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10.10.2023

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.

10.06.2023

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

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

Release Day for Unearth the Tides


It's release day for Unearth the Tides: A Retelling of 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea by Alissa J. Zavalianos!


This is the 4th book in the A Classic Retold multi-author series, and it’s out today! 


Unearth the Tides is available in paperback, hardcover, and ebook formats, and it is also on Kindle Unlimited.


Blurb:

𝐁𝐞𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐓𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐬

𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐫𝐢𝐦𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡 𝐓𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐘𝐨𝐮

Huxley Krew Gannon III always knew he would be a royal guard; defending the Crown is in his blood. And coming from a long line of Gannons, that means the job is to be taken seriously at all costs.

When tragedy strikes, Huxley is framed for treason, and his only option is to flee to Braka’s most feared place: The Wasteful Tides.

It’s rumored a monstrous beast haunts those waters, but what Huxley encounters is even worse: an elusive captain, magical herbs, a beautiful lady, and unearthed truths that could change the course of history.

Unearth the Tides is a fantasy retelling of Jules Verne’s 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. Filled with mystery, found family, and themes of truth and forgiveness, Unearth the Tides is perfect for those who love the coziness of the classics and the thrill of adventure.

Link to order:

https://www.amazon.com/Unearth-Tides-Retelling-Leagues-Classic/dp/B0CBPKJ7SH - 

10.04.2023

Silent Stars ~ Review

Silent Stars JustRead Blog Tour

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

Silent Stars

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

 


About the Author

Brett Armstrong

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.


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!

Silent Stars JustRead Tours giveaway

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


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

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9.29.2023

Release Day for Steal the Morrow


Today is the Release Day for Steal the Morrow by
Jenelle Schmidt, a fantastical Oliver Twist retelling and part of the A Classic Retold multi-author series!

Blurb:


The city may be dangerous, but it holds his only hope…


Abandoned on a remote highway after bandits murder his parents, young Olifur finds safety with Fritjof. The gruff woodsman teaches him and other orphans to live off the land. When Fritjof falls ill, Olifur will risk everything to save his mentor—even travel to far-off Melar seeking a doctor.


However, the city of Melar is more perilous than Olifur imagined, and doctors aren't cheap. His quest leads him first to a hazardous job working on the elevated trains high above the city. But the dangers in the clouds are nothing compared to those on the ground. Olifur soon finds himself ensnared in a web of professional thieves, and he must think fast if he is to survive the day and bring the much-needed aid to Fritjof before it is too late.


Schmidt reweaves Charles Dickens' "Oliver Twist" into an exciting tale of integrity and perseverance in this gaslamp-fantasy adventure.

Universal Buy Link: mybook.to/stealthemorrow

Universal Series Page Link: mybook.to/aclassicretold


Follow Jenelle online:

9.28.2023

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!

9.27.2023

Hunted For Christmas ~ Review

Hunted at Christmas JustRead Blog + Review Tour

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Hunted at Christmas by Dana R. Lynn, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Hunted at Christmas
Hunted at Christmas
Amish Country Justice
By Dana R. Lynn

Addison Johnson is a wanted woman and she has no idea until a hitman nearly ends her before bounty hunter Isaiah Bender stops him. What Addison doesn't understand is why someone is after her. Even more shocking she's been accused of crimes shenever committed. 

Convinced of Addison's innocence Isaiah agrees to help her and her son stay safe until they can get the answers they need. Even if it means he has to return to the life he never wanted to return to. Returning to his Amish life and the family left behind all those years ago is difficult. But when his need to protect Addison puts everyone in danger he needs to redouble his efforts and seek help he never thought he'd need to ask for. But family is there for you as he soon learns.

Get ready for heart pounding excitement almost from the first word as action quickly finds Addison on the run for not only her life but that of her three-year-old son. Faith maybe the only thing that will get them through thecrisis they find themselves in the midst of!

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



About the Book

Title: Hunted at Christmas
Series:
Amish Country Justice
Author:
Dana R. Lynn
Publisher:
Love Inspired Suspense
Release Date:
September 26, 2023
Genre:
Christian Romantic Suspense

Wanted by a bounty hunter. 
 Chased by a killer. 

When single mother Addison Johnson is attacked by a hit man, she learns there’s a price on her head. And Isaiah Bender—the bounty hunter hired to track her down for crimes she didn’t commit—is her only hope for survival. Protecting Addison and her young son from armed assailants means seeking refuge in Amish country. But when their holiday hideout is discovered, can he clear an innocent woman’s name and keep her alive?  

From Love Inspired Suspense:

 Courage. 

Danger. 

Faith.

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

More in This Series

 Deadly Amish Reunion Amish Country Threats Amish Christmas Escape Amish Cradle Conspiracy Hidden Amish Target

more Amish Country Justice series titles


About the Author

Dana R. Lynn

Dana R. Lynn is an award winning author of romantic suspense and Amish romance who believes in the power of God to touch people through stories. Although she grew up in Illinois, she met her husband at a wedding in Pennsylvania and told her parents she had met her future husband. Nineteen months later, they were married. Today, they live in rural Pennsylvania and are entering the world of empty nesters. She is a teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing by day and writes stories of romance and danger at night. She is represented by Tamela Hancock Murray with the Steve Laube Agency. Dana is an avid reader, loves cats and thinks chocolate should be a food group.

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


Tour Giveaway

(3) winners will win a $10 Amazon gift card, a pen and a mug!

Hunted at Christmas JustRead Tours giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight September 27, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on October 4, 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 only for pen & mug. Egift card only in case of CAN winner. 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!

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