harrowing mission, driven by a relentless desire to answer the riddle of their friend’s vanished brother and expose the sinister secrets harbored by an affluent institute nestled in the heart of Lost Grove. Further complicating matters, one teen’s father left town the morning Sarah Elizabeth’s body was found. With ties to a similar case seven years prior, he has become a prime suspect in the case.

As Seth dives deeper into the abyss of darkness gripping Lost Grove, an unsettling discovery threatens to derail his investigation and shatter the illusions of safety the town has harbored for far too long. A chilling web of malevolence begins to tighten its grip, ensnaring them all in a nightmarish dance that will test the limits of their resolve.

Readers who love the eerie, unsettling mystery of Stephen King’s The Outsider and the monstrous legends of Brian McGreevy’s Hemlock Grove will enjoy this twisty, taut thriller.

Summary: Full of horror elements, suspense, the paranormal, mystery, and much more, Lost Grove leaves no rock unturned while taking readers on an addicting dark and thrilling journey that will have them turning page after page desperate answers. If you’re a fan of Twin Peaks, and want to read something similar with a bit more of the supernatural and paranormal, then this book could be for you. 

See the full review here: Lost Grove: Part One
Purchase here

 

Cosmic American Rhapsody by Ray Sweatman

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Synopsis: Get ready for a wild ride as country-rock pioneer, Gram Parsons, struggles to survive, both physically and spiritually at the Lost Highway Motel. As his life flashes before him, several colorful characters try to help him find the meaning of life such as the ghosts of his parents, a strange policeman, a transcendentalist, and the animated animals from “Hee Haw.” With rich allusions to both popular and classical culture, it is at turns hilarious, poetic, tragic, and thought-provoking.

Summary: Overall. I can say this was an entirely unique biographical fiction and unlike anything I have read before. If you are interested in Gram Parsons, colorfully artistic writing, and/or biographical fictions, then this book could be for you. You can check out the book trailer here!

See the full review here: Cosmic American Rhapsody
Purchase here

 

We Meet Again: Book One by Brownell Landrum

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Synopsis: Separated by centuries… Reunited to change the world

Have you ever wondered if you met someone… before?
When she meets the Artist, his first words to her are, “We Meet Again.” Yet they hadn’t met before.
Or had they?

Brownell Landrum’s celebrated We Meet Again trilogy is an epic reincarnation mystery + love story about a famous couple from history reunited today to fulfill a prophecy that will change the world.
But is the world ready to change?
Follow the clues tracing back centuries, even millennia through this remarkable story of love, fate, and destiny against a backdrop of lifetimes from present day to 1930s Brazil, 1500s Renaissance Europe, the Middle Ages, and even ancient Greece.

In Book One, meet Marielle and Dante, a modern-day couple navigating a new relationship while re-living a previous lifetime as a nun and a priest in 1930s Brazil protecting a valuable artifact from a nefarious organization still on the hunt today.

Summary: Overall, this was an interesting reincarnation love story full of history, romance, and adventure. Part one of a trilogy, I am excited to see where Landrum takes the rest of this series. If you like romance, especially historical romances, adventure, mystery, suspense, and metaphysical fiction, then this book could be for you.

See the full review here: We Meet Again: Book One
Purchase here

 

Watercolors and Tears by José Orlando Castañeda

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Synopsis: Manuel, a young Ecuadorian, sells medicinal herbs in the market and paints watercolors in his spare time. In search of a better life, he emigrates to Port Chester (New York). Elvira, his wife, intends to join him by sea, but she is shipwrecked. Her plans change after her rescue, and she ends up in Madrid, where she is employed as a nanny. Antonio, the father of the children in her care, discovers her secretly reading a novel from his antique books collection. He slyly labels a passage with a strip of paper, intending for her to read it. Intrigued, Elvira responds by indicating her own phrases in the book. That’s the beginning of an innocent exchange of literary quotes through which love quietly slips in. While Manuel takes refuge in his paintings and herbal remedies on the other side of the world, Elvira finds herself falling for Antonio. When her hopes are dashed through a casual blunder, she seeks to regain her marital home and travels to Port Chester to be with her husband. Confronted by an unexpected tragedy, she discovers the watercolors that Manuel has painted in his solitude. His brushstrokes cut deep into her heart.

Summary: Overall, this was a very beautiful and elegant story about the complexities of life that tackled very real topics surrounding the realities of emigration in the pursuit of a better life for you and your family. Full of rich descriptions, love, loss, sacrifice, tenacity, and family, this book could be for anyone who is interested in the deeply honest portrayal of what it means to be human in this world.

See the full review here: Watercolors and Tears
Purchase here

 

The Clock and the Candles by Anthony Dean

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Synopsis: Roland, the Keeper of the Clock, and Gwen, the former crown princess of the Lands, are separated by 46 feet of stone. After seizing the throne from her father, King Adolphus had the Prison Maximus constructed around Gwen. She lives in a cell with no door that measures eight feet on every side, and which is centered in a structure that measures a hundred feet on every side.

One day in the seventh year of Gwen’s imprisonment, Roland returns home from his duties tending the Ebony Clock to find that someone has entered his cabin and left an unsigned letter on his table. The letter reads:

Dear Roland,

Consider five statements. Three of them are true. Two of them are lies.

1. You are the last of your kind.

2. King Adolphus is an immortal being.

3. The creatures who walk the Lands after sunset serve no master.

4. Gwen’s prison was not constructed according to specifications.

5. The Ebony Clock is not connected to anything at all.

Sort the truth from the lies, and you will be free.

With the help of allies that come to include an old friend, an elderly chemist, two disgruntled members of Adolphus’ guard, and an elf, Roland tries to make use of the new information in the beginning of a new epic from Anthony Dean, author of the Voided Man series.

Summary: Overall, this was a refreshing and original plot, as all of Dean’s seem to be. He took some classic fantasy themes and made them uniquely his own for this story which I really enjoyed. Only book one in this new series, this book ends on a bit of a cliffhanger and I am excited to see where Dean takes it next. If you like fantasy, mystery, action, and adventure, then this book could be for you.

See the full review here: The Clock and the Candles
Purchase here

 

Review: The Clock and the Candles by Anthony Dean

~ likelystory18 ~ 2 Comments

Synopsis:

Roland, the Keeper of the Clock, and Gwen, the former crown princess of the Lands, are separated by 46 feet of stone. After seizing the throne from her father, King Adolphus had the Prison Maximus constructed around Gwen. She lives in a cell with no door that measures eight feet on every side, and which is centered in a structure that measures a hundred feet on every side.

One day in the seventh year of Gwen’s imprisonment, Roland returns home from his duties tending the Ebony Clock to find that someone has entered his cabin and left an unsigned letter on his table. The letter reads:

Dear Roland,

Consider five statements. Three of them are true. Two of them are lies.

1. You are the last of your kind.

2. King Adolphus is an immortal being.

3. The creatures who walk the Lands after sunset serve no master.

4. Gwen’s prison was not constructed according to specifications.

5. The Ebony Clock is not connected to anything at all.

Sort the truth from the lies, and you will be free.

With the help of allies that come to include an old friend, an elderly chemist, two disgruntled members of Adolphus’ guard, and an elf, Roland tries to make use of the new information in the beginning of a new epic from Anthony Dean, author of the Voided Man series.

Favorite Lines:

“‘I’d pay a great price to find a love like that.’…’I think you will find that it does not require a great price or a small one.'”

“A man who will give comfort to a woman who has no ability to give anything in return is the kind of man who will find love easily, although such things work on their own timetable. You’ll see.”

My Opinion:

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

This story takes place in a fantasy world with hints dropped that it may actually be our own but something has happened to change it into the version we read about (I am waiting to see how this pans out) and follows Roland, a Keeper of the Clock, who returns home after a day of work to find a mysterious note left for him. What follows is an epic fantasy adventure while Roland tries to uncover the meaning behind the note.

While I have read several of Dean’s science fiction books, this is the first fantasy book from him that I have read so I was going into this a bit unsure of what to expect but as a fan of both fantasy and Dean, I knew I wasn’t going to  be disappointed and spoiler alert: I wasn’t. As always Dean’s writing tone comes off as creative and warm. He does a great job at giving you just enough information to keep you on the edge of your seat without giving everything away, leaving you wanting more and craving answers.

I thought that the pacing of this story was just right, we get enough details to understand what is happening without too much to get bogged down in. I also thought that that character writing was well done although some characters did seem a bit too straight forward and perhaps motivated a bit too much by either good or evil. I would have perhaps liked to see some more multidimensionality to them – although that might be the exact point of the story so I think I will just have to wait and see as more details come to light later in the series.

Summary:

Overall, this was a refreshing and original plot, as all of Dean’s seem to be. He took some classic fantasy themes and made them uniquely his own for this story which I really enjoyed. Only book one in this new series, this book ends on a bit of a cliffhanger and I am excited to see where Dean takes it next. If you like fantasy, mystery, action, and adventure, then this book could be for you. Happy reading!

Check out The Clock and the Candles here!

 

Review: She Tames the Sea by E.M. Etheridge

~ likelystory18 ~ 1 Comment

Synopsis:

Men fear a woman on the sea. They say women bring about bad luck and anger from the gods who rule the waters. Estella Bohem fears being aboard Captain Eric Price’s ship, amongst the pirates who kidnapped her for her abilities. It was the Bohem family who used magic to tame the beast of the sea decades ago. They trapped it in an ancient spell to make the waters safe to travel, but it was the vagabonds of the sea who wanted to free it, tame it, and use it for their own ambitions. All her life Estella never had control of her future, but as the notoriously brutal Captain Edward Laggatt hunts her down for the key to the beast’s cage, she has no choice but to trust the same men who stole her away from her socialite life in Charleston South Carolina.

She Tames The Sea is an adult dark fantasy novel that delves into the complications of familial relations, magic and mythology.

Favorite Lines:

“Remember this, my love, a woman alone in this world is an easy target for foolish men. Society hates a woman who is strong enough to live outside of them and will burn them to the ground. Pirates and Politicians are all the same in that aspect. Humans crave power and will either kill witches like us or enslave us for it.”

“I don’t know of any spells that can give me the power of a man in the patriarchal shitstorm of a society I lived in.”

My Opinion:

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

This story follows Estella Bohem, a secret witch stolen away from her life in South Carolina by pirates who need her help to release and tame a beast of the seas that her own ancestors had locked away many years ago. What follows is a tale full of magic that had me addicted until the very end.

My first impression of this book was it is Pirates of the Caribbean with witches – a combination that I didn’t know I needed until I was reading this book and found myself unable to put it down. Etheridge has a beautiful and unique storytelling voice that brings to life a creative story full of pirates, witches, magic, action, adventure, and femininity in a world that is run by men. I really want to emphasize that Etheridge’s unique storytelling voice that is used in this book really sets it apart from a lot of other modern books I have been seeing and reading from places like BookTok, and I mean that in the best way possible – it was a breath of fresh air that added to the appeal and mysticism of this story.

What I found most compelling about this story was the vivid imagery, elaborately crafted mythology, and strong character development. As a woman myself, I appreciated the theme of strong femininity that was present throughout the story. I also really enjoyed the plot twist at the end. No spoilers here, you’ll just have to read for yourself.

Summary:

Overall, I LOVED this book. A creative dark fantasy featuring witches, pirates, romance, action, adventure, and magic, I cannot recommend this book enough and am crossing my fingers that we will see more in this series in the future! Happy reading!

Check out She Tames the Sea here!

 

Review: The King of Evil by Eileen Gillick

~ likelystory18 ~ 2 Comments

Synopsis:

He took her powers.
She’ll fight to take back what’s always been hers.
Sixteen-year-old Elise is bullied by her peers every day.
Unbeknownst to them all, she possesses twenty-four mutant abilities.
Eighteen-year-old Rolf takes them all away from her. He isolates them both in his own kingdom to gain knowledge and
strength of her powers. As he constructs a plan to bring her down, Elise must seek an ultimatum. Before it’s the end of her.

Favorite Lines:

“In her heart, it was clear to her what unintentionally razing a relationship could do to the heart. Grasping that the dint of love might romp somewhere in her soul, except for all the horror she endured, it seemed impossible to see it in a person. The person who she loved.”

“Distressed, Rolf takes Elise to his chest and screams out.”

“I call this the Icarus room…because when you go in here, you feel your spirits rise. It looks like a nice room, right? Then you fall because of the terror in here.”

My Opinion:

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

This story follows two high school students, sixteen year old outcast, Elise and eighteen year old Rolf. While the target of bullies, Elise has an incredible secret – she possess twenty-four mutant abilities. When Rolf finds out about Elise’s powers, he ends up unintentionally absorbing them. What follows is a battle of mental strength and perseverance as Rolf casts Elise into a hidden realm of his own creation in an attempt to break her spirit and ultimately bend her to his will. 

This is a fantastic debut novel for Gillick full of creative worldbuilding, strong character writing, and an interesting plot. Gillick brings a magical realm to life with vivid details that made me feel like I was right there along with the characters. Full of colorful descriptions of the landscapes and a well-crafted magic system, I found myself turning one page after another fully addicted to the immersion of the world that Gillick had created. I especially enjoyed the small detail of what music was playing the background in many of the scenes – it only added to being able to picture the scene.

I also found the character writing to be well done because Gillick didn’t try to make the characters perfect. Both Elise and Rolf are multidimensional characters who could only be described as morally gray at their core. They have their flaws and I found this to make them more relatable and more human. Their dynamic is what the story ultimately revolves around and I couldn’t get enough. Also, have I ever mentioned that I am also a sucker for multiple POVs? One thing I did want to point out that made me feel a bit weird was referring to Elise as a child several times throughout the book. I am not sure if this was because it was usually from Haas’ perspective but it felt slightly odd and a bit like a disservice to make her appear younger than her sixteen years.

*While classified as YA, some scenes in this book may be better suited for adults.*

Summary:

Overall, this was an addicting read. With a refreshing take on some familiar tropes and Gillick’s unique writing style bringing  hints of dark tension and mystery to the plot, I applaud Gillick and am in awe over this debut novel.  I would recommend this to anyone interested in fantasies full of psychological mind games, magic, and mystery that have a darker tone. Happy reading!

Check out The King of Evil here!