Lilac ~ Review

Lilac: A Plain Princess Retelling

A Garden of Fairy Tales

By Madisyn Carlin

No matter what she does, Princess Ivelisse Shenden is a disappointment to her parents. Somehow, she's managed to drive away every prince that has come seeking her hand. Now she is being sent away to a remote cabin in the woods. What's worse she is being guarded by a less than thrilled spy, not that she's supposed to know that he is a spy.

Cage Nior tried to prevent the King and Queen from chosing his aunt to guide and help Ivelisse find herself away from the pressures of court. There is just one thing wrong with this plan, well maybe more than one, Ivelisse is not suited for working and living as a peasant.

When it becomes apparent that danger is encircling them Cage and Ivelisse must learn to trust one another if they hope to survive the evil that has found them.

This was a delightful story that took elements from The Plain Princess and Little Red Riding Hood to create a unique and engaging story of love, sacrifice, and self-discovery. Truly lovely and not to be missed.

FYI: This book is in the same storyworld as A Noble Protector and several of the characters make an appearance in Lilac. But it is not necessary to read A Noble Protector first to enjoy this book. 

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

About the Book:

She's a spoiled princess. He's a spy unknowingly protecting a deadly secret.

Spy Cage Nior is used to lurking in the shadows. What he's not used to is being called out of a mission and sent to babysit a withdrawn princess who has no idea how to smile or survive outside the palace walls. He expects the three months to pass in tedious dullness, but what he instead finds is danger and secrets.

Princess Ivelisse Shenden is used to hiding in the shadows, ignored by most and gossiped about by all. She's also used to rejection, and it's after her tenth courtship rejection that she finds herself shipped off to a humble hovel in the middle of nowhere. She expects drudgery and toil, but what she finds is danger and something she's long forgotten about---her purpose in life.

The quaint cottage may be surrounded by idyllic woods and fragrant lilac bushes, but sinister intentions shift in the shadows. If Cage and Ivelisse are to survive, they must learn to not only trust themselves, but each other.

Lilac is a combined Christian fantasy fairy tale retelling of The Plain Princess and Little Red Riding Hood and features tropes such as forced proximity, slow burn, and royalty x commoner.

Spring has sprung with these seven swoony sweet retellings. Each novella finds its happily ever after amidst themes of rebirth, hope, and new life. Each book is fully independent and they can be read in any order.

Forget-Me-Not ~ Review

Forget-Me-Not: A Snow Queen Retelling

A Garden of Fairy Tales Book

By J.F. Rogers

Forget-Me-Not closely follows the original fairy tale that it is retelling. But, and this is the critical part, it is a more fleshed-out version of the original story. This is an excellent retelling of The Snow Queen, and I love the role the forget-me-nots play in restoring Kata's memories. 

Now, if you are not familiar with the Snow Queen, Kata must brave unknown dangers when her friend Mikkel falls under the Snow Queen's curse. Mikkel's heart is frozen, and his sight is distorted by icy shards of a shattered mirror. Kata's love gives her purpose and the strength to undertake this harrowing journey. 

But nothing is without cost, and Kata's quest to save the boy she loves could very well cost her her life and her freedom. But finding Mikkel is only the first step in bringing him home. She must also break the curse that has turned him against all those he loves.

This is a clean read and a sweet romance suitable for tweens and older readers. There is sweet romance that won't offend even the most sensitive reader's sensibilities. Highly recommended.

About the Book:

Inseparable friends. A cursed mirror. A harrowing journey.

Kata and Mikkel have always been each other’s world. But as Kata’s feelings deepen, Mikkel vanishes—drawn into the grasp of the Snow Queen.

Once, Mikkel risked everything to save Kata. Now, with a shard of a wicked mirror in his heart, he may not even remember her.

To save him, Kata must journey across a frozen world ruled by winter and sorrow. But if the boy she loves is lost to ice and shadow... can love still bring him home?

Spring has sprung with these seven swoony sweet retellings. Each novella finds its happily ever after amidst themes of rebirth, hope, and new life. Each book is fully independent and they can be read in any order.

Forget-Me-Not is a retelling featuring tropes such as friends-to-lovers, magical corruption, and a perilous quest.

The Puzzle Within ~ Review

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for 

The Puzzle Within by Gina Holder, 

hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

The Puzzle Within 
The Game Masters #1 
By Gina Holder 

Ari (Arizona) Powers has this last chance to prove she isn't crazy. But when the young woman she's assigned to protect is kidnapped, Ari finds that her life is on the line as the kidnapper lures her and the analyst assigned to the protection detail into a dangerous game.

Nick Trueheart isn't an agent and isn't sure why he's been assigned to protect the teenage daughter of an ambassador. But when Bridgette disappears from a locked escape room, he'll have to rely on his past to help him understand what's going on.

Ari and Nick find themselves facing a deadly foe who seems bent on vengeance. The deeper they dig, the more puzzling the case becomes. And time is not on their side. But when they discover links to their pasts, they realize that more than Bridgette's life is in danger.

The Puzzle Within delves into the power of memory, taking readers on an intense race against time. This book is filled with suspense and a determined villain. Several unexpected twists definitely kept me from figuring out who Enigma was and what the endgame was. There is a faith element that runs throughout as both Ari and Nick struggle to make sense of the case, each other, and their own painful pasts. A good and engaging read.

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

About the Book

Title: The Puzzle Within 
Series: The Game Masters #1 
    Author: Gina Holder 
    Publisher: Scrivenings Press LLC 
    Release Date: June 3, 2025 
    Genre: Romantic Suspense

FBI agent Arizona Powers is haunted by nightmares—fragments of a childhood kidnapping no one believes ever happened. Still recovering from a nervous breakdown, she accepts a protection assignment for Bridgette Van Sloan, the strong-willed teenage daughter of a U.S. ambassador who's been receiving threats signed: Enigma. 

Nick Trueheart, a former escape artist known as "Nick of Time" turned diplomatic risk analyst, is grieving the loss of his beloved wife—and obsessed with finding her killer. When assigned to Bridgette's security detail, his biggest concern isn't the threats—it's the unstable agent with a vendetta against kidnappers. 

When Bridgette disappears from an escape room, Nick and Arizona become entangled in a high-stakes puzzle hunt and a race against time. They must confront their own failures and unravel the secrets hidden within themselves to rescue Bridgette … and survive a madman's twisted game. Because one thing becomes clear: Enigma’s real target is much bigger — and far more personal.

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

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About the Author

Gina Holder is a hybrid author and stay-at-home mom. She’s had an infatuation with books for as long as she can remember. She loves sharing uplifting messages from God’s Word and introducing readers to new and new-to-them authors on her blog. When she’s not writing, Gina enjoys playing the piano, cooking, reading, watching Hallmark mysteries, and solving “escape room” puzzles. She loves growing in her craft as an author. She published her debut novel in 2017. Gina lives in Wyoming with her husband and daughter.

Connect with Gina by visiting storiesbygina.com to follow her on social media and subscribe to email updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card,
a signed paperback copy of The Puzzle Within,
and a pair of wooden jigsaw puzzle earrings!

Full tour schedule linked below.
The giveaway begins at midnight June 10, 2025,
and will last through 11:59 PM EST on June 17, 2025.
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.
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!

The Rules of Matrimony ~ Review

The Rules of Matrimony

Matchmaking Mamas #4

By Anneka R. Walker

Narrated by Mary Jane Wells and James Joseph

This is the fourth book in the Matchmaking Mamas series, which features a group of young people determined to escape the bonds of marriage and the matches their mothers are trying to arrange for them. Ian is the final Rebel to fall to the machinations of their schemes. But Ian's time has run out, and his father has gotten involved. If he wants to have a say in who he marries, he needs to act fast.

Miss Amie Tyler and her mother have been living on the charity of family and have endured the remarks of others who look down on their status. But when Amie's mother makes an outrageous claim about Lord Reynolds, Amie's name is linked to that of Ian's. Ian, being Ian, is determined to extricate his name from this engagement. 

But upon meeting Amie, Ian devises a plan to thwart his father's schemes and offer Amie protection and the freedom to live her life as she sees fit. However, there are rules involved, rules that would prevent the two of them from falling in love. Time for the Matchmaking Mamas to get to work!

This was another lovely read from Anneka R. Walker. We finally learn why Ian has been so against getting married. There are long-held secrets. And at the center of everything is family and friendship. I love how the Rebels take action and are convinced that their friend needs to discover love for himself. But with Ian's rules firmly in place, or are they, can Amie and Ian ever hope for something better? This was a clean read and can be enjoyed as a standalone book.

I also experienced this book as an audiobook, and the narration by Mary Jane Wells and James Joseph was excellent. I loved how "Amie" could enthuse over some of the situations that she found herself in. The book really came to life in the telling, and at nine and a quarter hours, it is an excellent length. 

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.

Available at:

https://shadowmountain.com/product/the-rules-of-matrimony/

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/217004404-the-rules-of-matrimony 

Series: Matchmaking Mamas #4
Release Date: May 6, 2025
Genre: Regency Romance

London, England, 1823

Ian has vowed never to marry, steadfast in his resolve to shield himself from the heartache his father’s infidelity brought upon his mother. Instead, he dedicates his heart and soul to reforming criminal law with his Rebel group. A chance encounter in a country graveyard with the infuriatingly bold Miss Amie Tyler only solidifies his resolve to remain single. That is, until his life descends into chaos when rumors of his engagement—an engagement he had no part in or prior knowledge of—force him and the vexing Miss Tyler into a calculated marriage, a mutual scheme to protect Miss Tyler from her lecherous cousin and to save Ian from a political marriage he dreads.

Amie never imagined her unsophisticated life would lead to an entanglement with Lord Ian Reynolds. Living on her relatives’ charity, she is resigned to remaining a wallflower. But when her mother concocts a wild lie of her engagement to Lord Reynolds, she chooses to trust a gentleman she hardly knows with her future. Amie is thrust into a whirlwind marriage and is overwhelmed to find herself falling for Ian despite their agreement to maintain independence.

As they navigate their charade, Ian’s political ambitions clash with his growing affection for Amie, and Amie’s courageous attempt to help Ian’s family heal threatens to unravel their bond. However, a forbidden kiss and unexpected acts of kindness kindle the spark between them that neither can ignore. In a desperate race against societal expectations, the two must decide whether a future together is worth breaking their earlier vows of independence.

Be sure to check out the Rules of Matrimony JustReads Tour Giveaway on Instagram!

Click the following link to learn more:

 https://www.instagram.com/p/DKYlxLzsVEc/

Lion of Judah ~ Review

Lion of Judah
The Song of Prophets and Kings #5
By Henry O. Arnold

Lion of Judah is the fifth book in The Song of Prophets and Kings series. This is the first book in this series that I have read, and it can be read well as a standalone title. 

This book focuses on the life of David from the beginning of his reign over the Kingdom of Israel until his death. Along the way, David proved over and over that he was human. Yes, he had moments of triumph, but these were often mixed with low points. Some of which had lasting consequences on not only his life, but that of his family, and his kingdom.

David is often referred to as a man after God's heart. This wasn't because of his goodness, but because he repented. Though sometimes he had to be brought to a moment of reckoning by God before he could admit his failings to not only God but himself.

This book offers a glimpse into the heart and mind of David, drawing on the Bible and the author's skillful use of words. Overall, this is an interesting read. 

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:

Release Date: May 15, 2025
Genre: Biblical/Historical Fiction

The new king is crowned in triumph…
But his pride proves to be a fatal flaw…
And from out of his own house calamity falls upon him

Once a shepherd, a captain, and a fugitive, David is now king. He left behind the dangers of life on the run and embraced the comforts of living in the palace. No longer known as the “giant-slayer,” but as the “lion of Judah,” King David enjoys the popularity and prosperity brought on by his victories.

But peace in the nation of Israel has a double-edged sword. David’s pride subverts his judgment, and his desires overwhelm his heart leading him down a dark pathway. The king will go to any lengths to cover up his crimes, but disaster falls upon the House of David bringing this broken and contrite king to cry out to Yahweh for mercy.

Lion of Judah continues the tale of triumph and tragedy, deepest love and burning rivalries; the new epoch is given a voice…and it is The Song of Prophets and Kings.

Also available:

                                 

                                        

These Lying Dreams ~ Review

These Lying Dreams: A 1920s Sleeping Beauty Retelling

The Rose Heist Tales: Prequel

By Emma Donovan

Welcome to Bite-Sized Books! A quick read that delighted my senses. I loved the hints at Sleeping Beauty and the Gothic-vibes the story gave off. Not super scary just a tantalizing whisper that passes through, like a glimpse of something out of the side of one's eye.

Evelina Fairchild hears something that troubles her, but fearing that she will not be believed, sends a letter to her solicitor. Not-so-long story short, the solicitor sends David Peregrine in his place. But things just seem off to David, so he decides to nosy about to figure things out.

Soon, he discovers just how dangerous this crumbling estate really is. I loved this book and hope for more from this new-to-me author. This was a clean read that offered just enough mystery to keep my attention while providing a story short enough to be enjoyed in one sitting.

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:

A mysterious letter brought David Peregrine to the home of a reclusive client, former concert pianist Evelina Fairchild. But once he arrives, Evelina has only lies to tell, and her home seems less a refuge than a prison.

The more he investigates, the deeper he's drawn into a web of illusions, secrets, and madness. If he can't sort the truth from the lies soon, more than one life might be lost.

Interview with Jessica A Tanner

Today, I am sharing a fun interview with Jessica A. Turner, the author of the recently released Peaflower. 

Jessica, thank you for taking the time to give us a glimpse into you and your writing.

1) Who is your favorite comfort read author?

Hmm. Clive Cussler. He’s not a fantasy author – more an adventure one. I really like his Isaac Bell adventures—solving crimes, catching bad guys, traveling the US or the world during the 1920s, ‘30s, and ‘40s.


2) What do you most like about this genre that you are writing in?

The genre I am writing in allows me to take old ideas and turn them on their heads. To help people see life from a new perspective. To sprinkle a little magic on the everyday. To inspire. And maybe share a laugh or two!


3) Who, past or present, is one author you would like to mentor you?

I’d like one more sit-down session with my friend and mentor, Linda Farmer Harris. She wrote many stories—one of my favorites is a novella, The Lye Water Bride, in The California Gold Rush: Romance Collection from Barbour Publishing. And she wrote with heart—drawing readers into a memorable tale while sharing her faith.



4) How do you develop your setting (a photo, a trip, a random comment)?

I just start writing and let the world unfurl as the characters interacts with it. Once I have the basic idea, I fill in a few details so readers can better get a feel of what I see in my imagination.


5) If you could share a cup of tea (or coffee) with anyone, who would it be?

I’d like to share a cup or two of hot cocoa with my grandparents. It was super fun when we’d make up mugs of hot cocoa and squirt whip cream on each other’s cups. I miss them.



6) Do you have a favorite author that you would recommend?

I have more than one. Jaime Jo Wright—her time split novels keep me turning the pages and her ability to describe a scene or a mood is stellar, but sometimes they feel a bit dark even though I know the light will win. Clive Cussler—especially his Isaac Bell adventures. Debbie Macomber—her stories featuring the angels and their antics around Christmas time are heartwarming and hilarious!


7) What one book would you recommend that everyone read?

The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse by Charlie Mackey.


8) Who is your favorite character in your book?

Depends on which book. With Sonji, it’s Sonji. With Peaflower, it’s Princess Marion’s pet rat Cleevy.


9) Should I read Peaflower in conjunction with any of your other books, or is it a standalone title?

Peaflower is a standalone. I’m hoping to tell a few more stories in the same story world, but plan for them too to be standalones.


10) What did you most enjoy when writing Peaflower?

Cleevy’s opinion on everything and everybody.


11) Is there a specific line or scene from Peaflower that you feel directed the story in a specific direction? If it had not been in the story, would everything have changed?

This may sound silly—but if Prince Rupert hadn’t thrown Princess Marion into a pond when they were kids, it could have changed the story. She needed to be able to be mad at someone, EVEN if that someone wasn’t the real root of her current troubles.


12) Did you learn anything about peaflowers while writing this book?

I did. Peaflowers often stand for delicate beauty.



13) What one question would you like to be asked, and how would you answer it?

Here’s the question: So many of your reading suggestions and favorite authors are not part of the fantasy or fairytale genre or even YA fiction, how did you get into writing what you do?

And here is the answer: I enjoyed fantasy and fairytales as a kid, but what I found in the YA department turned me off. I jumped into the adult section, but those genres for adults often took dark turns that scared me. I wanted something that gave me the feels of a middle-grade fantasy, but starred people my own age—people who weren’t sucked into evil or caught up in some sort of love triangle. I wanted adventure and healthy relationships (not just romantic ones!) and good triumphing over evil. So, I started writing it.

Again, thank you, Jessica, for allowing us a glimpse into your book life!


About the Book:

Her kingdom is under attack. His brother is her betrothed.

Princess Marion Thornhill and her lady-in-waiting Emma flee their kingdom of Brecker with the hope of reaching the princess’s betrothed and garnering help against attacking forces. But along the way, Emma reveals her true loyalties. Left stranded in the woods during a spring storm, Marion crosses paths with her betrothed’s brother Rupert, a prince cursed by an angered fairy. Rupert helps Marion - but can they get help for Brecker before it’s too late? And what about their entangled hearts?

Spring has sprung with these seven swoony-sweet retellings. Each novella finds its happily ever after amidst themes of rebirth, hope, and new life. Each book is fully independent, and they can be read in any order. Peaflower is a retelling of The Princess and the Pea featuring tropes such as an evil lady-in-waiting and a princess with an animal sidekick.

Check out my review of Peaflower at the following link: https://bloomingwithbooks.blogspot.com/2025/05/peaflower-review.html