Danger lurks within the roots of Forest of Souls, an epic, unrelenting tale of destiny and sisterhood, perfect for fans of Naomi Novik and Susan Dennard.
Sirscha Ashwyn comes from nothing, but she’s intent on becoming something. After years of training to become the queen’s next royal spy, her plans are derailed when shamans attack and kill her best friend Saengo.
And then Sirscha, somehow, restores Saengo to life.
Unveiled as the first soulguide in living memory, Sirscha is summoned to the domain of the Spider King. For centuries, he has used his influence over the Dead Wood—an ancient forest possessed by souls—to enforce peace between the kingdoms. Now, with the trees growing wild and untamed, only a soulguide can restrain them. As war looms, Sirscha must master her newly awakened abilities before the trees shatter the brittle peace, or worse, claim Saengo, the friend she would die for.
Lori M. Lee is the author of FOREST OF SOULS, first in the Shamanborn series, as well as GATES OF THREAD AND STONE and THE INFINITE. She’s also a contributor to the anthologies A THOUSAND BEGINNINGS AND ENDINGS and COLOR OUTSIDE THE LINES. She considers herself a unicorn aficionado, enjoys marathoning TV shows, and loves to write about magic, manipulation, and family.
The earth is black with last night’s rain—a perfect morning for shadows.”
– Lori M. Lee, Forest of Souls
Book 1 in the Shamanborn Series.
Danger lurks within the roots of Forest of Souls, an epic, unrelenting tale of destiny and sisterhood, perfect for fans of Naomi Novik and Susan Dennard.
Sirscha Ashwyn comes from nothing, but she’s intent on becoming something. After years of training to become the queen’s next royal spy, her plans are derailed when shamans attack and kill her best friend Saengo.
And then Sirscha, somehow, restores Saengo to life.
Unveiled as the first soulguide in living memory, Sirscha is summoned to the domain of the Spider King. For centuries, he has used his influence over the Dead Wood—an ancient forest possessed by souls—to enforce peace between the kingdoms. Now, with the trees growing wild and untamed, only a soulguide can restrain them. As war looms, Sirscha must master her newly awakened abilities before the trees shatter the brittle peace, or worse, claim Saengo, the friend she would die for.
Illustration by Charlie Bowater. Design by Laura Benton.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Page Street Kids for this free copy. All quotes in this review are taken from the Advanced Reader Copy and may change in final publication.
ori M. Lee, Forest of Souls
This comes with a high cost since Shamanborn have been outlawed because of ignorance and fear. Sirscha and Saengo, go deep into the Dead Wood t
Forest of Souls is an intense, dark, eerie chilling, and suspenseful Ya fantasy novel that immediately drew me in and held my interest right until that shocking and action-filled ending. This book was so entertaining and extremely hard for me to put down. I raced through this one! #myownvoices
Forest of Souls is a mesmerizing dark YA fantasy filled magic inspired by Hmong shamanism. It follows Sirscha, an orphan, leading a meaningless life. Longing for something more, biding her time in the Queens army, accompanied by her best friend Saengo. On a routine journey operation, a fight breaks out between some Shamanborn. Saengo is dealt a mortal blow resulting in his death.
Sirscha takes things into her own hands and does the unthinkable, she accidentally brings her back to life. Not only Saengo is brought back from the dead, but now Sirscha now has the distinct glowing eyes of a Shamanborn. This comes with a high cost since Shamanborn have been outlawed because of ignorance and fear. Sirscha and Saengo, go deep into the Dead Wood to locate the notorious Shamanborn, the Spider. She must learn to master her elemental powers and help the Spider King control the soul in the creepy Dead Wood. She finds a kindred Spirt with persecuted shamanborn. All the while more sinister forces are at play for Saengo and Sirscha
A dark ominous fantasy with strong themes of friendship and loyalty, along with political intrigue. A stunning path to discovery and acceptance, Sirscha story coming of age is thought provoking and captivating. Incredible world building along with the friendship makes this book stand out above the rest. The ending was superb with a massive cliffhanger that immediately sets up for the next installment in this stunning series.
🕷🕷🕷🕷🕷🕷
This comes with a high cost since Shamanborn have been outlawed because of ignorance and fear. Sirscha and Saengo, go deep into the Dead Wood to locate the notorious Shamanborn, the Sremembered their shamanborn friends and relatives, but for everyone else? The ignorance bred fear.”
“The crush of so many expectations is matched only by the fear of not measuring up. I press my palms to my temples. Fear is not a wall. It is a whip at my back, driving me onward.”
Today I partnered with @lorimlee82@pagestreetpublishing @pagestreetkids Tha
I’m so excited because today is my stop in the SISTERS OF SWORD AND SONG with @theffbc! This new standalone by @beccajross is an exceptional Ya Fantasy Book
Sisters of Sword and Song
by Rebecca Ross
Publisher: HarperTeen
Release Date: June 23rd 2020
Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy
From the author of The Queen’s Rising comes a thrilling YA stand-alone fantasy about the unbreakable bond between sisters. Perfect for fans of Ember in the Ashes, Sky in the Deep, and Court of Fives.
After eight long years, Evadne will finally be reunited with her older sister, Halcyon, who has been proudly serving in the queen’s army. But when Halcyon appears earlier than expected, Eva knows something has gone terribly wrong. Halcyon is on the run, hunted by her commander and charged with murder.
Though Halcyon’s life is spared during her trial, the punishment is heavy. And when Eva volunteers to serve part of Halcyon’s sentence, she’s determined to find out exactly what happened. But as Eva begins her sentence, she quickly learns that there are fates much worse than death.
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
All included quotes have been taken from an ARC and may not match the finished publication.
✨🌙✨✨🌙✨✨🌙✨
𝘼𝙥𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙧𝙩𝙖𝙡𝙚𝙤𝙛𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩𝙪𝙣𝙨𝙝𝙖𝙠𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙚𝙗𝙤𝙣𝙙𝙤𝙛𝙨𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙝𝙤𝙤𝙙.
𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙞𝙨𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙢𝙚.
𝙄𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙣𝙤𝙩𝙗𝙚𝙣𝙙.
𝙄𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙣𝙤𝙩𝙗𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙠.
Sisters of Sword and Song by Rebecca Ross is a exceptional adventurous YA fantasy,
A must read with incredible world building and in-depth pantheon style ofmythological gods. Set in a vividly lush alternate Ancient Greek world. This Ya book will ultimately draw you in from the moment your eyes set upon the first page. The story focuses on two very different sisters, Evadne and Halcyon. The incredible sisterly bond between Halcyon and Evadne is true heart of this tale.
The tale opens up with Evadne, along with the rest of her family anxiously waiting the return of legendary warrior sister. This is to be her first scheduled visit home in eight years. Everything comes crashing down, when the night before Halcyon shows up and something is terrible wrong. With her Comander Lord Straton, hot on her heels, Halcyon is running for her very life.
When dire things come to light, that will ultimately have Halcyon accused and tried for the accidental murder of her shield mate, Evadne will stand up and shoulder some of the sentencing when she agrees to work for five years for Lord Straton, in exchange for her sister’s shorten her time. Even though the eldest warriors sister was destined for greatness and great things.
I found myself taken in by sister who longs for magic and finds herself a scribe to Comander Lord Straton, mage son. There is a slow burn romance that was done perfectly. The Magic system is done with care allowing the reader to be completely entranced. The authors seamless narration and amazing vibrant world building is one you won’t forget. The magic, and how it’s inherited manifestation in mages, and the artifacts that are circulated throughout the mortal world and uses sublime.
There is adventure and political intrigue, along with core values of good and evil. The mythology of the Gods and Goddess in this wonderful book is by far one my favorites to this date. The strength of the novel lies in the authors depiction of the sacrifice and strength of the force of sisterly bonds between the two main protagonist.
This book was so entertaining and extremely hard for me to put down. I raced through this one! I have to say this book definitely stands above the rest, with its incredible writing and appealing characters, and lush atmospheric imagery.
GIVEAWAY
Prize: Win a copy of SISTERS OF SWORD AND SONG by Rebecca Ross + 4 myth cards (The Fall of
Kirkos, Ari’s Shawl of Stars, The Entrapment of Pyrrhus, and Acantha’s Crown) [US Only]
Photo available on dropbox folder of the prize.
Starts: June 17th 2020
Ends: July 1st 2020
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Rebecca Ross grew up in Georgia, where she continues to reside with her husband, lively dog and endless piles of books. She received her bachelor’s degree in English from UGA. In the past she has worked at a Colorado dude ranch, as a school librarian, and as a live-time captionist for a college.
A tale of two very different sisters whose 1890s voyage from London into remote outback Australia becomes a journey of self-discovery, set against a landscape of wild beauty and savage dispossession.
London in 1891: Harriet Cameron is a talented young artist whose mother died when she was barely five. She and her beloved sister Sarah were brought up by their father, radical thinker James Cameron. After adventurer Henry Vincent arrives on the scene, the sisters’ lives are changed forever. Sarah, the beauty of the family, marries Henry and embarks on a voyage to Australia. Harriet, intensely missing Sarah, must decide whether to help her father with his life’s work or devote herself to painting.
When James Cameron dies unexpectedly, Harriet is overwhelmed by grief. Seeking distraction, she follows Sarah to Australia, and afterwards into the Northern Territory outback, where she is alienated by the casual violence and great injustices of outback life.
Her rejuvenation begins with her friendship with an Aboriginal stockman and her growing love for the landscape. But this fragile happiness is soon threatened by murders at a nearby cattle station and by a menacing station hand seeking revenge.
“A lyrical tale of wild, frontier Australia. Evocative, insightful, thought-provoking.” -Karen Viggers, author
?”Booth is superb at the small detail that creates a life, and the large one that gives it meaning.” –
Marion Halligan, author
“Delicately handled historical drama with a theme of finding self, both in relationships and art, backed by issues on race relations in Australia and women’s rights.” -Tom Flood, author and editor
About the Author
Alison Booth was born in Melbourne, brought up in Sydney and has worked in the UK and in Australia as a professor as well as a novelist. Her most recent novel, A Perfect Marriage, is in the genre of contemporary fiction, while her first three novels (Stillwater Creek, The Indigo Sky, and A Distant Land) are historical fiction spanning the decades 1950s through to the early 1970s. Alison’s work has been translated into French and has also been published by Reader’s Digest Select Editions in both Asia and Europe. Alison, who holds a PhD in Economics from the London School of Economics, is an active public speaker and has participated in many writers’ festivals and literary events.
During the Blog Tour, we are giving away a copy of The Philosopher’s Daughters! To enter, please use the Gleam form below.
Giveaway Rules
– Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm EST on July 6th. You must be 18 or older to enter.
– Paperback giveaway is open to the US only.
– Only one entry per household.
– All giveaway entrants agree to be honest and not cheat the systems; any suspicion of fraud will be decided upon by blog/site owner and the sponsor, and entrants may be disqualified at our discretion.
– The winner has 48 hours to claim prize or a new winner is chosen.
Publication Date: June 16, 2020
Thomas Nelson
Paperback, eBook, & AudioBook
Genre: Historical Fiction/Mystery
A cursed opal, a gnarled family tree, and a sinister woman in a green dress emerge in the aftermath of World War I.
After a whirlwind romance, London teashop waitress Fleur Richards can’t wait for her new husband, Hugh, to return from the Great War. But when word of his death arrives on Armistice Day, Fleur learns he has left her a sizable family fortune. Refusing to accept the inheritance, she heads to his beloved home country of Australia in search of the relatives who deserve it more.
In spite of her reluctance, she soon finds herself the sole owner of a remote farm and a dilapidated curio shop full of long-forgotten artifacts, remarkable preserved creatures, and a mystery that began more than sixty-five years ago. With the help of Kip, a repatriated soldier dealing with the sobering aftereffects of war, Fleur finds herself unable to resist pulling on the threads of the past. What she finds is a shocking story surrounding an opal and a woman in a green dress. . . a story that, nevertheless, offers hope and healing for the future.
This romantic mystery from award-winning Australian novelist Tea Cooper will keep readers guessing until the astonishing conclusion.
“Readers of Kate Morton and Beatriz Williams will be dazzled. The Woman in the Green Dress spins readers into an evocative world of mystery and romance in this deeply researched book by Tea Cooper. There is a Dickensian flair to Cooper’s carefully constructed world of lost inheritances and found treasures as two indomitable women stretched across centuries work to reconcile their pasts while reclaiming love, identity and belonging against two richly moving historical settings. As soon as you turn the last page you want to start again just to see how every last thread is sewn in anticipation of its thrilling conclusion. One of the most intelligent, visceral and vibrant historical reads I have had the privilege of visiting in an age.” —Rachel McMillan, author of The London Restoration
“Refreshing and unique, The Woman in the Green Dress sweeps you across the wild lands of Australia in a thrilling whirl of mystery, romance, and danger. This magical tale weaves together two storylines with a heart-pounding finish that is drop-dead gorgeous.” —J’nell Ciesielski, author of The Socialite
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
Australian historical fiction writer, Tea Cooper, has written an Incredible compelling historical fiction is set in two timelines. Meticulously executed, The Woman in the Green Dress is a stunning atmospheric novel that weaves historical facts with engaging fiction. Della and Fleur are the leading ladies in this storyline that takes the reader between 1919 at the end of the war and in 1853 in colonial New South Wales.
A mesmerizing story that keeps you guessing, as the plot line unfolds and all the pieces come together to solving of a sixty-six-year-old mystery.
This riveting story has all the perfect elements for a superb storyline with suspense greed and murder. A non stop read with all it’s twist will have glued to the pages, all the way through to the end climatic satisfying ending.
I was taken in by this wonderful mystery, the author gives a creative tale with scientific discovery, and lovely bit of romance.
Téa Cooper is an award-winning, bestselling author of Australian historical fiction. In a past life she was a teacher, a journalist and a farmer. These days she haunts museums and indulges her passion for storytelling.
During the Blog Tour, we are giving away 5 paperback copies of The Woman in the Green Dress! To enter, please use the Gleam form below.
Giveaway Rules
– Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm EST on June 30th. You must be 18 or older to enter.
– Paperback giveaway is open to the US only.
– Only one entry per household.
– All giveaway entrants agree to be honest and not cheat the systems; any suspicion of fraud will be decided upon by blog/site owner and the sponsor, and entrants may be disqualified at our discretion.
– The winner has 48 hours to claim prize or a new winner is chosen.
I’d like to begin by thanking The Fantastic Flying Book Club and the publisher for choosing me to be a part of this tour. Please check out the other stops along the tour for other reviews, playlists, and other fun posts about this book and the author, Luanne G. Smith.
A spellbinding novel of bloodlines, self-discovery, and redemption by the author of the Washington Post bestseller The Vine Witch.
Abandoned as a child in turn-of-the-century Paris, Yvette Lenoir has longed to uncover the secrets of her magical heritage and tap her suppressed powers. But what brave and resourceful Yvette has done to survive the streets has made her a fugitive. With a price on her head, she clings to a memento from her past—what she believes to be a grimoire inherited from the mother she never knew. To unlock the secrets of her past, Yvette trusts in one woman to help solve the arcane riddles among its charmed pages.
Elena Boureanu is the vine witch of Château Renard, noted for its renowned wines. Even as she struggles with her own bloodline—and its poisonous threat to her future—Elena can’t ignore a friend on the run. Joined by a cunning thief, the proprietor of an enchanted-curio shop, and a bewitching black cat, Elena and Yvette are determined to decode Yvette’s mysterious keepsake. But what restless magic will be unleashed? And what are Yvette and Elena willing to risk to become the witches they were destined to be?
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
Luanne G. Smith has done it once again in the, The Glamourist, book two in The Vine Witch Series. This book is next installment, and you won’t be disappointed.
An absolutely spellbinding historical fiction seeped in magical realism. A captivating impressive storyline of self discovery.
Glamourist, by Luanne G. Smith is a magical infused historical fiction. This enchanting book superbly picks up right after the events following The Vine Witch.
Though this book can be easily read as a standalone, I’d definitely would recommend reading the first book in the series, The Vine Witch.
Yvette Lenoir has been transformed and whisked away by a desert sorceress, Jinni named Sidara. She finds herself wish bond and back in the enthralling city of lights, Paris. A city where the the young witch is known as criminal with a hefty price on her head. Seeking to find answers to her heritage, and unlocking keys to her past. Yvette was abandoned by her mother at a young age and placed into the care of a mere mortal. She has always felt inept with her magic, and with out proper training she is unable to fully use her powers.
Elena Boureanu, is a revered vine witch at Château Renard. Recently engaged to the present owner of the Vineyard, Jean-Paul. Elena and her fiancé are now in Paris to address changes to her witch status by witch board. Who have revoked her registration from Vine Witch to Poison Witch. Seeking her own answers to her parents and lineage she crosses paths with her recently acquired friend Yvette Lenoir.
Luanne G. Smith has created an compelling narrative, and the atmospheric storyline catapults you into the 20th century Paris. Resonant with imagery period details, along with a quick, brisk pace. A thrilling read that captures your full attention from start to finish by this immensely talented author.
I really enjoyed the strength of both leading females character. Their development and growth a long with the fleshed out side characters should be noted. The ominous presence, and the delightful black cat, along with the impressive magic system made far an absorbing and highly compulsive read.
This stunning book of witches and thrilling magic will delight and captures you with its engaging suspense. I’m really excited for the next installment which gives the desert sorceress, a Jinni named Sidara her own story.
Luanne G. Smith is the author of THE VINE WITCH, a fantasy novel about witches, wine, and revenge set in early 20th century France, and the forthcoming second book in the series, THE GLAMOURIST. She’s lucky enough to live in Colorado at the base of the beautiful Rocky Mountains, where she enjoys reading, gardening, hiking, a glass of wine at the end of the day, and finding the magic in everyday life.
Print Length: 348 pages
Publication Date: May 12, 2020
Sold by: Amazon.com Services LLC
Language: English
ASIN: B084Z551M6
Praise for TERRAFORMER“I was rooting for Astra and entranced by the seamlessly crafted world of TERRAFORMER! Colleen Houck gives you a chilling glimpse into what can happen when technology and nature collide.” —Kimberly Derting, author of award-winning young adult novels The Body Finder, The Pledge, and The Taking“A richly imaginative page-turner!” —Melissa Landers, bestselling author of Blastaway, the Alienated trilogy and the Starlight duology
A new dystopian sci-fi YA series from the New York Times bestselling author Colleen Houck
Warning all Astronauts:
COLONY BOUNDARY WARNING!
PERMISSION TO ENTER ALIEN FOREST IS REQUIRED
NOTE: NO RESCUE ATTEMPTS WILL BE MADE
In the future, a terraforming ship lands on a perfectly green planet.
Two perfect young men, one a budding colony leader, the other an engineer, compete for the affection of one perfect young woman training as a botanist.
The only problem?
She’s not perfect.
Astra has a secret.
A big one.
And someone or some thing just maybe trying to kill her for it
Deadly toxins can be hidden inside the most beautiful flowers.
That’s what Astra Meador’s famous biophysicist mother taught her.
As her mother’s apprentice, Astra has developed skills in botany, chemistry, medicine, and, most importantly, in keeping secrets.
In fact keeping Astra’s secret was the reason her family decided to leave the Earth and join a terraforming mission to colonize a distant planet called Crillain IV. But when Astra wakes early from hypersleep, she discovers that her mother never made it onboard, her father died in transit and his body has been ejected from the ship, and she suspects that she’s not the only one awake.
When the ship finally lands and she’s reunited with her brother, Nash, Astra hopes to settle into a new life, especially when she meets the charming young engineer, Jax, and is recruited by the mission commander to train alongside his handsome son to be a future leader of the small colony.
Then Astra learns that she’s not the only one with a dark secret.
As both young men contend for her affection, Astra searches for answers, trying to determine who to trust. But with theft and murder occurring in the colony along with the sudden disappearance of her beloved brother, Astra can’t listen to the whisperings of her heart, especially when someone or something else on the planet is whispering to her mind even louder.
You can purchaseTerraformer at the following Retailers:
Hardcover: 288 pages
Publisher: Tor Teen (June 2, 2020)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1250315328
ISBN-13: 978-1250315328
Praise for A SONG BELOW WATER
“Morrow expertly and smartly explores race, bigotry, oppression, and injustice against a backdrop of ordinary life with a dose of the supernatural added to the mix. A Song Below Water is a must-read for lovers of fantasy and contemporary stories alike. ” ―Booklist, starred review
“Morrow has deftly woven a contemporary tale with mythical elements to take on the invisibility and marginalization of Black women, touching on issues such as misogynoir, body image, social justice, and generational trauma. Empowering and innovative. Morrow elevates mermaids and sirens to legitimate and compelling vanguards for social change.” ―School Library Journal
“A watery and melodic crossroads of the real and the mythic, A Song Below Water lures readers with its seductive and beautifully black siren song. An enthralling tale of black girl magic and searing social commentary ready to rattle the bones.” ―Dhonielle Clayton, New York Times bestselling author of The Belles series
“I love this book so, so much! Bethany C. Morrow delivers a blistering modern classic with this gorgeous tale of friendship and power. A Song Below Water somehow manages to be intensely happy and sad at the same time and all in the balance of great, riveting storytelling. The best YA novel I’ve read all year.” ―Daniel José Older, New York Times bestselling author of Shadowshaper
“Morrow masterfully blends the real lives of Black girls in contemporary Portland with a mythic world of sirens, gargoyles and other supernatural creatures to create a compelling coming-of-age story in which two sisters, bound by love and fate, find their voices and their power.” ―Rebecca Roanhorse, Hugo, Nebula and John W. Campbell Award Winner, author of Trail of Lightning and Star Wars: Resistance Reborn
“Empowering and full of surprises, A Song Below Water reminds us how important it is to use our voices, even when we’re afraid. Morrow has created a world that’s both familiar and brimming with fantastical creatures, and the result is timely, necessary, and utterly captivating.” ―Akemi Dawn Bowman, award-winning author of Starfish
“A rich, intricate dive into mythology, misogynoir, and the way the world makes black girls out to be monsters. Like the siren’s song, A Song Below Water is irresistibly compelling.” ―Heidi Heilig, award-winning author of The Girl from Everywhere
“The world is lush and intense, the voice intoxicating, and the message eternal. Morrow will have you under her spell from page one.” ―L.L. McKinney, author of the Nightmare-Verse series
“A compelling tale packed with endlessly inventive magical concepts, blazingly current social commentary, and heroines you’ll fall hopelessly in love with. I’m obsessed.” ―Sarah Kuhn, author of Heroine Complex series
“A Song Below Water is a lush, colorful, and deeply moving masterpiece about mythology, the sometimes masked evils of racism, and all the ways the world hurts black girls. An irresistible and perfectly bewitching read that I couldn’t put down!” ―Jay Coles, composer and author of Tyler Johnson Was Here
“A Song Below Water is a captivating tale about the magic of sisterhood and the importance of being seen for who you truly are.” ―Parker Peevyhouse, author of The Echo Room
“An exciting new contemporary fantasy. In this parallel world, black female empowerment is standing up for yourself and others while simultaneously navigating love, physical and emotional violence, and the responsibility of immense supernatural power.” ―Kirkus Reviews
Tavia is already at odds with the world, forced to keep her siren identity under wraps in a society that wants to keep her kind under lock and key. Never mind she’s also stuck in Portland, Oregon, a city with only a handful of black folk and even fewer of those with magical powers. At least she has her bestie Effie by her side as they tackle high school drama, family secrets, and unrequited crushes.
But everything changes in the aftermath of a siren murder trial that rocks the nation; the girls’ favorite Internet fashion icon reveals she’s also a siren, and the news rips through their community. Tensions escalate when Effie starts being haunted by demons from her past, and Tavia accidentally lets out her magical voice during a police stop. No secret seems safe anymore—soon Portland won’t be either.
You can purchaseA Song Below Water at the following Retailers:
Thank you to Tor Teen for providing me with an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review, and to JeanBookNerd for allowing me to be a part of this blog tour!
An intriguing urban fantasy that weaves social injustice with mythology.
A slow building paced book, set in Portland Oregon, the narration is told from between two POVs, Tavia and Effie’s. The author includes sever key elements of racism, misogyny, and modern social injustice. A clever premise, interesting world building. I did struggle somewhat with execution of the book, but overall it was a solid read. Urban Fantasy is a bit tricky for me personally. Fans of this style of writing will be captivated and love mythology and vibrant main characters. The dialogue was spot between the two friends and I really enjoyed this and thought their friendship was wonderful.
Song Below Water is a deftly weaves coming of age struggles that deals with some tough issues, racism, prejudice, and broken family dynamics.
Photo Content from Bethany C. Morrow
Bethany C. Morrow is a recovering expat splitting her time between Montreal, Quebec, and upstate New York – yet another foreign place. A California native, Bethany graduated from the University of California, Santa Cruz with a BA in Sociology (but took notable detours in the Film and Theatre departments). Following undergrad, she studied Clinical Psychological Research at the University of Wales, Bangor, in Great Britain before returning to North America to focus on her literary work.
Though sociology and forensic psychology will always be among her passions, writing has been a lifelong endeavor. Whether in novels for the YA or adult market, novellas, short stories, stage plays, television pilots or short film scripts, Bethany’s speculative literary fiction uses a focus on character and language to engage with, comment on and investigate worlds not unlike our own.
by Natalie Mae
Publisher: Razorbill
Release Date: June 16th 2020
Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy
Perfect for fans of Victoria Aveyard and Holly Black, this enthralling fantasy adventure follows a teenage girl chosen to be the human sacrifice in a deadly game between three heirs who will do anything for the crown.
Zahru has long dreamed of leaving the kingdom of Orkena and having the kinds of adventures she’s only ever heard about in stories. But as a lowly Whisperer, her power to commune with animals means that her place is serving in the royal stables until the day her magic runs dry.
All that changes when the ailing ruler invokes the Crossing: a death-defying race across the desert, in which the first of his heirs to finish—and take the life of a human sacrifice at the journey’s end—will ascend to the throne and be granted unparalleled abilities.
With all of the kingdom abuzz, Zahru leaps at the chance to change her fate if just for a night by sneaking into the palace for a taste of the revelry. But the minor indiscretion turns into a deadly mistake when she gets caught up in a feud between the heirs and is forced to become the Crossing’s human sacrifice. Zahru is left with only one hope for survival: somehow figuring out how to overcome the most dangerous people in the world.
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
” All good stories start with bad decisions. Kinder Poison
Kinder Poison by Natalie Mae is an exceptionally written YA Fantasy,
This book will grip from the very first page, to the dramatic shocking ending.
Zohra is a lowly Whisperer able to communicate with animals, living in a land where magic and the ones born to it are supreme. Her best friend Hen hatch a plan that if all goes well she will be able to accompany her friend and be a spectator in a deadly competition. When things go wrong, and Zohra miscalculates the outcome of using her mothers name. She is thrown into an epic survival adventure of a lifetime. When she is forced to join the race as the unwilling sacrifice. She will need use all her wits just to stay alive.
The god-king, the Mestrah is very ill and has invoked a deadly competition called The Crossing to choose between out of his three offspring who will ascend his throne.
Magnificent book with rich detailed world building, and a stellar magical system that will appease hard core fantasy lovers. You are thrown right into a beautiful, vivid and established world with fully fleshed out characters, with betrayal, sibling rivalries. This book was so entertaining and extremely hard for me to put down. I raced through this edge of your seat thrill ride of a book. Political intrigue, and most powerful and esteemed lord over the lesser.
I absolutely loved the narration and writing as it flows seamlessly. Zohra character is incredible her snarky vibrant personality is one you can relate to. All of the other characters were three dimensional and well fleshed out. The storyline pace was brisk and vividly rendered. You find yourself completely immersed in this world all the way through the stellar ending that will make you crave the upcoming sequel.
NaTaLiE MaE is an ex-programmer, dessert enthusiast, and author of young adult novels. She has also been a freelance editor and Pitch Wars mentor, and feels it notable to mention she once held a job where she had to feed spiders.
She now writes full-time at home with a bag of dark chocolates in one hand and a leopard cat on her lap. She is most definitely not checking Instagram right now.
Every prince has his secrets. And she’s determined to unravel his…
Every young man in London’s ton is vying for Lady Caroline Hawke’s hand—except one. Handsome roué Prince Leopold of Alucia can’t quite remember Caroline’s name, and the insult is not to be tolerated. So Caroline does what any clever, resourceful lady of means would do to make sure Leo never again forgets: sees that scandalous morsels about his reputation are printed in a ladies’ gossip gazette…all while secretly setting her cap for the rakish royal. Someone has been painting Leo as a blackguard, but who? Socially, it is ruining him. More important, it jeopardizes his investigation into a contemptible scheme that reaches the highest levels of British government. Leo needs Lady Caroline’s help to regain access to society. But this charming prince is about to discover that enlisting the deceptively sweet and sexy Lady Caroline might just cost him his heart, his soul and both their reputations…
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
Royal Kiss and Tell is the story of Caroline and Leopold who we met in the first of this series, The Princess Plan.{ The Princess Plan }
Julia London’s -A Royal Wedding Series-
The story begins where book one, A Princess Plan leaves set in Victorian times, London delightful series is set in the authors fictional country of Alucia .
Lady Caroline Lady Caroline Hawke is beautiful, is an overindulged breathtaking beautiful woman. At opening of the book she is attending the wedding celebration of her very dear friend, Eliza Tricklebank. Who is marring a prince Sebastian, who happens to be in line to thrown.
She is completely happy for her friend but finds herself drawn to another prince, Prince Leopold. He is non other than Sebastian’s brother, Leopold the second son of the King of Alucia. Being the second in line always tends to make anyone have a little chip on their shoulder. Living the drunkenly rakish lifestyle that only a spare royal prince could possibly lead. Tall, swoon worthy handsome. Extremely cocky and arrogant, He he sees lady Caroline as a vain and brash woman.
Lady Caroline, is not all what she seems to be, but she is definitely headstrong and demanding.
A delightful an entertaining lovely romance, with a great cast of characters. I really enjoyed the enemies to lovers trope and all the wit full banter between the the main protagonist. There is a little mystery along with some serious twists that makes the book really intriguing.
AUTHOR BIO:
Julia London is a NYT, USA Today and Publishers Weekly bestselling author of historical and contemporary romance. She is a six-time finalist for the RITA Award of excellence in romantic fiction, and the recipient of RT Bookclub’s Best Historical Novel.
by Jenny Elder Moke
Publisher: Disney-Hyperion
Release Date: June 9th 2020
Genre: Young Adult, Historical Fiction, Retellings, Fantasy
You have the blood of kings and rebels within you, love. Let it rise to meet the call.
Isabelle of Kirklees has only ever known a quiet life inside the sheltered walls of the convent, where she lives with her mother, Marien. But after she is arrested by royal soldiers for defending innocent villagers, Isabelle becomes the target of the Wolf, King John’s ruthless right hand. Desperate to keep her daughter safe, Marien helps Isabelle escape and sends her on a mission to find the one person who can help: Isabelle’s father, Robin Hood.
As Isabelle races to stay out of the Wolf’s clutches and find the father she’s never known, she is thrust into a world of thieves and mercenaries, handsome young outlaws, new enemies with old grudges, and a king who wants her entire family dead. As she joins forces with Robin and his Merry Men in a final battle against the Wolf, will Isabelle find the strength to defy the crown and save the lives of everyone she holds dear?
Thank you so much, Disney-Hyperion, and Patricia@ FFBC tours, for the gifted e-copy! The opinions expressed are my own and material is courtesy of the publisher, FFBC Tour, and the author.
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my
Hood is a brilliant coming of age story, of a young sixteen year old girl, Isabelle of Kirklees. Having lived most of her very secluded life, behind the walls of the Priory of Kirklees along with her mother Marien, who is the residing as Prioress.
Things come to a halt when Isabelle is arrested and thrown into a cell, while defending an innocent villager. Her mother covertly releases her, and tells her life is a risk.
She sends Isabelle on a quest, cloaked, and alone. She must travel three days south, to find a man named Thomas, at the Blue Boar Inn and deliver an urgent message….
“ The Wolf Is Back “
Three days running for her life, half starved, living off berries and living in terror.
She arrives the Blue Boar Inn and with the help of Thomas she escapes into Sherwood Forest. But not before she is saved by two younger Merry men, who know Thomas very well. Right before she sent with the offspring of some of members of the Merry Men, Thomas reveals a truly incredible truth about her parentage. Traveling with the small group she develops a friendship with, all the while keeping her secret guarded. Once they meet there destination She discovers an extensive and elaborate camp within Sherwood Forest. There the band of the Merry Men and their families reside.
This was a superb reimagined tale of the folk story. The author Jenny Elder Moke, cleverly has changed the original story and gave it her own creative twist. While leaving some of the details of the well known histories of the renowned Robin Hood and his band of Merry Men. John Lackland is serving as the regent of England, while his brother Richard the Lionhearted is off fighting the crusades. John’s excessive taxation is crippling the common folk into starvation. Robin Hood and band of vigilante outlaws have taken it upon themselves to rob from the rich and giving to the needy.
The author seamlessly narration flows perfectly making it a solid young adult historical adventure. Her ability to create a stunning adventurous storyline with beautiful atmospheric imagery. I was connected with her characters and I loved Isabelle, and was invested in her story and struggles. The romance is tension building perfection, wonderfully done for YA and adult readers alike. A wonderful faced paced adventure story that you won’t forget.
*A little Interesting info*
Here is some wonder information about, Kirklees Priory and Robin Hood’s Grave from the very informative website Yorkshire Guides
The priory is connected with the medieval legend of Robin Hood, England’s outlaw hero. The upper room of the gatehouse is where the legendary Robin Hood is said to have breathed his last, it is approached by an outside staircase and there are interesting ornamental foliated work carved into the beams which include an appropriate hunting scene with stag and hound. A monument in the woods near the River Calder claims to be Robin Hood’s grave. He was traditionally supposed to have been bled to death by the prioress of Kirklees. In the “Lytell Geste of Robyn Hode” the earliest surviving ballad about Robin Hood, the prioress is referred to as “The Pryoresse of Kyrkely”. The identity of the prioress is the subject of much debate as indeed is the date of Robin Hood’s death.
Legend relates that Robin, who was unwell, decides to be bled by his kinswoman, the prioress of Kirklees, a woman “skilled in physic.” Robin sets out on the journey accompanied by his faithful comrade in arms, Little John. On their arrival at the nunnery, the prioress takes Robin into the gatehouse and sends Little John away. She then proceeds to bleed Robin accompanied by her lover, the convent priest Red Roger of Doncaster. Realising he is being bled to death, Robin summons Little John to his assistance by blowing three blasts on his hunting horn. When Little John arrives it is too late to save Robin, but he helps him fire his last arrow from
The alleged gravestone of Robin Hood’s closest living companion at the time of his death, Little John, who was said to be with Robin on the day he died by treachery at the hands of the Abbess of Kirklees, is found in St. Michael’s Church graveyard in Hathersage, Derbyshire, under a yew tree. The inscription reads:
Here Lies Buried Little John The Friend & Lieutenant of Robin Hood,
He Died In A Cottage (Now Destroyed) To The East of The Churchyard The Grave Is Marked By This Old Headstone & Footstone And Is Underneath The Old Yew
In 1784 Captain James Shuttleworth exhumed the grave to find the bones of a man over seven feet tall.
GIVEAWAY
Prize: Win (1) of (2) copies of HOOD
by Jenny Elder Moke (US Only)
Starts: 3rd June 2020
Ends: 17th June 2020
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Jenny Elder Moke writes young adult fiction in an attempt to recapture the shining infinity of youth. She was a finalist in the 2017 Austin Film Festival Podcast Competition, and studied children’s writing with Liz Garton Scanlon.
When she is not writing, she’s gathering story ideas from her daily adventures with her two irredeemable rapscallions and honing her ninja skills as a black belt in Tae Kwon Do. Jenny lives in Austin, TX with her husband and two children.
Her debut novel, HOOD, about the daughter of Robin Hood and Maid Marien, will release from Disney/Hyperion in Spring 2020. She is represented by Elizabeth Bewley of Sterling Lord Literistic.
It is the winter of 1942, and the world is at war. A few Jewish musicians attempt to flee the Nazi death grip, each desperately trying to navigate his own path to safety. With the courageous aid and kindness of strangers, they soon find themselves in Rome, where under the highly secret help of the Vatican, they are hidden in Bellafortuna, a small village in Sicily. The residents of Bellafortuna welcome them and care for them, and for a fleeting moment, the horrors the musicians are facing are forgotten while residing in the beautiful, idyllic landscape of Sicily. But word soon reaches the small village that Italy has surrendered, now making Germany at war with Italy. War quickly comes to the village as the Germans storm into Sicily to repel the Allied advance. As Bellafortuna becomes front and center in the raging war, the villagers rise as one to try and protect and save the Jews hiding in their midst. Failure to keep them hidden will mean death to those under their protection…and perhaps even to the villagers themselves.
An intricately plotted and meticulously researched novel, Saving the Music demonstrates how, in the face of death and unspeakable horror, the strength of the human spirit of ordinary people can shine bright through the darkness.
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
From the incredible New Orleans author, Chip LoCoco, comes his second novel, Saving the Music.
Bellafortuna, has been nationally recognized, being named a Short List Finalist in the William Faulkner Writing Competition and awarded the B.R.A.G. Award in Historical Fiction. Mr. LoCoco is a member of the Italian American Writers Association.
Chip LoCoco’s latest novel, Saving the Music, is an exceptionally written thought provoking historical fiction.
This is an emotional charged, faced paced, gripping tale that portrays the horrors and suffering the people endured under the weight of the Third Reich.
Ludwig Adler and his family, along with several musicians barley escapes the Nazis regime, as they seek to eradicate all Jews from every territory that is German occupied. Fleeing for their lives, they journey through Switzerland, and eventually they make to Italy.
There they find help within Catholic Church. As the Holy Church’s stealth mission, to save as many Jewish people lives from the death grip of the Nazis. They are Smuggled to a very tiny village in mountains outside of Palermo.
The courageous actions of the cautious, diplomatic, Pontificate of Pope Pius XII, along with the large complex web of priest, together with Italian villagers help to secure the fleeing Jews. Lulled by the picturesque landscape and musicians almost forget the horrors, until Italy announces its surrender.
Chip LoCoco writing is with precision and depth, he keeps the pace brisk and vividly rendered. The authors seamless narration, beautiful prose will have you completely immersed within this absorbing book. The fleshed out characters were incredibly realistic and endearing. A stunning heartwarming dynamic historical fiction, that I found myself captivated by the first page.
An incredible compassionate novel, that captures the heroism of the people, who risked everything to help those who were targeted by horrific third Reich.
This book is a superb novel, that will transport you with its historical atmospheric imagery, and engaging musical elements. An absorbing riveting book, that will stay with you long after you close the book.
Advance Praise
“In Saving the Music, author Chip LoCoco writes of the efforts undertaken by common villagers, priests, and even a Pope to protect Jews from the Nazis. He vividly depicts the horrors faced by the Jews as they confront the Holocaust. Filled with real heroism and high drama, this book brings perspective and depth to its subject. It’s an exciting read on an important topic, and I strongly recommend it.” -Ronald Rychlak, Author of Hitler, the War, and the Pope
“This is a well-composed novel that captures key moments of the Holocaust as it relates to the Italian people. I highly recommend it.” -Professor Vincent Lapomarda, S.J., Author of The Jesuits and the Third Reich
“This is a well-researched novel and reflects the situation as it then existed, hopefully, never to return.” -Fr. Peter Gumpel, S.J., postulator of the cause of beautification for Pius XII
“Chip LoCoco’s novel, Saving the Music, is a realistic fact-based story of pain, fear and true heroism. The premise is solidly grounded on documented facts of the actions of the Catholic Church under the Pontificate of Pope Pius XII down to priests and individual Catholics. Saving the Music is an exciting and engrossing read, which joins the list of wonderful truth-based books of late that is shedding light on the truth ending the worst character assassination of the 20th Century. Bravo.” -Gary L. Krupp, Author of Pope Pius XII and World War II- The Documented Truth
About the Author
Chip LoCoco was born and raised in New Orleans. His first novel, Tempesta’s Dream, became an Amazon Bestseller.
His second novel, Bellafortuna, has been nationally recognized, being named a Short List Finalist in the William Faulkner Writing Competition and awarded the B.R.A.G. Award in Historical Fiction. Mr. LoCoco is a member of the Italian American Writers Association.
His newest work, Saving the Music, which is Book 2 of his Bellafortuna Series, was just recently released.
Chip, who is an attorney, is married to his wife of over 20 years, Wendy. They have two children, Matthew and Ellie and a beagle, named Scout. They reside in their beloved city of New Orleans, where if you try to find them on a Sunday in the Fall, they will be somewhere rooting on their Saints.
During the Blog Tour, we are giving away a paperback copy of Saving the Music! To enter, please use the Gleam form below.
Giveaway Rules
– Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm EST on June 18th. You must be 18 or older to enter.
– Paperback giveaway is open to the US only.
– Only one entry per household.
– All giveaway entrants agree to be honest and not cheat the systems; any suspicion of fraud will be decided upon by blog/site owner and the sponsor, and entrants may be disqualified at our discretion.
– The winner has 48 hours to claim prize or a new winner is chosen.
Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy, Romance, India, Cultural, Mythology
@theffbc, @whatmakespatri, @swatiteerdhala, @epicreads, @katherinetegenbooks and @wunderbookspr
The Sun Mela is many things: a call for peace, a cause for celebration, and, above all, a deadly competition. For Kunal and Esha, finally working together as rebel spies, it provides the perfect guise to infiltrate King Vardaan’s vicious court.
Kunal will return to his role as dedicated Senap soldier, at the Sun Mela to provide extra security for the palace during the peace summit for the divided nations of Jansa and Dharka. Meanwhile, Esha will use her new role as adviser to Prince Harun to keep a pulse on shifting political parties and seek out allies for their rebel cause. A radical plan is underfoot to rescue Jansa’s long-lost Princess Reha—the key to the stolen throne.
But amid the Mela games and glittering festivities, much more dangerous forces lie in wait. With the rebel Blades’ entry into Vardaan’s court, a match has been lit, and long-held secrets will force Kunal and Esha to reconsider their loyalties—to their country and to each other. Getting into the palace was the easy task; coming out together will be a battle for their lives.
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
A mind plowing action packed sequel, to The Tiger At Midnight.
This fast passed engaging series draws its clever inspiration from some of ancient Indian history and mythology.
The second installment takes off right at the end of, The Tiger at Midnight.
We were introduced to Kunal and Esha’s characters are otherwise known as a Senap soldier, and the Viper in the first book. Esha is a legendary legend, no one knows her true identity is except for her best friend Prince Harun.
Kunal has been in training as a soldier since childhood to be a highly skilled Senap.
When a celebration and a deadly competition in Jansa, called Sun Mela, is to take place the two will travel there for diplomatic reasons. On the other hand one of the reasons is to rescue Dharka’s long lost princess Reha.
A Princess who might be able to save the land. The rebels will infiltrate the royal court to rescue the princess who has hidden away by a tyrannical king.
A lush and vibrant Ya Fantasy that will keep you on your toes, with electrifyingtwist.
Kunal and Esha’s relationship is a passionate secret, as they find themselves having to sneak amongst the shadows.
A pulsating adventurous book of royal intrigue, and captivating well developed characters will have you submerged within its fantasy action pages
Swati Teerdhala is the author of The Tiger at Midnight series, which has appeared on both Barnes and Noble and Book Riot’s Most Anticipated Novels lists.
After graduating from the University of Virginia with a BS in finance and BA in history, she tumbled into the marketing side of the technology industry. She’s passionate about many things, including how the right ratio of curd-to-crust in a lemon tart. She currently lives in New York City.
which is being hosted by HFBT!
♥♥♥♥♥ #TheHighlandersEnglishBride #VanessaKelly #HFVBTBlogTours
The Highlander’s English Bride
by Vanessa Kelly
Publication Date: May 26, 2020
Zebra Books
Series: Clan Kendrick, Book #3
Genre: Historical Romance/Scottish
In this dazzling new novel from bestselling author Vanessa Kelly, the wildest member of Clan Kendrick has found his purpose as a government agent. Now he must also meet his match…
Lady Sabrina Bell has never been so embarrassed in her life. Not only did her new suitor fail to appear for their morning rendezvous in Hyde Park, but a thief pushed her into the Serpentine. Being rescued by a burly Highlander just adds to her humiliation. Nor is he content with rescuing her just once. Even when Sabrina travels to Edinburgh as part of King George’s entourage, Graeme Kendrick is there, interfering, exasperating, and so very tempting…
Once notorious for being the most unruly Kendrick brother, Graeme now runs dangerous missions for the King’s spymaster. Yet nothing has prepared him for Sabrina. The only child of a wealthy earl, and the pampered goddaughter of the king himself, she is stubborn, impetuous, and far too good for him. He doesn’t deserve her, but he can protect her and then send her safely back home. But the bonny Sassenach has her own ideas—and a plan for seduction that no red-blooded Highlander could resist…
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
The Highlander’s English Bride by Vanessa Kelly is the third installment in the Clan Kendrick series.
Headstrong, Lady Sabrina Bell is a wealthy heiress, does the the unthinkable against all propriety of any sensible gentil lady. She has agreed to meet a gentleman in the very early hours of daybreak at Hyde Park. Instead she accosted by a mugger, who pushes her into the Serpentine. Rescued by a very big and burly Scotsman Highlander Graeme Kendrick, who happens to be working as one of England’s spymasters.
Graeme has definitely met his match with bonny Sassenach, Lady Sabrina.
The sassy Sabrina needs rescuing several times, and the unruly Kendrick brother, Graeme, comes to her rescue.
Graeme and Sabrina find themselves drawn to each other as their chemistry ignites a seductive romance.
On a mission for the king, Graeme heads to Scotland, putting as much distance between himself and Sabrina. Sabrina is in the Kings entourage, as they arrives in Edinburgh much to Graeme dismay. The Kendrick’s are a very close-knit family and Sabrina fits right end. Grease me doesn’t have a chance against her persistence.
Then things really take off, as this thrill ride historical romance has smugglers, a pot against the kings. You name it along with romantic banter, makes for a engaging storyline.
Vanessa Kelly is a USA Today Bestselling, award-winning author who was named by Booklist, the review journal of the American Library Association, as one of the “New Stars of Historical Romance.” Her Regency-set historical romances have been nominated in a number of contests, and she has won multiple awards, including the prestigious Maggie Medallion for Best Historical Romance. Her books have been published in nine languages.
Vanessa’s first Clan Kendrick book, The Highlander Who Protected Me, was a USA Today, Barnes & Noble, and BookScan bestseller. The Highlander’s Christmas Bride, her latest book, hit the top 50 on both the Barnes & Noble mass-market bestseller list and on BookScan. The Renegade Royals Series was a national bestseller, as was The Improper Princesses Series. My Fair Princess was named a Goodreads Romance of the Month and is a USA Today and BookScan bestseller.
When she’s not dreaming of plots for her next Regency novel, Vanessa is writing USA Today Bestselling books with her husband, under the pen name of V.K. Sykes.
You can find Vanessa at vanessakellyauthor.com or at vksykes.com. For all of Vanessa’s latest news and contests–and to receive a free story–please sign up for her newsletter on her website.
During the Blog Tour, we are giving away a paperback copy of The Highlander Who Protected Me & The Highlander’s Christmas Bride & a $20 Amazon Gift Card! To enter, please use the Gleam form below.
Giveaway Rules
– Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm EST on June 9th. You must be 18 or older to enter.
– Paperback giveaway is open internationally.
– Only one entry per household.
– All giveaway entrants agree to be honest and not cheat the systems; any suspicion of fraud will be decided upon by blog/site owner and the sponsor, and entrants may be disqualified at our discretion.
– The winner has 48 hours to claim prize or a new winner is chosen.
Welcome to my stop on the Masquerade at Middlecrest Abbey by Abigail Wilson, Book Tour, which is being hosted by HFVBT
✿✿✿✿
Masquerade at Middlecrest Abbey
by Abigail Wilson
Publication Date: May 26, 2020
Thomas Nelson
Paperback & eBook; 336 Pages
Genre: Historical/Regency/Christian
In this new Regency romance, Elizabeth knows she must protect her heart from the charm of her new husband, Lord Torrington. She is not, however, prepared to protect her life.
When the widowed Lord Torrington agreed to spy for the crown, he never planned to impersonate a highwayman, let alone rob the wrong carriage. Stranded on the road with an unconscious young woman, he is forced to propose marriage to protect his identity and her reputation, as well as his dangerous mission.
Trapped not only by her duty to her country but also by her limited options as an unwed mother, Miss Elizabeth Cantrell and her infant son are whisked away to Middlecrest Abbey by none other than the elder brother of her son’s absent father. There she is met by Torrington’s beautiful grown daughters, a vicious murderer, and an urgent hunt for the missing intelligence that could turn the war with France. Meanwhile she must convince everyone that her marriage is a genuine love match if her new husband has any hope of uncovering the enemy.
Determined to keep her son’s true identity a secret, Elizabeth will need to remain one step ahead of her fragile heart, her uncertain future, and the relentless fiend bent on her new family’s ruin.
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
An Immersive gripping gothic style manor is the backdrop to this mystery book. Abigail Wilson, newest book is a gothic tale interwoven into the perfect regency period romance.
1815 Southeastern England.
Elizabeth Cantrell isfiercely independent woman who has known much heartache. Having shouldered the burden of being an abandoned unwed mother of a precious little boy Isaac. Elizabeth is on her way to Dover to take a position as a housekeeper when her carriage comes crashing to its side. A mysterious would be highway man makes a disastrous mistake, causing a series of events. That ultimately changing Elizabeth’s path in life, when sheis rushed into a marriage of convenience.
To none other than Lord Adrian Torrington, the brother of the man who betrayed her.
Finding herself the lady of Middlecrest Abbey, she and Adrian must keep up the pretense of the marriage. So as not to draw attention that marriage was not an actual love match. Middlecrest Abbey has its own secrets as a questionable death rips the very seams apart in this suspenseful tale. Elizabeth and Adrian, along with his daughters and the other residents of Middlecrest, are thrown into a thrilling mystery. When clues and suspicions mounts this tale slowly comes together in this stellar complicated mystery.
The Abbey’s inhabitants are in question, when threatening notes appear in Elizabeth room. Trying to keep her young son safe, along with the sudden duties of being lady Torrington, Elizabeth will need to keep her wits about her. All the while she is falling for her captivating husband.
Darkish ominous atmospheric imagery, and the character driven storyline makes for an enjoyable experience. When the secrets start to mount you find find yourself completely immersed and guessing all the way to the satisfying end.
An exceptional written book with intriguing characters and a little espionage makes this a delightful regency style mystery romance novel. A book that captures the heart in the benefits of forgiveness and love.
Abigail Wilson combines her passion for Regency England with intrigue and adventure to pen historical mysteries with a heart. A registered nurse, chai tea addict, and mother of two crazy kids, Abigail fills her spare time hiking the national parks, attending her daughter’s gymnastic meets, and curling up with a great book. In 2017, Abigail won WisRWA’s Fab Five contest and in 2016, ACFW’s First Impressions contest as well as placing as a 2017 finalist in the Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Mystery/Suspense.
She is a cum laude graduate of the University of Texas at Austin and currently lives in Dripping Springs, Texas, with her husband and children.
During the Blog Tour, we are giving away 5 paperback copies of Masquerade at Middlecrest Abbey! To enter, please use the Gleam form below.
Giveaway Rules
– Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm EST on June 5th. You must be 18 or older to enter.
– Paperback giveaway is open to the US only.
– Only one entry per household.
– All giveaway entrants agree to be honest and not cheat the systems; any suspicion of fraud will be decided upon by blog/site owner and the sponsor, and entrants may be disqualified at our discretion.
– The winner has 48 hours to claim prize or a new winner is chosen.
Lori M. Lee is the author of FOREST OF SOULS, first in the Shamanborn series, as well as GATES OF THREAD AND STONE and THE INFINITE. She’s also a contributor to the anthologies A THOUSAND BEGINNINGS AND ENDINGS and COLOR OUTSIDE THE LINES. She considers herself a unicorn aficionado, enjoys marathoning TV shows, and loves to write about magic, manipulation, and family.
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
The Kinder Poison 
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
In this new Regency romance, Elizabeth knows she must protect her heart from the charm of her new husband, Lord Torrington. She is not, however, prepared to protect her life.
Gwendalyn’s Books 