The Art of Us ~ Review

The Art of Us 

By Julie Wright

This book is timely as more people find themselves homeless. It is told from the perspective of a high school student who has lost her mom and been abandoned by her father. 

Ireland Raine seems to have it all. At least, she's doing a really good job of hiding just how bad her life has become. She sleeps in a sleeping bag by night in a freezing, out-of-the-way public bathroom (little more than an outhouse). Her clothes, well washing is not possible. And food? She gets a meal at school. She just needs to hold on for a little longer to avoid foster care. When she turns 18, everything will be different; she won't have to hide anymore. She can get a job, get into college, and live the rest of her life.

That is until everything falls in on her. But before it does, she makes friends with her crush, Kal Ellis. Things seem great until the truth of her situation becomes known. But should some secrets be kept secret? Or is it better to reveal the truth, though it is initially hurtful? This choice is more fully fleshed out and has a more significant impact on readers. What is the correct answer? What would you choose?

This sensitively written book allows tweens and teens to glimpse the harsh realities of life for those without a home. I appreciate its educational qualities. I feel this is a book that schools and public libraries should have on their shelves. 

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.

*Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection*

About the Book:

Falling in love is complicated when you’re both keeping secrets.

On the surface, everything seems perfect for high school senior Ireland Raine. She’s intelligent and artistically talented, and her natural beauty and quiet charm are enviable. However, Ireland harbors a secret she’ll guard at any cost—she’s homeless.

When her crush, Kal Ellis, invites her on a date, she seizes the opportunity. Ireland has never had a boyfriend before, and Kal is not just a guitarist for the local band, he’s also an artist. Their connection is instantaneous, and he suggests they collaborate on the school mural. Working and laughing alongside Kal, Ireland can momentarily forget her problems.

However, when someone exposes her secret, Ireland ends up in a foster home alongside her most despised adversary, Mara Washington. To make matters worse, Ireland discovers it was Kal who revealed her secret.

Furious, Ireland must decide if she has the strength to forgive the boy who stole her heart or if she is better off alone.

• 
  

Casters and Crowns ~ Review

Casters and Crowns 

by Elizabeth Lowham

In a kingdom divided mistrust and prejudice, Crown Princess Aria seeks to broker a peace to stop a war that could destroy her kingdom forever. But her father's hatred and execution of a young boy have pitted most Casters against the Crown. 

When Aria secretly approaches Widow Morton about an offer of peace she had no idea that she was about to forfeit her own life. Aria speaks the words she feels her father would expect of her. After all as king her father is never wrong and never makes mistakes. But Aria's offer instead brings a curse down upon her and all who live within the castle. 

When Baron Reeves seeks to take his father's place within the nobility he is denied. His crime? He is a Caster and therefore not to be trusted, no matter how loyal he has been to the crown. With a steward put in place the secret Baron is protecting is in danger of being revealed. When Princess Aria reaches out to him requesting help in understanding Casters and their abilities he agrees to share information through letters. 

Aria feels that her father's judgment of Baron was unjust. No crime was committed against the crown and worse no trial with Barron given a chance to plead his case. The king's judgment was swift and permanent. And for Aria to question him is a sign of her insufficiency as the next ruler. Her commitment is questioned and she is chastised for it. 

I really enjoyed this book. There is an overabundance of secrets being held. Some of the secrets are revealed early on, but there are a couple that are revealed near the end of the book and goodness they are kingdom changers. I like Aria, her sister, Baron, and his twin brothers. There are several supporting characters who were just lovely. But the king. Let's just say having power went to his head and he was under the mistaken impression he needed no advisors and that he was perfect because he was king. 

This is a book I would highly recommend. I feel it is appropriate for tweens who are testing the waters of teen fiction and is without all the overblown angst most teen books have that make older readers roll their eyes. There is a definite magic element throughout the book. The romance is there but not taking center stage, though it plays a pivotal roll in several scenes.

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:

Cursed by magic, bound by mistakes, Princess Aria’s destiny hinges on the mysterious Baron Reeves. 

Will love be enough to break the curse, or will war bring her kingdom to ruin? 

A new romantasy by Elizabeth Lowham.

When Crown Princess Aria sees her kingdom on the brink of war with the magic-wielding Casters, she takes it upon herself to speak with Widow Morton, the most dangerous Caster in the realm. If successful, Aria will not only ensure peace but also prove to her father that she is a worthy heir. But when her negotiations fail, Aria is dealt a terrible curse: Over the course of one hundred days, she will be unable to sleep, her body and mind doomed to waste away. And then the curse will pass to her sister, until every member of the king’s line is dead.

Aria’s best hope for breaking her curse is to seek help from another Caster—the handsome and charming Baron Reeves. He may be entitled to a place at the court, but as a magic user, can he truly be trusted? She vows not be fooled by his dimpled smiles or his devotion to his brothers, but as she spends more time with him, she discovers that her heart has other ideas.

Baron has no desire to see the princess suffer—especially since she might be the key to changing the king’s opinion on Casters—but he has secrets to protect and ghosts of his own. The last person he tried to save using his magic died, and he’s not willing to risk harming someone he loves again.

As the curse continues its deadly countdown, both Aria and Baron must risk their lives and their hearts to save each other and unite a kingdom.

Fun Fact: I Love You ~ Review

Fun Fact: I Think I Love You
By Gina Lynn Larsen

With 10 days left in high school, Nellie Samsin has the next several years of her life planned out. She doesn't have time for romance. Nope it's on the plan but not yet. She wants to get to college and not lose her focus. But life throws her a curve ball and it alters everything, at least for the summer.

Jensen Nichols has been a constant in the Samsin family for years. Friends with Nellie and her father is his writing mentor. And when Nellie's life takes a major hit it affects him too. Together they support one another and discover they could something more. But could a summer romance become a lifetime?

 This is a teen read that offers a sweet romance that is touched by loss. This is a realistic fiction that offers a clean romance for teens. It also deals with death of a loved one and how this touches one's life. 

As someone who lost a parent at a younger age I can say with certainty a book like this would have been helpful to help others understand what my family and I were going through. Death is never easy to deal with but when it comes unexpectedly or with little warning it is all the harder. One is left wanting one more goodbye, a hug, or even an eye-roll.

Overall this was a good read (a little more kissing than I like) and one that I could recommend to teen readers without hesitation.

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

About the Book:

Fun fact: Nellie Samsin has ten days left of high school, and she’s never been kissed—which is fine with her. Being the yearbook editor and valedictorian has taken all her attention. But when she has a chance to kiss her longtime crush, she hopes it will be a magical experience, except it turns out to be super-not-magical, leaving Nellie heartbroken and angry. 

Jensen Nichols has been keeping three massive secrets: first, he’s been writing a best-selling romantasy series under the pseudonym “Jen Dimes”; second, he’s been harboring a secret crush on Nellie for years; and third, Nellie’s dad has been his writing mentor and coach. Then he sees Nellie kissing his best friend, and his unexpected rush of jealousy means that the time for keeping secrets is over. 

When a family tragedy rocks Nellie’s world, and she learns the people she thought she could trust have lied to her, she feels lost and betrayed. At least she has Jensen. But as their relationship grows closer, Nellie suspects Jensen is hiding something from her. (Fun fact: Keeping secrets is the worst.) It seems Nellie and Jensen are perfect for each other, but they will need to separate fact from fiction for their unplanned romance to last beyond graduation day.

Resurgence of Dawn ~ Review

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Resurgence of Dawn by Brett Armstrong hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Resurgence of Dawn
Quest of Fire #5
By Brett Armstrong 

 

This is the fifth book in the Quest of Fire series and it opens with both Jason and Anargen hurting and despairing at the losses they've each suffered.

But suffering doesn't end their quest; rather, it is a part of the journey—one that can strengthen or break them. Both Anargen and Jason are faced with submitting to the darkness, turning and running from it, or standing firm against it.

Two lines from the early portion of the book sum up well what the Knights of Light are facing at this time. They've reached a fork in the road, so to speak, and need to dwell on these two truths:

"But you look at the brokenness and darkness and say there is no light. How can you forget so quickly those hours when the light and the High King have been so clear and evident?"

"If you only open your eyes to the night, you'll never see the day."

One needs to look for the light when the darkness attempts to choke it out of our life.

This is an excellent series. I feel those 14 and up would enjoy it. The very nature of this series makes it imperative that you read the previous books before reading this one. The backstory is essential for total enjoyment and comprehension. The story world's depth and complexity falls between that of Narnia and Lord Of The Rings. I highly recommend it if you are looking for epic fantasy with a spiritual leaning.

I was offered a complimentary copy of the book but did not accept it as I had already acquired a copy of my own.

About the Book

Title: Resurgence of Dawn
Series: Quest of Fire #5
Author: Brett Armstrong
Publisher: Expanse Books
Release Date: December 12, 2023
Genre: Christian, Epic/High Fantasy, Young Adult

Haunted by tragedies and failures, Anargen and Jason each struggle to find their way. Night has fallen in the Lowlands and neither teen has an easy road ahead. In Anargen’s Era, Monarch Ilyron’s powers and influence grow, forcing Anargen and his dwindling list of allies to travel the length of the Lowlands in a desperate attempt to keep the Quest and all they hold dear from falling into ruin. 

Jason meanwhile must find Aria and her grandfather to help unite the Knights of Light from across the Lowlands against his brother, Dorian. But agents of darkness and painful vestiges of his past mix with vindictive new enemies to make the hope of seeing the dawn of the longed-for King’s Day ever so faint. If either teen gives in and surrenders, doom will come swiftly on their world.  

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

More Books in This Series

   

  

---

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 at brettarmstrong.net to follow him on social media and sign up for email updates.

---

Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will each win a $25 Amazon gift card, a print copy of Resurgence of Dawn, and a digital poster of the Lowlands!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight June 24, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on July 1, 2024. Winners 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

---

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

Mountain of Dragons and Sacrifice ~ Review

Mountain of Dragons and Sacrifice
Sacrificed Hearts #1
Tara Grayce

Every year a maiden must be sacrificed to appease the dragon and allow the village's olive crop to be blessed. And this year Nessa is the fortunate maiden chosen to give her life for the good of the village. And for some reason she doesn't appreciate the honor that has been bestowed upon her. Not that the village elders feel any need to throw themselves on a stone altar and give themselves over as a tasty dragon snack. Nope not happening ever!

But when the dragon finally comes to accept her sacrifice she's in for a shock. He doesn't eat her! If fact he seems almost friendly. Sure that she's being tested Nessa follows all of the warnings the village elders imparted. She fears if she angers the dragon he may destroy her village or refuse to bless the year's olive crop. 

But how can she follow the rules when what she's being told now is so different than what she's been told her whole life? Who should she believe? The dragon? His servants? Her parents? Or those from her village?

This was an enjoyable book that offers the other side of an evil dragon tale. It was interesting seeing how Nessa navigated the sudden change in her life and tries to make sense of just why she had to be sacrificed. This book definitely examines the fallacies of long-held superstitions. This is a sweet read that offers clean reading. 

This is the first book in the Sacrificed Hearts series. These books, each written by a different author, can be read as standalone titles as they share a similar theme, sacrifice, and not characters or story worlds. This is a book that is appropriate for tweens and up who don't want anything but a pinch of clean romance in their books. 

 

About the Book:

It’s a tale as old as myth and legends: the village maiden sacrificed to a monster.

Every year, Nessa’s village sacrifices a maiden to the dragon in the mountain. If they don’t, the dragon will sweep down from his lair and destroy them all.

When Nessa is chosen to be that year’s sacrifice, she’s prepared to be eaten, as much as anyone can prepare for such a thing. Instead, she finds herself swept away to a world of dragons, gnomes, and fae creatures beyond her imagination, leaving her with more questions than answers. If the maiden’s purpose isn’t to be eaten, then what is the dragon’s reason for the sacrifices? And why is the dragon nothing like what she had been told he would be?

And, most frightening of all, what would happen if she lit the candle and looked upon the dragon’s face?

Loosely inspired by the myth of Psyche and Eros, this humorous romantasy features dragon shifters, quirky fae, and swoony no-spice romance, perfect for fans of Sylvia Mercedes, Kenley Davidson, and K.M. Shea!

To Break a Silence ~ Review

To Break a Silence

A Little Mermaid Retelling

By Lydia Mae

I have to say I love all the Little Mermaid retellings that are coming out this year. Each is unique and utterly charming and To Break a Silence is no different in this respect. However the story is though there are easily identifiable aspects that mark this as retelling of the Little Mermaid. And as part of The Shattered Tales this is a perfect addition.

It is Stella's first time above the surface and she makes a mistake that dashes all her hopes and dreams of a life that includes visits above the surface of the sea. But she is given a chance to win the heart of the man who she rescued from the sea. But the magic that will transform her into a human will work for just a short time. And she'll have to pay a price for this magic - pain while walking and talking - shards of glass pain. Well, walking has to be done, but speaking -  that she can avoid. But getting her heart's desire without the use of her voice could prove challenging. 

What Stella  hadn't expected was her utter lack of  being able to breath, swim, do anything while in the sea. In fact she needs a bit of help. When she is "found" by Captain Dillon Carvy, she gets herself into a bit of a situation - she is mistaken for someone else! 

But Stella is determined to get her heart's desire and she'll use what little advantage she can get. And what is her heart's desire? To win the heart of the prince, of course. But said prince is betrothed to a princess. And when he is rescued he falls for his "rescuer," who is not Stella or the princess. Yikes, we have a tangle if ever there was one.

I have to say I like Stella and Dillon, but the prince, Percival can't say I was an instant fan of his. He definitely came off as entitled and left much to be desired in my opinion. But he did have a dimple so I guess that more than amply made up for his less than welcoming behavior (um, not!). Dillon is caught in the middle of everything - the prince nearly dying, losing his ship, his captaincy, disappointing his father and everything due to a siren's song. Determined to hunt down the siren who wrought all this destruction, he instead finds a young woman in need of his assistance. And a way to reclaim what he has lost.

Get ready to escape into a world of dreams, wishes, and choices. Time is a precious commodity that is all too quickly slipping away, will Stella Break her Silence before it is too late? 

But there is another thread running through this story - forgiveness. And it is interesting how the various characters all need to give or ask for it. As one character says, "Everyone needs forgiveness." I think this was a pivotal moment in a personal, internal way. All too often that is how realizations come.

This is a delight that you won't want to miss. And the conclusion was not what I was expecting, or rather how it came about was a nice and unique touch.

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:

A siren's song holds power over skies and men.

Stella has never seen the sky until the day she speaks her oaths and is brought above the surface. After her first encounter with a land-walker's ship forces her to sing up a storm that pulls a prince into the water, she chooses to rescue him.

When Stella's blossoming affection for the prince is threatened by another, she makes a choice to trade her fins for legs. The price: phantom glass in her throat if she dares to use her voice and in her feet when she walks.

Captain Dillon Carvy is determined to have his revenge after a siren’s song costs him his ship and his favored position as the prince's captain. While searching for signs of the siren, Dillon discovers a struggling maiden instead. Pulling a silent girl from the sea, he sees the perfect opportunity to gain his position back.

A case of mistaken identity puts Stella right where she wants to be in the prince's palace. But unless she breaks her silence, continuing her charade may cost her the happiness she hopes for, and quite possibly her life.

To Break a Silence is a retelling of A Little Mermaid. 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!

Cover Reveal ~ Battle for the Land of Sweets

Today I'm taking part in the cover reveal for the first book in the 

Christmas Chronicles series 

by Kaitlyn King

~ Battle for the Land of Sweets ~ 

which is releasing on October 17, 2023.

Now to the cover reveal...

We're going to tease this out with just a glimpse

And

now

the 

cover

And now a little about the book...

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. This Christmas, your favorite holiday fairytale comes to life! 

When masked figures kidnap the eccentric owner of Drosselmeyer’s Christmas Emporium, three 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 part of the fairytale; they’re real and tired of losing! 

Can these adventurers save the Land of Sweets and make it back home before Christmas?

This cozy Christmas read finds the classic Christmas favorite The Nutcracker and the Chronicles of Narnia mashing up into a new exciting retelling. 

Learn more at  

https://authorkaitlynking.com/  

 https://peninhandpublishing.com/ 

Beauty Reborn ~ Review

Beauty Reborn

By Elizabeth Lowham

Beauty's name draws attention to her outer appearance, ignoring her thoughts, her words. Until Stephan, her name was merely a word, something those around her used to discount her thoughts and words. And catching Stephan's attention at first was an honor until he wouldn't stop trying to claim her for himself.

When her family lost everything, Beauty welcomed it, hoping it would steal her beauty. And when her father stole a rose, she took the opportunity to pay the cost of his theft. For a beast such as he described would surely end her life, ending her pain, her anger, her shame.

Beauty Reborn is a Beauty and the Beast retelling that offers a twist to the typical retellings. Beast is cursed, and to break the curse, he must get a young woman to agree to marry him. But marriage isn't something Beauty wants; she just wants to pay her father's debt. Her reasons aren't noble but selfish; she knows this but needs to hide away from the outside world. And the isolation of an unknown lost castle with only Beast as a companion seemed perfect. But then she got to know him. A beast he might be in appearance but not in his heart.

Beauty's story is slowly told throughout the book in short snippets within other scenes. It's as if certain actions bring forth memories she's tried to bury. 

Beast's story is more interesting and original. How he came to be cursed, living in an enchanted castle, and isolated, hidden away from everything. There is a moment when Beauty suggests the two should exchange names, which isn't too far-fetched when one gets glimpses at their hearts. I find the interactions of Beauty with her family to be rather telling. I can't say that I'd have wanted to be friends with any of the sisters. I have to be honest Beauty's brother, Rob, is who I am most sympathetic with, and I hope he gets his heart's desire.

This is a book that, depending on the individual, will either be loved or treated with indifference. Beauty's memories of Stephan sometimes jump out without warning that a break is coming. But I think this is what the author was going for, as Beauty is haunted by what happened and what she perceives as her role in what unfolded. Overall, I feel this was a good read, especially when one considers the subject matter. That being said, I would recommend this to older teens and adults.

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:

Fantasy and reality collide in this retelling of “Beauty and the Beast” about a young woman’s heroic quest to save herself.

Beauty’s life is the stuff of fairy tales. The youngest in her family, Beauty isn’t trying to catch Stephan’s eye. He is the lord baron’s heir, well above her family’s modest station, but when he kisses her hand at a party, Beauty is swept away by his charm, his wit, and his passionate declarations of love.

Hearts can be untamable creatures, especially when touched by the fires of first love, and Beauty doesn’t see the truth of Stephan’s intentions until it is too late. Until he stops asking for Beauty’s love—and simply takes it from her one night despite her refusal.

Beauty locks away the secret of what happened to her, and when her father emerges from the enchanted forest with a stolen rose in his hand and the tale of a vicious beast on his breath, Beauty seizes the chance to run as far from Stephan as possible.

She has some experience with beasts, after all. Certainly, the one in the forest couldn’t be any worse than the one she’s already encountered.

Breaking the Beast’s curse might be the key to discovering her own path to healing—and finding the courage to allow herself to feel reborn.

Recruit of Talionis ~ Review

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Recruit of Talionis by C.J. Milacci, 
hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

 Recruit of Talionis

 Talionis Series #1

 By C.J. Milacci

 The Recruit of Talionis is an intriguing read. Set sometime in the future,  the world as we know it has been drastically altered by something known as the Demise, and it is in this environment that we are introduced to Bria Averton. Bria is seventeen years old when her life is altered when she is stolen away from her home to an unknown city known as Talionis. 

 What is Talionis? And why she was brought there along with hundreds of other teens is foremost on her mind. All too soon, Bria learns that she is to forget her past and willingly serve Talionis and its ruler, Commander Demetrius Ark, without question. Following rules has always been a thing with Bria, and she isn't about to willingly and blindly serve her captors as they try to turn her into the perfect soldier. But her captors know things about her that they shouldn't, and they are more than happy to use any means possible to force her compliance.

But those who rule and control Talionis don't know Bria and her determination to escape and warn her family of this unknown threat to them. 

This is a harsh world. Punishment for failure or disobedience is severe, and kindness is vulnerability to be leveraged. Welcome to Talionis! This is definitely a dystopian read at its best. Survival is paramount, and betrayal is to be rewarded.

This is an action-packed read that is sure to engage. I will admit I found this to be a book I didn't want to put down. The characters are well-developed, and there are a few I really dislike (I mean, I really, really dislike them). There are a couple characters I can't get a good read on - are they evil? Are they sympathetic to the plight of the recruits? And then there is our small group of recruits determined to resist and not lose themselves to Talionis. Truly an excellent read that is a must-read, in my opinion. I love how it ended so that one knows more is to come. 

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.

Support the Kickstarter campaign to bring book two, Fugitive of Talionis, to print.

Kickstarter campaign for Fugitive of Talionis (Talionis Series #2)

About the Book

Title: Recruit of Talionis
Series: Talionis Series #1
Author: C.J. Milacci
Publisher: Fayette Press
Release Date: November 3, 2022
Genre: Young Adult Sci-Fi Dystopian

"Forget where you came from. Forget the life you knew. You are now recruits of Talionis!"

A teen with a dark past. A secret military force that kidnaps new soldiers. Can she survive as a Recruit of Talionis? 

America has fallen. Seventeen-year-old Bria Averton grew up in a small town of survivors near the ruins of Portland, Maine. It’s all she’s ever known — until she’s kidnapped along with hundreds of other teens and brought to the city of Talionis. A city no one knew existed. 

The soldiers tell them the intense trainings are for the good of the survivors, and Bria resists being forced into a new life as a recruited soldier. But she soon finds the dangers in the city are greater than she imagined. 

Escape is impossible, and Bria fears drowning in the evil of the city… and the guilt from her own past. But can she find hope, even here?

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | IndieBound | BookBub

---

About the Author

CJ Milacci has found creating to be therapeutic in the chaos of life. Writing is her favorite way to create, and she seeks to take her readers on a grand adventure that begins with a single word. As a referee, she is always relearning the hard lesson that it’s impossible to make everyone happy, and she’s discovered that stories can be found anywhere, even on a lacrosse field. She is passionate about crafting stories of good overcoming evil, finding hope in the midst of seemingly hopeless circumstances, and true acceptance. Always willing to get real about hard issues, C.J. also enjoys the cheesiest of puns. She loves deep conversations, yo-yos, rollerblading, and finding reasons to throw a dance party. She chats about writing, her faith, and the hope found in Jesus, bubble tea, and other fun adventures online (@cjmilacci) and at cjmilacci.com.

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

---

Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will each receive a print copy of Recruit of Talionis with swag and a $15 Amazon gift card!

The full tour schedule is linked below. 

The giveaway begins at midnight on March 27, 2023, and 

will last through 11:59 PM EST on April 3, 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

---

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

The Broken Crown ~ Review

The Broken Crown

The Narrow Gate #1

By Amory Cannon

Emilia Aurelius has been forgotten by her father since the day her mother died as a traitor - for believing in a single God, a God that the Empire's rebels worship. But having served in a military outpost for most of the time since has made her strong and capable. As her father's only heir, her upbringing has ill-prepared her when she is summoned to the imperial city to vie for the crown prince's hand. 

Yup, she is in major trouble. Not only does she not know how to act like a proper princess, she secretly follows the same God that her mother did. Fortunately, the crown prince has entrusted her safety to his most trusted personal guard, Felix.

The Broken Crown is the first book in The Narrow Gate series, and it is packed full of drama as Emilia tries to determine just what she is supposed to do. Does she keep her beliefs secret? Is it her destiny to marry the future Emperor and then reveal her allegiances? It is a lot for a seventeen-year-old girl to figure out while surviving the political perils that are closing in around her.

I found this book to be engaging, and it held my interest from the first sentence. This is written for the YA audience, but it should appeal to older readers too. Readers of Jill Williamson (Blood of Kings series), Melanie Dickerson, Melanie Cellier, and Jennifer Nielsen (False King series) should enjoy this book/series.

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.

About the Book:

Release Date: May 23, 2016
Genre: Clean YA Fiction

Princess Emilia Aurelius was only seven when she watched her mother die at the hands of her father—martyred for believing in the God of the Atlas Empire’s Insurgo rebels. At seventeen, exiled to a military outpost where no one knows her true identity, she’s vowed to leave her royalty behind and explore the truth of the Insurgo rebels her mother loved.

When the Emperor of Atlas summons the princesses from each of the provinces to the imperial city to choose a wife for the crown prince, Emilia must leave her military life behind to join a royal court rife with cunning and intrigue. Navigating the waters of court politics and budding love are treacherous on their own, but Emilia fears for her life should anyone learn of her Insurgo sympathies.

With an unlikely ally in the captain of the emperor’s guard, Emilia must uncover the truth of the Insurgos, start a revolution, and learn to become the princess she’s vowed never to be, all while protecting her heart from a prince who could sign her death warrant.

The Desolate Reign ~ Review

The Desolate Reign

The Narrow Gate #2

By Amory Cannon

Emilia Aurelius has escaped the capital city with Felix, Hannah, Cecelia, Antony, and a contingent of soldiers with loyalty to Felix. But something about their escape seems too easy. 

And she's more than hurt at Ronan's silence when she was sentenced to death; she's angry. And she is faced with making decisions she never expected to have to make. Does she claim the crown of Borealis following her father's murder? Or does she go in search of the Insurgos?

At 17 years old, Emilia Aurelius has seen more than most young women her age, definitely more than a princess. But Emilia is no ordinary princess, having spent most of her life in exile following her mother's death for treason. She can fight better than most of the soldiers she has trained with. But acting like a princess is something she is not prepared for. And taking the reigns of a nation and leading even less.

But as Emilia finds out, even though she is free from the Empire, she is still being manipulated. But now she is manipulated by more than the royal court. But to bring peace, she will give up what she truly wants. But will her sacrifices bring peace between the Insurgos and Borealis, and by extension, the Empire? 

The Desolate Reign is the second book in The Narrow Way series, and if possible, more intense than The Broken Crown. Emelia and Felix are caught in the circumstances of who they are. Felix is as mysterious as can be - his past is unknown. And both are determined to do their duty, but where will it lead them? Emelia feels a pull and a voice seems to be asking her to do something, but how can she know what the right answer is? 

I found this book to be engaging, and it held my interest from the first sentence. This is written for the YA audience, but it should appeal to older readers too. Readers of Jill Williamson (Blood of Kings series), Melanie Dickerson, Melanie Cellier, and Jennifer Nielsen (False King series) should enjoy this book/series.

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.

About the Book:

Release Date: February 20, 2020
Genre: Clean YA Fiction

Emilia Aurelius should be a queen, but she’d settle for not being a fugitive. Taking refuge in the Borealis court seems to be her only chance to find a haven from Emperor Cyrus, who is playing a dangerous game of power with a set of rules all his own. Unfortunately, her own country is on the brink of civil war, attacked from within and without by the very people she’s sworn to save—the Insurgos.

With the truth of the Insurgos’ God and agenda murkier than ever, Emilia embarks on a treacherous quest for truth and her rightful place as queen. Neither will come without a price. Political pressure may force her to choose between her crown and her heart, while the search for ancient secrets unearths more questions than answers.

A mysterious prisoner may hold the information she seeks if she’s willing to bargain. What is the Narrow Gate? Can she finish what she started and save the Insurgos from extinction… even if they don’t want to be saved?

Entrusted ~ Review

Entrusted

Knights of Brethren #6

By Jody Hedlund

The race to save their country from their neighbor is coming to a close as time has run out. The enemy has crossed their border and has advanced deeper into Norvegia. Kristoffer Prestegard is the last Knight of Brethren with any hope of capturing the holy lamp from Swaine's troops. But what he doesn't realize is that there are other forces at work, forces that are bent on toppling King Ansgar and putting Kristoffer on the throne in his stead. 

But Kristoffer's loyalty is to Norvegia and King Ansgar. And he is determined to stop the Dark Warriors, who are aiding King Canute's efforts in taking Norvegia. When he and his squires come face to face with these formidable warriors in the dark of night, Kristoffer never imagined he might come away from the battle with something that could aid him in his quest. Princess Birgitta of Swaine was leading the warriors, holding their blood thirst in check. At least, she was before she became a prisoner.

What follows is a battle of wits and intellect as Kristoffer seeks to prevent his prisoner's escape and Brigitta attempts to lull him into complacency. What neither expected was the spark of attraction to grow between them. Falling in love with the enemy can't happen.

Entrusted is the sixth and final book in the Knights of Brethren series, and it is the definite climax as everything comes together. Will Norvegia withstand the threats, or will she fall as forces within and without conspire against her? As the final book, I can only say, "WOW!" This book was excellent and draws the series to a conclusion that can't be missed. Treachery, betrayal, a kingdom teetering on the brink, and a thoroughly impossible attraction. Yes, Jody Hedlund knows how to weave words so that one enters a world and becomes thoroughly engaged so that when the end comes, one is disappointed that the end has come. 

I do recommend reading all the books in the series as they build upon one another. But the immediate predecessor, Enflamed, is an absolute must, as it too deals with the third quest - the search for the holy lamp and focuses on Kristoffer's family, providing needed background for Entrusted. Now I know this series is over, but I would love a companion series that would touch on some of the other characters and what happens to them. That, in my opinion, is the best endorsement of any book or series when you want more from 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:

During a time when legends were born . . .

ENTRUSTED

The feisty enemy princess, 

the cunning knight holding her captive, 

and the ultimate battle that will determine their fate.

Hoping to minimize the death and destruction of the coming war, Princess Birgitta of Swaine leads the Dark Warriors as part of her brother King Canute’s efforts to take the throne of Norvegia. As she engages in a skirmish with a band of elite Knights of Brethren, she’s kidnapped by Kristoffer Prestegard, a cunning warrior.

While searching for the holy lamp that can help defeat the Dark Warriors, Kristoffer realizes that Swaine has already seized the ancient relic. Since King Canute is fiercely protective of his sister, Kristoffer offers to return Princess Birgitta in exchange for the coveted holy lamp.

While trying to keep his feisty prisoner from escaping, Kristoffer learns that his father and uncle have set in motion a scheme that would give him the kingship of Norvegia. Where will Kristoffer’s loyalties lie, and how will he choose sides without losing everything, including the princess he’s grown to love?

The real story of the Holy Lamp continues . . .

Enflamed ~ Review

Enflamed

Knights of Brethren #5

By Jodi Hedlund

Sylvi Prestegard has always considered Espen as someone she could depend on to aid her, and if ever there was a time she needed his aid, it was now.  But Espen, like her brother Kristoffer, is on a quest for the king. To stop King Canute's Dark Warriors, the Holy Lamp must be located with all haste to prevent Norvegia from falling to Swaine.

But when Espen's entreaties on Sylvi's behalf are denied and met with scorn, Sylvi knows she must thwart the evil plans being made that will destroy her future and threaten Norvegia's throne. The only way that she can see to save the kingdom and her future is to wed Espen.

But Espen knows he will never be worthy of any noblewoman, much less, Sylvi, who has been groomed all her life, to use her beauty as a tool in her father's quest for greater worth and prestige. But he must save Sylvi, and Espen only hopes he can be strong enough to do what must be done to keep her protected until she is free from her father's threat.

Filled with all the adventure and daring of the previous books in the Knights of Brethren series, Enflamed will keep you reading until the very end. You won't want to put this one down, and it will keep you reading until the early hours of the morning. There are some unexpected twists as Espen and Sylvi's quest reveals a threat no one knew about - one that could spell the end of all of Norvegia's hopes to stop Swaine and the threat she and her king pose.

Enflamed could easily be read without first reading the first four books in the series but reading the books in order will make for a more satisfying reading experience. This is one series I highly recommend reading in order.

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.

Don't you just love this cover?

About the Book:

During a time when legends were born . . .

ENFLAMED

The most beautiful noblewoman in the kingdom, 

the lowly knight who can never have her, 

and the forbidden love they share.

When Sylvi Prestegard discovers that her father has arranged for her to marry a wealthy nobleman known for his thieving ways, she’s desperate to avoid the union. She turns to her childhood friend Espen, a Knight of Brethren, counting on his loyalty and kindness to help her escape.

Espen has been given an urgent mission to locate the holy lamp, an ancient relic necessary to defeat the enemy invading their country. In addition to his royal quest, he’s determined to protect Sylvi, the woman he’s always secretly loved. When she suggests the two of them marry to thwart her father’s plans, Espen cannot deny her request.

As they search for the holy lamp, Lord Prestegard pursues them, intent on reclaiming his daughter. With Espen’s life at stake, Sylvi must conspire to save them both. Will they be able to overcome the obstacles that stand between them, or are the flames of their forbidden love destined to be extinguished?

The real story of the Holy Lamp . . .

Enriched ~ Review

Enriched

Knights of Brethren #4

By Jody Hedlund

Torvald, one of the Knights of Brethren, has been called home - he must marry to save his family estate from ruin. He has no choice in the manner, though marriage is the last thing he wants. Marriage destroyed his father and he refuses to ruin himself by loving his wife. Love is a weakness and he refuses to fall into its entrapment. He'll marry and then return to his quest for the sacred chalice that holds the promise of healing for the queen, after all, he has a duty.

There is just one problem with Torvald's plans, Lady Karina is not only lovely in appearance but in spirit. Karina has spent the last three years in a convent fully intending to take her vows to the church when her father makes a request of her. Can she give up her dreams of being a nun and marry a man she has never met? Duty to her family finds her agreeing to her father's wishes but with no promise of a future marriage with love, she feels rejected. Can she love him and hope to change his mind?

As the threat of war draws ever closer Torvald does what he must in service to the kingdom all while fighting to keep his vow of never loving his wife. Karina does all that she can to keep Torvald safe even if it breaks her heart. And sacrificing all her happiness may be the only way she can save the man she has come to care for.

Enriched is the fourth book in the Knights of Brethren series and it in no way disappoints or backs away from the quest that has bound the Knights together. This book continues the quest into Hardanger Forest that was begun by Gunnar in Ensnared (Book 3). Now if you haven't read any of the previous books, I would recommend reading them first as this series needs to be read in order to fully understand and appreciate all the layers to the series. Each book builds on the previous one so reading out of order will throw you off.

As with all of Jody Hedlund's books, this is another must-read. The setting is medieval so if you love books that are set within this time frame and want them to be on the clean side of romance with not a lot of graphic anything you will want to add this to your tbr list.  A perfect teen read selection.

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:

During a time when legends were born . . .

A wealthy noblewoman with a heart of gold, a wounded knight closed off to love, and the sacrifices for a chalice that can bring healing.

Lady Karina lives in a convent and expects to become a nun someday. When her wealthy father asks her to help his textile business become more successful by marrying one of the popular Knights of Brethren, Karina complies, ever the dutiful daughter.

During a royal quest to find the sacred chalice, Torvald is called home to save his family’s estate through an arranged marriage to a wealthy maiden. Although willing to do his duty, he’s vowed never to give his heart to anyone after watching his father suffer heartbreak over a woman.

As Torvald weds the kind and lovely Karina, he resists the pull of attraction to his bride. Even though Karina feels the sting of Torvald’s rejection, she chooses to love him unconditionally. As he resumes his search for the chalice and puts his life in jeopardy, Karina makes the ultimate sacrifice for him. Will he have the chance to love her in return before it’s too late?

The real story of the Holy Grail continues . . .  

Catching Hope ~ Review with Giveaway

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for 
Catching Hope by Kathy Cassel, 
hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

 Catching Hope 

 By Kathy Cassel 

 Lexi Michaels and her twin brother Levi are taking their first

 vacation in like ever. Having spent most of their lives in less

 than ideal homes the prospect of taking a vacation much less

 one in Haiti seems so unreal. But the excitement of a vacation

 with their new family takes a scary and dangerous turn when

 someone targets their family and the life-saving drugs they

 brought with them.

 Lexi, Levi, their brother Chad, and cousin Jen have to learn to

 work together and see beyond the surface when danger finds

 them. But more than anything they need to place their trust in

 God even when nothing seems to be going right. Can Lexi

 believe that she'll have the forever family she's always wanted?

 Catching Hope offers non-stop action as danger pursues these

 four teens across Haiti. This is clean reading which sadly many

 YA books sadly lack. Life isn't perfect - nor is it happily-ever-after. But it is realistic, though with a lot more adventure and action than the average teen would hopefully experience. This book would be appropriate for readers 12 years and up, in my opinion. Yes, there are scary situations but nothing over-the-top. This book is faith-filled as the various characters react to the varying situations they find themselves in throughout.

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: Catching Hope 

Author: Kathy Cassel 

Publisher: Haven Point Publishing 

Release Date: March 22, 2022 

Genre: Teens/YA, Christian 

Catching Hope: A pursuit fraught with danger. 

Newly adopted Lexi Michaels is taking her first real vacation as she, twin brother Levi, adoptive brother Chad, and new cousin Jen head to Haiti where their dad, a pediatrician, will be volunteering in an island clinic. But who is the man who displays such hatred for the Michaels when they arrive at their resort? Is an attempted burglary as random as it appears? Will Jen ever accept the newcomers to the family? When the four teens set out to explore Haiti’s sights and history on their own, an unexpected encounter and natural disaster plunge them into adventure and danger. With their very survival at stake, can the four teens work together, or will Lexi’s dream of a “forever family” end in tragedy? 

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookDepository | IndieBound | BookBub

---

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kathy Cassel is the author of eleven books for Christian preteens and girls and three Young Adult Fiction books.

 

Kathy grew up in northern Indiana, lived on three different continents while her husband was in the USAF, and now lives in the Florida Panhandle. She and her husband have eight children, five of whom are adopted, three from Haiti and two from the United States. They also have six grandchildren. Kathy’s favorite activities are those that involve traveling and adventures that include her children and grandchildren. In order to better relate to the characters in her stories, Kathy has done things such as whitewater rafting, certify in scuba diving, and get her motorcycle endorsement. She draws the line at sky diving. 

CONNECT WITH KATHY: Website | Facebook | Instagram

---

TOUR GIVEAWAY

(2) winners will receive a $25 BAM card gift card!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight June 21, 2022 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on June 28, 2022. US only. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

---

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

 

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.