Indie Wishlist #1

October 12, 2019October 11, 2019 by Christina ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Showcasing released or upcoming indie books I want to read.

Anxiously awaiting this release! Coming November 11, 2019. #4 in a series.

Princess Rheanna’s self-esteem shattered when her former fiancé unexpectedly ended their betrothal. Years later, the rejection continues to haunt her, and now that she’s faced with yet another unwanted political engagement, Rhea will do anything to avoid another heartache.

When a mysterious lure draws Rhea to an abandoned turret of the palace, she discovers a magic mirror and is shocked to find a snarky man trapped inside. Although she agrees to help break Drake’s curse, things quickly grow complicated, for not only does she begin to fall in love with him, but breaking a curse proves quite difficult when she herself feels trapped––by her own self-doubts.

Rhea and Drake’s relationship sets in motion a series of events that threaten both herself and her kingdom. As she seeks to unmask the evil within the palace and overcome the poisonous doubts consuming her mind, Rhea must make a difficult choice between the path she’s expected to walk and the man she’s forbidden to love. But the more time she spends with Drake, the less convinced she becomes that doing her duty will be worth the sacrifice it will cost her heart.

This sounds very promising.

A fight for a crown four estranged sisters didn’t know existed.

To give them better lives, the king gave up his daughters to four different families. But when the king dies and the land needs one of them to rule, the girls are summoned to Season through identical necklaces.

The girls are launched into a series of life or death trials to find the one most worthy of the crown. Their only weapon is power over an element. If they want to survive the first trial, each must quickly learn to wield their element against the other sisters. Only one can become the queen, the last of them standing.

Can the sisters actually kill one another to become Queen of Season? Or will they die in a torturous, public display?

Another book in a series I can’t wait to read!

A mermaid without a home. A king without a queen. Can two unlikely souls bridge the gap between worlds?
Under the sea lives Fiora, the child of a human and a mermaid. Despite her best efforts, she has never found a place to belong. Worse, the other mermaids have accused her of waking a kraken with dark magic and threatened to silence her.
Permanently.
Above on land lives King Gustave, sworn not to marry until he finds his missing father. After a shipwreck almost kills him, he does find a missing person. Not his father, but a mute girl with haunting eyes and a strange connection to the sea.
Can Gustave unravel the mysteries around her before they both run out of time?

I’ll read anything comparable to The Selection series.

Most girls dream of being swept off their feet by a handsome prince. I dream of killing one.

For nearly a thousand years my people have suffered beneath the iron-fist of the Alchemists—discarded into the shadows of Ash Mountain. Banished. Forgotten.
Until now.

The king is dead, and the heir of House Thorn must marry to take the crown. As tradition dictates, twelve girls will be chosen to compete for Prince Decidan’s affection. Only one can be crowned queen.

I must make certain that girl is me. No matter the cost.

But to succeed I’ll have to guard more than just my heart from the advances of a Prince. You see, I have a secret. A deadly ability of my own that rivals even the most powerful of Alchemists—one that could save my people…or condemn them all.

I love Leigh’s work. 2020 can’t come soon enough.

He wants to make me his queen. The problem? I’m an heiress. And he’s…a beast.
I mean he is really a beast, a werewolf to be precise. I’m the first to admit that I’m born to be royalty, but this wasn’t exactly how I’d pictured it!
Rhys is about to be crowned king of the Realm, and he wants me to rule by his side. He said if I refuse, he’ll have the prince “gift” me to him. The nerve! One thing the new king needs to learn? I don’t take orders—not from him, not from anyone. But when Rhys makes it a contest and invites other women to audition to be his bride, he gets my ire up. I don’t know if I’m meant to marry a werewolf, but I do know that I was born to win. I’ll show that beast what I’m made of—I’ll make him sit, beg and heel. So may the best woman win.
And since I’m already certain that’s me, I’m all for it… Let the games begin!

Danger lurks in Darrenberg forest …

Scarlett Valesteine has lived her life under the protection of stone walls, bodyguards, and her overprotective father. She craves freedom and adventure. But her father insists that, as the daughter of the duke of the wealthy region of Darrenberg, she is too precious to her people to roam freely in the woods. On some days, the forest feels like her only escape from her sheltered, routine life in the castle, as well as a distraction from her broken relationship with her brother, who has been angry and violent ever since the day their mother died.

But rumors are spreading about the dangers lurking in Darrenberg Forest – rumors of wild beasts, bands of robbers, and tribes rising up and threatening the region of Darrenberg – and it’s no longer the safe place Scarlett once knew it to be.

Kolton Reinhart desperately wants to be free from his stern father, who wants him to choose a wife. He’s ready to leave his small hometown and begin working to build a life of his own. When he travels to Darrenberg to visit his cousin, his path crosses with Scarlett’s when he saves her from a bear attack. In return, Scarlett’s father offers Kolton a job, and although accepting is dangerous, it could be the opportunity he’s been waiting for.

When Scarlett leaves the town walls and is held captive in the middle of the forest, not only her life, but the lives of everyone she loves, are in danger.

She has no hope of escaping or being rescued – she told no one where she was going. Who will warn the region of Darrenberg, and her family, about the attack that’s coming?

Release Day Blast: A Turn of the Wheel by Catherine Labadie

October 11, 2019October 3, 2019 by Christina ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Title: A Turn of the Wheel
Author: Catherine Labadie
Pub Date: October 11th 2019
Pages: 498
New Adult Fantasy
Amazon|Goodreads

It is known that many harvests grow in the king’s orchard, both magical and mundane. So too has Aubria grown in her village community tending to the trees, bringing in a multitude of harvests, and partaking in the wheel of the year with her community. But not every branch grows the same way, and a newly betrothed Aubria finds that her heart and her longings for her future will take paths as winding as those leading through the sacred grounds of the orchard itself. The kingdom outside stands on a precipice, and the arrival of a Potioner carrying the weight of his convoluted past promises to make her change as no one born from orchard soil ever has before.

About the Author

Catherine Labadie lives in the mountains of the picturesque Carolinas with her husband and her dogs Fannie, Heidi, and Zoey. A Turn of the Wheel is her third novel, and she has many more stories waiting in the wings.

Find Catherine on Instagram, Twitter, and on her website.

Long Grows the Dark is also written by Catherine. You may find it on Goodreads and Amazon. (And my to-read pile).

Review: Dragon Fairest by Amberlyn Holland

October 8, 2019 by Christina ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Title: Dragon Fairest (Dragon Ever After #1)
Author: Amberlyn Holland
Pub Date: March 26th 2018
Pages: 272
Amazon| Goodreads

Once upon a time, a rare white dragon, seven treasure hunting wolf-shifters, and a princess on the run joined forces to save themselves and the kingdom from the shadowy schemes of the Grey Enchantress.

Jack has three unbreakable rules of survival. One, never reveal his full dragon form. Two, steer clear of magic users at all costs. Three, always trust his instinct for trouble. And there’s no doubt a princess accused of cursing her own family is exactly the kind of trouble he should avoid. Despite Jack’s intention to keep Kynara at arm’s length, though, her intriguing mix of vulnerability and stubborn determination draws him like no one else ever has.

A fugitive from her own people, exhausted and alone for the first time in her life, Kyn is running out of options. Asking for aid from a band of treasure hunters is a risk, but she has nothing left to lose. To save her family and her kingdom, she’ll take any help she can get. Even from handsome, irritating Jack who despises her magic yet throws himself into danger to defend her.

With the evil Grey Enchantress tightening her grip on the kingdom of Ardell, Jack and Kyn may have to sacrifice everything to stop her.

3.5

I don’t have a lot to say about Dragon Fairest but it is a fun book with great potential to be even more enjoyable as the series progresses. Once Upon a Dragon (book two) sounds amazing and I’ll be reading more from this author again in the future.

If you like fairy tales, dragons, and sweet romances, try this series.

Book Blitz + Giveaway: The Memory Thief by Lauren Mansy

October 1, 2019September 26, 2019 by Christina ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

The Memory Thief
Lauren Mansy
Published by: Blink
Publication date: October 1st 2019
Genres: Fantasy, Young Adult

In the city of Craewick, memories reign. The power-obsessed ruler of the city, Madame, has cultivated a society in which memories are currency, citizens are divided by ability, and Gifted individuals can take memories from others through touch as they please.

Seventeen-year-old Etta Lark is desperate to live outside of the corrupt culture, but grapples with the guilt of an accident that has left her mother bedridden in the city’s asylum. When Madame threatens to put her mother up for auction, a Craewick practice in which a “criminal’s” memories are sold to the highest bidder before being killed, Etta will do whatever it takes to save her. Even if it means rejoining the Shadows, the rebel group she swore off in the wake of the accident years earlier.

To prove her allegiance to the Shadows and rescue her mother, Etta must steal a memorized map of the Maze, a formidable prison created by the bloodthirsty ruler of a neighboring Realm. So she sets out on a journey in which she faces startling attacks, unexpected romance, and, above all, her own past in order to set things right in her world.

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / iBooks / Kobo

—

Q&A with Lauren Mansy:

What was it like to write your first book and have it published?

Incredible! It’s been such a wonderful journey filled with many sweet moments. I began writing over seven years ago, and it’s definitely surreal that The Memory Thief is now on shelves! As of late, there have been quite a few teary moments—and I’m totally not a crier! I’m truly overwhelmed by every kind word, the support, and the willingness to walk alongside me as The Memory Thief has gone from something imagined to a real book. I couldn’t be more excited to share this story with readers!

What was your inspiration behind TMT?

When I was a teenager, my mom was diagnosed with a heart condition, which led to an unexpected heart surgery. On the way to the operating room, her heart stopped six times, and the doctors warned my family that it was unlikely she’d survive. And if she did, she may not remember us due to the trauma she’d experienced throughout the entire ordeal.

I was sitting at her bedside when she first began to stir after her surgery, and I slipped my hand into hers and told her that it was me. Then she began to squeeze my hand three times, our signal for I love you! That’s my most favorite memory because I’d never felt such fear suddenly overcome by the most incredible joy. That collision of emotions was the moment which first sparked the idea for The Memory Thief.

Ever since then, I always struck by how memories make up so much of our identity and influence our relationships with others. It terrified me that my mom wouldn’t remember me, but I’m so thankful to say that she made a full-recovery. Though it was long and difficult process, she never gave up hope that things would one day get better. Her unwavering courage inspired me to want to share this story.

What kind of impact did writing TMT have on you personally?

Writing TMT has had a huge impact on me. I first began writing after completing treatments for Hodgkin’s Disease, a form of lymphatic cancer. It was a very difficult time in my life, and writing fiction helped me express myself in ways that I’d never done before. It helped me process through some of my most difficult memories.

When I first began drafting The Memory Thief, I realized there were still some emotions about being faced with the possibility of losing my mom that I’d yet to express out loud. Writing this book proved to be a source of healing, and a wonderful platform for exploring truth in my own life through a backdrop of fiction.

This story is very dear to my heart, and reflecting back on the process of writing this book is what made the moment of holding it in my hands so amazing.

What is your favorite part about TMT?

I think my favorite part is the relationship that Etta has with her mother.

Gwendolyn was one of my favorite characters to write because she’s full of opposites. Because of her coma, she hasn’t spoken a word in four years yet that entire time, she’s been teaching Etta how important it is never to give up, even when all the odds are stacked against you.

On her journey to save her mother, Etta discovers that Gwendolyn’s story is intertwined with Etta’s in ways that she never imagined. Writing this aspect of the plot was so much fun, and definitely one of my favorite parts of the drafting process, as well!

What do you hope readers take away from TMT?

The main thing I hope readers take away is that it isn’t the hardships of the past which define us but the strength we find in overcoming them. Etta has been through a lot of difficult things, and she struggles with trusting others because she has a hard time trusting herself. At the beginning of the story, Etta has spent four years hiding from both the people and events which haunt her, but to save her mother, she’ll have to come face-to-face with the past. I hope her journey will inspire readers to never lose hope, even in the midst of impossible odds.

How are you reflected in TMT (or, how much of you is reflected in the book)?

Because this story is based on my own journey with my mother, many of Etta’s worries, doubts, and fears are things I also experienced when faced with the possibility of losing my mom. The questions that Etta asks about how to deal with a situation like this are questions that I often pondered myself.

So when I first began writing TMT, I thought, “What if I wasn’t the only one who faced this fear? What if there was an entire society that feared their loved ones no longer remembering them?” It was these kinds of thoughts which ultimately let me to want to explore a world where memories reign over everything. Then writing Etta’s emotional journey also helped me process through a lot of my own memories, as well.

That’s one reason that I love not only writing but reading fantasy novels. Even though these characters live in worlds that are vastly different than our own, what they love, hate, and fear can often be so relatable. That often sticks with me long after I read the last page, and I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to share this journey with readers.

What is your favorite thing to do to promote your book?

My favorite thing has been getting to know readers. I had the privilege of attending BEA and ALA this past summer, and I loved meeting librarians, educators, fellow writers, bloggers, and industry professionals. Writing can often be a solitary venture, but the publishing process has been filled with creating some wonderful relationships. I couldn’t be more grateful for this community!

Why should readers be sure to place TMT on their TBR list?

The Memory Thief is a book full of secrets, lies, and betrayal. It’s set in a world where memories are currency, people are struggling to hold onto their true identity, and nothing is quite what it seems. And Etta is a very flawed character. She has a lot of regret and has made many mistakes, yet she never stops fighting to save her loved ones. If any these things appeal to you, I hope you’ll consider adding TMT to your TBR!

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned while being a writer?

I think the biggest lesson being a writer has taught me is the importance of the “story behind the story”. Though the publication journey is filled with exciting moments (like seeing the cover for the first time and holding the final copy!), the journey of getting here has changed me for forever. There have been highs and lows, moments of uncertainty coupled with unexpected encouragement, and wonderful support from family, friends, and even strangers! Writing fiction gave me a voice when I was still struggling to find mine, and I’ll be forever grateful that even as the last page of The Memory Thief ends, my own life story is still being written

Additional thoughts?

If you’re interested in learning more about The Memory Thief, I have more information of my website, and I also LOVE connecting with readers!

Website: http://www.laurenmansy.com
Instagram: lauren_mansy
Twitter: laurenmansy

Author Bio:

Lauren lives in the Chicago area, where she’s spent years working with youth, from young children to high schoolers. When she’s not writing, Lauren is usually with her family or exploring the city to find the best deep dish pizza. The Memory Thief, which was inspired by Lauren’s own journey with her mother, is her first novel. You can visit her online at http://www.laurenmansy.com.

Website / Goodreads / Twitter / Instagram

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Review: The Most Beautiful One by Elise Spencer

September 29, 2019 by Christina ♥ 1 Comment

Title: The Most Beautiful One: A Magical Retelling of Beauty and the Beast
Author: Elise Spencer
Pub Date: August 30th 2019
Pages: 194
Amazon| Goodreads

Something terrible is happening to all the beautiful maidens in the kingdom.

For years, there has been an odd notice posted every so often in the town square calling forth the most beautiful maiden in the land to serve the kingdom. The Queen decides which of the eligible ladies earns the feared and elusive title. After that, the chosen one disappears, never to be seen or heard from again. A few months later, the game is played all over again. Some say that the Queen boils the women alive to steal their youth, and others insist that they are sacrificed to a great dragon in the North to stop him from invading. The only certain thing, however, is that being beautiful is now a curse.

Belara has been terrified of coming of age for years now. Ever since she was little, people have been telling her that she is a beauty beyond compare. Over the last few years, they have said this with pity rather than admiration. Right after her birthday, the same notice is posted again. No one is surprised when Belara is sent to the palace and declared to be the most beautiful of all. She is dispatched to fates unknown by the Queen, who gives her one piece of advice: not everything is what it seems. Armed with years of careful education and everything she learned from her father’s library, Belara is determined not to meet the same fate as all the others.

The Most Beautiful One is a retelling of Beauty and the Beast featuring a vengeful fairy, a clean romance, and one enchanted monkey.

If you can’t tell by my reading habits I love discovering new fairy tale retellings. I’m not sure how many B&B retellings I’ve read alone this year but that number is growing steadily (likely I’ll read more before 2019 is over).

The Most Beautiful One is a different take on B&B compared to the other books I’ve read. I liked it but there was something missing here (what? – I don’t know). I liked the Beast and Belara well enough. One aspect that I can pinpoint which didn’t fulfill my reading experience was the ending. Belara’s behavior towards the Beast after the curse was broken was a little unsettling (he looked different—no longer a beast but a man— she had difficultly processing that information and instead treated him as if he were a complete stranger). I felt as if there were no resolution between them. I’m just going to assume it worked out well for them.

Overall, it’s a good book and I do look forward for more stories by this author.

Grand Finale Blitz: Evermore by Jody Hedlund

September 21, 2019September 21, 2019 by Christina ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Book Tour Grand Finale for
Evermore
By Jody Hedlund

We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops
you’ll find snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below:

Launch – Author Interview

What do you hope readers take with them after they’ve read it?

In addition to enjoying a sweet love stories set in the midst of exciting adventures, I hope that readers will take away a few nuggets of truth that they can apply to their own lives. Evermore specifically talks about the importance of gaining wisdom, and it’s my hope that readers will be inspired to seek more of God’s wisdom in their lives.

It’s All About the Romance – Excerpt

“I shall ride the final course.” I grabbed the great helm. “You know I have the better chance at vanquishing Lord Mortimer.”

“No, Adelaide.” Mitchell reached to divest me of the helmet, but I sidestepped him and thrust it on before he could wrest it away.

“I shall pretend I am you, and Lord Mortimer will be none the wiser.” My voice was hollow against the conical metal hood that covered my entire head except for the narrow eye slits and the small pricked breathing holes. I fumbled at the leather chinstrap, determined to tie it into place before Mitchell stopped me.

Library Lady’s Kid Lit – Review

“Jody Hedlund has done a good job of making her readers care about the characters. . . . The fantasy elements remain consistent with those in the prequel. I look forward to reading the additional books in The Lost Princesses series once they are released.”

Andi’s Young Adult Books – Excerpt

“We need this victory more than any other.” I stiffened my shoulders as Mitchell began to thread the belt from my cuirass to the cross-shaped hole at the base of the helm. Though I couldn’t see Mitchell anymore, I sensed his troubled gaze upon me. With the customary Langley brown hair and eyes, he was small of stature for a man, more scholarly and interested in his studies than in tournaments. However, like any good nobleman’s son, he’d been trained to use both his mind and body.

Getting Your Read On – Review

“Jody Hedlund has a gift for writing. No doubt about it. This Lost Princesses series falls right in my sweet spot for reading. I am transported to the world she created with characters I can love and root for without even thinking about it. I love it.”

Colorimetry – Excerpt

“That monster will not have you,” Mitchell had declared viciously after the hunting party. “Though you would be harder to control than a wild coyote, I would sooner marry you myself.”

I’d laughed at Mitchell’s passionate declaration. Only months my elder, he wasn’t my cousin by blood or birth. In fact, we weren’t related in any way. But I saw him as none other than my true kin. We’d been inseparable growing up, and he was my steadfast friend.

Remembrancy – Review

“Once again Hedlund delivers an engaging and well-balanced tale full of adventure, danger, romance, and characters becoming who God intended them to be.”

Jorie Loves A Story – Excerpt

Even now, I held out my gauntlet-gloved fingers and waited until I felt his hand in mine. “We shall prevail, Mitchell,” I assured him. “And if Lord Mortimer ever discovers our duplicity, he will certainly put his thoughts far from me, for he will not be able to abide a wife who has knocked him from his horse.”

I didn’t wait for Mitchell’s response. Instead, I shoved aside the tent flap and proceeded toward the lists. With spurs jangling and armor clanking, I joined the other knights with an air of confidence from years of training.

Reading Is My SuperPower – Review

“Evermore is a masterpiece of fiction – this whole series is shaping up to be so. Adventure, romance, bravery, courage, loyalty, godly wisdom, and true love (even from unexpected sources) are all wrapped up in a tale laced with legend and intriguing possibilities. You’ll want to keep reading, unable to put it down, but at the same time you won’t want it to end.”

Bookworm Mama – Excerpt

Mitchell handed me a lance made of solid oak and decorated with red and white to match the Langley heraldry. I braced the long weapon under my arm and against my ribs, tilting it slightly forward to maintain my balance. I pressed my thighs into Roland’s flank, needing to become one with the beast. This tournament was a partnership. I couldn’t succeed without Roland’s cooperation—his measured speed, his balance against the pressure of our opponent, and the ability to sense my needs.

Bookworm Lisa – Review

“I LOVE this series. That’s all there is to it. . . . This story has many elements that I love. There is action, adventure, strong female characters, romance, medieval setting, self-sacrifice… if I don’t stop now it could end up being a very long list.”

All-of-a-kind Mom – Review

“The setting is delightful, the twists and turns, engaging, filled with danger, and yes, even suspense. You never know just what to expect. This story kept me reading, and left me wanting more. I can’t wait to read the last two books in this series!!”

J. L. Mbewe – Excerpt

“God be with you.” Mitchell gave my gloved hand a final squeeze. He spoke with confidence, but I could still distinguish a thin strand of anxiety in his tone. Not only was he worried about his mother the same as I was, but so many responsibilities had fallen on his shoulders, including the weight of the earldom, a weight that had been growing steadily heavier.

As the youngest of three brothers, Mitchell hadn’t expected to carry such burdens. But Norbert had died in youth, and Christopher had run away five years ago. Older than Mitchell and me by two years, Christopher had a courage of both body and spirit I admired greatly. While I’d never been as close to Christopher as I had to Mitchell, I still held him in the highest regard.

Britt Reads Fiction – Review

“Evermore is book one in The Lost Princesses series. Adelaide and Christopher were so wonderful in this novel. Both of these characters had a real heart for doing right and caring for others. . . . This story was captivating from start to finish.”

Shalini’s Books & Reviews – Review

“. . . the story caught my imagination and wonder with its gripping tale which bespoke of adventure and a promise to keep me enthralled from the first page. . . . An exciting tale the book foretold, a brilliant author the words revealed, and a plot which galloped at a swift pace made this a perfect read in the lazy afternoon.”

Hearts & Scribbles – Excerpt

Through my eye slits, I focused on my opponent on the other end of the list. Lord Mortimer was a formidable foe. Nigh on thirty, he was strong and experienced. But a greater weakness than his left side was his arrogance. He would expect Mitchell to come at him with his usual quick and powerful thrust. He would pride himself on knowing Mitchell so well.

But if God looked upon me graciously this day, I would deliver a thrust Lord Mortimer wasn’t expecting.

Heidi Reads… – Review

“The author did a great job of giving the reader a sense of her character and personality before the action and adventure swept the story into a faster pace. . . . I easily connected with the characters and felt the danger and excitement as I read. I’m looking forward to the next two books and am *very* appreciative that there won’t be a long wait for them!”

Adventures Thru Wonderland – Review

“As with Always, I was delighted to read this! . . . The characters in this series are so real, and combined with the attention to detail that makes it easy to picture each scene . . . impossible to put down!”

Backing Books – Review

“The moment I realized that Adelaide was able to fight on her own, though not perhaps as well as an Elite Guard, I knew that she was going to be an interesting character. . . . For anyone looking to pick up this series, know that it is a sweet, fairy tale like romance.”

Paulette’s Papers – Excerpt

The bugle call rent the air, clear and strong, quieting the crowd. Roland started forward, needing no urging on my part. His pace was perfect, providing adequate speed but smooth enough I could keep my balance.

With the thundering of horse hooves filling the silence, I focused on the part of Lord Mortimer’s armor I intended to hit. I ground my teeth together, tightened my grip, thrust the lance, and then braced for impact.

bluestockings_and_books – Review

“I love how all of the books are connected and different pieces of the puzzle! Very clean. Jody Hedlund is such a great author!”

Among the Reads – Review

“I enjoyed the burgeoning romance between Adelaide and Christopher and the way they fought their attraction to one another. I wasn’t sure what was going to happen and was surprised by some of the events. . . . While the story is listed as Historical fiction, I would consider it more of a fantasy. Young adults (and adults) who enjoy fantasy should consider reading this interesting series.”

Kathryn Cooper Writes – Review

“Incredible! I loved this teen historical fiction with romance and adventure! I went straight from reading the novella to this first book in the trilogy. . . . I loved this YA Christian Fiction! I plan to read the next two books as soon as they are released!”

What’s Beyond Forks? – Review

“Evermore is the first book in the Lost Princesses series by Jody Hedlund. This story was packed with suspense and adventure. There was always something happening. It kept me thoroughly glued to its pages. . . . This book has so much going for it. I highly recommend this one.”

Singing Librarian Books – Excerpt

We returned to our respective corners of the list, raised our lances, and then began to ride toward each other once again. I bent closer to Roland, needing his strength, begging him for it. Then I put all thought out of my mind, save one—the target on Lord Mortimer’s chest.

Roland’s gait lengthened. His canter quickened. And the pounding of his iron-shod hooves echoed the thud of my heart. I sensed we were working together. We were a team. And this time I had to hit my mark.

Simply Susan – Review

“Hedlund has excelled once again with her medieval tale. Truly, I think this is her forte. She does a magnificent job with these stories. I love this time period and she is wonderful at it. I loved every minute and now I can’t wait for the next lost princess’s tale!”

Read Write Breathe – Review

“Evermore started with an opening that one would expect from A Knight’s Tale . . . Quite humorous as the switch takes place . . . this is a need to read not to be missed novel.”

Hallie Reads – Review

“. . . I loved these stories. Fun, heartfelt, exciting, they embody everything I expect from a medieval story, and each character proves to be strong and capable, in his or her own way, seeking the truth of God through the experiences. I cannot wait to return to the adventure in the next two Lost Princesses stories, and in the meantime, I highly recommend Always and Evermore.”

Teatime and Books – Review

“Evermore is one of the best books of the year! I absolutely loved this tale and the whole series! . . . I truly loved this tale, it is just filled with so much adventure, magic, and romance! If you love fairytales and a good romantic trope, than this is the book for you!”

Romancing History – Review

“From the very beginning I was intrigued with Hedlund’s characters, especially the heroine, Adelaide . . . the plot moved quickly with twists and turns that kept me swiping the electronic pages of my Kindle long after I should have gone to bed. . . . As a writer of historical romance, I found this medieval tale packed full of historical details. . . . Readers who enjoy YA fiction or historical romance will enjoy this book.”

Splashes of Joy – Review

“I love a good fairytale, and author Jody Hedlund writes just that in her new medieval series. I love the characters, and how they develop so well into the story. I was pulled into the story from the beginning, and this was a hard one for me to put down, once I started reading. . . . You can’t go wrong with “Evermore”.”

Aunt Addie’s Bookshelf – Review

“. . . seriously, you need to read these books! . . . These books weren’t just all about romance though! In “Evermore”, it was about jousting, uncovering secrets buried for over seventeen years, fleeing a tyrant all while trying to gain the love and support of the people!

Red Headed Book Lady – Review

“Another wow for Jody Hedlund! She delivers yet another exciting medevil tale and doesn’t disappoint!! . . . This story is full of action everytime you turn around and that is what I like in a book.”

DEEKAY | Daily Dose of Reading – Review

“Lots of great action, amazing and intense plot, smooth and clean storyline. I didn’t know it will be this good. There are so much happening in the story that gave me so many feelings about this book. . . . I loved the storyline and the plot, and I can’t wait to read the other two books that will focuses on Princess Maribel and Princess Emmeline.”

Harlie’s Books – Review

“This is such a great book. . . . Ms. Hedlund has written a wonderful story with an evil king, princesses, knights and a world that I wouldn’t mind living in. I can’t wait to meet the other princesses.”

Don’t forget to enter the giveaway at the end of this post…

Always
(The Lost Princesses #0.5)
By Jody Hedlund
Christian YA Historical Romance
Paperback & ebook, 136 Pages
August 13th 2019 by Northern Lights Press

A fierce elite guard. A loyal lady in waiting. They must work together to save three princesses from certain death.

On the verge of dying after giving birth to twins, the queen of Mercia pleads with Lady Felicia to save her infant daughters. With the castle overrun by King Ethelwulf’s invading army, Lady Felicia vows to do whatever she can to take the newborn princesses and their three-year old sister to safety, even though it means sacrificing everything she holds dear, possibly her own life.

Gravely wounded in battle and knowing all is lost to his enemy, the king of Mercia tasks Lance, one of his fiercest elite guards, to protect his family along with keys to an ancient treasure. As Lance makes plans to sneak the princesses out of the capital city, he doesn’t need or want Lady Felicia’s help.

With the dark enemy in pursuit, Lance and Felicia must put aside their differences to outrun King Ethelwulf and prevent him from killing the princesses. In a desperate attempt to hide the young girls, Lance and Felicia agree to a marriage of convenience, a decision that will change their lives—and hearts—forever.

(Affiliate links included.)
Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Book Depository
Also FREE through KindleUnlimited

Evermore
(The Lost Princesses #1)
By Jody Hedlund
Christian YA Historical
Paperback & ebook, 222 Pages
August 27th 2019 by Northern Lights Press

An ancient key. A secret treasure. And a princess destined to use them both to fight evil and restore peace.

Raised by a noble family, Lady Adelaide has always known she’s an orphan. Little does she realize she’s one of the lost princesses and the true heir to Mercia’s throne…until a visitor arrives at her family estate, reveals her birthright as queen, and thrusts her into a quest for the throne whether she’s ready or not.

Unable to tolerate King Ethelwulf’s cruelty and lawlessness, Christopher Langley left Mercia years earlier, training a group of rebels in neighboring Norland. When he returns home after his mother’s death, he discovers that not only is Adelaide all grown up, but she’s also the rightful queen of Mercia.

When King Ethelwulf discovers Adelaide’s location, he’ll stop at nothing to capture her and the key she holds to the ancient treasure. Christopher is just as determined to protect Adelaide so she can lead the growing rebellion. When feelings ignite between the two old friends, forces threaten to destroy their love and rip them apart forever.

(Affiliate links included.)
Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Book Depository
Also FREE through KindleUnlimited

OtherBooks in the Series

Coming late September and October. Pre-order now! (Affiliate links included.)

About the Author

Jody Hedlund is a best-selling and award-winning author who loves fairy-tales and happily-ever-afters. She makes her home in Midland, MI with her husband and five teen-aged children. When she’s not writing another of her page-turning stories, you can usually find her sipping coffee, eating chocolate, and reading.

Website│Goodreads│Facebook│Twitter│Pinterest│Instagram│BookBub

Tour Giveaway

One winner will receive the prequel and all three books in The Lost Princesses series (Always, Evermore, Foremost and Hereafter) in paperback or ebook (winner’s choice, if winner is outside the US ebooks only)
Ends September 25, 2019

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Mini Reviews #1

September 20, 2019 by Christina ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Sometimes I like and dislike books but have very little to say about them (or can’t even begin to express how I feel).

Royal Elves (The Hisime Ara Chronicles #1) and The Pit (The Hisime Ara Chronicles #2) by Misty D. Billman

**A slave with no hope. A brother she can’t save.**
Beaten, battered, and enslaved, Hisime is determined to stay alive, if for no other reason than to look out for her brother.

Freedom is a dream they will never have…

Or will they?

When powerful elves who are envoys from the royal family come to visit, Hisime sees a way out. However, the elves aren’t there to sightsee, they’re there for Hisime and her brother.

Now she must make a choice: escape and leave him behind, or stay and fight for both of their lives. One choice means freedom, the other is almost certain death.

Blood runs thicker than water.
Is it possible for Hisime to save them both? Or will the elves carry them off to a worse fate?

This is a serialization (every book is a short episode–which often ends with cliffhangers). I liked the first and second book, but I have yet to read book three. I believe there will be 4+ books (don’t quote me on that). Find on Goodreads for other reviews.

The Consorts (Forbidden City #3) and The Cold Palace (Forbidden City #4) by Melissa Addey

China, 1700s. Lady Qing has spent the past seven years languishing inside the high red walls of the Forbidden City. Classed as an Honoured Lady, a lowly-ranked concubine, Qing is neglected by the Emperor, passed over for more ambitious women. But when a new concubine, Lady Ying, arrives, Qing’s world is turned upside down. As the highest position at court becomes available and every woman fights for status, Qing finds love for the first time in her life… if Lady Ula Nara, the most ambitious woman at court, will allow her a taste of happiness.

These books are not fantasy (shh), but I liked them well enough to feature them here. I haven’t (yet) read a lot of Chinese HisFic, so any suggestions are welcome. Find on Goodreads.

A Dream of Ebony and White: A Retelling of Snow White (Beyond the Four Kingdoms #4) by Melanie Cellier

Snow has always lived under the shadow of her cruel stepmother, with only her beloved father and her childhood friend–the huntsman, Alexander–to make life bearable. When her father dies, she should be crowned queen, but instead she finds herself fleeing for her life. With no allies, no skills, and no food, her future could be over before it has truly begun.

But there’s more at stake than just one life. If Snow can’t claim her throne, her kingdom faces destruction. Snow has to make a choice: focus on her own salvation or put everything on the line–even those she loves the most. And if she’s going to succeed, Snow must fight the hardest battle of all, against her own doubt and weakness, and gain new skills and strength she never imagined possessing.

Alexander is ready to help her. But if she lets him, the consequences might be more than she can bear–because her heart is in as much jeopardy as the kingdom.

I’ll read anything Melanie Cellier writes. What more do you need to know? Goodreads

Fearless (Unfortunate Souls #2) by Madeline Freeman

**To save the sister he loves, Alonzo will return to a life he thought he left behind.**

When his plan to locate his sister Aria fails, Alonzo must team up with a man he doesn’t trust if he has any hope of seeing her again. But when deception is part of the game, it’s only a matter of time before even the best-laid plans begin to unravel.

**Fearless**, an Aladdin retelling, is the second book in the Unfortunate Souls series and shouldn’t be read as a stand-alone.

You can read my review of Speechless here. I liked Fearless but I don’t have a lot to say about it. Goodreads

The Luckless (Second Age of Retha #1) by A.M. Sohma

Welcome to Retha, the full submersion video game where you can be the hero of your own adventure. Unfortunately for Kit, it only takes one moment to turn the game into a nightmare.

When Chronicles of Retha experiences a software malfunction, Kit—a disenchanted veteran player—is stuck in the game without a way to log off. Even worse, she’s trapped playing as the most defective character possible, an elf dancer that was meant to be a prank.

Thankfully, she receives word that there is a way out. But the only escape route is to defeat the game’s ultimate villain. Kit, in her joke character, must fight her way through some of the worst Retha has to offer. Her only help is a party of low-leveled players just as powerless as she is, and the occasional act of mercy from one of the best players in the game, the taciturn (and aloof) Solus Miles.

Can Kit and her new friends finish the quest, or will Retha be their end?

A.M. Sohma is the same person as K.M. Shea. I’ve been wanting to read LitRPG books by women, so I jumped right on into this book. I’m currently reading book two. Goodreads

Ice Crown, Wind Crown, Dust Crown (The Elements of Kamdaria #1, #2, #3) by Kay L. Moody

The competition could save her life…
But only if she wins.

Talise can manipulate the elements with ease; water, air, earth, and fire all bend to her will. As a citizen of the Storm—a crime-laden land where death is the only constant—her only chance for a better life is to become Master Shaper.

A competition for the position takes place at the end of her training years. If she wins, she would live in the palace, work for the emperor, and escape her inevitable death in the Storm. But she’s not the only one with a chance to win.

Aaden is another talented student. As a citizen of the Crown, he was born with unlimited privilege and resources. When someone from the Crown wants to win, they do. End of story. And his shaping is unlike anything Talise has ever seen.

Complicating matters, Talise’s loved one in the Storm gives her reason to abandon the competition altogether, forcing her to make an impossible choice.

Torn between duty and freedom, she must learn that clinging to the past, might destroy her future.

I LOVE this series. Read it. Goodreads

Book Blast: The Protectorate Wars: Born Hero by S.A. Shaffer

August 30, 2019 by Christina ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Title: The Protectorate Wars: Born Hero
Author: S.A. Shaffer
Pub Date: June 5th 2019
Pages: 378
Goodreads|Amazon

Sixty cycles after the Protectorate War all seems well with Alönia and the rest of the Fertile Plains, especially to David, a determined young aide with a keen mind and a caring heart. Pain and turmoil have plagued his life, but he’s worked hard and things should improve at his new job as assistant to a popular politician. He has no idea that during the next few seasons political saboteurs will slander his mentor, murder his colleagues, and threaten everything for which he stands. Only time will tell if David can solve Alönia’s governmental corruption before the rest of the Fertile Plains fall into chaos.

Take flight in spectacular airships and soar through the clouds. Feel the wind in your hair along daring voyages and narrow escapes. Solve murders, forge friendships and watch an ordinary boy become the hero he was born to be.

Find out more about S.A. Shaffer and The Protectorate Wars online.

Review: A Kiss like Roses by Eliza Colton

August 30, 2019 by Christina ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Title: A Kiss like Roses (Fairy Tale Synergy #1)
Author: Eliza Colton
Pub Date: August 27th 2019
Pages: 327
Amazon|Goodreads

A maiden trying to save her dying father. A brutal monster housing a lonely heart. Can the two of them save each other from a tragic fate, or will their differences keep them apart?

When Beatrice’s father falls victim to a deadly illness with one cure, the family weeps in despair. Knowing there is no way to get their hands on the cure, they begin saying good-bye.

But Beatrice disagrees.

She’s never cared much for flowers or myth, but others do, and they’ll pay handsomely to have the infamous beast’s enchanted golden roses in their hands. The beast is cruel, monstrous, and fiercely protective of his flowers. To own one is a show of power.

Beatrice doesn’t care about power. All she wants is to save her father. But many have tried to steal the roses, and all of them have vanished forever.

Determined nonetheless, she disregards her fears and heads to the beast’s isolated mansion to steal as many roses as she can. She believes the monster can’t be reasoned with—until he catches her red-handed and makes her an offer.

He will save her father in exchange for Beatrice herself. For the next five years she is to remain in the mansion and keep him company, for beneath his brutish exterior is a cursed and lonely heart.

With no other choice, Beatrice gives herself up to the monster.

I’m always on the lookout for new sweet & clean fairy tale retellings because I can’t get enough of them. They’re my book candy for bad days.

A Kiss like Roses is a retelling of Beauty and the Beast. I’ve read a variety of B&B retellings (and will continue to read more in the future) and I think at the moment this is among the most unique of them concerning the circumstances of the curse. I really liked that aspect. The beast isn’t so much the beast we’re used to and, of course, neither is the beauty.

The one thing that I wasn’t wholeheartedly loving was Beatrice in particular. She was immature in her decisions/actions (granted, she is young), but frustratingly so sometimes. If you rebuff someone numerous times, would you be upset if they so seemingly moved on? It could have been disastrous had it not worked out well in the end.

Overall, the writing style is simple, breezy, and charming. I think many readers will enjoy this book. I’m looking forward to reading more from this author.

Book Blitz + Giveaway: Wonderland Academy: Book One by Melanie Karsak

August 27, 2019August 24, 2019 by Christina ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Wonderland Academy: Book One
Melanie Karsak
Publication date: August 27th 2019
Genres: Fairy Tales, Fantasy, Retelling, Young Adult

Welcome to Wonderland Academy. Don’t lose your head.

Getting into Wonderland Academy is easy:

You must be a little mad.

You must follow the white rabbit.

You must find the key to enter Wonderland.

You must not be named Alice or risk being beheaded by order of the Queen of Hearts.

We might have an issue with that last one.

My name may be Alice, but Wonderland Academy is everything my real life isn’t. Who wouldn’t want to learn how to ride a jabberwocky, train with a vorpal sword, cast spells using a teacup, or shapeshift into a fairy? As long as no one figures out my real name, I should be fine.

The only problem? Aden, the Queen of Hearts’ son, is quickly becoming my best friend. And then there’s Corbin. Brooding, surly, tattooed, and definitely not my type, I can’t stop thinking about him. But Corbin has secrets of his own, and Wonderland and secrets don’t mix.

How I’m going to pass my classes and protect my secret like my life depends on it is beyond me. But I better find a way. Because in Wonderland, no Alice is safe.

Wonderland Academy re-imagines the fantastical world of Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland for a fresh, new adventure. Combining whimsy, magic, and a splash of steampunk, New York Times best-selling author Melanie Karsak invites you into this beautifully re-envisioned fairy tale adventure.

* * *

Wonderland Academy is a college-level academy novel. It contains a slow-burn (not rh) romance. The novel is clean aside from mild language. This is Book 1 in a planned trilogy. Book 1 ends on a cliffhanger (Frodo didn’t reach Mount Doom in a day, after all).

Trigger Warning: This novel also includes references to a school shooting.

Goodreads / Amazon

—

EXCERPT:

Setting my bag in a chair by the window, I pulled on my coat. It was pouring. Drops rolled down the windowpane, distorting the view of the sidewalk below. As I pulled my jacket on, however, I noticed someone on the sidewalk below. He was looking up at the window. I couldn’t make him out clearly, but from what I could see, he was wearing some kind of period costume and a top hat. He had long, pale blond hair that almost looked white.

“You all think I’m a lunatic? There’s some guy standing outside in the rain in a Victorian get-up and top hat.”

“What?” Mom asked. “What are you talking about?”

“I don’t know. Just some rando guy standing in the rain,” I said then turned, zipped up my coat, and grabbed the bag.

Nurse Gilman stepped to the window and looked outside. “It’s really coming down,” she said, eyeing the sky. She then strained her neck to the left and right. “Your mystery man must have gone back inside.”

“He was right there,” I said.

A sick feeling rocked my stomach. No, no, no. He was there. Dammit, he really was there. I edged toward the window and looked outside. I was right. The man was standing right there, looking up at the window.

He waved at me.

“Where?” Nurse Gilman asked, looking up and down the sidewalk.

“There,” I said, motioning hesitantly.

“I must have missed him,” Nurse Gilman said with a shrug.

I stared at the man.

He waved again.

Dammit. Dammit. Dammit.

“Yeah,” I said. “Maybe they’re doing a show in the children’s wing or something,” I muttered then turned from the window.

I didn’t want Nurse Gilman to see my face.

Mom, however, caught my eye. Her eyebrows scrunched together as she gave me a hard look.

I dropped her gaze.

I absolutely, positively, did not want to have that conversation on the way home.

“I’m ready,” I told Mom.

“Good. Let’s get you the hell out of here.”

“Be well,” Nurse Gilman said. She motioned to the nurses’ station. The door to the waiting room unlocked with a click. Nurse Gilman motioned to us that we were free to go.

Mom and I headed down the dim hallway of the fifth-floor psych ward. The narrow hall felt like it was a million miles long. It wasn’t until we were safely inside the elevator that I finally exhaled.

“Your phone,” Mom said, handing it to me.

I had a few missing calls, messages from old friends, but there wasn’t anyone I wanted to talk to anyway. I stared at the screensaver, which had a picture of Nicholas and me. The photo had been taken just before homecoming, before everything went to shit. We’d gone for a hike that day. The autumn leaves in the background were bright orange and burnt red. We were both bundled up, our cheeks red, faces pressed together. We’d spent the entire hike planning a future that would never come to pass.

I turned off my phone and stuck it in my pocket.

Mom punched the elevator button for the ground floor.

I kept my eyes on the lights above the door, praying Mom wouldn’t ask anything.

It wasn’t until we’d passed the second floor that Mom whispered, “Lacey, are you seeing—”

“I’m fine. Really. I’m fine.”

She didn’t answer, which told me she knew well-enough I was not fine.

They’d been popping up in my periphery more frequently for the last two weeks. People who were there then not there. Flickers of light. Shadows that whispered. Otherworldy shapes. Their presence wasn’t anything new to me. While I was more prone to see them during times of stress, they’d been there all my life. I knew that if I really looked, I’d see them. It was better to ignore them.

A mermaid had taught me that.

Mom and I headed to the front of the hospital. I couldn’t wait to get away from the terrible hospital smell. A weird mix of the scents of bleach, chrysanthemums, green beans, and Band-Aids perfumed the place. It was enough to make a person gag.

Raining or not, I was relieved when the hospital doors opened. I inhaled the sweet scent of the rain-soaked air. Mom’s rusted-out Mustang sat waiting just outside.

“Okay. Let‘s run for it,” Mom called, and we sprinted to the car.

Holding my plastic bag above my head, I ran, flinging open the door of the vehicle. But just before I climbed inside, I cast a glance down the sidewalk.

The man was still standing there. He pulled something from his pocket and tapped on it. He waved to me, a broad smile on his face.

“Lacey, you’re letting the rain in,” Mom yelled.

I slipped into the car, slamming the door behind me.

Mom revved the engine then drove off, her nineties rock springing to life. I leaned forward and clicked off the music. The last thing I needed was the dulcet tones of Nirvana shouting at me post suicide watch.

Sighing, I leaned back into the seat and closed my eyes.

Why was I seeing them again?

The white-haired man had been pointing at a pocket watch. A pocket watch.

What in the hell did that mean?

I hadn’t meant to kill myself.

Not this time.

It figured. On the morning I’d been discharged from the psych ward, I was beginning to lose my mind.

Author Bio:

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Melanie Karsak is the author of The Airship Racing Chronicles, The Harvesting Series, The Celtic Blood Series, Steampunk Red Riding Hood, and Steampunk Fairy Tales. The author currently lives in Florida with her husband and two children. She is an Instructor of English at Southern New Hampshire University.

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