To Defy the Dream ~ Review

To Defy the Dream

A Sleeping Beauty Retelling

By Mary Mecham

To save her kingdom, her people she must willing enter the Eternal Slumber, a plague that has slowly decimated her kingdom and stolen her brother, the rightful heir to the throne. Her fairy godmother has given her this one chance to enter the nightmare realm controlled by a djinni. 

Aurelia has the means to return with one other person trapped within the nightmare. But she never expected to have to choose who she'd free - her brother Waylon or Everett, the man who broke her heart. Hoping to find a way to break the djinni's power, Aurelia must do all she can to defeat it. But how do you defeat a powerful being who draws strength from those it holds in this nightmare world? 

To Defy a Dream is a unique twist on Sleeping Beauty. Yes, there is a spindle with a sharp tip. But Princess Aurelia isn't hidden away. She hasn't been cursed at birth knowing sleep was her fate. She is days away from taking the throne. No this is an altogether new take on this fairytale and one well worth reading. This is truly a Shattered Tale. 

If you like ladies in peril who decide to take charge. Second chances at love. Impossible choices. Potential chaos. And daring deeds. Look no further because this book will check off all of these and more.

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

About the Book:

What if Sleeping Beauty pricked her finger on purpose?

Princess Aurelia’s kingdom is plagued by the Eternal Slumber, a disease progressively ensnaring the minds of her subjects. After Aurelia wishes for the means to revive her brother, her sinister fairy godmother presents an ominous option Aurelia must stab herself with a poisoned spindle.

Accepting this fate plunges Aurelia into a nightmare where victims of the Eternal Slumber are being held hostage by a dark djinni. However, Aurelia’s brother isn’t the only familiar face she finds herself reunited with; Everett, the love of her life who mysteriously disappeared years ago, is there as well. As the djinni’s power grows, Aurelia must decide who to save before the djinni escapes and enters the waking world.

Failing on her quest could trap her in the dream world forever. Will she forgo her chance at a happily ever after and protect her brother, or will she choose to rescue herself and the man she loves?

No matter who she chooses, someone will be doomed to remain in the nightmare that never ends.

To Defy a Dream is a retelling of Sleeping Beauty. It is one of twelve novellas in The Shattered Tales, a collection of twelve fractured retellings of your favorite fairy tales. They can be enjoyed in any order, so fall in love with the swoony sweet romance, magical adventures, and tale-shattering twists one happily-ever-after at a time!

To Escape a Wonderland ~ Review

To Escape a Wonderland:

An Alice in Wonderland Retelling

By Cece Louise 

She made a mistake, she thought she was in love, but it cost her everything. Now she lives in another country trying to hide who she was. But the past has caught up to her, a past she'd rather forget.

Bayne has just given up his role as a knight, he needs a fresh start away from the suspicious, accusatory stares. But when he comes across a woman in need of assistance, or so he thinks, he has to come to her aid. 

When the kingdom is threatened by outlaws, Alice's true identity and mistakes are revealed. But she's determined to help Bayne in any way possible to protect those she has come to care for. As Avi and Bayne plan for a way to thwart not only the man who tried to kill her years before but to stop the Jabberwocky he seeks. But Avi forgets one very important thing - to never look a Jabberwocky in the eyes.

Drawn into a world of madness, where nothing is as it seems, Bayne and Avi must battle their fears if they hope to survive this wonderland they are trapped in.

To Escape a Wonderland is delightful, interest grabbing read from the opening lines. Two broken, guilt-ridden people must work through the mistakes of their pasts and join forces if they hope to save the kingdom they call home. This is Wonderland as you have never before experienced it. The scenery, the characters just pop off the page as the story unfolds. If you love fairy tale retellings you won't want to miss this offering from The Shattered Tales. This is a standalone title so you can enjoy without reading the other books in the series or the author's Forest Tales series (now on my TBR list!)

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:

What if Alice was trapped in Wonderland?

Alice once fell in love with the wrong man and paid a devastating price. Now she hides a dark secret and will stop at nothing to discover what happened to the sister she left behind. Bayne, a former knight, only wants a fresh start after his service almost cost him his life—and his mind. He certainly isn’t expecting a run-in with a thieving maidservant from his prior kingdom to change everything.

When the two are captured by outlaws and forced to partake in a traitorous plot, they end up lost in a perilous enchanted land with no way out. They must learn to trust each other—and themselves—if they hope to be freed from a twisted world where nothing is what it seems.

But the clock is ticking and some riddles have no answer. Can they escape before it’s too late, or will they be trapped in a land of madness forever?

To Escape a Wonderland is a retelling of Alice in Wonderland. It is one of twelve novellas in The Shattered Tales, a collection of twelve fractured retellings of your favorite fairy tales. They can be enjoyed in any order, so fall in love with the swoony sweet romance, magical adventures, and tale-shattering twists one happily-ever-after at a time.

Garden of the Midnights ~ Review

Garden of the Midnights

By Hannah Linder

Twenty plus years ago he was threatened with the truth, a truth he wanted buried. And now he has to face what he had tried to avoid.

William Kensley has never wanted to be someplace but Rosenleigh Manor. But when accidents suddenly start befalling him he must confort the ugly truth - the accidents are no accident. Could someone be trying to kill him? But why? Believing the truth behind his unknown father could hold the key, he sets off to learn what he can.

What he learns will shatter his world.  

Isabella Gresham is expected to marry well, her father has expectations for her. But Isabella has expectations as well, and giving away her heart isn't one of them. When she meets William there is something between them, something that will bring her an unexpected joy and enjoyment of life. But circumstances being what they are prevent even a thought of romance. 

There is danger that stalks them both, and unless they can discover the truths long buried it may destroy them both.

This was a excellent read from Hannah Linder. This is the first book have read by her, though I will admit to have two of her other books in my TBR pile next to my bed. Guess which books are moving there way up the stack.

This book was a wonderful blend of Suspense, History, Romance, and Inspiration. Both Isabella and William have been brought up in a web of lies. Lies that when one strand is pulled free starts to unravel all around it. I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for something new.

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.

                                                                

QUICK FACTS
 Title: Garden of the Midnights
 Author: Hannah Linder
 Genre: Historical Romance, Historical Suspense, Regency Romance, Inspirational Fiction
 Publisher: Barbour Books (October 1, 2023)
 Length: (320) pages
 Format: Trade Paperback, eBook, and audiobook 
 ISBN: 978-1636094380


BOOK DESCRIPTION
The accidents are not a matter of chance. They are deliberate. As English
gentleman William Kensley becomes aware of the danger at Rosenleigh Manor, he
pleads for the truth of his past from the only man he can trust—until that man is
murdered. 
 
As the secrets unfold into scandal, William’s world is tipped into destitution, leaving him
penniless and alone. His only comfort is in the constant friendship and love of
Isabella Gresham. If he does not have their nonsense at the seashore, their laughter,
their reckless adventures, has he anything at all?
 
He should have known that would be ripped from him too. When a hidden foe arises
from their acquaintances and imperils Isabella’s life, William may be the only one willing
to risk his life to rescue her. But even if he frees Isabella from her captors, will he still
have to forsake her heart? 

Some sacrifice everything for love. Others sacrifice love for everything else. In this
haunting tale of rigid social prejudices and heart-aching regrets, the greatest decision of
their life will be determined in the garden of the midnights. 

PRAISE FOR GARDEN OF THE MIDNIGHTS

 “Hannah Linder's engrossing new novel is taut with life-and-death danger, twisty
turns, and sweet, forbidden romance. Garden of the Midnights is sure to keep
you up late turning pages!”— Julie Klassen, bestselling author of The Sisters
of Sea View
 “A uniquely atmospheric novel, Garden of the Midnights intrigues from page one
and never lets up. Readers will be swept away in the mystery and romance, and
find themselves cheering for William and Isabella as they fight for their happily
ever after. Hannah Linder's newest is beautifully written and a wonderful fresh
take on the genre. One not to be missed!”— Joanna Barker, author of A Heart
Worth Stealing, A Game of Hearts, and Otherwise Engaged

 "Unexpected twists and turns abound in this sweeping Regency suspense!
Hannah Linder's writing is reminiscent of Austen, with fresh storytelling that will
keep you on the edge of your seat."— Kasey Stockton, author of I'm Not
Charlotte Lucas and the Bradwell Brothers series

PURCHASE LINKS
AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | PUBLISHER | BOOKSHOP | GOODREADS

AUTHOR BIO

Hannah Linder resides in the beautiful mountains of central West Virginia. Represented by Books & Such, she writes Regency romantic suspense novels filled with passion, secrets, and danger. She is a four-time Selah Award winner, a 2023 Carol Award semi-finalist, and a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW).

Also, Hannah is an international and multi-award-winning graphic designer who specializes in professional book cover design. She designs for both traditional publishing houses and individual authors, including the New York Times, USA Today, and international bestsellers. She is also a self-portrait photographer of historical fashion.

When Hannah is not writing, she enjoys playing her instruments―piano, guitar, ukulele, and banjo―songwriting, painting still life, walking in the rain, and sitting on the front porch of her 1800s farmhouse. Her next novel, The Girl from the Hidden Forest, will be released on May 1, 2024.

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | PINTEREST | BOOKBUB | GOODREADS

Silent Stars ~ Review

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Silent Stars by Brett Armstrong, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Silent Stars

Tomorrow's Edge #3

By Brett Armstrong

Silent Stars opens with the threat closing in on Elliott as he attempts to retrieve files that his grandfather hid away before his death. Elliott manages to escape due to his girlfriend Lara, but the secrets he's keeping are about to drive a wedge between them. Secrets that are revealed when the Siegers catch up to them. Whoops, the time for coming clean has just passed. 

Project Alexandria may have been stopped, but something worse is then revealed - the Babel Initiative. And it is a global threat. What's worse, Elliott knows something about the whole situation feels off, but he can't pinpoint what exactly. And until he does, his life and the lives of those aiding him are in danger.

Now I will say reading the first two books in the series is probably a good idea. If you don't, the lack of backstory will confuse you about what is happening. If you haven't read the previous two books, you could still enjoy the book, just with some gaps in needed information - like why everything is happening. 

Elliott and his girlfriend Lara are teenagers who just want to live Normal. Not on the run. Not trying to save the world and the people from something they don't even realize is a threat. But normal has a way of changing and getting it back just might be impossible. But they have to try - for themselves and the rest of the world.

This is a near-dystopian sci-fi read with threads of Christianity running through it. There is plenty of action and a few mysteries as to just what the enemy is attempting to do and how they seemingly know where the Siegers are hiding out. Is it a mole or something far more sinister? Hmmm. This book can hold one's attention from beginning to end and is worth the time spent reading.

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

Title: Silent Stars
Series: Tomorrow's Edge #3
Author: Brett Armstrong
Publisher: Expanse Books
Release Date: September 26, 2023
Genre: Christian, Dystopian, Science Fiction

AD 2040: Barely eighteen, things have become much harder for Elliott. Reeling from the losses during the confrontation that brought Project Alexandria to a halt, Elliott feverishly hunts for the original files needed to finish it off. Finding only dead ends, he instead stumbles upon something dire: messages about the Babel Initiative. Conceived as a successor that would make Project Alexandria’s manipulations seem tame, this new threat once again forces Elliott into alliances with morally grey programmers known as Siegers. Beset by continual setbacks and defeats, many Siegers abandon the cause and go underground to survive the dangers ahead. The bleak reality that Elliott and those closest to him are almost certain to die in the fight against Dr. Almundson begins to set in. But Elliott isn’t ready to give up. He knows the cost of such a silent surrender will be humanity itself.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop

More in This Series

 

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About the Author

Brett Armstrong has been exploring other worlds as a writer since age nine. Years later, he still writes, but now invites others along on his excursions. He’s shown readers haunting, deep historical fiction (Destitutio Quod Remissio), scary-real dystopian sci-fi (Tomorrow's Edge), and dark, sweeping epic fantasy (Quest of Fire). Every story is a journey of discovery and an attempt to be a brush in the Master Artist’s hand. Through dark, despair, light, joy, and everything in between, the end is always meant to leave his fellow literary explorers with wonder and hope. Always busy with a new story, he also enjoys drawing, gardening, and spending time with his wife and son.

Connect with Brett by visiting brettarmstrong.net to follow him on social media and sign up for email updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will win a $25 Amazon gift card, print copy of Silent Stars, and a poster of a scene from the Tomorrow's Edge series!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight October 4, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on October 11, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. Open to winners in the US, Canada, Australia, and UK only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

A Royal Christmas ~ Review

A Royal Christmas
A Christmas Novella
by Melody Carlson

You know Christmas is coming when you get a Melody Carlson Christmas title in hand, and yes, I know Christmas is still a couple of months away. But I love reading Christmas books, and when the weather is way too hot, it makes me think it's cooler while I'm reading. So, win-win in my mind.

Now, Melody Carlson has created a unique twist on the royal-who-doesn't-know-they-are-a-royal storyline by bringing modern science into the mix, specifically a DNA registry. And now the fun begins. Because most people are going to at least question this as some sort of phishing attempt, even momentarily and Adelaide Smith definitely has questions.

Adelaide is a dedicated and hard worker who has been working in a coffee shop to help put herself through law school. Having never had much, Adelaide knows had to scrimp to make ends meet and is more than a little shocked when she gets an official-looking letter informing her she is the daughter of a king. 

Having been the daughter of a nurse, to suddenly be the daughter of a king is more than hard to believe. Adalaide feels as if she's been pulled into a fairy tale, or a Hallmark movie.  She now has a stepmother who is the queen is less than pleased at her appearance and icy, totally fitting the fairy-tale stepmother role. And then there is her stepbrother Prince Georg, who is best experienced personally while reading this book. 

Montovia is a quaint small nation that thoroughly captures Adalaide's imagination. As she tries to get to know her father in the time they have, Adelaide must navigate a new culture and a tenuous family situation, all while trying to avoid any royal missteps. And just when it seems to be settling into a routine, Adelaide overhears something that shakes things up and brings loyalties into question. This will be one Christmas she'll never forget!  And it wouldn't be a Melody Carlson Christmas book without a little bit of romance.        

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:

Adelaide Smith is too busy for fairy tales. She's been working hard to put herself through law school and now that the end is in sight, she's determined to stay focused on her goals. Then she receives a letter notifying her that she has been found through a DNA registry to be a direct descendant of King Maximillian V, the ruler of a small Eastern European principality called Montovia. She's understandably skeptical. This is the stuff of cheesy made-for-TV movies, not real life.

Although the pieces of this surprising family puzzle seem too good to be true, curiosity gets the best of her. At the king's invitation, Adelaide embarks on a Christmas break trip that is chock-full of surprises, including a charming village, an opulent palace, family mysteries, royal jealousies, a handsome young member of Parliament--and the chance at a real fairy tale romance with a happily-ever-after ending.

Spend this Christmas with bestselling author Melody Carlson as she whisks you away to a royal holiday you'll never forget!

Christmas Bells and Wedding Vows ~ Review

Christmas Bells and Wedding Vows

A Marriage of Convenience Anthology

By Jody Hedlund, Lacy Williams,

      and Misty M. Beller

There is nothing better than a Christmas book, and Christmas Bells and Wedding Vows offers 3 stories within its pages. In each, love is not an expectation as three couples agree to marriages of convenience. But with Christmas taking center stage in each story, you know a little bit of romance will make its way into each.             

Claiming the Cowgirl by Jody Hedlund is a must-read for fans of her Colorado Cowboys and her Colorado Cowgirls series. In this story Weston Oakley gets his chance at marriage when Serena Taylor decides he'd be the perfect father for her son. And with his claim that he'd be married by Christmas her need for a husband couldn't have come at a better time. But will the secrets between them destroy their chance for love?

Doctor's Snowflake Bride by Lacy Williams finds Minnie stuck in town while her intended rides out a blizzard hours away in his cabin. Meanwhile she makes a place for herself in the small town when disaster strikes. Aiding Doctor Jeb Dawson and befriending his son gives her glimpse at life she's always dreamed of but never had. No matter what the future holds this is one Christmas she'll never forget. But will she finally find a place to belong and be wanted? 

Marrying the Mountain Man’s Best Friend by Misty M. Beller finds Two Stones, a Salish warrior, making a deathbed promise to his dearest friend, to marry his daughter Heidi. But marriage is the last thing Heidi wants. Not now that she is widowed and free of her late husband. But she needs protection and agrees to marry Two Stones but only for the protection it provides against the danger Virginia City provides to any and all unmarried women. But could her father's final plea actually be the life she has long desired?

These delightful Christmas tales of Historical Fiction are just what you are looking to find under your pre-Christmas TBR list. Each is a standalone novella that introduces the reader to a series by each author. Reading the previous books in the various series isn't necessary to enjoy these Christmas tales. Experience talking here as I've only read Jody Hedlund's coresponding series and enjoyed all three with no issues.

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:           

From bestselling and award-winning authors, experience Christmas on the rugged western frontier with three novellas filled with unforgettable adventures, enduring romance, and the timeless message of hope found in the Savior’s birth.

Order a copy at https://a.co/d/fXtnNwO

Claiming the Cowgirl by Jody Hedlund
Serena Taylor is hiding in Colorado’s high country to keep her son safe, and she knows the best way to protect him is by marrying again and giving him a father. Weston Oakley needs a wife by Christmas to placate his meddling family, but after being spurned one too many times in love, he’s reluctant to give his heart away again. When they agree on a marriage of convenience, both of them get much more than they bargained for.

Doctor's Snowflake Bride by Lacy Williams
Minnie steps off the train ready to become a mail-order bride, but she finds the well-dressed man waiting for her isn't her intended husband. The protective oath Jed took when he became a doctor doesn't cover stranded women, but he can't leave the beautiful stranger alone in a building blizzard two days before Christmas. When circumstances force them into close proximity, Jed and Minnie find that their growing feelings aren't convenient at all.

Marrying the Mountain Man’s Best Friend by Misty M. Beller
Two Stones, a Salish warrior accustomed to navigating between tribes and miners, unexpectedly finds himself summoned to the side of a dying friend in Virginia City. Sworn to honor the miner’s last wish, Two Stones agrees to marry his daughter, Heidi, but plans to take her to live with his parents. He’ll provide all her needs, make sure she’s safe, and visit her on occasion when his path leads him that direction. As they set out on the journey, their path is fraught with challenges that defy Two Stones' plans and reveal a surprising depth to Heidi's character. As they near the end of their trail and join the Christmas festivities at the Coulter Ranch, Two Stones begins to realize this inconvenient marriage might really be a Christmas gift he’ll always treasure.

Rocky Mountain Rendezvous ~ Review

Rocky Mountain Rendezvous

Sisters of the Rockies #1

By Misty M. Beller

The Collins sisters are on a journey to fulfill a promise made to their dying father. He made a seemingly impossible request - return a special set of blue beads to Steps Right, a Piegan Blackfoot woman who saved his life years ago.

But traveling alone and unchaperoned isn't the safest, not when their destination is a trapper rendezvous in the Rocky Mountains and women, specifically white women, are scarce. 

Juniper and her sisters are grateful for the assistance Riley Turner offers them - both protection and in looking for Steps Right. But finding a woman among so many camps proves more difficult than they had anticipated. Riley's knowledge soon proves invaluable. But a deathbed promise deserves their best efforts, and the one thing the sisters all know is they are determined to keep it.  

Juniper is surprised by just how free she feels in this rough land, and she isn't the only Collins sister to feel this way. But even more surprising is the connection she feels towards Riley. With plans to return to Virgina, Juniper can't allow her heart to derail the plans she and her sisters have made. 

This is was an enjoyable read that had some moments of danger. The search for Steps Right really made the story resonate for me. And the way the book ended. I can't wait for the next one. I really connected with Juniper and could appreciate her feeling of freedom. All four of the Collin sisters have a great relationship that is to be envied, and I hope they all get their own story, especially Lorelei.  

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:

In 1837, Juniper Collins and her sisters are shocked by their father's deathbed request for them to return a special set of beads to a Piegan Blackfoot woman he credits with saving his life during his travels West. Together, the sisters set out for the trapper rendezvous to find the woman, but their mission turns more daunting when they come upon the mass of men and lodges spread out in the Green River Valley.

Riley Turner came West to find peace and quiet and live off the land, but when four unprotected women arrive at the rendezvous, he feels compelled to help them and is more fascinated by Juniper than any other woman he's known.

As their search brings only empty leads and dead ends, the sisters must decide whether to return East or stay in the mountains to continue looking--and that's if the mystery woman is even still alive. Is the risk to honor their father's last request worth the danger they find at every turn?

"What an adventure! Rocky Mountain Rendezvous brought the wilds of the Wyoming area and Juniper's unique story to life."--KIMBERLEY WOODHOUSE, Carol Award-winning and bestselling author

"Brimming with vivid imagery, historical details, and a compelling storyline, this is a book Misty's readers will absolutely adore."--JEN TURANO, USA Today bestselling author

Shadowcast ~ Review

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Shadowcast by Crystal D. Grant, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Shadowcast

The Gateway Trilogy
By Crystal D. Grant

First off, I have to admit this cover just drew me to this book. I know one isn't supposed to judge a book by its cover, but one can certainly let it convince you to at least give the book a second or third look. And anything that reminds me of space or a geode is an automatic attention grabber. So I said, "Yes, to the book."

Mason Gray has allowed the senseless murder of his brother to darken his heart to the point he desires nothing more than to get the Shadowstone so that he might more thoroughly put down those who stole his brother's life. Any and all who align themselves with the Stewart Knights are his enemy. 

When Mason is injured, he manages to deceive Serial Gayle into helping him. Thinking she is helping aid an injured Stewart, she is more than shocked and hurt to learn the truth. Worse, when the truth of her aid comes out, her very life and her freedom are in jeopardy. Until Prince Eric shows compassion on one who was guilty only of compassion and caring.

The world is on the edge, and those who have fallen to the power of the Darkness's seductive allure - promises of vengeance, fear, and worse. While those who fight for the Light feel the power weakening as despair, fear, anger, and like feelings threaten to overtake them.

Who will triumph? The battle for the hearts, minds, and souls has begun. And a single choice could change everything. 

Excellent reading. Perfect for fans of LOTR and Narnia. I highly recommend this for those 14 and up; younger readers who read at a higher level will also enjoy this. 

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

Title: Shadowcast
Series: The Gateway Trilogy
Author: Crystal D. Grant
Publisher: Quill and Flame Publishing
Release Date: September 20, 2023
Genre: Fantasy Romance (Clean)

He has known nothing but darkness for years. Now it’s time to let it consume him. 

After witnessing the brutal death of his brother at the hands of the Steward Knights, Mason Grey turns to vengeance. Using his Gifts to read and control the minds of others, he climbs the ranks of the Dark Army, determined to earn the coveted Shadowstone-a powerful tool against the light-wielding Stewards. But when he is wounded in battle, he finds himself recovering in the home of a chatty peasant girl...without the use of his Gifts. Even worse, the girl mistakes him for one of the Stewards he despises. 

Seria Gayle longs to be seen as more than the town washerwoman. When she finds an injured Steward in the woods, she welcomes the chance to use her healing skills and hopes it will earn her some respect. But as she nurses the sullen stranger back to health, she discovers he is nothing like the knights she has long admired. 

When Mason's true identity is revealed, Seria is devastated and humiliated. But she is offered a chance at redemption by the very prince that Mason hates. Now Mason struggles between two choices: accept the Shadowstone to avenge his brother or pursue this newfound light in the form of a peasant girl. With time running out and war looming, will Mason and Seria defy their own convictions for a chance at love or stand against one another like they've sworn to do?

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop

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About the Author

Crystal D. Grant is a daydreamer who adores freshly-baked cookies and anything with fur or feathers. During the day, she strives to instill a love of books and learning within her young students. As a hearing-impaired, home-school graduate, she found her voice in writing and has had multiple short stories and poems published. When she’s not reading or writing stories that sweep her away to another time and place, she watches classic movies and TV shows that do the same. Or she works on jigsaw puzzles. Crystal currently resides in smalltown Missouri, where she is always looking for space for another scented candle.

Connect with Crystal by visiting crystalgrantauthor.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will win a signed copy of Shadowcast, book swag, and exclusive color art from the book!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight September 18, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on September 25, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

Song of the Selkies ~ Review

Song of the Selkies

By Sarah Pennington

I have to admit I love fairy tale retellings, and this year's offerings via the Stolen Songs tour have some interesting twists on The Little Mermaid. First up is the Song of the Selkies. 

All her life Ceana has expected to have an arranged marriage with a member of one of the neighboring kingdoms. As the youngest, she is more than a little surprised to learn her parents have made no such plans for her. She seeks a marriage of meaning for the good of Atirse. The idea of pursuing a marriage solely of her own choosing and with no political advantages to it is beyond belief. So, she sets out to find a potentially advantageous marriage of her own. 

Ceana's research convinces her that one Kingdom has been overlooked - the Selkie Kingdom is secretive and largely unknown. But Ceana is convinced that her plan would have succeeded if she had access to better information. Being a determined young woman, she decides to seek out the information she needs. And the only way to do this is to go to the Selkies for the answers she seeks. But she needs a disguise. And she needs a lie to hide her identity.

What Ceana discovers will leave her with questions she never expected. But will she find the answers she seeks? Or will her ruse be discovered? This is an interesting twist on The Little Mermaid that offers plenty of intrigue to keep one's attention from the beginning. 

So, if you are expecting a Disney retelling, you couldn't be further from the truth. No, this is something entirely different and new, yet it has all the expected key moments, just with a twist. Get ready to enter a new world! I have to admit, I wouldn't mind revisiting this story world again in the future.

I was provided with 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:

Undercover in a foreign land, a princess discovers the secrets behind a generations-old enmity.

The youngest princess of Atìrse, Ceana always planned to marry for the good of her people and let love come later. With her sisters' marriages ensuring peace with the nearby human kingdoms, Ceana sets her sights on their last unallied neighbor: the magical and reclusive selkies. The two peoples have experienced a wary peace for generations, and the time seems ripe for a deeper alliance that will benefit both kingdoms. The last thing Ceana expects is for Fionntan, king of the selkies, to take the proposal as a grave insult.

With relations between the two peoples suddenly precarious, Ceana is determined to set things right. Aided by her grandmother, she disguises herself as a selkie and travels to their hidden home of Emain Ablach, where she hopes to discover the reason behind King Fionntan's reaction. But the more she learns about the selkies, the more she uncovers long-kept secrets of her people — and her heritage — that shake the foundations of how she viewed the world. Her growing friendships with and affection for some of the selkie nobility, including King Fionntan himself, further complicate matters, especially as her admiration for the selkie king begins to blossom into something more. No relationship built on a lie can survive, but revealing her true identity as an Atìrsen princess will doom her efforts towards peace.

In order to bridge the divide between selkies and humans, Ceana will have to overcome generations of selkies' suspicion and reveal the insidious evil that's taken root in her homeland. But the greatest obstacle to her success may be her own heart.

Discover a magical new world in this Little Mermaid retelling from the author of Through a Shattered Glass and the Bastian Dennel, PI mysteries.

Book Links:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CBJ3TL61/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/186791005-song-of-the-selkies 

Learn About the Stolen Songs: https://aristasdirectory.blogspot.com/p/five-stolen-songs.html 

About the Author

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

An Unsuitable Heiress ~ Review

An Unsuitable Heiress

By Jane Dunn

This was an unknown author to me, so I was interested to see how she compared to my personal favorites. The premise seems fairly straightforward - a young woman with an unknown father is taken in by a cousin who views her as a burden. And the time has come to marry off the said burden. Young cousin, now grown, wants to find the father she hasn't seen in twelve years. So Corianna does what any young woman would do in a similar position (well, not really). She cuts her hair, dones a neighbor's old clothing, and sets off to London with a poodle small enough to travel in her pocket. Along the way, she gets into a tussle with a local and is rescued by three young gentlemen. 

Sounds intriguing, yes? And, even better, her long-absent father has recently begun looking for his young daughter.

One has to wonder if Corinna's father would have even bothered to look for her if he hadn't just lost his beloved son and heir, which seemed to be a wake-up call to all he had squandered.  I'm also a little more than amazed that the activities Corinna, when masquerading as Cory, took part in didn't raise more of a scandal. Yes, I realize her most excellent friends, whom she'd known only for mere days, swore to protect her secret, but no matter the threats, servants would and could talk. It is, after all, human nature. I'm also surprised that Corinna wasn't more upset at the education/entertainment she was subjected to when it was suspected that she was a young lady dressed as a young man. It would have been interesting, say 10 or so years later when asked how and when they all first met to hear what story came out. Just saying there may have been some fabrication of their early histories where Corinna was concerned.

For the most part, the story was good. The setting and descriptions of people, places, settings, and clothing were excellent. My main issue was that certain things happened too fast and too easily. I also find it incredibly sad that her father didn't see her after she was five years old. So much wasted time and needless heartbreak. I also have to say that Darius Wolfe's behavior was worse than awful. And his behavior towards Corinna's father was a little much - demanding bully that he was. And I'm sorry that he had a rough upbringing with a difficult, nigh-on impossible father, but really having a major hissy fit about an inheritance you weren't even expecting is just a little over the top.

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. 

QUICK FACTS

 Title: An Unsuitable Heiress

 Author: Jane Dunn

 Genre: Historical Romance, Regency Romance

 Publisher: ‎ Boldwood Books (May 22, 2023)

 Length: (350) pages

 Format: Trade Paperback, eBook, and Audiobook 

 ISBN: ‎978-1804835364

 Tour Dates: September 4 – October 2, 2023

 

BOOK DESCRIPTION

Following the death of her mother, Corinna Ormesby has lived a quiet life in the

countryside with her cantankerous Cousin Agnes. Her father's identity has been a

tantalizing mystery, but now at nineteen Corinna knows that finding him may be her only

way to avoid marriage to the odious Mr. Beech.

Deciding to head to London, Corinna dons a male disguise. Travelling alone as a young

woman risks scandal and danger, but when, masquerading as a youth, she is

befriended by three dashing blades, handsome and capable Alick Wolfe, dandy

Ferdinand Shilton and the incorrigible Lord Purfoy, Corinna now has access to the

male-only world of Regency England. And when she meets Alick's turbulent brother

Darius, a betrayal of trust leads to deadly combat which only one of the brothers may

survive.

From gambling in gentleman’s clubs to meeting the courtesans of Covent Garden,

Corinna’s country naivety soon falls away. But when she finds her father at last, learns

the truth about her parentage and discovers her fortunes transformed, she must quickly

decide how to reveal her true identity, while hoping that one young man in particular can

see her for the beauty and Lady she really is.

❤️ A must read for Georgette Heyer, Jane Austen, and historical romance fans.

❤️ A spunky, adventurous heroine on a quest in London to find her estranged father.

❤️ An adorable dog and an endearing horse!

❤️ Three dashing blades who will make you laugh, and swoon.

❤️ A bestselling and highly rated new release.

PRAISE FOR AN UNSUITABLE HEIRESS

 5 STARS “…a compelling and enthralling story of a determined young woman’s

journey to find her father and her own place in the world.”— Jo Shaw,

BookMadJo.com

 5 STARS “…you should allow yourself to be carried away by it as if by a tall dark

stranger in a carriage and four. I enjoyed it even more than The Marriage

Season, and that's quite a lot.”— Paul Feldwick, Goodreads

 5 STARS “…a fun-filled romp through Regency England, with a smattering of

romance, a sense of adventure and a wonderful heroine at its core. What's not to

like?!”— Jo, Jaffa Reads Too

PURCHASE LINKS:

AMAZON | BARNES and NOBLE | PUBLISHER | BOOKSHOP | BOOKBUB |

GOODREADS

AUTHOR BIO

Jane Dunn is a historian and biographer and the author of seven acclaimed
biographies, including Daphne du Maurier and her Sisters, and the Sunday Times and
NYT bestseller, Elizabeth and Mary: Cousins, Rivals, Queens. She comes to Boldwood
with her first fiction outing – a trilogy of novels set in the Regency period, the first of
which, The Marriage Season, is to be published in January 2023. She lives in Berkshire
with her husband, the linguist Nicholas Ostler.

INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | X (formerly known as Twitter)

| BOOKBUB | GOODREADS

Expired Vows ~ Review

Welcome to the Blog + Review Blitz for Expired Vows by Laura Conaway and Lisa Phillips, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Expired Vows
Last Chance Fire and Rescue #4
By Laura Conaway 

    and  Lisa Phillips

Trace Bentley thought moving to Last Chance was the answer, he could put the past with all its pain and failings behind him. And he was doing a fairly decent job of it too, until he was called on a call to a domestic disturbance. Suddenly his past walked it his life.

Kelsey Scott was called into hostage situation when one of her clients had an incident occur. But when the already too-tense situation goes off Kelsey's desired outcoming, her life goes even more off path. So now she finds herself dealing with her late BFF's husband and threats against her.

Expired Vows is the fourth book in the Last Chance Fire and Rescue series, and it doesn't hold back at all bringing the reader into non-stop action. This book in no way lets the tone of the last story down. The story, settings, and characters keep it moving, which kept this reader's attention from page one. I highly recommend this book that could be read as a standalone if you haven't read the previous titles in the series. Perfect for the upcoming weekend! Rest, Relaxation, and Reading - three Rs to make for a perfect conclusion!

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

About the Book

Title: Expired Vows
Series: Last Chance Fire and Rescue #4
Author: Laura Conaway & Lisa Phillips
Publisher: Sunrise Publishing
Release Date: September 12, 2023
Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense

Fire. Family. Faith.
Last Chance Fire and Rescue  

She sees the promise of freedom. He vowed to always be the hero. 

EMT Trace Bently came back to Last Chance County to escape his past. After the loss of his wife, he gave up a promising career as a police officer for the chance to save lives every day as part of the Fire Department. When a hostage situation demands the help of a local counselor, Trace realizes the past he left behind has found him. He’s being given a second chance to save the life of someone he cares about.  

If he can face the grief he buried. 

 Family Counselor Kelsey Scott has to secure this grant or admit failure. She can’t afford to lose any more pieces of the life she wants because of her own choices. When Kelsey becomes the target of a series of dangerous attacks, Trace steps in determined to protect his wife’s best friend. This hero breaks down all her resistance, but Kelsey can’t risk her own heart.  

Even if it’s what will set them both free.  

Another thrilling installment in the Last Chance Fire and Rescue series.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop

 | BookBub

More in This Series

   

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About the Author

Lisa Phillips is a USA Today and top ten Publishers Weekly bestselling author of over 50 books that span Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense line, independently published series romantic suspense, and thriller novels. She’s discovered a penchant for high-stakes stories of mayhem and disaster where you can find made-for-each-other love that always ends in happily ever after.

Lisa is a British ex-pat who grew up an hour outside of London and attended Calvary Chapel Bible College, where she met her husband. He’s from California, but nobody’s perfect. It wasn’t until her Bible College graduation that she figured out she was a writer (someone told her). As a worship leader for Calvary Chapel churches in her local area, Lisa has discovered a love for mentoring new ministry members and youth worship musicians. 

Connect with Lisa by visiting authorlisaphillips.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates. Discover the world of Last Chance County at www.lastchancecounty.com.

 

Laura Conaway grew up in the suburbs of Pennsylvania as an avid reader and writer while making every adventure a mystery to solve like Nancy Drew. As a former school librarian, she’s always on the hunt for the next best read but now spends her time creating stories that leave readers on the edge of their seat with a healthy dose of suspense and happily ever afters. When she’s not typing away or inhaling sweet potato fries to motivate writing, Laura spends her time playing violin and guitar and sharing about the Greatest Story ever written.

Connect with Laura by visiting lauraconawayauthor.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

The (1) winner will receive a print copy of Expired Vows and a $10 gift card to the Sunrise Shop

The full tour schedule is linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight on September 13, 2023, and will last through 11:59 PM EST on September 20, 2023. The winner will be notified within 2 weeks of the close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of the prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

The giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!