Christmas Games ~ Review

Christmas Games

A Kynaston Royal Saga Short Story

By Erudessa Gentian 

In this unique twist on The Snow Queen, we are taken 2000 years into the future. Christmas has come, and the festivities are grand. For Lark and her brothers, it is a very different celebration from what they had a year ago.

When she's invited to take part in an immersive role-playing game, Lark says yes. But when something goes wrong, she and her friends are trapped and at the mercy of the Snow Queen. What happens if they die while trapped? That is one option they want to avoid at all costs.

I've never actually played an immersive role-playing game, but I have read several books in which this is a major part of the game, and it seems something always goes wrong, turning it into a real life-and-death struggle. That being said, I love how the Snow Queen story was woven into this futuristic world. The characters were engaging, and I wanted to learn more about them (BTW, there are other books in the series which I had to get after reading this short story!) This story wasn't long, but it was the perfect read for a subzero, windy day. It was also a good intro to a new-to-me author and series. I highly recommend this book, would make a great last-minute gift for the reader in your life too.

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.

Book Description:

A Kynaston Royal Saga Short Story

Beware the harmless Christmas Gift.

When a group of friends decides to play a new immersive role-playing game, exciting fun turns into a glitchy mess.

Larkspur’s real-world superpowers interfere with a simple, in-game mission. Discovering they’re unable to exit gameplay, the team scrambles for answers. When their leader and most experienced player, Conan, is kidnapped by the game’s main Boss, it’s up to Lark, Joshua, and Shamira to save him … and themselves.

Join the beloved Kynaston Royal Saga cast in this short Snow Queen retelling.

Purchase Links: Ebook 

 Signed Paperback 
Add Book on Goodreads  

Get book 1 Kynaston Royal Saga Epoch 1

Author Bio:

Erudessa Gentian is a firm believer that clean entertainment can be powerful. Inspired by her love of cultures and learning, she produces dynamic art to spark imagination and touch souls.

Erudessa writes in multiple genres but specializes in fantasy and science fiction. She posts about lifestyle, travel, and so much more on her blog.

Find her online at: 

Website || Blog || Goodreads || Facebook || YouTube || Newsletter || 

Instagram || Amazon

Through a Shattered Glass ~ Review

Through a Shattered Glass

By Sarah Pennington

Alys hasn't been in Wonderland since Kai died when she made a decision that changed everything. But she is being summoned back to the world of madness, back through the mirror to a dying world. 

But will she save Wonderland, or will she be the instrument of its final destruction? Alys will have to use what she knew of Wonderland if she hopes to live. And she'll have to put her fears behind her if she is to free her dearest friend from the frozen death he has been trapped in for years.

Through a Shattered Glass is an interesting twist on the Snow Queen, which is blended with  Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass and What Alice Found There for a wholly unique and enjoyable story. This is a story in which hope and fear vie for control of a land lost in chaos. Alys will have to draw on a strength she doesn't know she possesses to save those she holds dear. But can she find the strength she needs before the White Queen destroys her? 

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

Book Description: 

Drop the mirror and you break the world in two.

Alys hasn’t set foot in Wonderland in years. Not since the White Queen’s mirror shattered; not since her best friend, Kai Hatter, was killed; not since Alys fled back to her own world with a shard of enchanted mirror in her eye. She’s done her best to set aside the past and move on — until a red-painted rose appears in her room, and the portal opens once more.

Simultaneously desperate for hope and terrified of what she might find — or cause — Alys ventures back through the mirror. But the Wonderland she finds is not the same one she left behind, and though Kai is less dead than she thought, he still might be past saving. To make matters worse, the mirror shard is still in Alys’s eye, and Wonderland is all too susceptible to its corrupting power.

Only Alys can save the land and friend she loves — but if she’s not careful, she might be their doom instead.

A dark portal fantasy remix of The Snow Queen and Lewis Carroll’s Alice duology. 

Purchase on Amazon 

Add Book on Goodreads

Author Bio:

Sarah Pennington has been writing stories since before she actually knew how to write, and she has no intention of stopping anytime soon. She is perpetually in the middle of writing at least one or two novels, most of which are in the fantasy and fairy tale retelling genres. When she isn't writing, she enjoys knitting, photography, and trying to conquer her massive to-be-read list. 

Find her online at: 

Author Site || WordPress Blog || Blogspot Blog || Goodreads || Facebook || Instagram || Twitter || Amazon

Sticker Promo:

Anyone who preordered Through a Shattered Glass or who purchases the paperback on release day can submit a proof of purchase to receive a set of character art stickers featuring art by the lovely Chloe Grace (@chloegraceartist on Instagram). 

One set of stickers per person; proof of purchase must be submitted by end of the day on December 26. 

Link to request stickers 

Shattered Reflection ~ Review

Shattered Reflection

The Shattered Lands #1

By Madisyn Carlin

The land is on the verge of slipping into yet another war, distrust is taking hold, and the crown is threatened by the very people who are entrusted to protect it. Can those who have been broken by the past hope to restore what was lost? Or will the icy evil that is attempting to steal their hearts and souls prevail? 

Layree's brother Loren Alocer has been stolen away by the royal crown guards- a crown that is at the mercy of a cruel and evil hand. Layree is determined to get her brother back no matter what and by any means necessary. And by any means, she will be forced to accept the help of a man she now views as an enemy. But she saw what happened to her brother before he was taken away, and she won't stop until he is freed.

Nordica Icerri is the heir to the crown, but until her aunt and uncle deem her fit to rule, they will act on her behalf. And to be considered fit, she must be purged of any and all emotion. And her uncle is more than happy to help her obtain such coldness of heart. And the methods he is using will surely break her eventually.

Shattered Reflection is an interesting retelling of The Snow Queen. The story is told through the viewpoints of five characters who have different reasons for doing what they are doing, but at their core, caring and wanting to protect others is their motivation. This is excellent reading and a series debut that is not to be missed. The characters and settings are more than a two-dimensional place on the page; there is depth and layers to everything if one is looking.

I was provided a complimentary copy with no expectations -  all thoughts expressed are my own.

Book Description:

Can hope be found for four shattered souls? 

Princess Nordica Icerri’s crown will be purchased with blood—her blood. Now the sole heir to the throne, she is determined to be the queen the Snowlands deserve, but that comes with a price: a numbed heart and soul. Only when she meets kidnapped physician Loren Alocer does Nordica allow herself to hope she can become queen without completely losing herself. But not everyone wants what’s best for the Snowlands, and Nordica’s upcoming rule is compromised at every turn. Can the criminal physician—and his faith—thaw Nordica’s heart, or is she destined to be the heartless queen she is being forced to become? 

War shattered not only Breac Finson’s heart, but his faith as well. Tired of fighting, Breac only wants to be left alone, but his efforts are for naught when a friend calls in a favor. He soon finds himself in an unexpected alliance with Layree Alocer, a woman determined to find her wrongfully-kidnapped brother at all costs. Can a broken soldier help right a wrong—and find his faith again in the process? 

Sides must be chosen and loyalties will be tested as a new war approaches. Can broken lives be mended in time to help save the Snowlands, or is evil already too deeply embedded?

Add Book to Goodreads

Order at Amazon

Author Bio:

Madisyn Carlin is a Christian, homeschool graduate, blogger, voracious book dragon, and author. When not spending time with her family or trekking through the mountains, she weaves tales of redemption, faith, and action. 

Want to connect? https://linktr.ee/madisyncarlin

Broken Mirrors ~ Cover Reveals

 

The Broken Mirrors blog tour participants 

are revealing their covers 

and all 

six books are now available for preorder 

and with December release dates, 

Christmas 

will come a few days early this year!

Snowfield Palace
By Kendra E. Ardnek
An Austen Mashup
Goodreads||Amazon
December 19th

The White Queen's Spell
By Wyn Estelle Owens
A Celtic Genderswap
Goodreads||Amazon
December 20th

Shattered Reflection
By Madisyn Carlin
An Epic Kingdom Adventure
Goodreads||Amazon
December 21st

Of Ice and Roses
By Heather M Elliot
A Tale of Looming War
Goodreads||Amazon
December 22nd

Through a Shattered Glass

By Sarah Pennington
A Return to Wonderland
Goodreads||Amazon
December 23rd

Christmas Games

By Erudessa Gentian
Lit. RPG
Goodreads||Amazon
December 24th

A Flash of Magic ~ Review with Giveaway

A Flash of Magic

Tales of Ambia #4

By Allison Tebo

A Flash of Magic is a collection of tales that expand on the previous stories of the series. There is no chronological place for this book to fall as each of the eight stories takes place at different times, examining different characters. 

I especially loved the tale that introduced Prince Colin to Cynthia. Let's just say it involves rolls, butter, and antlers. Believe me, it is one that you have to read. And then there are several stories in which Burndee, our Reluctant Godfather, takes center stage either through his eyes or the eyes of another character. I won't say he is the most disagreeable fairy godfather known to exist, as I haven't met them all, but he is the most unique disagreeable fairy godfather I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. But beneath that gruff personality beats a heart of pure gold (fairy godfathers do have hearts, right?).

I loved all these short tales and the author's explanatory notes about the story behind the story for each and placing it within the chronology of the tales. And then there is Files, a truly annoying fairy who is the ultimate champion of hypocrisy and double standards. Get ready for a few laughs from his journal entries.

This is a fun book that you don't want to miss. It was an absolute delight to read (and laugh) through. And, of course, you need to read and enjoy the three previous books first to fully appreciate A Flash of Magic.

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

About the Author:

Allison Tebo is a writer committed to creating magical stories full of larger-than-life characters, a dash of grit, and plenty of laughs. She is the author of the Tales of Ambia, a series of romantic comedy retellings of popular fairy tales. Her flash fiction and short stories have been published in Splickety, Spark, Inklings Press, Rogue Blades Entertainment, Pole to Pole Publishing, Saddlebag Dispatches, and Editing Mee. Allison graduated with merit from London Art College after studying cartooning and children’s illustration, and, when not creating new worlds with words or paint, she enjoys reading, baking, and making lists.  

            

Connect Online:                                                                                                                                                                             Newsletter / Facebook /  Instagram  /  Patreon / Website /

About The Book:

Ambia’s most reluctant godfather is back. A Flash Of Magic is a magical and rambunctious
compilation featuring eight stories with eight irresistible characters navigating their way through the
oddities and the wonders of fairy tales.

The Tales of Ambia series continues with this charming collection of short stories and novelettes
offering a deeper look into a magical land like no other.

Whether it’s an intimate look at Ella’s wedding day, a hilarious glimpse of Burndee’s holiday baking,
or an explosive first meeting between a prince and his fairy, there is an adventure for everyone in A
Flash Of Magic.

Book 4 in the Tales of Ambia series.

Buy both the ebook and paperback on Amazon

Add to Goodreads

Enter The Giveaway To Win A Signed Paperback

The giveaway link will take you to Instagram

The giveaway ends on September 21st.

Blog Tour Schedule:
Sept 16th:

Book Spotlight by Eva Schon @www.evaschon.wordpress.com

Book Spotlight by Jenelle Schmidt @www.jenelleschmidt.com

Book Review by Sierra Lyon @shelvedthoughts443503330.wordpress.com

Book Review by Meagan Myhren-Bennett @BloomingwithBooks.blogspot.com

Book Review by Faith Gilliosa @farmgirl4jesus.wordpress.com

Book Review by Joy Woodbury @discipleshipwithjoy.com

Author Interview by Rachel Kovaciny @theedgeoftheprecipice.blogspot.com

Mask of Scarlet ~ Review with Snippet

Mask of Scarlet

Bastian Denell, PI #3

By Sarah Pennington

Bastian isn't too sure when a potential client seeks his assistance in finding the most beautiful woman ever. But all he has to do is discover the identity of this mystery woman and that can't be too difficult, surely someone at the party got her name. It seems easy enough with the greatest danger being that his new client won't like the answer that Bastian uncovers.

All too soon this new case proves to be more difficult than it first appeared. No one knows the identity of the mysterious woman. And the Families are involved - YIKES!!!! But Bastian isn't easily dissuaded.

Now, if he could just figure out what's going on with Dayo. For some reason, she seems to be giving him the brush-off. Can Bastian find true love not only for himself but also for his client? Maybe if he can keep the Fair Folk and the Families out of his case. 

Mask of Scarlet is a fun twist on Cinderella set in a 1920s era with a good dash of fantasy thrown in just to keep it even more interesting. This is the third book in the Bastian Denell, PI series, and each book goes together chronologically, but each book can be read as a standalone title. (But I personally think it reads better in series order.) I highly recommend this series and book as it is a fun and engaging read.

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.

Book Description:

Bastian Dennel is a detective, not a matchmaker.

But he’s also not one to turn down easy mazuma. So when one of Innsjøby’s richest young sheiks hires him to find his so-called true love — a girl he’s met only once at a masked party — Bastian is on the case. After his last few high-risk adventures, he’s ready for a job where the hardest part will be collecting his payment. Sure, all he has to go on is a guest list and a description . . . but how hard can it be?

Of course, easy money always has a catch, and what should’ve been a simple search turns out to be anything but. Everyone seems to have their own opinion on who this mystery girl should be, whether or not it matches reality, and even the Families are getting involved. To make matters worse, Dayo is acting cagey, and Bastian doesn’t know why.

Bastian’s business is the truth. But what can he do when everyone around him has already decided what they want the truth to be? Find out in this Jazz-Age take on “Cinderella,” book three of the Bastian Dennel, PI mysteries! 

Purchase Link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09RQFLHCM 

Add Book on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60307521-mask-of-scarlet 

Find the rest of the series: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09869T5NJ

Author Bio:

Sarah Pennington has been writing stories since before she actually knew how to write, and she has no intention of stopping anytime soon. She is perpetually in the middle of writing at least one or two novels, most of which are in the fantasy and fairy tale retelling genres. When she isn't writing, she enjoys knitting, photography, and trying to conquer her massive to-be-read list. 

Find her online at: Author Site || Wordpress Blog || Blogspot Blog || Goodreads || Facebook || Amazon

Book Snippet:

Bastian’s office door swung open so hard it banged against the wall. A burst of early autumn wind and a swirl of drying leaves halfway between red and brown swept in, along with a young man wearing a bold purple suit in a cut that said it cost more than Bastian made in a good year. “Bastian Dennel?” the man asked.

 

“That would be me.” Bastian stood, taking in the figure who’d invaded his office. Short red curls poked out beneath a fedora that matched the suit. Blue eyes gleamed in a face a few shades too dark to be purely Stjernesøkeren or Daoinoic, a face whose lines Bastian had seen in the papers more than a few times—typically in the gossip section. The man moved in sudden, eager bursts, though with the particular grace that came with the certainty that he was too important for anyone to refuse.

 

In short, he looked like trouble. But he was trouble with money, so Bastian wouldn’t complain. The slow shift from high summer to mid fall had brought with it a dry spell so far as work was concerned. And while his money hadn’t run out yet, with two additional people in the house, his savings were dropping lower than he’d like.

Cover Reveal for Magic Hunters The Journey Begins

Don't you just LOVE cover reveals?

Today I’m thrilled to celebrate with author Jill Williamson and her husband Brad 

as they reveal the cover for MAGIC HUNTERS: THE JOURNEY BEGINS, book 1 

in their new middle grade fairytale mash-up trilogy.

This cover was a compilation of two talented artists. The character sketch was done 

by Hannah Prewett and Emilie Hendryx, who used Hannah’s sketch in the cover design. 

Here is the back cover description: 

Hunter, the son of the huntsman who nearly killed Snow White, is tired of the shame that labels his family. Tricked into making a wish upon a magic mirror, he accidentally unleashes a curse that banishes magic from the Story Realms. 

In order to right this wrong, Hunter sets out to find a wizard who might be able to help. Along the way he meets Izzy, a girl with no memory. Together, the pair embark upon an epic quest to restore the magic—and memories—that have been lost. Do Hunter and Izzy have what it takes to bring magic back to the Story Realms? Or is magic is lost forever?

From now until release day, which is June 23, you can preorder signed paperback copies

of MAGIC HUNTERS on Jill’s author website with FREE shipping. On release day 

(June 23), the free shipping deal ends, and the book will go on sale through regular 

retailers along with the eBook version. 

For more information about the book, to pre-order the paperback, or to add the 

book to your Goodreads account, visit jillwilliamson.com/magic-hunters.

Now for the COVER REVEAL which everyone knows is why you stopped by!

Cindy Ellen ~ Review

Cindy Ellen 

Wunstaponia #3 

By Rachel Roden

Cindy Ellen's life was fairly good though the loss of her mother was hard. When her father remarried a lovely and delightful widow with twin daughters it seemed they would once again have a happy home. 

But, as with all Cinderella retellings, all happiness must come to an end, and when it did Cindy Ellen was forced into near servitude in her family's general story. The one bright spot was when Old Prospector Dan would make his quarterly visits to Wunstaponia. Dan's stories would brighten Cindy's day and bring back happy memories of her late father.

When the Mayor holds a ball to celebrate his younger brother's return to Wunstaponia, Cindy thinks that she'll have a chance to attend but alas, her greedy step-mother and step-sisters have taken everything as their own. What's a girl to do in a fairy-tale-retelling when no magic is involved? Cindy is about to find out in this delightful short story that hits all the well-known key points of Cinderella while crafting a unique and enjoyable reading experience.

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. 

Releases April 28th 

Book Description: 

Once upon a time, way out west... 

Cindy Ellen runs the local store, selling supplies to foresters, ranchers, and prospectors while her stepmother gives her never-ending orders and spoils her stepsisters. She can't do anything right, even as she's the only one doing anything. Can one ball change her life forever? Perhaps not, but at least it might give her one night of freedom. 

Purchase Link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B099BC33F3/ 

Add Book on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com

Find the rest of the Series: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B087JNLXKR 

Author Bio: Rachel Roden is a natural storyteller, capable of weaving the most hilarious of fairy tales. She fell in love with the Lone Ranger in her teens, but ended up with a basketball referee instead. A homeschool mom of four, she also teaches with VIP Kids and tutors any other kid who wanders across her path. She might also be the sole human who still uses math after college. 

Find her online at: Blog || Goodreads || YouTube || Instagram || Twitter