Book Review

Hi Friends

I am new to Bookblogging and need to ramp up a good following. So please Share my blog to people you know that might be interested in following my blog. I would love to follow them and have more friends here in the Bookish World..

Thanks so much

Gwendalyn 🌸🌸

please be patient with me I am waiting on my new glasses., so if I have made some typos, please forgive me ! 🌸🌸

Book Review

The Immortal City

The Immortal City

by Amy Kuivalainen

Book details

Hardcover, 324 pages

Expected publication: September 19th 2019 by BHC Press

https://linktr.ee/gwendalyn_books_

https://gwendalynbooks.wordpress.com

http://Instagram.com/gwendalyn_books_

This book was received as an ARC, from NetGalley, In exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own

Genre:

Fantasy, Mystical Realism , Mystery, Fiction, Adventure fiction, Contemporary fantasy

Synopsis:

In the heart of Venice, a woman is sacrificed to a forgotten god, sparking a mystery lost for thousands of years.

Dr. Penelope Bryne is ridiculed by the academic community for her quest to find the remnants of Atlantis, but when an ancient and mysterious script is found at a murder site, she flies to Venice determined to help the police before the killer strikes again.

Penelope has spent her entire life trying to ignore the unexplainable and magical history of Atlantis, but when she meets the enigmatic Alexis Donato, everything she believes will be challenged. Little does she know, Alexis has spent the last three years doing his best to sabotage Penelope’s career so doesn’t learn the truth—Atlantis had seven magicians who survived, and who he has a duty to protect.

Penelope Byrne, is the lead protagonist. Who, is not really excepted by her peers in the academic world,

Penelope is contacted by a the lead detective in a homicide case in Venice Italy. To use her expertise in Atlantean history and help decipher some glyphs at Ritual Murder Scene.

The Immortal City, is an engrossing and at times dark cat-and-mouse mystery, thrill ride where the writing is detailed and rich with magical realism .With the perfect amount of romance, dynamic characters, skillful character development, and masterful, yet at times harrowing plot makes for a gripping and wonderful read and if you love anything that is Atlantean , then I definitely recommend you read this one!

Oh by the way Amy Kuivalainen , has done her research. This is not a copycat Book . Very original

Thevetat, Thevetata An ancient king of one of the divisions of Atlantis, the submerged continental system of the fourth root-race (SD 2:222). He is instanced as one of the natural born adept-magicians who neither learned nor acquired knowledge, but who knew all without being initiated. “Under the evil insinuations of their demon, Thevetat, the Atlantis-race became a nation of wicked magicians” (IU 1:593).

The author delivers a rapid-paced, suspenseful, gripping, well-written and perfectly executed fictional fantasy/ thrilling mystery

I can highly recommend this book and I will be waiting anxiously for the next book in this series!

Amy Kuivalainen

“The Magicians of Venice is a three-book series and is the culmination of many weird pieces of ancient history and personal passions finally coming together. While The Immortal City (book one) is mainly a magical, murder mystery, Sea of the Dead (book two) and The King’s Seal (book three) have a treasure hunt feel. As a student of ancient history, “

Author :

Amy Kuivalainen is a Finnish-Australian writer that is obsessed with magical wardrobes, doors, auroras and burial mounds that might offer her a way into another realm. Until then, she will write about fairy tales, monsters, magic and mythology because that’s the next best thing. She is the author of The Firebird Fairytales Trilogy and The Blood Lake Chronicles series that mash up traditional tales and mythology in new and interesting ways.

Book Review

The Secrets Of A Chocolate House

Secrets of the Chocolate House

By Paula Brackston

St Martin Press

Historical Fiction

Pub date: 22 Oct 2019

Historical Fiction -Mystical Realism

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2

https://gwendalynbooks.wordpress.com

https://www.goodreads.com/user/edit/profile/profile_url

http://twitter.com/gwendalyn_books

http://Instagram.com/gwendalyn_books_

This book was received as an ARC, from NetGalley, In exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own

Things waiting to be found, still injustices needing to be put right, still voices whispering to Xanthe from long ago about secrets wanting to be shared.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

New York Times bestselling author Paula Brackston’s The Little Shop of Found Things second novel in this series .

This time she will discover her true destiny. Will that destiny allow her to return home? And will she be able to save Samuel when his own fate seems to be sealed?

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Xanthe and her mother Flora have London behind. They now own antique shop in the historic town of Marlborough. Xanthe has always had an affinity with some of the antiques she finds. When she touches them, she can sense something of the past they come from and the stories they hold. This is the second installment in this series and it takes off right at the ending of Paula Brackston’s The Little Shop of Found Things. Xanthe does her best to settle back into the rhythm of life in Marlborough. She tells herself she must forget about Samuel and leave him in the past where he belongs. With the help of her new friends, she does her best to move on, focusing instead on the success of her and Flora’s antique shop.

This time it’s a Copper Chocolate Pot that sings to her which was typically used in Chocolate Houses of the seventeen century. Where dissidents would meet to discuss politics of the day.

Xanthe’s character is developing more as she now excepts her gift of Time Travel. She discovers their is a name for travelers like herself.

They are called,”Spinners”. Not all Spinners are honorable as Xanthe soon finds out.

I tore through this novel as I do all of Paula Brackston’s books.

What really stood out for me and what I really loved about this story is the brilliant way Mrs Brackston uses Mystical Realism and a creative storyline. Along with just enough romance and historical fiction to make this book an atmospheric, adventure. The Author masterly sets the characters and conflicts and plot, to keep the reader entertained and engaged. It’s just the sort of magical fiction to form an escape we need from all the stresses of the real world.

Brackston’s enchanting way to weave

history with the time-travel makes for

A book that keeps you and hold captivated from start to finish

I definitely would recommend this book, and I look forward to reading more of this series.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I just reviewed Secrets of the Chocolate House by Paula Brackston.

Book Review

A Constellation Of Roses

A Constellation of Roses

By Miranda Asebedo

HarperCollins-HarperTeen

Expected publication: November 5th 2019 by HarperTeen

Ya Fantasy- Magical Realism

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2

“To Those brave enough to change the story of their scars.”

A heartwarming contemporary standalone novel with the slightest twist of magic,

Ever since her troubled mother abandoned her, Trix McCabe has preferred to stay on the move.

But when she lands with her long-lost relatives, there’s something special about the McCabe women, something almost magical about their mysterious talents that reminds Trix of her own ability to steal things without anyone noticing, and almost makes her want to stay put for once. Her aunt’s pies seem to cure all ills, her great-aunt’s palm-reading never misses the mark, and her cousin’s ability to uncover a person’s deepest secrets by simply touching them.

🌹🌹🌹🌹

A Constellation of Roses is the magical second novel by Miranda Asebedo. From the first page the Author pulled you in . Through a masterly creative teenage voice of Trix ,and her description of her present life and the events leading up to it . The author address feelings of abandonment, emotional trauma and loneliness. Which was caused by Trix’s mother’s addiction and it’s effects on her .

I tore this brilliantly emotionally charged novel.The writing is fluid and the characters are well developed. I especially loved the interaction within the McCabe women. They are endearing and out right enchanting. You will laugh and and cry. I loved the overall premise of the book and the quick pace kept me engaged. The strong Protagonist Trix character development grows and she learns to let down her guard and and trust again. As the storyline progresses and the author’s strategic way of weaving magical realism into this amazing story you will be captivated as I was. I would recommend this book to anyone and I Looking forward to her next book.

🌹🌹🌹🌹

This book was received as an ARC from Edelweiss,in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own

Thank you Edelweiss+,Miranda Asebedo, and HarperTeen for providing me an advanced Copy

Book Review

The Emissary

The Emissary

by Tamara Veitch and Rene DeFazi

1st In The One Great Year Series

Epic Fantasy ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2

https://gwendalynbooks.wordpress.com

http://twitter.com/gwendalyn_books

http://Instagram.com/gwendalyn_books_

This book was received as an ARC, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own

When the world collapses from a Golden Age into one of chaos and strife, mankind’s salvation lies in the hands of eternal Emissaries― guardians chosen to protect the secrets of a sacred, ancient civilization and to guide humanity back to enlightenment even as its darkest hour approaches.

A timeless tale of love reborn through the ages.

This book is the first installment in the Atitalan Emissaries Trilogy .

Written by both Authors,Tamara Veitch and Rene DeFazi. They have masterly created a vivid epic fantasy.

In this emotional charged novel both the past and future have been brought to life . The novel execution is impeccable. Thisriveting novel with eternal love and and dramatic battles. A vibrant intense storyline with well developed characters, and complex relationships.

I look forward to reading more in this series.

Book Review

The Qween’s Keeper

The Queen’s Keeper

by J.L. Vampa.

Fantasy ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

https://gwendalynbooks.wordpress.com

http://twitter.com/gwendalyn_books

https://www.goodreads.com/user/edit/profile/profile_url

This book was received as an ARC from NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own

What if I told you that everything you knew about your life was a lie and that you’re being hunted? What if I told you that you were prey?

This is the reality for Luvenia Rousseau.

In J.L. Vampa ,vivid , intricate fantasy world Aureland survival is everything.

What you think you know about your life might not be factual.

What if it was all a lie?

Luvenia a strong Protagonist female character along with other sub characters make this adventurous read. Multi layered storyline with great character progression along with creative writing style will keep you captivated all the way through to the cliffhanger ending .

Wonderfully magical world building makes for an epic fantasy.

I am definitely looking forward to reading the next book in this series.

I just reviewed The Queen’s Keeper by J.L. Vampa. #TheQueensKeeper #NetGalley

Book Review

The Queen’s Keeper

The Queen’s Keeper

by J.L. Vampa

https://gwendalynbooks.wordpress.com

http://twitter.com/gwendalyn_books

https://www.goodreads.com/user/edit/profile/profile_url

This book was received as an ARC from NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own

What if I told you that everything you knew about your life was a lie and that you’re being hunted? What if I told you that you were prey?

This is the reality for Luvenia Rousseau.

In J.L. Vampa ,vivid , intricate fantasy world Aureland survival is everything.

What you think you know about your life might not be factual.

What if it was all a lie?

Luvenia a strong Protagonist female character along with other sub characters make this adventurous read. Multi layered storyline with great character progression along with creative writing style will keep you captivated all the way through to the cliffhanger ending .

Wonderfully magical world building makes for an epic fantasy.

I am definitely looking forward to reading the next book in this series.

I just reviewed The Queen’s Keeper by J.L. Vampa. #TheQueensKeeper #NetGalley

Book Review

The Memory Thief

The Memory Theif. YA Fantasy

Lauren Mansy

⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2

https://gwendalynbooks.wordpress.com

https://www.goodreads.com/user/edit/profile/profile_url

http://twitter.com/gwendalyn_books

This book was received as an ARC from Edelweiss , in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own

The Past is a Maze , She is the Key 🔑

When seventeen year old, Etta Lark finds out that her mother is going to be condemned to death and her memories sold. In the city of Craewick , memories have become a commodity.

Etta Lark is gifted with the ability to to take memories through touch. She needs to join forces with a rebel group. But first she must prove her her allegiance. To do so she must on a quest to steal to a neighboring realm. Etta, must overcome her guilty past actions.

Lauren Mansy creative storyline is gripping and faced paced. Inventive world building . The story weaves with flashbacks to the past and present. With just amount of Romance to make this YA Fantasy a very appealing read .

Ultimately the story is about love for the people close to you and overcoming guilt by putting things right.

Book Review

Book Review

FIRESTARTER ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Tara Kim

#3

••••••••

This book was received as an ARC from Edelweiss , in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own

https://gwendalynbooks.wordpress.com

http://Instagram.com/gwendalyn_books_

http://twitter.com/gwendalyn_books

The thrilling conclusion to the Timekeeper Trilogy. A Greek Mythology Series that is a fast roller coaster ride of a book. The book starts off just where the last book stopped. Great character development. Ingenious world building with creative Greek mythology. None stop action filled storyline. Great multilayer concept of clocktowers controlling Time

Love, Violence ,

heart stoping ride.

Book Review

Shadow Frost

Book Review

Shadow Frost

YA Fantasy

Shadow Frost

Coco Ma

https://gwendalynbooks.wordpress.com

https://linktr.ee/gwendalyn_books_

http://twitter.com/gwendalyn_books

In the kingdom of Axaria, a darkness rises.

Some call it a monster, laying waste to the villagers and their homes.

Some say it is an invulnerable demon summoned from the deepest abysses of the Immortal Realm.

This book was received as an ARC from Edelweiss , in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own

In the mystical land Axaria , where everyone one is gifted with one magical abilities. Princess Asterin , is gifted with multiple magical talents. She has the ability to call on different elements and use them is unique in her kingdom. Coco Ma, debut book has high fantasy world building. Using mythology and magic to create an adventures and faced paced book. Well developed strong female protagonist lead character. Asterin, is a fierce force to be reckoned with, along with enjoyable sub characters.

Follow six friends who must overcome deception to overcome obstacles to save a kingdom . Coco Ma adds mystery and intrigue with just the right amount of romance to make a memorable storyline.

I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who loves fantasy. I am looking forward to reading more books from this author.

Expected publication is October 2019

Thank you Blackstone Publishing for the opportunity to read this early ARC

Book Review

Midnight Beauties

Book Review

Book Review ⭐️⭐️⭐️ 1/2

YA Fantasy

Midnight Beauties

Megan Shepherds

https://gwendalynbooks.wordpress.com

https://linktr.ee/gwendalyn_books_

This book was received as an ARC from NetGalley ,in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are

The witches, beasties, goblins, and Royals return in this spellbinding conclusion to New York Times best-selling author Megan Shepherd’s Grim Lovelies duology. 

The story continues just where the the Grim Lovelies left us. Shepherds masterly creates an incredible fantasy world. The conclusion is faced paced on the edge of your seat. The characters have progressed and the storyline is more developed. Shepherd’s lyrical writing style is creative and enjoyable. This book has just the right amount of romance. loyalty and Friendship and knowing you can overcome any obstacles .