Battle for the Land of Sweets ~ Review

Battle for the Land of Sweets

The Christmas Realm Chronicles

By Kaitlyn King

The Battle for the Land of Sweets is a new take on the Nutcracker Suite. But it is set in a contemporary setting that finds cousins and siblings trying to survive or enjoy Christmas based on their individual perspectives. Nadine, the youngest, is overjoyed to find herself participating in the ballet. Her brother Oliver is not so happy - dad is gone, they are living with their Scrooge-like uncle, a busy aunt, and an overworked mom. Yeah, not a happy mix, in Oliver's opinion, and Christmas - bleah. Felicity is trying her best to help her younger cousins be as happy as possible, and that starts with Christmas. But it is hard when the only one who seems to respond to her attempts is Nadine. And her older brother Ethan is becoming more like dad - money-driven. But when the only seasonal job open for Ethan is at Drosselmeyer’s Christmas Emporium, everything is about to change.

In Drosselmeyer’s there is a back workroom that Ethan can't enter, it is always locked and his boss says he isn't yet ready for the key to that lock. I know, intriguing. What's behind the locked door? Even more intriguing is that it is an old intricate-looking lock. But when mice enter the shop through that door, the excitement and adventure are just beginning. 

Yes, I can hear your thoughts, "Mice??" Yes, MICE, not the sometimes cute mice that one can find running around. Nope, these are BIG mice, mice the size of a full-grown human. YIKES!! Call in someone because these mice not only entered the shop through the mysterious back door, they return through it, taking a most unwilling Drosselmeyer with them.

Ethan, Felicity, and Oliver, who both just happen to be shopping in the store at that particular moment, pursue them and get trapped in a strange wintery world. A world in which they need to escape and return home. But there are some who are determined to stop them as they could upend their nefarious plans.

This is an adventure-packed retelling that is wholly new and unique. Perfect for middle-grade readers and up. If you like Christmas, Nutcrackers, or adventures that ring true to classics, this is one story you don't want to miss. And this is a land I wouldn't mind revisiting in further adventures. This book caught my attention and kept me wondering what would happen next. This truly is an adventure worthy of Narnian comparisons. I highly recommend it and would even suggest it would be a perfect chapter-a-day family reading. It is that good, though the two boys could be a bit tiresome with their attitudes at the beginning, though one can understand why.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

Hidden in the back of an old nutcracker and sweets shop is a door…behind it is a magical land full of chocolate rivers, sugar flowers, and candy cane trees.

Christmas used to be the Tannon family’s favorite holiday, but thirteen-year-old Oliver can’t imagine celebrating after his dad deserted their family. Peace on Earth? Yeah right! Oliver doesn’t believe it exists.

His younger sister Nadine is hopeful that this Christmas can still be a happy one now that she has been given a part in the famous Nutcracker ballet.

Fifteen-year-old Felicity will do anything to give her cousins the Merry Christmas they deserve. If only her older brother, Ethan, would get on board with her plans.

Ethan knows the true meaning of Christmas: money, money, money. He’s determined to get a job for winter break, but when he wanders into Drosselmeyer’s Christmas Emporium, he worries that his new boss has watched Nadine’s ballet one too many times.

When masked figures kidnap the eccentric shop owner, the Tannon teenagers follow them through a mysterious back door into a land where fantasy becomes reality. Nutcracker soldiers, the Sugar Plum Fairy, and even Mother Ginger are there to help them on their journey. But where there are heroes, there are also villains. The mice aren’t just a part of the fairytale; they’re real, and they’re tired of losing!

Can these adventurers save the land of sweets and make it back home before Christmas?

The Oasis King ~ Review

The Oasis King

The Oasis Chronicles #1

By Mark David Pullen

The Oasis King is an interesting book that should appeal to middle-grade readers. Dylan, Jack, and Tripp are cousins who are about to have an adventure that takes them to a new and unknown world. But what they discover is something they never imagined - a lost world with strange and unfamiliar creatures. There are dangers they must confront, and a stranger who has dogs with him offers the cousins protection.

This is the first book in a new series that has fantastical elements to it that are best explored first-hand as a reader. What Dylan, Jack, and Tripp experience takes place over several days, and some of their "adventures" will boggle the mind. There are elements of danger and excitement but nothing too scary. Like all good Fantasy Adventures, there are a few fights for survival that will appeal to younger readers. While parents will appreciate the lack of graphic violence. 

This is one vacation that won't be forgotten anytime soon. Now the cousins just need to find a way home, if there is one to find. Get ready to explore the Oasis while you can. 

In my opinion, this book would be of greatest appeal to fourth to sixth-graders who enjoy survival-type adventure books. Would also be a good-read-aloud family story-time book.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations, but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

Dylan, Jack, and Tripp are looking for adventure, but when they find an entryway into a magical land, plagued by the malevolent Stranger, the cost of their new, exciting journey might prove to be too much.

While on vacation at their grandmother’s farm, cousins Dylan, Jack, and Tripp learn of a long kept family secret and the power of wishing on a star. The boys are swept away to the Valley of the Oasis—a strange, primal paradise where monsters and danger lurk around every turn. They find refuge with a lone hunter and his dogs, who have lost track of time and appear trapped in this magical land.

But the hunter and his dogs cannot rest for long. He is pursued by the Stranger, a strange green-skinned being from another time and place who also seeks to escape the Valley of the Oasis. As they narrowly escape the Stranger’s attacks, the boys worry that they, too, are trapped with no way home. Will the hunter protect the boys and send them home in time before the Stranger closes in once and for all?

The Oasis King is the first in a series of action-adventure tales for younger readers who seek new lands, heart-racing challenges, and unexpected twists.

160 pages, Paperback 
Published February 28, 2022

The Questmaster's Trap ~ Review

The Questmaster's Trap

Champion's Quest #2

By Frank L. Cole

The second book in the Champion's Quest takes the reader on a journey fraught with danger. When Lucas, Miles, and Jasmine answer a summons from Hob, they are expecting to enter their next quest. But rather, they find that not everything is as to seems and have unwittingly walked into a trap that could destroy everything.

But to survive, the Wild Crows need to up their skill level fast and replace a missing player. Because if they can't, they may fail, and failure isn't an option, not with the fate of everything and everyone depending on them.

This is a fast-paced, action-filled book that will grab the attention of pre-teen readers. The gaming world setting is a draw that will pull them into the story. But winning isn't the sole focus as the Wild Crows will need to work together and trust one another if they hope to succeed. Going it alone sometimes isn't enough, and sometimes teamwork is what is necessary to see a problem from all sides while coming up with a solution that has the best chance of success.

While our heroes are battling a range of mythological creatures, there is nothing over-the-top in regard to violence. There is no graphic anything or no offending language. This is just good clean reading with a sci-fi/fantasy adventure with a few twists and turns. 

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectation but that I provide my honest opinion, all thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

Hello, Brave Reader: You’re just in time to roll the Die of Destiny and play a game of Champion’s quest. The wizard Questmaster Hob has summoned the Wild Crows on a new adventure. But not everything is what it seems.

A new, sinister Questmaster creates chaos for Lucas, Miles, and Jasmine. They are ill-prepared to fight stronger, challenging monsters, including an evil centaur who has taken a magical ally hostage. As the Wild Crows journey to rescue her, they encounter shadow elves, troltusses, and giants. They also learn new skills and strategies, and discover their quest is more than just a game this time. The fate of the world of Champion’s Quest—including the lives of the wizards Hob and Bogie—hangs in the balance.

Can the Wild Crows prevail? Will the luck of the dice be in their favor? Can they gather the right magical items and overcome their weaknesses? It will take true champions and a bit of luck to win this gripping, fantastical, high-stakes adventure.

Fourth Sister ~ Review

Fourth Sister

Hearth and Bard Tales #2

By M.L. Farb

Shisei is cursed, she's known it most of her life. She is followed by death. She is responsible for her twin brother's death, and she feels she must do what she can to fulfill the promise of what his life might have been. When she brings about another death she is compelled to leave her home and family behind. Disguising herself, Shisei apprentices herself to a mask maker. But the four-tailed fox, a white kitsune, that has plagued her life has followed her - a trickster that is determined to ruin the new life she is now creating for herself. 

When Shisei returns to the village of her family she brings death with her. When the only son of the village Kazoku dies the blame is laid at the feet of her youngest sister - the penalty death! To save her sister's life, Shisei must become more than she has ever believed possible. She must become a leader and lead her sisters in a deception that could free one or cost them all their very lives.

Shisei has believed lies and allowed them to shape her life and undermine her worth in her own eyes. She's lived her life in penance but to save her sisters she must discover who she is.

Fourth Sister is a delightful story that takes the reader into a world that many are unfamiliar with. Combining myth, fantasy, and the beauty of haiku the reader is taken on a journey - a journey that one wishes would continue on. The story is well worth the time spent within its pages. It celebrates the bonds of family and explores the power of words. 

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

Shi, shi, fourth and death.

Fourth sister and twin to death.

Brother born silent.

Blamed for her twin brother’s death, Shisei, the outcast fourth of seven sisters, apprentices herself to a mask maker; but when the local Kazoku accuses the youngest sister of killing his son, Shisei must lead her sisters in a deception that will either save the youngest or condemn them all.

Fourth Sister is a Japanese fairy tale retelling with sparse poetry and gold-mended brokenness. A Studio Ghibli type story that invokes reflection.

Little Women x Spirited Away

Rebel in the Library of Ever

Rebel in the Library of Ever

The Library of Ever #2

By Zeno Alexander

Read by Emily Lawrence

It has been nearly a year, and Lenora is finally back in the Library but nothing is as it was. The Forces of Darkness have taken over and what's worse some of the patrons approve of the changes. Books are no longer on the shelves and the truth is being hidden by the false librarians of darkness. Book of falsehoods and hate have been released to the shelves. Librarians are being fired if they don't comply with this destruction of knowledge. 

The Library's only hope is Lenora and her inner strength. She is on a mission - save the Library, find a young girl (making sure only ever tells her the truth-no matter what), find an ancient librarian named Zenodotus. All while battling the Forces. Oh, and then there is the small matter of finding the largest known number for a young patron. All in a day's work for a librarian.

I listened to this book through the audio edition and Emily Lawrence's narration is fabulous. 

I have to say I'm hoping for a third Library of Ever book, as there are sure to be more adventures and questions in Lenora's future! And be on the lookout for a suspicious Koala. 

Prospector's Run ~ Review and Giveaway

Prospector's Run 

Artifacts #1

By Kevin W. Bates

Holtz Mitsumi had wagered on an incredible find, a find that didn't happen. Worse, it put him in debt with no hopes of ever flying again. But a desperate man in need of a crew may give Holtz what he needs, a chance to once again captain a ship and redeem himself. And provide him with a means of completing a mission of his own. Holtz discovered an alien artifact, an artifact that is seemingly worthless but for compulsion he now feels. A compulsion to return it to its place of origin, wherever that may be.

There is just one little problem - a powerful adversary is determined to stop them and their haphazard crew of misfits. With an old ship and a less than ideal crew, what hope do they have of succeeding, much less surviving their prospector run? They say fortune favors the foolish, but in Holtz's experience, that has never happened for him. But maybe this time will be different or not.

Prospector's Run is an intriguing read, one that takes the reader into a new world - a world in search of the past and all its lost technologies. But finding these lost worlds that were destroyed several millennia ago will take more than luck. It will take a ragtag crew coming together and overcoming the ghosts of their pasts. But secrets are hard to let go of, especially if they make you vulnerable.

If you are looking for a compelling SciFi read this is it. And even better it is the first book in a series, a series which has a most promising beginning. So strap in and get ready to go on the adventure of a lifetime with Captain Holtz Mitsumi and his crew. 

 

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I offer my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

** Fun fact book 2 Dawn's Reach is already out **

Book Description:

Five thousand years ago in a savage assault, someone tried to annihilate humanity. They almost succeeded. Now, millennia after the First Stellar Civilization’s cataclysmic destruction, humans have clawed their way back from the brink of extinction and returned to the stars. Massive riches in the form of forgotten tech lie hidden in the ruins of the First Civ’s dead, shattered worlds. For a prospector with luck and the right coordinates, they are ripe for the taking. Holtz Mitsumi has neither. Down and out from a failed expedition, Mitsumi allows an enigmatic stranger to talk him into one more prospecting run. After scraping together a crew, Mitsumi embarks with high hopes. But nothing is as it seems and this run may be his last.

Buy the Book:
Amazon
Add to Goodreads

Book Details:

Book Title:  Prospector's Run by Kevin W. Bates

Category:  Adult Fiction (18 yrs +),  277 pages

Genre: Science Fiction

Publisher:  Kevin W. Bates

Release date:   April 2019

Tour dates: Nov 23 to Dec 11, 2020

Content Rating:  PG for mild profanity and some depictions of violence.

Meet the Author:

Kevin W. Bates was born in Berkeley, California, and, with the exception of a couple year stint in Sydney, Australia, and a study abroad program in Japan, was raised there. In his Martin Luther King Jr. High and Berkeley High School years, Kevin developed a life-long fascination with science fiction (and, oddly, nuclear weapons) and a tendency to daydream. He discovered early that among the greatest joys in life is the thrill of losing yourself in a gripping space adventure soaring across the galaxy. Raised on classic science fiction authors such as Isaac Asimov, Arthur C. Clarke, and Ray Bradbury, Kevin took up writing science fiction to provide the same mind-expanding thrills he enjoyed from those authors and more contemporary ones like Alastair Reynolds, Iain M. Banks, David Brin, and Neal Stephenson.

Connect with the author: 

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Instagram ~ Goodreads

Tour Schedule:
Nov 23 – Splashes of Joy – book review/guest post/author interview/giveaway
Nov 24 – Sadie's Spotlight – book spotlight
Nov 25 –Book Corner News and Reviews – book spotlight / guest post/giveaway
Nov 26 –Rockin' Book Reviews – book review/guest post/giveaway
Nov 27 – fundinmental – book spotlight/giveaway
Nov 30 –Jazzy Book Reviews – book spotlight/guest post/giveaway
Dec 1 – Library of Clean Reads - book review/giveaway
Dec 2 –Locks, Hooks and Books – book review/giveaway
Dec 3 – Stephanie Jane – book spotlight/giveaway
Dec 3 -The Review Crew - book review/giveaway
Dec 8 – Literary Flits – book review/giveaway
Dec 8 - My Fictional Oasis - book review/giveaway
Dec 9 – Cheryl's Book Nook – book review/giveaway
Dec 10 – Books and Zebras @jypsylynn – book review/giveaway
Dec 11 - Blooming with Books - book review/giveaway

Enter the Giveaway:

Win 1 of 5 copy of Prospector's Run (print or ebook) 

or

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(USA and Canada only)

(ends Dec 18)

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A Time of Mourning and Dancing ~ Review

A Time of Mourning and Dancing 
The Floramancy Archives #1

By Abigail Falanga

Toph was once a captain, serving with the Princes but when the war ended he was forgotten, left for dead with the rest of the dead and dying. With next to nothing to his name when he comes across an edict from King Victor - solve the secret the princesses are keeping and win the hand of one of them. Toph determines to be the one to solve the mystery.

The one thing the edict didn't share was that failure would cost him his head. With nothing but his life to lose Toph accepts the challenge. But the twelve princesses are holding their secret close. With three nights to discover how the princesses are destroying their dancing slippers, Toph doesn't have much time to gather the information that will help him. 

Vicia is the eldest of the twelve princesses and the heir to the throne. Her stepfather and stepmother are not the kindest parents and see her and her sisters as possessions that could be used to further their ends. Since the war stole their five brothers from them the sisters have been most peculiar and sillier than usual. 

Toph has a most daunting task before him but with a word of warning and a gift from an elderly woman he has a small advantage is completing his challenge before time runs out. A dark curse has made its presence known and he'll need to get the princesses to agree to work with him to find a way to break it. But discovering the truth may come with a great cost. Are they willing to pay it?

A Time of Mourning and Dancing is the first book The Floramancy Archives and it is a story well worth your time. I really liked Toph and the princesses with their cunning make them a formidable team when they put their minds to a task. The conclusion is satisfying though there is quite clearly a thread that could well lend itself to a second book. This is a world I would like to visit again. Excellent reading and highly recommended.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion - All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book: 

Once, Toph knew his place in the world. As a respected captain in a victorious army, he had triumph and promotion to look forward to. But crippling injury stole his future and war stole his friend. Belonging nowhere and with nothing left to lose, Toph accepts a challenge that could end his life: discover a secret the princesses will do anything to hide. 

Vicia is a princess, but powerless and in mourning. Her beloved brothers were killed in a war she’s beginning to question. Ever since she and her eleven sisters have become mere treasures for her stepfather the king to use to barter. A chance meeting with a frightened faery gave a wild hope that they may recover what they’ve lost. But it will cost a dance—and a dangerous secret. 

Soldier and princess must learn to rely on each other if they are to survive curses, slighted fae, and an enchanted lost land. Something dark and powerful lurks in the mists beyond the dance floor, conducting the steps… and time is running out. 

Purchase Link: Amazon

Add Book on Goodreads

About the Author: 

Abigail Falanga may be found in New Mexico creating magic in many ways – with fabric, food, paper, music, and especially with words! She’s loved fantasy ever since playing out epic adventures of swords, fairies, and monsters with her siblings, and loved sci-fi since her dad’s stories around the dinner table. Abigail has published nearly two dozen flash fiction stories across a variety of genres, having discovered that extra-short stories are a wonderful way to explore ideas without getting distracted by – Squirrel! But fantasy and fairytales are her first and truest loves. 

She's launching "The Floramancy Archives" - dark and epic fantasy reimaginings of classic tales, filled with plant-magic and portals, curses, and fae. 

Find her online at: Website || Goodreads || Facebook || Twitter || Instagram || Amazon

Enter the Giveaway here

Abby's Blog: A Soldier on the Road

Five Reasons to Read:
Knitted by God's Plan
Light and Shadows

Guest Posts:
Rachel Rossano's Words: Music Melded With Story
A Backwards Story: Sisters' Love

Character Spotlights:
Erudessa's News Blog: Toph
Dreams and Dragons: Vicia

Reviews:
Live. Love. Read.
A Synethete Writer
Blooming with Books
Novels, Dragons, and Wardrobe Doors
Paper, Ink, & Lizard
Isamonkey Reviews

Poison's Dance ~ Review with Mini Interview

Poison's Dance

Beyond the Tales #3
By Tricia Mingerink

High King Alexander has been awake from his broken curse for over a year now. He survived a plot by King Cassius to curse him, though not without cost to his friend Daemyn Rand. When he receives an invitation from Queen Valinda of Tuckawassee to visit her kingdom and accept her sister's hand in marriage.

Alex is not looking to marry, not when he still has so much to learn and do as High King. But the potential of peace is too great to ignore at least considering a marriage alliance with Prince Tamya. But the treachery of Tuckawassee can't be put aside, for this offer of peace could be a trap to ensnare Alex in yet another curse. Relying once again on Daemyn century of experience, Alex sets out to give peace a chance.

Tamya loves her sisters and her kingdom, and she'll do what she needs to secure a better life for them all. But marriage to a stranger? She's not sure she is willing to do this, especially if it means trapping the High King in their curse too. But for her sisters, she's ready to do it. To do otherwise would be going against her sister and her queen, but Valinda's plan just feels wrong somehow.

The treachery of Tuckawassee knows no bounds, and soon Daemyn and Alex are facing choices neither thought he'd have to make - love or duty - life or death. 

Poison's Dance is the third book in the Beyond the Tales series and totally worth reading. Now I will say I highly recommend reading the previous books first (Dagger's Sleep and Midnight's Curse) just so you have the back story upon which this book is built. You can enjoy this book without this foundation, but why would you want to.

I really like Daemyn, but I have enjoyed seeing Alex grow through this series. This story is yet another stepping stone in his journey to becoming the High King he is meant to be. Alex is offered the chance to bring peace to the kingdoms but is this the path the Highest King has set before him or a temptation to lure him away from the one he is to follow? The interaction between the 12 sisters is most definitely a complex and complicated one. Is loyalty more important than righteousness? How is Tamya to decide?

I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I offer my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

Beyond the Tales #3 

If he falls to the lure of the curse, the dance might trap him forever. 

Alex has survived his first year as High King. The new council has improved cooperation between the kingdoms, and peace seems achievable. When the Tuckawassee queen sends him an invitation he can't refuse, Alex must once again face his greatest threat for the sake of peace. 

Princess Tamya of Tuckawassee, along with her eleven sisters, has danced from sunset until sunrise every night of her life. It is her gift and her curse. When Queen Valinda wishes to use the power their cursed dance gives them to rule all of Tallahatchia, Tamya must decide if she will do what is right even if it betrays her own sister. 

Daemyn Rand has survived a hundred years' worth of battles. All he wants to do now is safely marry his princess. Will he be forced to choose between the love of his life and the high king he has loyally served for years? 

They have faced certain death before. This time, they might not make it out alive. 

Don't miss this re-envisioning of the Twelve Dancing Princesses fairy tale. 

Purchase Link: Amazon 

Add Book on Goodreads

Series Link 

Author Bio:

Tricia Mingerink is a twenty-something, book-loving, horse-riding country girl. She lives in Michigan with her family and their pack of pets. When she isn't writing, she can be found pursuing backwoods adventures across the country. 

Find her online at: 

Website || Goodreads || Facebook || Twitter || Instagram || Amazon

Mini Interview with Tricia:

1)  If you had to pick another format for your books to be shared through, what would it be - musical, movie, public readings, serial release(a chapter at a time), graphic novel?

I've always thought a movie of my books would be cool...as long as the movies were as well done as the Lord of the Rings movies, lol. 
 

2)  Who is your favorite character (or two) in your Beyond the Tales series? 

Daemyn will always be a favorite. He's the quiet, tortured hero that always seems to pop up in my books one way or another. And, Alex is near and dear to my heart. 

3) What one question do you wish you would be asked, and how would you answer it?

I love getting humorous or wacky questions rather than the standard, author interview questions. I like humor. 

For example, my favorite interview question I have ever been asked was during a school visit to a 5th-grade class (taught by my brother). One of his students asked, "how does your writing inspire your home decor?" It was a rather insightful and interesting question for a 5th grader, and it took me a few moments to answer. I ended up telling the class how I have decorated my library with medieval weaponry. I currently own a cheap knock-off replica of Eowyn's helmet from the Lord of the Rings movies, a claymore, 2 other swords, a Roman gladius, 6 Blades of Acktar style knives, a Bowie knife (like Daemyn or Rosanna would carry in Beyond the Tales), and a small battle ax that a friend gave me for my birthday. And, yes, the fifth graders then asked if I had ever used the battle-ax, and, no, the battle ax is just a decoration. I've never used it. I had a really riveted fifth-grade class, and that whole school visit was so much fun! 

So, I guess, I wish more people asked questions the way fifth graders do, lol. 

Enter the Tour Giveaway here

Tour Schedule:

Five Reasons to Read:
Knitted by God's Plan
Light and Shadows

Guest Posts:
Live. Love. Read.: Writing Allegorical Fairy Tales
The Heart of a Scribe: The Castles of Tallahatchia
Abby's Blog: The Places of Tallahatchia

Author Interviews:
Dreams and Dragons
Rachel Rossano's Words
A Backwards Story

Reviews:
A Synethete Writer
Elrich's Expressions + Mini Interview!
Blooming with Books + Mini Interview!
Novels, Dragons, and Wardrobe Doors
Morgan Elizabeth Huneke
TJ's Musings
Reality Reflected
The Music of a Story

Wrought of Silver and Ravens ~ Review

Wrought of Silver and Ravens
Of Magic Made #1

By E.J. Kitchens

First off let me just say I love this book and can't wait for the next one in the series. That being said you'll want to know why I loved this book. First off it isn't a read in a couple hours book and has some length to it which in my opinion is always a good thing unless it is just a repeat of what came before, which this book most definitely is not. Think of the A&E Pride and Prejudice mini-series versus a 2-hour theatrical movie release. You have more story to more fully flesh out the characters, the story-world, and the story itself. But it isn't too much - it is as Baby Bear would say "Just right!"

Athdar Owain Leonidas is hunted. His family is dead and he has become separated from his people. He is charged with keeping the llewod gwerthfawr safe and out of the clutches of those who would corrupt them. Surviving from one day to the next is all he can hope for at present.

Athdar never meant to become involved but when he comes upon a young man who has fallen prey to raiders - Athdar acts. But saving the Prince of Ciliosthay brings him into contact with the Silver Guard and the royal family. Unfortunately, the prince has fallen under a curse - a curse that has entrapped his sisters, as well. Athdar is a half-magic which allows him some control over magic but helping the royal family could reveal what he is. When you are hunted trust does not come easily and in a kingdom filled with Enchanters, someone is sure to discover him. 

Princess Thea and her sisters have been betrayed - and the newest apprentice of the Silver Guard is a young man of unknown origins. As a Realm Walker, Thea has powers most enchantresses do not possess, and as such few know of her gift for her own safety. But someone knows and has bound these seven enchantress princesses to dance every night. And they are unable to speak of what is happening to anyone, such is their curse. 

Princess Thea knows that once the dances end the Kingdom of Giliosthay will most likely come to an end - an end that will find her people enslaved and at the mercy of a cruel lord. Can the truth be discovered before it is too late?

Wrought of Silver and Ravens was a good read and I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys Elisabeth Anne Stengel or Melanie Dickerson's works. The pacing is just right and the characters are totally relatable and worth getting to know. I appreciate the clean-read aspect of this book making it appropriate for all but the youngest readers - Tweens and up should thoroughly enjoy this world. 

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion - all thoughts expressed are my own. 

About the Book:

Of Magic Made #1

The rarest magic is the most dangerous.

 Athdar Owain is a hunted wanderer, one determined to keep his secrets and the treasure he carries safe at all costs. When he rescues the Kingdom of Giliosthay’s prince from raiders, he’s rewarded by being forced into the king’s elite Silver Guard. While this gives Athdar a temporary home and some protection from those hunting him, it also makes him responsible for the young prince, who still bears curses from the raiders, and seven enchantress princesses with curses as mysterious and dangerous as their brother’s. 

Princess Thea of Giliosthay is a Realm Walker. Betrayed by a trusted guard, her rare gift of enchantment is used to curse her brother and trap herself and her six sisters into a nightly dance with dragons in a secret Realm. The Realm’s prince has the ability to take and twist her magic for his own purposes, and Thea fears what those might be. For when one dances with a prince, a kingdom might be at stake. 

Athdar alone can save them, but to trust enchanters is to risk exposure. And Athdar isn’t sure where his loyalties lie. 

Wrought of Silver and Ravens is a clean adventure-romance retelling of The Twelve Dancing Princesses set in The Magic Collectors story world. 

Purchase Link: Books 2 Read  Amazon 

Add Book on Goodreads

Author Bio:

E.J. Kitchens loves tales of romance, adventure, and happily-ever-afters and strives to write such tales herself. When she’s not thinking about dashing heroes or how awesome bacteria are—she is a microbiologist after all—she’s taking photos, reading, or talking about classic books and black-and-white movies. She is the author of the historical fantasy series THE MAGIC COLLECTORS and of several fairytale retellings. She is a member of Realm Makers and lives in Alabama. 

Find her online at: Website || Blog || Goodreads || Facebook || Newsletter || Amazon

Enter the Tour Giveaway here

Tour Schedule

Five Reasons to Read:
Knitted by God's Plan
Light and Shadows

Author Interviews:
Abby's Blog

Guest Posts:
Erudessa's News Blog: Favorite Fairytale Dances
Dreams and Dragons: Worn Out Shoes but Not Worn Tales
Rachel Rossano's Words: The Writer Who Pricked Her Finger
Reality Reflected: A Dance through Time

Reviews:
Live. Love. Read. + Mini Interview!
A Synethete Writer
Blooming with Books
TJ's Musings
Paper, Ink, & Lizard
Selina J. Eckert + Mini Interview!
A Backwards Story

At Loves Command ~ Review

At Love's Command
Hanger's Horsemen #1
By Karen Witemeyer

Matthew Hanger and his men are ex-cavalry and they have survived the horrors of war. Together they are known as Hanger's Horsemen and they hire themselves out to help the innocent when Texas's lawless run rampant. They have been hired to stop rustlers who are causing no end of grief in Purgatory Springs. But when one of his men takes a bullet Matthew knows help must be swiftly procured.

Fortunately for Hanger's Horsemen, Purgatory has Dr. Joe practicing. What Matthew didn't expect was Dr. Joe to be a beautiful, stubborn woman. But Dr. Josephine Burkett is more than competent in her work at saving Wallace's life. And he never expected anyone to touch his heart the way Josephine Burkett has done.

The rustlers that the Horsemen have been hired to stop, aren't about stop anytime soon. Worse they seem intent on taking down the Burkett family. Josephine's brother Charlie is taken by the rustlers and a ransom is demanded of their father. Josephine turns to Matt and his men to help her bring her brother home. When their rescue goes wrong, Matthew is left with a decision that he never thought he'd be in - one that finds his head and heart at odds with one another.

At Love's Command is the first book in a new series by Karen Witemeyer. This book is a historical romance and is set in 1890s Texas. The writing is excellent as the characters have several facets that make them more than mere words upon the page. The pacing is good, no lagging so interest never wavers. There is a little violence but overall I would say that this is a gentle, clean read. I enjoyed getting to know these characters and wouldn't mind making a return trip to visit with them again in the future.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion all thoughts expressed are my own.


About the Book:

He's fought through ruthless outlaws and injury.

But with her, he's tempted to surrender.

Haunted by the horrors of war, ex-cavalry officer Matthew Hanger leads a band of mercenaries known as Hanger's Horsemen who have become legends in 1890s Texas. They defend the innocent and obtain justice for the oppressed. But when a rustler's bullet leaves one of them at death's door, they're the ones in need of saving.

Dr. Josephine Burkett is used to men taking one look at her skirts and discounting her medical skills. What she's not used to is having a man change his mind in a heartbeat and offer to assist her in surgery. Matthew Hanger's dedication to his friend during recovery earns Josephine's respect, and when she hears of her brother's abduction, he becomes her only hope for rescue.

Matt has stared down ruthless outlaws, betrayal, and injury, but when a bossy lady doctor crawls under his skin, his heart is tempted to surrender. And when she is caught in the crossfire, he may have to sacrifice everything--even his team--to save her.

Pinto ~ Review with Spotlight and Giveaway

 Pinto!

 By M.J. Evans

 Pinto wants to do something with his life - something important. When George Beck purchases him in 1912 he is about to get just such a chance. A 20 thousand mile trip across the United States of America with a visit to all 48 state capitals what better way to make history?

 But declaring their intentions was the easy part of this journey. With mountains to cross, and rivers to forge it will take determination and a whole lot of heart to go from start to finish. Pinto is the story of this true event. An event that took just over 3 years to complete.

 Pinto is told from the perspective of Pinto, a young Morab (Morgan/Arabian cross), who was the only horse to complete the entire journey.  The "Overland Westerners" set a date of June 1, 1915, in which to arrive in San Francisco and bring their epic trek to its conclusion.

 Pinto is an interesting look back at the US when the world was vastly different from what we know today. Social media was non-existent at this time - spreading the news of this once-in-a-lifetime undertaking was all word of mouth and getting newspaper coverage at their various stops. It wasn't easy and the Overland Westerners had to work to obtain the funds they needed to provide their day-to-day needs. Sometimes the kindness of a stranger helped them along their way. 

 Though it is written for a younger audience others will enjoy this book as well. Readers of American History and fans of a good horse story will enjoy this newly revealed historical gem. I have to admit the description intrigued me but the cover sold me on this book and I was not disappointed. We have an old book that has been in the family for years titled The Mountain Pony and The Pinto Colt and Pinto, though very different, reminded me of this book published in 1947. There are moments where defeat seems the likely victor but these Overland Westerners are not about to give up while they can still draw breath. Will their dream become reality? Only time will tell...

 I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I offer my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

Book Details:

Book Title:  PINTO! Based Upon the True Story of the Longest Horseback Ride in History 

Author:  M.J. Evans

Category:  Middle-Grade Fiction (Ages 8-12),  243 pages

Genre: Historical Fiction

Publisher:  Dancing Horse Press

Release date:   October, 2019

Content Rating:  G. This book is taken from the actual journals that were kept by the men on the journey. There is no bad language or explicit scenes.

Book Description:

In 1912, four men, calling themselves the “Overland Westerners,” decided fame and fortune awaited if they embarked on the longest horseback ride in history. Their goal was to visit all forty-eight state capitals over the course of three years and complete their journey at the San Francisco World’s Fair on June 1, 1915. Facing rugged roads, raging rivers, thieves and near starvation, the men went through seventeen horses. Only one horse completed the entire journey…Pinto, a little horse with a heart as big as the whole country! This is Pinto’s account of his arduous adventure.

Buy the Book:
Amazon.com ~ B&N ~ Books-A-Million
Book Depository ~ IndieBound

Also from the Author:

About the Book:

Book Title:  In the Heart of a Mustang 
Author: M.J. Evans
Category: YA Fiction (Ages 13-17), 359 pages
Genre: Contemporary Coming of Age
Publisher: Dancing Horse Press
Release date: October, 2017
Content Rating: PG. Some suggested violence but not explicit

Book Description:

A boy is told that his father was a brave and virtuous man, a soldier who traded his life to save the lives of countless others. He was the man that Hunter needed to emulate. The only problem is the whole story is a lie, all of it. The truth, which Hunter discovers as he begins his sophomore year of high school, is that his father has actually spent the boy’s entire life in jail, paying his debt to society, but not mending his ways. A wild mustang mare, is rounded up by the BLM. The spring rains had been sparse, the forage on the plains even more so. The mare and her herd are rescued from certain starvation and placed for adoption. In a sandy corral at Promise Ranch, a home for troubled teenage boys, the boy and the mare meet. A weathered, old cowboy brings them together – a mentor for one, a trainer for the other. The bond that forms between boy and horse becomes one that saves the lives of both.

Buy the Book:
Amazon.com ~ B&N ~ Books-A-Million
Book Depository ~ IndieBound
Add to Goodreads

Meet the Author:

Award-winning author M.J. Evans grew up in Lake Oswego, Oregon. Upon graduation from Oregon State University, she spent five years teaching high school and middle school students. She retired from teaching to raise her five children. Mrs. Evans is a life-long equestrian and enjoys competing in Dressage and riding in the beautiful Colorado mountains. She has published fourteen books, most of which are fiction.

Connect with the author:  

Website ~  Twitter  ~  Facebook  ~ Pinterest  ~  Instagram ~ Goodreads

Tour Schedule:

July 27 – Rockin' Book Reviews – book review of PINTO! / guest post / giveaway
July 27 - Locks, Hooks and Books – book review of PINTO! / giveaway
July 27 -My Journey Back – book review of In the Heart of a Mustang / guest post / giveaway
July 28 – Splashes of Joy – book review of PINTO! / author interview / giveaway
July 28 - She Just Loves Books – book review of In the Heart of a Mustang / giveaway
July 29 –Svetlanas reads and views – book review of In the Heart of a Mustang / giveaway
July 29 - Adventurous Bookworm – book review of PINTO! / giveaway
July 29 - Krisha's Cozy Corner - book review of PINTO! / author interview / giveaway
July 30 –Splashes of Joy – book review of In the Heart of a Mustang / guest post / giveaway
July 30 -My Reading Journeys – book review of PINTO! / author interview / giveaway
July 31 – Literary Flits – book review of PINTO! / giveaway
July 31 - T's Stuff - book review of PINTO! / giveaway
Aug 3 - T's Stuff - book review of In the Heart of a Mustang / author interview / giveaway
Aug 3 - My Journey Back – book review of PINTO! / giveaway
Aug 4 – Locks, Hooks and Books – book review of In the Heart of a Mustang / giveaway
Aug 4 - She Just Loves Books – book review of PINTO! / giveaway
Aug 5 – A Mama's Corner of the World – book review of PINTO! / giveaway
Aug 5 – Rockin' Book Reviews – book review of In the Heart of a Mustang / giveaway
Aug 5 - Adventurous Bookworm – book review of In the Heart of a Mustang / giveaway
Aug 5 - My Reading Journeys – book review of In the Heart of a Mustang / giveaway
Aug 6 – A Mama's Corner of the World – book review of In the Heart of a Mustang / giveaway
Aug 6 - Blooming with Books - book review of PINTO! / giveaway
Aug 7 - Svetlanas reads and views – book review of PINTO! / giveaway

Enter the Giveaway:

Win 1 of 5 print copies of PINTO! 

or 

1 of 5 copies of

 HEART OF A MUSTANG! 

(USA only) 

(10 winners)

**a Rafflecopter giveaway