Tag: Goodreads

Book Tours

Lark’s Labyrinth Book Tour

Gwendalyn’s Books

Print Length: 674 pages
Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1461177367
Publisher: The Wild Harp & Company, Inc. (November 28, 2017)
Publication Date: November 28, 2017
Sold by: Amazon.com Services LLC
Language: English

Praise for LARK’S LABYRINTH

“Politics and religion collide as Spellman delivers another fast-paced, suspenseful, and totally enjoyable thriller… The author constructs a blistering story–replete with political and religious intrigue–that never slows down and will keep readers turning the pages of this spectacular thrill ride.” ―Publisher’s Weekly

Praise for CATHY CASH SPELLMAN


“…Almost impossible to put down. The Author has the ability to produce one powerful scene after another and the action draws you helplessly on…” ―Publisher’s Weekly on So Many Partings“…A cross between The Thorn Birds and Ragtime…” ―ALA Booklist on So Many Partings“Flows along with an inexorable narrative current that propels the readers from one involving episode to the next.” ―Booklist on So Many Partings“An energetic plot that never takes a breather.” ―Kirkus Reviews on Paint the Wind“A western extravaganza.. a plot teeming with outsize characters.” ―Publishers Weekly on Paint the Wind“I have never read a book or connected with an author who has touched me so deeply – as a mother, a grandmother, and another psychic kindred soul!” ―Elizabeth Taylor on Bless the Child“This book has really touched my heartstrings as both a mother and grandmother. And Cathy Cash Spellman is one hell of a writer!” ―Maureen Stapleton on Bless the Child“With a seductive, at times spellbinding style, author Spellman (An Excess of Love) incorporates ancient myths into an entrancing romantic thriller.. Spellman succeeds in capturing the reader’s close attention as an unrelenting sense of foreboding drives the narrative forward with power.” ―Publisher’s Weekly on Bless the ChildThe Spear that pierced Christ’s side on the Cross has played a secret, but major role in history. Charlemagne, Constantine, Otto the Barbarian, The Knights Templar and Adolf Hitler all owned it… and believed it gave them the power to rule the world.What if they were right?The first time Dr. Cait Monahan ever heard of the Spear of Longinus was the night her husband was murdered because of it. That was when the terror began.…right before the U.S. Government, the CIA, Neo Nazis, the Vatican and a secret cabal of 13 powerful global manipulators sent their assassins after her and her 9 year old.
 …just before a lethal secret propelled her across Europe following a riddle that hadn’t been solved since the Holocaust.

…just before Cait Monahan became entrapped in an interdimensional labyrinth that her own husband may have helped design.Now she’s a player in a game that has led to mystery, magic, mayhem and murder for over 2000 years, and only the help of a tribunal of long dead men may be able to save her.Vibrant and cerebral, filled with intrigue, Conspiracy Theory and more ancient secrets than the Dead Sea Scrolls, Lark’s Labyrinth pits characters you’ll care about against a mystery you’ll want to solve.Inside Lark’s Labyrinth is a secret men have killed for …now a woman, her sister, her child and their small band of friends are all that stand between us and the dark, insidious power that’s a hairsbreadth away from ruling the world.

You can purchase Lark’s Labyrinth at the following Retailers:

  

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 thrill ride of a page turner, Cathy Spellman has once again created a stunning book.

When Jack Monohan, along with his parents are murdered. His wife, Cait and Lark are thrown into a fast paced, suspenseful tale. On the run Lark and her mother are running from the dark forces that killed Jack. With secret society and a ancient relic, the infamous spear that pierced side of Christ, The Spear of Longinus.

It’s believed to posses incredible powers…a stunning tale that keeps you flipping those pages all the way through to the end.

Photo Credit: Dakota Cash

Multiple 

Her books range through several genres: contemporary, historical, mystery, mystic and romance. Several take place in two time-frames, both current and historical.

Bless the Child was a Paramount movie in 2000, starring Kim Basinger and Jimmy Smits, and Paint The Wind has been optioned for film and TV.

Cathy is an Astrologer, Martial Artist (Black Belt Goju Ryu Karate) and has expertise in Chinese Medicine, several alternative healing modalities and many metaphysical disciplines.

She has written for Self, Harper’s Bazaar, Town & Country, Mademoiselle, Cosmo, Penthouse, Mode, Kung Fu and many other magazines about women, health, empowerment, sexuality, spiritual philosophy and Astrology. She blogs for The Huffington Post and The New York Times.

        

WEEK ONE – REVIEW AND INTERVIEWS
APRIL 13th MONDAY JeanBookNerd GUEST POST
APRIL 14th TUESDAY TTC Books and More GUEST POST
APRIL 15th WEDNESDAY BookHounds INTERVIEW
APRIL 16th THURSDAY A Dream Within A Dream EXCERPT
APRIL 16th THURSDAY Reading Adventures of a Book Dragon REVIEW
APRIL 17th FRIDAY Life Within the Pages REVIEW
APRIL 17th FRIDAY Gwendalyn’s Books REVIEW & GUEST POST

WEEK TWO – REVIEWS
APRIL 20th MONDAY Nay’s Pink Bookshelf REVIEW
APRIL 21st TUESDAY Ya It’s Lit REVIEW
APRIL 22nd WEDNESDAY Insane About Books REVIEW
APRIL 22nd WEDNESDAY Books and Zebras REVIEW
APRIL 23rd THURSDAY Crossroad Reviews REVIEW
APRIL 23rd THURSDAY Author Kelly Riser REVIEW
APRIL 24th FRIDAY Movies, Shows, & Books REVIEW
APRIL 24th FRIDAY Casia’s Corner EXCERPT


*JBN is not responsible for Lost or Damaged Books in your Nerdy Mail Box*

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Book Tours

The Road To Delano Book Tour + Guest Post

Gwendalyn’s Books

Today I’m really excited to be taking part in the Book Tour of The Road To Delano by John DeSimone, which is being hosted by HFVBT!

The Road to Delano
by John DeSimone

Publication Date: March 10, 2020
Rare Bird Books
Hardcover; 320 Pages

Genre: Historical Fiction

 
 

Jack Duncan is a high school senior whose dream is to play baseball in college and beyond―as far away from Delano as possible. He longs to escape the political turmoil surrounding the labor struggles of the striking fieldworkers that infests his small ag town. Ever since his father, a grape grower, died under suspicious circumstances ten years earlier, he’s had to be the sole emotional support of his mother, who has kept secrets from him about his father’s involvement in the ongoing labor strife.

With their property on the verge of a tax sale, Jack drives an old combine into town to sell it so he and his mother don’t become homeless. On the road, an old friend of his father’s shows up and hands him the police report indicating Jack’s father was murdered. Jack is compelled to dig deep to discover the entire truth, which throws him into the heart of the corruption endemic in the Central Valley. Everything he has dreamed of is at stake if he can’t control his impulse for revenge.

While Jack’s girlfriend, the intelligent and articulate Ella, warns him not to so anything to jeopardize their plans of moving to L.A., after graduation, Jack turns to his best friend, Adrian, a star player on the team, to help to save his mother’s land. When Jack’s efforts to rescue a stolen piece of farm equipment leaves Adrian―the son of a boycotting fieldworker who works closely with Cesar Chavez―in a catastrophic situation, Jack must bail his friend out of his dilemma before it ruins his future prospects. Jack uses his wits, his acumen at card playing, and his boldness to raise the money to spring his friend, who has been transformed by his jail experience.

The Road to Delano is the path Jack, Ella, and Adrian must take to find their strength, their duty, their destiny.

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Book Depository | IndieBound

I’m John DeSimone, a novelist, memoirist, and author of The Road to Delano, a historical novel set in California’s Central Valley during the Delano grape strike led by Cesar Chavez. The story is both a coming of age story, and a historical novel rolled into one.

 

The inspiration for writing The Road to Delano came to me after reading about Cesar Chavez’s fast for nonviolence during the grape strike in 1968. As I studied and let the idea mature, I decided his moral stand, which I consider heroic, would have had to influence the moral choices of the young people around him. During my research, I decided that high school students must have been affected by Chavez’s stand in different ways. Jack, the son of a grower, and Adrian, the son of a farmworker, are confronted with choices.

 

I’m not talking about if they are going to use drugs or have sex with their girlfriends. Those are not trivial issues, for sure. But the choices they are faced with will shape their destiny and their characters in different ways far beyond their high school days. The Road to Delano is the path Jack and Adrian must take to find their strength, their duty, and their destiny.

My ambition in writing this novel is to bring to life a critical time in our state’s. history, indeed, in our country’s history. The ’60s were full of protests and movements, and the grape strike led by Cesar Chavez had its effect on our national scene. Not as dramatically as the lunch counter sit-ins in the South, but as necessary to an impoverished group of laborers, the farmworkers. Historical novels can frame an incident and help us understand the importance of the past to our lives today. I hope in writing this book, the heroic nature of Cesar Chavez’s self-sacrifice is remembered, and the story of my protagonists show truths that will last beyond a single reading of the book.

 

 

About the Author

John DeSimone is a published writer, novelist, and teacher. He’s been an adjunct professor and holds an MFA in Creative Writing from Spalding University. His recent co-authored books include Broken Circle: A Memoir of Escaping Afghanistan (Little A Publishers), and Courage to Say No by Dr. Raana Mahmood, about her struggles against sexual exploitation as a female physician in Karachi. His published novel Leonardo’s Chair published in 2005.

In 2012, he won a prestigious Norman Mailer Fellowship to complete his most recent historical novel, Road to Delano. His novels Leonardo’s Chair and No Ordinary Man have received critical recognition.

He works with select clients to write stories of inspiration and determination and with those who have a vital message to bring to the marketplace of ideas in well-written books.

Website | Facebook | Twitter

Blog Tour Schedule

Tuesday, March 3
Review at Passages to the Past
Feature at Books In Their Natural Habitat

Wednesday, March 4
Feature at I’m All About Books

Thursday, March 5
Review at Tales from the Book Dragon

Sunday, March 8
Review at Carole Rae’s Random Ramblings

Monday, March 9
Feature at Donna’s Book Blog

Wednesday, March 11
Review & Interview at Nursebookie

Thursday, March 12
Review at Books and Zebras

Friday, March 13
Review at YA, It’s Lit

Saturday, March 14
Review at Reading is My Remedy

Monday, March 16
Review at Chronicles of The Boozy Reader

Tuesday, March 17
Feature at Broken Teepee
Guest Post at Historical Graffiti

Wednesday, March 18
Interview at Jathan & Heather

Friday, March 20
Review at Jessica Belmont
Review at Oh, The Books She Will Read

Monday, March 23
Guest Post at Gwendalyn’s Books

Tuesday, March 24
Review & Excerpt at Robin Loves Reading

Wednesday, March 25
Feature at What Is That Book About

Giveaway

During the Blog Tour, we are giving away a copy of The Road to Delano! To enter, please use the Gleam form below.

Giveaway Rules

Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm EST on March 25th. You must be 18 or older to enter.
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.

The Road to Delano
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Book Tours

Requiem, Changing Times By R. J. Parker

Gwendalyn’s Books

Hello Bookish Friends,

Today I have A Ya Book Review

Clint and Corbin are having a weird day. Best friends for life, things are getting a little strange around their town, and at school. When they’re followed by a strange man looking for Clint and later attacked by an imp, it makes sense to retreat to the safety of home. But when strangers from another world, Banks and O’Neil, arrive with their medley of allies, things get even weirder. Why are they here? What do they want? And what is The Requiem that everyone keeps talking about? As Clint and his friends and family are drawn deeper into a thrilling adventure, only one thing is for sure. They may not be getting out alive. And class with Mrs Christenson will seem like a walk in the park after this.

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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.

Requiem, Changing Times by R.J. Parker is a creative YA, Science Fiction / Dystopian fantasy adventure book

“Have you ever had a bad idea that you dismiss at once because it was a terrible idea?” Corbin asked Clint. “Well this was one of those ideas that I should have dismissed.”

Clint’s life is about to change, school seems like any other day where Mrs. Christenson targets him for the principal’s office.

Something definitely is going on when, two groups of fantasy creatures have crossed over into his world. Each of them searching for Clint Holden, what could possibly tie him to the mysterious Requiem.

Today is one very odd day for Clint and his very best friends, Corbin Jenkins. When suddenly from nowhere a stranger attacks, They try to investigate what is actually going on around their town.

Thats when they come to realize that two different groups of fanatical creatures have crossed over into their world. Each of them searching for Clint and his ties to the mysterious Requiem. Clint has to keep up apparence…even with his home dynamics being a little chaotic and he is always seems to be getting into trouble at school.

This an exhilarating book faced paced with intriguing twists that keeps glued to the pages. Full of magical creatures action sequence drama. Parker’s exceptional dialogue is phenomenal, along with perfect comic timing makes for an enjoyable read. The writing was easy to follow and the author uses innovative narration in the way he allows the reader to be front and center. I don’t want to give to much away, if you are a inhaler of books, like I am you get my meaning right away.

The world building is magical and captivating and vibrant characters are three dimensional.

All in all it’s an riveting exceptional Young Adult book.

I am definitely looking forward to reading the next installment.

R. J. Parker
Russell Parker was born in Bountiful, Utah. As his father was safety manager he had to move around until his senior year of high school, when he came to Cache Valley, Utah to stay. He married the most wonderful woman in the world and they are the parents of four fantastic kids, with one crazy dog. Russell played all kinds of sports and was an outdoors man until an accident brought him to writing. A writer since high school, encouragement brought his stories to life.
Connect with Russel: Website • Facebook • Goodreads.
Book Tours

Born Slippy A Novel By Tom Lutz Book Review

Gwendalyn’s Books

Hello there Bookish Friends,

Today I have a wonderful review of Born Slippy by Tom Lutz

Title: Born Slippy: A Novel

  • Author’s name: Tom Lutz
  • Genre: noir, thriller
  • Publish date: January 14, 2020
  • Publisher: Repeater/Penguin Random House
  • Page count: 296

@tomlutz22 #fiction #political #satire

A globetrotting novel about the seductions of and resistance to toxic masculinity.

“Frank knew as well as anyone how stories start and how they end. This fiery mess, or something like it, was bound to happen. He had been expecting it for years.”

Frank Baltimore is a bit of a loser, struggling by as a carpenter and handyman in rural New England when he gets his big break, building a mansion in the executive suburbs of Hartford. One of his workers is a charismatic eighteen-year-old kid from Liverpool, Dmitry, in the US in the summer before university. Dmitry is a charming sociopath, who develops a fascination with his autodidactic philosopher boss, perhaps thinking that, if he could figure out what made Frank tick, he could be less of a pig. Dmitry heads to Asia and makes a neo-imperialist fortune, with a trail of corpses in his wake. When Dmitry’s office building in Taipei explodes in an enormous fireball, Frank heads to Asia, falls in love with Dmitry’s wife, and things go from bad to worse.

Combining the best elements of literary thriller, noir and political satire, Born Slippy is a darkly comic and honest meditation on modern life under global capitalism

Frank Baltimore is a bit of a loser, struggling by as a carpenter and handyman in rural New England when he gets his big break, building a mansion in the executive suburbs of Hartford. One of his workers is a charismatic eighteen-year-old kid from Liverpool, Dmitry, spending his summer before university in the US. Dmitry is a charming sociopath, who develops a fascination with his autodidactic philosopher boss, perhaps thinking that, if he could figure out what made Frank tick, he could be less of a pig. Dmitry heads to Asia and makes a neo-imperialist fortune as an investment banker, leaving a trail of corpses in his wake. When Dmitry’s office building in Taipei explodes in an enormous fireball, Frank heads to Asia, meets Dmitry’s wife, and things go from bad to worse.

A literary thriller about misogyny, unembarrassed rapacity, and unrestrained capitalism, Born Slippy will appeal to fans of Elmore Leonard, Patricia Highsmith, and Edward St. Aubyn.

 

Amazon * Barnes & Noble * IndieBound * Powell’s

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.

Born Slippy is a meticulous blend of thrilling suspense, globetrotting adventures,and a heavy dose of cynical humor. This is one book you will not forget.

Born Slippy by Tom Lutz, is a provocative and memorable, a psychological thriller. That takes the reader on a journey that reflects moral decisions and, seedy business dealings in a character driven satire with political elements.

A riveting book focusing on a twisted friendship between Frank Baltimore, and Dmitry Heald. Frank the protagonist, who happens to be a a moderately successful contractor, and thinks of himself a somewhat moralist with ecologist views

Dmitry Heald is the antagonist, in this superb tale, an overconfident Englishman, that is eight years younger than frank. As the story unfolds Dmtiry character becomes more sinister, as we see his true nature. He overtime becomes a ruthlessly but very successful financier. Who makes his fortune investing the corruptly acquired funds of international dictators and criminals.

Frank is continuous drawn into Demtiry deceptive web of schemes, in this fast paced character driven adventure.

The books engaging storyline deftly weaves back and forth as we see repercussions of some of the main POV’s critical choices .

When Frank becomes more entangled in Dmitry’s criminal schemes, ultimately sending him down his own dark treacherous path.

This enthralling tale that cleverly reflects on our twenty-first century world and the evils of global capitalism. When unrestrained capitalism inevitably leads to a widening gap between the rich and the poor.

Tom Lutz’s captivating psychological portrait of a dark sinister toxic friendship that had me completely immersed and swiftly turning the pages. This was a nonstop, hand gripping edge of my seat, read for me. The narration was brilliantly executed and I was completely invested in.

This is a stunningly depicted satire, that captures the true nature of human morality and ultimately the consequences of decisions that me make.

Picture taken from website

Besides Born Slippy, I am the author of two books of travel narrative — And The Monkey Learned Nothing and Drinking Mare’s Milk on the Roof of the World — the cultural histories Doing Nothing and Crying; literary histories Cosmopolitan Vistas and American Nervousness, 1903; pieces for New York Times, LA Times, ZYZZYVA, Exquisite Corpse, New Republic, Salon, Black Clock, Iowa Review, and other places.

I’m a Distinguished Professor of Creative Writing at the UC Riverside, the founding editor in chief of the Los Angeles Review of Books, founder of The LARB Radio Hour, The LARB Quarterly Journal, The LARB/USC Publishing Workshop, and LARB Books. I am a part-time musician, an amateur photographer, and a full-time dilettante. I live in Los Angeles.

LINKS for TOM LUTZ

Website: https://www.tomlutzwriter.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tom.lutz.3591

Twitter: @TomLutz22 https://twitter.com/tomlutz22

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/115042.Tom_Lutz

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1912248646/

Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/born-slippy-tom-lutz/1131255086

Book Tours

Miss Blaine’s Prefect and the Vampire Menace

Gwendalyn’s Books

Today is my stop on the Miss Blaine’s Prefect and the Vampire Menace, by Olga Wojtas, hosted by Love Book Tours

@OlgaWojtas #bookreview @SarabandBooks @LoveBooks

Miss Blaine’s Prefect and the Vampire Menace

by Olga Wojtas  

247 pages

Purchase links:

Hive Books                       Waterstones                    Amazon

Miss Blaine’s Prefect and the Vampire Menace by Olga Wojtas (Miss Blaine #2) @OlgaWojtas @SarabandBooks @LoveBooksGroup #MissBlaine’sPrefect

The intrepid librarian Shona McMonagle, erstwhile Marcia Blaine Academy

prefect and an accomplished linguist and martial artist, finds herself in an isolated French mountain village, Sans-Soleil, which has no sunlight because of its topography. It’s reeling from a spate of unexplained deaths, and Shona has once again travelled

back in time to help out.

Forging an uneasy alliance with newly widowed Madeleine, Shona is soon

drawn into a full-blown vampire hunt, involving several notable villagers, the world-renowned soprano Mary Garden – and even Count Dracula himself. Will Shona solve the mystery, secure justice for the murder victims and make it

through a deathly denouement

in the hall of mirrors to return to present-day Morningside Library?

Praise for Miss Blaine’s Prefect and the Golden Samovar

“A delightful addition to the ranks of comic crime.” Laura Wilson, Guardian

“Jane Austen stylings and Stella Gibbons satirical wit.” Scotsman

“Like being trapped inside a Marx Brothers’ film.” David Robinson

“The crème de la crème of crime fiction debuts.” Al Guthrie

“Absolutely delightful … perfect for fans of Jasper Fforde.” Library Journal

“Marvellous… [a] laugh-out-loud farce.” Publishers Weekly

“Anna Karenina written by P.G. Wodehouse.” Linda Cracknell

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.

Shona McMonagle is an enchanting heroine, a middle aged time-travelling librarian, who happens to be masterly trained graduate, of the Marcia Blaine School For Girls.

Shona McMonagle newest adventurous assignment will involve a little time traveling from her present job at Morningside Library. McMonagle to the 19th century Russia, to solve a crime case.

Upon Shona, arrival in tiny French village of Sans-Soleil, named perfectly because it lies permanently in the shadow of the surrounding ominous mountains.

Right from the start she realizes there is definitely something afoot and she is presented with her first mystery. A local police man has been reported missing, he may or may not be dead. His wife Madeline is under the impression that he is definitely dead. Shona with the help of the vivacious widow Mrs Madeline seek to uncover the facts and clues that surround the policeman disappearance.

As the tale unfolds the mayor and townspeople are continuous acting strangely suspicious. While trying to sort out what her true mission is, Shona soon discovers a good many people have recently been torn to death by wild animals. Intriguing

Local legends and drummed up fear of vampires might just be sufficiently justified..

I was captivated from page one. I found this story to be wonderfully creative and engaging, well thought out, well paced, Stunning comic timing adds mirth. You find yourself laughing out loud at various points within the book. The book has inventive, lovely well developed characters that were immensely entertaining! There just amount of action that keeps the storyline flowing perfectly.

The plot is engaging and keeps you turning the page; and the conclusion is completely satisfying.

★I have found a new author that I absolutely adore, I highly recommend this delightful book to my family and friends ★

Olga Wojtas is an unconventional – and very witty – writer of postmodern

crime fiction whose surrealist humour has been compared to the likes of PG Wodehouse, Jasper Fforde and the Marx Brothers. Her debut novel,

Miss Blaine’s Prefect and the Golden Samovar,

has been published in the UK and US to great critical acclaim – being longlisted for the inaugural Comedy Women in Print Prize 2019, shortlisted for a CrimeFest Award, and named as one of the best mysteries and thrillers of the year by Kirkus.

A journalist for more than 30 years, Olga was Scottish editor of the

Times Higher Education Supplement before she began adding creative writing to her portfolio. She won a Scottish Book Trust New Writers Award in 2015 and has had numerous short stories and several novellas published. Olga lives in Edinburgh, where she once

attended James Gillespie’s High School – the model for Marcia Blaine School for Girls, which appears in Muriel Spark’s

The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie,

the novel that inspired the Miss Blaine’s Prefect series.

Book Tours

Seven Deadly Shadows

Gwendalyn’s Books

Hi friends! I’m here today to share my review on a book that has pleasantly surprised me.

Seven Deadly Shadows

by Courtney Alameda & Valynne E. Maetani
Publisher: HarperCollins
Release Date: January 28th 2020

Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy, Paranormal
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Kira Fujikawa has always been a girl on the fringe. Bullied by her peers and ignored by her parents, the only place Kira’s ever felt at home is at her grandfather’s Shinto shrine, where she trains to be a priestess.
But Kira’s life is shattered on the night her family’s shrine is attacked by a vicious band of yokai demons. With the help of Shiro—the shrine’s gorgeous half-fox, half-boy kitsune—Kira discovers that her shrine harbors an ancient artifact of great power . . . one the yokai and their demon lord, Shuten-doji, will use to bring down an everlasting darkness upon the world.
Unable to face the Shuten-doji and his minions on her own, Kira enlists the aid of seven ruthless shinigami—or death gods—to help stop the brutal destruction of humankind. But some of the death gods aren’t everything they initially seemed, nor as loyal to Kira’s cause as they first appeared.
With war drawing nearer by the day, Kira realizes that if this unlikely band of heroes is going to survive, they’re going to have to learn to work together, confront their demons, and rise as one to face an army of unimaginable evil.

Thank you, so, so much HarperTeen for providing me with an Arc, in exchange for an honest review!

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.

This new Fantasy novel is set in modern day Japan, and follows our heroine, Kira Fujikawa. She works in the afternoons as a miko, a shrine maiden at her family’s Shinto shrine. Her grandfather runs the shrine and is take his place when she comes of age.

She attends a prestigious Kogakkan Academy in Kyoto, Japan, on a scholarship.Kira longs for her peer acceptance, she treated as outsider because of her family’s status. And oh by the way she sees Yolai, class of supernatural monsters, spirits, and demons, that have haunted Japan since time immemorial. Not all the Yokai have evil intent, but the description are wonderfully creepy.

“She looks like a scream made flesh.”

Yes, it’s a stellar fantasy that embraces Japanese mythology and a lot of manga. There is also something more to this creative fantasy, it’s the depth and development of the character, Kira, as she her story unfolds. Her growth is depicted in symbolically within the storyline. Realizing her strength, and coming into her own with much needed unexpected help.

“I suppose even death looks beautiful, sometimes. But its beauty is a lie.”

Japanese folklore and Kurosawa’s are perfectly blended in this mesmerizing retelling of an old, classic film by Akira Kurosawa, Seven Samurai, add a little Anime, and you have the perfect combination. A breathtaking fantasy exploration outside western culture.

Easy to follow seamless narration with intriguing world building that is incredibly vibrant. I especially enjoyed the glossary that is added to the back of the book, I usually research on my own when presented with mythology from other cultures. So, this was a added bonus for me.

Courtney Alameda

A veteran bookseller and librarian, Courtney Alameda now spends her days writing thriller and horror novels for young people. Her debut novel, SHUTTER, was nominated for a Bram Stoker award and hailed as a “standout in the genre” by School Library Journal. Her forthcoming novel, PITCH DARK (Spring 2017), is a genre-blending science fiction/horror novel in the vein of Ridley Scott’s 1979 film ALIEN.
Courtney holds a B.A. in English literature with an emphasis in creative writing. She is represented by the talented John M. Cusick of Folio Literary. A Northern California native, she now resides in Utah with her husband, a legion of books, and a tiny five pound cat with a giant personality.

Valynne E. Maetani

Valynne E. Maetani (pronounced Vuh-lin Mah-eh-tah-nee) grew up in Utah and obtained a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania. In a former life, she was a project manager and developed educational software for children with learning disabilities. Currently, she is a full-time writer. She is a member of the We Need Diverse Books team and is dedicated to promoting diversity in children’s literature because every child should grow up believing his or her story deserves to be told. Her debut novel, Ink and Ashes, is the winner of the New Visions Award 2013, a Junior Library Guild 2015 selection, and Best Fiction Book in Salt Lake City Weekly’s Best of Utah Arts Award for 2015. She lives in Salt Lake City.

Book Tours

Prue Book Blast and Giveaway

Gwendalyn’s Books
Today I’m really excited to be taking part in the Book Blast and Giveaway of Prue
byAnne Marie Brear, which is being hosted by HFBT!

My review will be posted later today!

Prue
by AnneMarie Brear

Publication Date: January 23, 2020
eBook & Paperback; 328 Pages

Series: The Marsh Sagas, Book Two
Genre: Historical Romance

 

 

When her feisty grandmama informs Prue of her intentions to take her travelling, she is excited and ready to explore outside of England.

Restless, unsure of what she needs and wants, Prue arrives in India intent on adventure. However, Prue soon learns that some escapades come with a price. India is exotic and tantalising, yet also rife with unrest, and closer to home, family secrets unravel destroying lives.

Leaving India and heartbreak behind her, a wiser Prue travels to Italy. Experiencing that life is short, Prue is determined to make the most of her holiday and have some fun, only she wasn’t prepared to meet a man who would make her question herself.

Surviving the war was easier than enduring the quiet peace at home. In need of distraction, Brandon Forster and his friend, Vince, spend their time climbing mountains in Europe. The last thing Brandon expected was to meet an attractive English rose with the same edgy spirit as himself.

When Prue reveals her past mistakes to Brandon, he must decide if she is the woman for him, but a tragic accident makes them both confront deeper feelings.

Can they find in each other the missing element they need to make them whole or will previous anguish taint their future?

Amazon | Barnes and Noble

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.

Prue, is next installment of the beloved Marsh Saga Series, by Award winning and best selling author, Anne Marie Brear.

Prue Marsh has a restless spirit that her Grandmother! notices it her mirrors herself when she was about the same age. Noting Prue must spread her wings before settling down as a genteel lady just. Prue’s, lively doting Grandmother announces a splendid opportunity for Prue to experience something other than what England has to offer.

This lovely book is set in the 1920s, after the Great War, WWI, vivacious Prue, is the middle sister. Prue finds herself like most young woman during this era, wanting to throw off the restrictions from the Victorian era, to embrace the modern times of the roaring 20s. Everyone one is not so excepting in this new found freedom that a lot of woman were exhibiting during this time period.

Society still judged woman, and double standards were in place. Traveling first to India, they enjoy all wonderful experiences this country has to offer. But, civil unrest brewing in the streets and some heated family drama, Prue and her Grandmother do what they can to make their extended holiday as pleasant as possible. In a series of events things change and Prue is left feeling heartbroken and at a loss. The two ladies travel onto Italy in their quest for delights.

Single and unattached, Brandon Forster, has survived the war with his inseparable friend, Vincent. Together they have tried to put the past behind them, seeking out adventures and entertainment by way of carousing and rock climbing.

When Brandon and Prue meet there is no denying the sparks are flying.

What an enchanted read this was. I really enjoyed this wonderful beguilingly book. Pace was brisk and writing was fluid, with lovely characters and a captivating protagonist. You definitely don’t want to miss this treasure of a book!

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

Three sisters. Three very different women.

Marsh Saga Series. Book one, Millie was released in July 2019. and the accompanying novella, Christmas at the Chateau is out now! Book two, Prue will be relased in Janurary 23, 2020. Book three, Cece will be released April 2020.

About the Author

Amazon UK bestseller and award-winning Australian author, AnneMarie Brear has been a life-long reader and started writing in 1997 when her children were small. She has a love of history, of grand old English houses and a fascination of what might have happened beyond their walls. Her interests include reading, historical research for her novels, watching movies, spending time with family and eating chocolate – not always in that order!

For more information please visit AnneMarie Brear’s website. You can also connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and Goodreads.

Book Blast Schedule

Thursday, January 23
Books In Their Natural Habitat

Friday, January 24
Gwendalyn’s Books

Saturday, January 25
Historical Fiction with Spirit

Sunday, January 26
Jessica Belmont

Monday, January 27
Broken Teepee

Tuesday, January 28
CelticLady’s Reviews
What Is That Book About

Wednesday, January 29
Donna’s Book Blog

Thursday, January 30
The Lit Bitch
Clarissa Reads it All
The Book Junkie Reads

Friday, January 31
Passages to the Past

Saturday, February 1
100 Pages a Day

Giveaway

During the Blog Tour, we are giving away an eBook of Prue by AnneMarie Brear! To enter, please use the Gleam form below.

Giveaway Rules

Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm EST on February 1st. 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.

Prue
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Book Tours

State of Treason Blog Tour

Gwendalyn’s Books

Today I’m really excited to be taking part in the Book Tour and Giveaway of, State Of Treason,
by Paul Walker, which is being hosted by HFBT!

#StateofTreason #PaulWalker #HFVBTBlogTours @PWalkerauthor @hfvbt  

State of Treason by Paul Walker

Publication Date: May 20, 2019
Sharpe Books
eBook & Paperback; 317 Pages
Genre: Historical Fiction

“A gripping and evocative page-turner that vibrantly brings Elizabeth’s London to life.” -Steven Veerapen, author of A Dangerous Trade

London 1578 – a cauldron of conspiracy, intrigue and torture.

The might of Spain and the growing influence of the Catholic League in France all threaten the stability of Queen Elizabeth and her state.

William Constable, a physician and astrologer, is summoned to the presence of the Queen’s spymaster, Sir Francis Walsingham. He is charged to assist a renowned Puritan, John Foxe, in uncovering the secrets of a mysterious cabinet containing an astrological chart and coded message. Together, these claim Elizabeth has a hidden, illegitimate child who will be declared to the masses and serve as the focus for an invasion.

Constable must uncover the identity of the plotters, unaware that he is also under suspicion.

A connection to his estranged mentor, Doctor Dee, comes under scrutiny.

Pressured into taking up a position as a court physician, Constable becomes a reluctant spy.

Do the stars and cipher speak true, or is there some other malign intent in the complex web of scheming?

Constable becomes an unwitting pawn, in a complex game of thrones and power.

State of Treason is the first in a series of Elizabethan thrillers featuring William Constable.

Recommended for fans of C.J. Sansom, S J Parris and Rory Clements.

Available on Amazon US and Amazon UK

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.

William Constable, a physician and notable astrologer, finds himself woken up and taken to Whitehall in the middle of the night. Summoned by the Queen of England’s principal secretary, the notorious Spymaster himself, Sir Francis Walsingham.

Walsingham’s ruthless zeal to counter any uprise of Catholicism, sanctioned the torture and killings of Catholic priests and any who were suspected conspirators.

Walsingham knows the might of Spain and the growing influence of the Catholic League in France, and the continuous threat to the Queen Elizabeth herself, and the stability of her state. Walsingham, directs William Constable and John Foxe, with the task of deciphering aromatic text and the meaning of the star charts depicted on and around and ornate decorated box.

John Foxe is a notable English historian and martyrologist, renowned author of Actes and Monuments. A horrific detailed accounts of the entire history of persecution in the church up until the mid 1550’s, starting with Jesus.

Paired together by Walsingham, this unlikely duo form a warm and kindred friendship. Working together they are tasked to uncover a plot to discredit the Queen and to divide the nation.

Together they uncover a treasonous plot of conspirators that claims Queen Elizabeth has illegitimate child. This would be disastrous to Protestants and the Queen, but would be critical for Roman Catholic sympathizers, who could be use it to spear head a revolution.

As this suspenseful novel takes off, I was immediately intrigued and completely immersed in this complex, political and captivating historical drama.

Paul Walker, masterly sets this absorbing character driven plot line with just enough amount of tension and mystery to keep you on the edge of your seat.

The incredible dialogue of this story should be noted upfront, it really is amazing! I really enjoyed the rich, descriptive language that is realistic to the time period. The prose is seamless, and eloquent, allowing me, as a reader, to feel like I was alongside the main protagonist, William Constable

The supporting characters are just as well developed and fleshed out and very interesting. Constable is wonderful character who is sympathetic to his mother and show empathy toward his fellow man. The budding romance makes for added depth to this book. I look forward to reading more developed in next book.

I really enjoyed the authors creative invention of the shadow staff, a ships navigation device, that coincides with development of this time period. Creative invention were being developed, in response for the increasing push toward exploration.

Overall this was engaging book, with brilliant executed narration was brilliant. I loved the way the plot unfolded. I was completely invested in the storyline.

This stunning, atmospheric historical fiction with the most illustrious characters, coded messages, espionage, and star charts made for a riveting read.

Giveaway Rules

– Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm EST on February 6th. 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.

https://gleam.io/CBtK0/state-of-treason

About the Author

Paul Walker inherited his love of British history and historical fiction from his mother who was an active member of the Richard III Society.

State of Treason is the first in a planned series of Elizabethan spy thrillers. The plot is based around real characters and events in London of the 1570s. The hero, William Constable, is an astrologer and also a skeptic. He is also a mathematician, astronomer and inventor of a navigational aid for ships. The distinction between astrology and astronomy was blurred in the sixteenth century.

The second book in the series, A Necessary Killing, was published in November 2019.

Paul is married and lives in a village 30 miles north of London. His writing is regularly disrupted by children and a growing number of grandchildren and dogs.

Twitter | Goodreads

Blog Tour Schedule

Monday, January 20
Review at Donna’s Book Blog

Tuesday, January 21
Review at Books and Zebras

Wednesday, January 22
Excerpt at Jathan & Heather

Thursday, January 23
Feature at I’m Into Books
Review at Historical Graffiti

Friday, January 24
Review at Gwendalyn’s Books
Review at Historical Fiction with Spirit

Monday, January 27
Review at DFW’s Historical Fiction + Adirondack Spirit Blog

Wednesday, January 29
Feature at The Book Junkie Reads

Saturday, February 1
Excerpt at booknook2020

Monday, February 3
Review at YA, It’s Lit

Tuesday, February 4
Review at Passages to the Past

Wednesday, February 5
Interview at Passages to the Past

Thursday, February 6
Review at Nursebookie
Review at Tales from the Book Dragon

Giveaway

During the Blog Tour, we are giving away a paperback copy of State of Treason! To enter, please use the Gleam form below.

Giveaway Rules

Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm EST on February 6th. You must be 18 or older to enter.
Paperback giveaway is open to US residents 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.

State
of Treason
 

State
of Treason
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State
of Treason
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State of Treason
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Book Tours

Salt The Snow Book Tour

Gwendalyn’s Books

Today I’m really excited to be taking part in the Book Tour and Giveaway of,

Salt The Snow, by Carrie Callaghan, which is being hosted by HFBT!

#SalttheSnow #CarrieCallaghan #HFVBTBlogTours

Salt the Snow
by Carrie Callaghan

Publication Date: February 4, 2020
Amberjack Publishing
eBook & Hardcover; 304 Pages

Genre: Historical Fiction

 

 

American journalist Milly Bennett has covered murders in San Francisco, fires in Hawaii, and a civil war in China, but 1930s Moscow presents her greatest challenge yet. When her young Russian husband is suddenly arrested by the secret police, Milly tries to get him released. But his arrest reveals both painful secrets about her marriage and hard truths about the Soviet state she has been working to serve. Disillusioned and pulled toward the front lines of a captivating new conflict, Milly must find a way to do the right thing for her husband, her conscience, and her heart. Salt the Snow is a vivid and impeccably researched tale of a woman ahead of her time, searching for her true calling in life and love.

Praise

The vivid prose of Salt the Snow sets the reader in the middle of socioeconomic upheavals and political unrest with the best possible tour guide, wisecracking American journalist Milly Bennett. Callaghan excels at bringing little-known real-life women out of the darkness of historical obscurity and into the light of recognition. From the first scene, the reader is plunged into a world of suspense and intrigue, led by an unforgettable protagonist. Milly is not so much a character as a fully realized, complex human being: her brilliance and self-sufficiency are admirable, and her loneliness and feelings of unworthiness are heartbreaking. A fascinating novel! Clarissa Harwood, author of Impossible Saints and Bear No Malice

A vivid, well-researched story of a complex and ahead-of-her-time woman, an American journalist, who finds herself—head and heart—while living and working in an equally complex Russia.” —Jenni L. Walsh, author of Becoming Bonnie

“Salt the Snow is a vivid journey through the kaleidoscope of 1930s Europe with an irrepressible and all too human guide in Milly Bennett. Don’t miss this book and its unforgettable heroine! Linnea Hartsuyker, author of The Half-Drowned King and The Golden Wolf

“Honest, vivid, and bold in the face of historical truths, Salt the Snow is a captivating story of a woman whose vulnerability and hopeful idealism resonate even today. Jennifer Klepper, bestselling author of Unbroken Threads

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | IndieBound

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

Written with precision and depth Carrie Callaghan newest novel, Salt The Snow is a well developed portrait that takes off from the suspenseful first pages as American journalist Milly Bennett working and living in Moscow Russia.

Her heroic war journalism career has taken Her all over the world, as she has covered murders in San Francisco, fires in Hawaii, and a civil war in China, but in 1930s Moscow offers the most unprecedented challenge so far.

Through the authors narration, you are easily immersed within this engaging storyline. Milly will question her marriage when certain truth are brought to life, when her young Russian husband is suddenly arrested by the secret police. This incredible book, Callaghan captures historical suspense of Bennetts personal life, that defines her journalistic work. Milly will become disillusioned with the political upheaval of the Soviet state along with her marriage.

The authors captivating prose brings the exceptional bohemian lifestyle, of the riveting Mrs. Milly Bennett deftly within the pages, of Salt The Snow. Bennett’s idealism of Socioeconomics puts her front and center of political unrest, as the birth of Socialism explodes in Russia, and through out the world.

Callaghan superb writing brings the vivacious, headstrong and charismatic personality of Milly Bennett to life. I loved everything about this well fleshed out three-dimensional character. This brilliantly executed novel weaves perfectly back and forth, in easy to follow multiple time periods.

When an age when female journalists was extremely rare, Bennett’s feminist adventures unfolds, along with her hard-drinking, in your face journalism. This unforgettable woman and her controversial journalism was critical to social war movement happening through out the world.

She doesn’t take a backseat to men reporters, wanting to be front and center as war and political struggles begin to rise. She flings off the bands placed on woman during the 20’s and 30’s to conquer journalisms head on. Struggling to make a name for herself within an occupation in an era that was mostly dominated by men. Milly’s strength and fortitude is depicted in this intriguing nonstop read.

Callaghan, historical fiction is ultimately a story of that of courage and human kindness and sorrow. I was completely immersed within these meticulously researched pages, as the authors descriptive ability to bring a compelling and intriguing complex character to life.

While her journalism is not so much as her focal point as her emotional struggle in Russia, you are able to fully comprehend her depth as a character. When most women would have given up, Milly is persistent to right the wrong to have her husband released. Things come crashing to an end In a twist of gut wrenching series of events.

Milly’s independent nature and her journalist calling is notable when she finds herself taking more Correspondent work, with the AP and the Foreign Press Bureau. Risking everything for her writing, she places herself at the center of the escalating tension ripping Spain apart in their civil war.

Once again Carrie Callaghan, delivers a compelling, intriguing, and well-written read here with absolutely fantastic characters that totally captivated and fascinated me. An unforgettable heroin, this stunning book stayed with me, long after I closed it.

A riveting historical fiction, based on the life of one of the first female war correspondents, Milly Bennett

About the Author

Carrie Callaghan is a writer living in Maryland with her spouse, two young children, and two ridiculous cats. Her short fiction has appeared in Weave Magazine, The MacGuffin, Silk Road, Floodwall, and elsewhere. Carrie is also an editor and contributor with the Washington Independent Review of Books. She has a Masters of Arts in International Affairs from the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies, and a bachelors degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

For more information, please visit Carrie Callaghan’s website and blog. You can also connect with her on Facebook, Twitter and Goodreads.

Blog Tour Schedule

Monday, January 13
Review at Gwendalyn’s Books
Review at Tales from the Book Dragon

Tuesday, January 14
Review at Let Them Read Books
Review at Books In Their Natural Habitat

Wednesday, January 15
Review at Broken Teepee

Thursday, January 16
Review at 100 Pages a Day

Friday, January 17
Review at Books and Zebras

Saturday, January 18
Review at @gatticus_finch
Review at Reading is My Remedy

Monday, January 20
Review at A Bookish Affair

Tuesday, January 21
Interview at A Bookish Affair

Wednesday, January 22
Review at My Reading Chronicles

Thursday, January 23
Review at @rebecca.is.reading

Friday, January 24
Review at Wild Sage Book Blog

Monday, January 27
Review at @ya.its.lit
Review at Jorie Loves A Story

Wednesday, January 29
Review at Jackie & Angela’s Book Reviews

Thursday, January 30
Review at Passages to the Past

Friday, January 31
Interview at Passages to the Past

Monday, February 3
Review at Amy’s Booket List

Tuesday, February 4
Review at Lost_in_a_book_reviewer

Wednesday, February 5
Review at Impressions In Ink

Giveaway

During the Blog Tour, we are giving away two signed copies of Salt the Snow by Carrie Callaghan! To enter, please use the Gleam form below.

Giveaway Rules

Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm EST on February 5th. You must be 18 or older to enter.
Paperback giveaway is 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.

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Book Tours

DreamLand Blog Tour

Gwendalyn’s Books

Dreamland by Nancy Bilyeau

#bookreview #gwendalyn’sbooks #thrdreamland @tudorscribe @endeavourquill #dreamland #blogtour

Hello Bookish Friends, and welcome to my stop on the Dreamland blog tour! A big thank you to Endeavour Quill for the invitation and for the gifted book!

Dreamland

Nancy Bilyeau.

Endeavour Quill

  • Paperback: 386 pages
  • Publisher: Endeavour Media (January 16, 2020)
  • Publishing Date:January 16, 2020

The year is 1911 when twenty-year-old heiress Peggy Batternberg is invited to spend the summer in America’s Playground.

But the invitation to Coney Island is unwelcome. Despite hailing from one of America’s richest families, Peggy would much rather spend the summer at the Moonrise Bookstore where she works voluntarily, than keeping up appearances with Brooklyn socialites and her snobbish, controlling family.

But soon it transpires that the hedonism of Coney Island affords Peggy more of the freedom she has been longing for. For one, she finds herself in love with a troubled pier-side artist of humble means, whom the Batternberg patriarchs would surely disapprove of.

Disapprove they may, but hidden behind their pomposity lurks a web of deceit, betrayal and deadly secrets. And as bodies begin to mount up amidst the sweltering clamour of Coney Island, it seems the powerful Batternbergs can get away with anything…even murder.s

It is up to Peggy to overcome the oppression of her family and clear the name of her vulnerable lover, before she or her beloved sister become the next victims of Dreamland.

Extravagant, intoxicating and thumping with suspense, bestselling Nancy Bilyeau’s magnificent Dreamland is a story of corruption, class and dangerous obsession.

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | IndieBound

Praise for Dreamland

‘Achingly believable’ – Publishers Weekly

“This fast-paced, engrossing novel from Bilyeau (“Joanna Stafford” mysteries) gives readers an up-close and personal view of New York’s Gilded Age, from the flash and glamour of the decadently wealthy to the hardscrabble conditions of newly arrived immigrants.” – Library Journal

‘Beautifully written and impeccably researched, Dreamland is a rollicking ride.’ – Fiona Davis, bestselling author of The Chelsea Girls

‘A marvelous book!’ – Ellen Marie Wiseman, bestselling author of What she Left Behind and The Life she was Given

‘Bilyeau’s thrilling novel plunges deep into Dreamland’s maze of pleasure and menace’ – Marlowe Benn, bestselling author of Relative Fortunes

‘Nancy Bilyeau’s passion for history infuses her books’ – Alison Weir

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

#Review

Have you been to America’s Playground? Coney Island?

I’ve always wanted to visit.

Dreamland has Coney Island as a backdrop, and it’s 1911.

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

Dreamland is a suspenseful historical fiction of obsession and desire.

This fascinating portrait of the end of the Gilded Age was a fabulous start to 2020. Set in New York 1911, the Battenberg family are one of the richest in America, with the Vanderbilts and Rockerfellas,

Peggy Battenberg is a young heiress who struggles against the bonds of societal restrictions placed on women of her class. Peggy, against her families wishes takes a job at the Moonrise Bookstore, and lives with her ex teacher. When her family intervenes, and she is told that she is required to take a summer vacation at the Oriental Hotel, a once-grand oceanfront resort on Coney Island. For the sake of her sister Lydia, who is engaged to the rich Henry Taul, Peggy succumbs to her family’s wishes.

Nancy Bilyeau’s writing catapults you into this vibrant outstanding thriller set in end of Gilded Age. Dreamland is a splendid, intoxicating book, with plenty of multi layered suspense.

Nancy Bilyeau delivers an extremely entertaining storyline, with captivating underlying tension. This gripping, perfectly paced and well-written read here that I absolutely loved how seamlessly and cleverly written this story was, and thought the author did a fabulous job with the delivery. I was totally invested all the way through to the satisfying end.

Dreamland and the rest of Coney Island is an intoxicating, hedonistic and full of life. Peggy gets to experience life from a completely different perspective than she has ever before. Mixing with artists, dancers, the inhabitants of Lilliput, along with food vendors. There is also a sinister side to this plot line, that adds an intriguing twist to the book that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Scandal and intrigue along with family drama makes for an extraordinary thought-provoking novel. A fabulous mystery/thriller that I was immediately drawn into and devoured quickly.

About Nancy Bilyeau

Nancy Bilyeau has worked on the staffs of InStyle, DuJour, Rolling Stone, Entertainment Weekly, and Good Housekeeping. She is currently the deputy editor of the Center on Media, Crime and Justice at City University of New York and a regular contributor to Town & Country, Purist, and The Vintage News. 

A native of the Midwest, she earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan. THE CROWN, her first novel and an Oprah pick, was published in 2012; the sequel, THE CHALICE, followed in 2013. The third in the trilogy, THE TAPESTRY, was published by Touchstone in 2015. The books have also been published by Orion in the UK and seven other countries.

On December 3, 2018, THE BLUE, her fourth novel, will be published in the United States and the United Kingdom. A novel of suspense set in the rivalrous art and porcelain worlds of 18th century Europe, it features a young female artist turned spy. 

Nancy lives in New York City with her husband and two children.

For this novel, Nancy drew on her own Huguenot background. In 1661, Nancy’s ancestor, Pierre Billiou, emigrated from France to what was then New Amsterdam when he and his family sailed on the St. Jean de Baptiste to escape persecution for their Protestant beliefs. Pierre built the first stone house on Staten Island and is considered the borough’s founder. His little white house is on the national register of historic homes and is still standing to this day.

Book Tours

Athena’s Choice *•✿❀

Gwendalyn’s Books

Book Review

Name: Athena’s Choice

Author: Adam Boostrom

Genre: YA Sci-fi/ Dystopian Fiction

Pages:274

Publisher: Indie 2019

Athena Vosh lives just like any other teenager from the year 2099. She watches reality shows with her friends, eats well, and occasionally wonders to herself: what would life be like if men were still alive?

It has been almost 50 years since an experimental virus accidentally killed all the men on earth. However, a controversial project is currently underway to bring men back. There’s just one catch. The project has been sabotaged.

So begins the award-winning novel, Athena’s Choice. When the police of 2099 are tasked with finding the saboteur, they receive a mysterious command to investigate the otherwise innocuous Athena Vosh. After it becomes clear that the young girl might know more than she lets on, Athena is brought in to participate in the official investigation. Simultaneously, the girl begins to experience a series of cryptic dreams featuring a ruined library and an old book containing the saboteur’s true identity. As the police close in on their prize, Athena finds herself on a journey of her own. Her clue-filled dreams and incorruptible spirit bring her face-to-face with a pair of forgotten truths about happiness and gender. The world waits to see if men will return as Athena fights a separate battle, culminating in the choice that will define her and others’ lives forever.

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.

“Every act of learning is an act of destruction”

An intriguing storyline that unfolds meticulously with every captivating page you turn. Athena’s Choice by Adam Boostrom, is a YA Sci-fi/ Dystopian Fiction, is a futuristic world. Politically charged with cultural divisional conflict,

A gripping, captivating, thought-provoking, spot on dystopian fiction, that I was immediately drawn into and devoured quickly. The story was so captivating and entertaining and absolutely un-put-down-able!!!! 

The book pitches the year 2099 as a near utopia futuristic world, aside from a rising suicide rate. which could imply that most women are saints but for the evil to which men drive them. However the author has the Third Core say that

“Some women will be more dangerous than the average Man.”

If you are an adept reader you will see that is not a male bashing book at all. This book touches on something on a larger scale.

The question really is what probability of danger should be enough to eradicate a whole group of people. It is so easy to believe that if there is a system that said a group of people are dangerous, get rid of them to create safety for others..

This book will leave you with many questions that really makes you think

As a reader what would you define as “evil”?

What kind of measurements would you use to determine these results?

Book Tours

Book Review

Gwendalyn’s Books

★•.‿¸.•*´´*•.¸ Happy New Year ¸.•*´´*•.¸‿.•★

#Qotd :: Have You Made Some Bookish Resolutions?

A:: I Am Going To Be More Organized On My Blog And IG

A Stroke of Malice

(Lady Darby Mystery #8)

by Anna Lee Huber

@annaleehuber

Paperback, 384 pages

Expected publication: April 7th 2020 by Berkley

Lady Kiera Darby and her husband Sebastian Gage are looking forward to relaxing with new friends at an exciting yearly soiree, but they soon learn that murder never takes a holiday in the latest riveting installment in this national bestselling series.

Scotland 1832. After enjoying a delightful holiday with her family, Lady Kiera Darby is looking forward to finishing her new friend, the Duchess of Bowmont’s portrait, as well as attending the duchess’ annual Twelfth Night party. Though she normally avoids such fashionable events, Kiera trusts the attention will not be focused on her, but rather her notorious hostess and her family. But upon their arrival at the opulent Scottish estate, Kiera and her husband and fellow investigative partner, Sebastian Gage, swiftly deduce that all is not merry in the duke’s household. The family appears to be under a great strain, and someone seems determined to cause mayhem among the guests with a series of forged notes.

However, matters swiftly turn from irksome to downright deadly when the merrymakers stumble upon a decomposing body in the castle’s crypt. This corpse is certainly no laughing matter, especially when it is identified as the duchess’ son-in-law, the Earl of Helmsdale, who had purportedly traveled to Paris more than a month earlier. It is evident the man met with foul play, and Kiera and Gage step in to investigate, at the duchess’ insistence. Kiera and Gage must swiftly reexamine the facts, for a ruthless murderer walks among them and may well be a member of the duchess’ own family. Kiera soon discovers just how deep the killer is willing to dig to keep their secrets from ever seeing the light of day.

#AStrokeofMalice LadyDarby @berkleypub #mystery #histfic #twelfthnight #partylikeits1832 #romance  #KieraGage

Make Sure You Pre Order This Book

• AmazonStores ▾Libraries

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 Stroke of Malice is the latest in the long running Lady Darby series and as such, I would recommend reading the previous books in the series to get the most enjoyment out of this one; the mystery works as a stand alone, but many of the characters have appeared in previous books, along with their backstory.

Following the events of the previous book, Kiera, Lady Darby, and her husband Sebastian Gage have agreed to attend a house party hosted by the Duke and Duchess of Bowmont for 12th Night. Kiera has been busy working on a painting of the Duchess and will continue to work on it while visiting their remote castle in Scotland.

Along with Kiera and Gage, Kiera’s sister Alana, brother-in-law, and brother are also in attendance. The duke and duchess are both to have scandalous reputations.

It’s even common knowledge that the duchess’s younger children are not the duke’s even though he has acknowledged them as such.

During a ball to celebrate the season, Lord Edward takes some of the guests, including Kiera and Gage, on a ghost tour of the castle. While visiting catacombs under the castle where a friar is said to haunt, the group is stunned to come across a recently deceased man. Unable to confirm the deceased’s identity, due to the deterioration of the body, but suspecting it could be someone closely related to the family, Kiera and Gage agree to on the investigation.

The investigation is far from easy when it quickly becomes obvious that the duchess and her family have many secrets that they seeming willing to do anything to keep, but does that include murder?Kiera is six months pregnant, headstrong and determined to not only confirm the identity of the victim but to also figure out who did it.

This captivating novel is lively with its twists and turns, that makes this engaging mystery one will keep you be guessing all the way through to the final reveal.I enjoy character development of both Gage and Kiera as their relationship continued to evolve into a solid marriage.

There are some interesting plot developments, and intriguing sub characters that I’m excited to see playout in the authors future books. This delightful series is one that keeps getting better with the addition of new installments

Have a wonderful day!

Book Tours

MUCH ADO ABOUT A WIDOW

Gwendalyn’s Books

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Jenna Jaxon will be awarding a $25 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour. Follow the tour and comment; the more You comment, the better their chances of winning!

Giveaway link below:

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Lady Georgina Kirkpatrick defied her family, jilted her fiancé, and married the man she loved. But when her husband died at Waterloo, she was delivered right back into her father’s power . . .

Victory is sweet—but England’s triumph was Georgie’s rout. Now that she’s widowed, the loathsome marriage her father first arranged has simply been renegotiated. With neither money nor rights, and nowhere to flee, all she can do is cherish her last weeks of freedom. . . . Until a band of ruffians overtake her carriage and kidnap her. When she escapes in seaside Brighton and encounters her brother’s rather wild friend, Lord St. Just—whom she suspects aspires to be a pirate—she’s prepared to entertain more of his adventurous suggestions than usual . . .

St. Just knows his mind and his duty, and he loves a challenge. Helping a fair lady make her farewells to hoodlums suits his talents well. Within the hour he has Georgie, her lady’s maid—and her little dog too—sailing for his castle in Cornwall. Meanwhile, the lady’s entire family, her kidnappers, and her scheming intended are in pursuit. But as he and the indomitable Georgie grow closer, he begins to suspect that together they will prove a match for them all . . .

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

Much Ado About a Widow by Jenna Jaxon is the fourth installment book in the Widow’s Club series. A lovely historical romance series, that can be read as a stand alone, or enjoyed in order within the series..

Our heroine, Lady Georgina Kirkpatrick, A sassy redhead with stunning green eyes, has recently become a widow. After losing her beloved husband, Issac she has evidently agreed to the marriage her father has arranged for her in order to get back into his good graces after he he disowned her for running off to marry for love.

Georgina and her maid are kidnapped by villains, who are working with her diabolical betrothed as they journey to her fathers estate. In a series of events they escape and seeking help, she runs into her brother’s good friend Robin Kerr, Marquess of St. Just. This lively book takes off from here with twist escapes that made for a non stop read. A lively tale, that is a captivating romantic comedy adventure, that shows the reader just how vulnerable a woman was in this particular time in history. The romance and character development spot on, along with engaging dialogue keeps the reader invested all the way through.

Jenna Jaxon’s Much Ado About a Widow, is full of kidnappings, hooligans, escapes, is a perfect regency romance. I am hoping that the author continues this creative book series, as there is still an unmarried widow.

Read an Excerpt

A key grated in the lock. Lulu growled and stalked toward it, the fur on her back rising straight up.

“Not yet, Lulu.” Georgie gathered the leash. “Don’t bite him quite yet.”

Her dog stopped advancing on the door; however, the growling did not abate. Better be safe. She gathered Lulu into her arms. “I’ll give you the signal.”

The cabin door swung open, revealing Lord St. Just, an impossibly broad grin on his face. “Wait until I tell you what my men and I just did.”

“You don’t have to tell me, my lord. I already know.” Georgie glared at him and held Lulu tighter. The little animal was shaking, and Georgie was sure if she loosened her grip Lulu would launch herself at the unwary marquess. Serve him right too.

“You do?” He frowned and cocked his head, which made him look like a puzzled puppy. Lulu looked just like that whenever she was unhappy. But what did he have to be unhappy about? He was the one who had kidnapped her.

“You have set sail, my lord, with me and my maid aboard against our wills. Many sensible people call that kidnapping.” She’d always known this man was a pirate. In fact, she’d told her brother so. She handed Lulu to Clara before the dog could leap out of her arms and tear at his lordship’s throat. If anyone was going to attack the marquess, it would be Georgie herself. Plant him a facer and see how he liked being set upon.

“Oh.” The impossible man was all smiles again. “Yes, we had to put out or miss the evening tide.” His grin had returned, showing many straight, white teeth. “But we did manage to steal your trunks, Lady Georgina. If you will consider yourself abducted again, at least rejoice in the fact that you will have clean linen throughout the ordeal.”

About the Author:

Jenna Jaxon is a multi-published author of historical and contemporary romance. She has been reading and writing historical romance since she was a teenager. A romantic herself, she has always loved a dark side to the genre, a twist, suspense, a surprise. She tries to incorporate all of these elements into her own stories. She lives in Virginia with her family and a small menagerie of pets. When not reading or writing, she indulges her passion for the theatre, working with local theatres as a director. She often feels she is directing her characters on their own private stage.

She has equated her writing to an addiction to chocolate because once she starts she just can’t stop.

Links:

Blog: http://www.jennajaxon.wordpress.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jenna.jaxon
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jenna_Jaxon
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/passionistimeless

Book Links:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Much-about-Widow-Widows-Club-ebook/dp/B07Q6VM63Q/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0

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Book Tours

Book Tour ESTRANGED:The Changeling King

Gwendalyn’s Books

Series: Estranged (Book 2)
Paperback: 256 pages
Publisher: HarperCollins (October 1, 2019)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 006265389X
ISBN-13: 978-0062653895


Praise for ESTRANGED Series

“A splendid tale of faery magic and adventurous siblings, all told in gorgeously rendered watercolor panels: this is exactly my kind of thing.” —Ben Hatke, author and illustrator of the New York Times bestselling Zita the Spacegirl trilogy

“It’s got dragons. It’s got drama. It’s got depth. And it’s got me impatiently awaiting Ethan M. Aldridge’s next eye-popping adventure.” —Tim Federle, award-winning author of Better Nate Than Ever and Five, Six, Seven, Nate!

“A compelling story about finding identity in a world where magic dangers lurk just around the corner. I loved Estranged!” —Molly Ostertag, author-illustrator of The Witch Boy

“As richly imagined in the full-color illustrations, the worldbuilding is both accessible and as familiar as those genre stalwarts… this should easily resonate with preteen and teen fans of both Holly Black and Neil Gaiman.” —Kirkus Reviews

“Worthy of inclusion in any fantasy collection.” —School Library Journal

“[F]un, daring, and dark…with themes and art that fall into the realm of Neil Gaiman, Michael Ende, and Jim Henson. Coupled with the beautifully toned watercolor art, the interdependence of and tension between the two protagonists makes this book stand out.” —Publishers Weekly

“The deliciously captivating start to this adventure series will leave readers hungry for more.” —Booklist

Enter a world of faerie magic and epic adventure in this spellbinding sequel to Estranged—a rich fantasy graphic novel perfect for fans of Amulet.

After years of pretending to be human, the changeling Edmund Carter has assumed his rightful role as Cinder, king of the World Below. But not everyone at the royal palace is happy about his return.

Meanwhile, Ed is adjusting to human life in the World Above. His birth family treats him with a kindness he never knew growing up in the Fay court, but Ed misses the sense of purpose he had as a knight.

When a mysterious new threat emerges in the World Below, Cinder must call on Ed and their older sister, Alexis, for help. But nothing can prepare them for the family secret that awaits at the end of their perilous quest.

With over two hundred pages of gorgeous watercolor paintings, The Changeling King invites readers on an epic journey through a magical world—one they will not soon forget.

You can purchase The Changeling King at the following Retailers:
        

Thank you to Wunderkind PR and HarperCollins for providing a finished copy for review.

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

Estranged The Changeling King by Ethan M. Aldridge is the next installment to Edmund and Cinder’s life changed when they went back to their own worlds.

A perfect sequel to the first graphic novel in the series, The Changeling King is a beautifully rich fantasy world, that the very talented Ethan Aldridge has created.

Ethan M. Aldridge, gorgeous artwork and vibrant characters, the tale comes to life with creative impressive imagery.

The story picks up right away where the first left off, plunging the reader head first into fast action and suspense. King Cinder is still trying to adjust to his royal obligations as king of the Fae in the World Below. All the while keeping up is obligations, he starts to take note that the magic is getting weaker and Cinder must find a way to keep magic from disappearing all together.

Ed is trying to navigate the World Above. He’s the epitome of the perfect son and brother. However, his parents and sister Alexis are worried about him since he’s struggling to find his purpose in the human world. In a series of events, a royal letter from Cinder requesting the help of Alexis and Ed.

I found The Changeling King to be so much more emotionally charged than Estranged The internal struggle is more defined, with both boys trying to find answers that they both are desperately seek. Ed battles with his purpose and why the Fae Queen chose him. Cinder struggles with being abandoned and is frightened of losing the one family he’s ever known to Ed. I had several heart string tugging moments in this sequel.

The character development and world building is incredible, and gives the reader even greater insight. The the side characters three dimensional, and should be noted

Estranged,The Changeling King. A captivating coming of age book. Within a graphic novel , that focus on self discovery along with the importance of friends and family.

Stellar artwork along great diversity with LGBTQ representation. I definitely recommend it to young adult readers from grade 6+ and up .

Photo Content from Ethan M. Aldridge 

Ethan M. Aldridge is a bestselling author and illustrator. He is the creator of the fantasy graphic novel ESTRANGED (a Junior Library Guild selection, Indie Bestseller, and YALSA Great Graphic Novel For Teens), and it’s follow up THE CHANGELING KING (coming fall 2019).

Ethan was raised in a small town in Utah. Growing up, Ethan’s favorite things to draw were monsters and whatever dinosaur he liked that week. He now does more or less the same thing for a living. Ethan lives in New York City with his husband, Matthew, and their dog, Kitsune.

Ethan has had the pleasure to create work for HarperCollins Publishers, Penguin Random House, and EA Games.


        

WEEK ONE – REVIEWS

DECEMBER 9th MONDAY Insane About Books REVIEW
DECEMBER 10th TUESDAY Nay’s Pink Bookshelf REVIEW
DECEMBER 11th WEDNESDAY JeanBookNerd PODCAST
DECEMBER 11th WEDNESDAY Wonder Struck REVIEW
DECEMBER 12th THURSDAY Crossroad Reviews REVIEW
DECEMBER 13th FRIDAY Two Points of Interest REVIEW 

WEEK TWO – REVIEW & CREATIVE INSTAGRAM PICTURE
DECEMBER 16th MONDAY Casia’s Corner REVIEW
DECEMBER 17th TUESDAY BookHounds YA REVIEW
DECEMBER 18th WEDNESDAY Gwendalyn’s Books REVIEW
DECEMBER 19th THURSDAY Life Within The Pages REVIEW
DECEMBER 20th FRIDAY For The Love of Fictional Worlds REVIEW

*JBN is not responsible for Lost or Damaged Books in your Nerdy Mail Box*

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Book Tours

Blog Tour The Spirt Of Fire

Gwendalyn’s Books

Hello Bookish Friends,

Today I’m really excited to be taking part in the Book Tour of, The Spirt Of Fire.

This Book is the highly anticipated second installment in The Orphan’s Of Tolosa Series
by Susan Dunlap which is being hosted by HFBT

The Spirit of Fire by Susanne Dunlap

Publication Date: December 6, 2019
Series: Orphans of Tolosa, Book two
Genre: Historical Fiction

Listen to the Wind has been rated 10 out of 10 and was a quarterfinalist in the BookLife Prize, and won a Gold badge from the International Review of Books.

The eagerly anticipated sequel to Listen to the Wind, complex, absorbing, and dramatic start to a planned series. Kirkus Reviews

Azemar now a knight and Baron of Montpezat has rescued his childhood friend, Azalais, from the Castel de Belascon, where she was forced to disguise as a noblewoman and become the wife of the baron. But the captivating trobairitz Jordane de la Moux dAniort and her damozel Johana have escaped with them, putting them all in grave peril. Will Jordane conflicting goal of reuniting with the rebel Raimon de Berenger thwart Azemar and Azalaisâ quest to solve the mystery of their origins, which they believe lies within the heretic fortress of Montsegur? When a cryptic note leads them to the Templar stronghold at Mas Deu, Azemar undergoes brutal trials, and discovers that his ultimate purpose could lead him to betray the very people he wants to protect. And their altered route leads Azalais into the path of her old enemy, the Dominican monk, Fraire Martin. Full of surprising twists and turns, dangerous adventures, and true love, The Spirit of Fire continues the Orphans of Tolosa Trilogy.

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | IndieBound

Praise for Listen to the Wind

Listen to the Wind has been rated 10 out of 10 in the BookLife Prize and won a Gold badge from the International Review of Books.

Dunlap breathes life into the distant 13th-century setting… Poetry and music are as essential to the plot as warfare, with engaging glimpses of trobairitz (female troubadours). . . . A complex, absorbing, and dramatic start to a planned series.- Kirkus Reviews

Listen to the Wind is in its own league. Completely imaginative, mature and playful all at once, this book doesn’t book compete with any other novel for its spot on the bookshelf, as it will outshine many and sit comfortably among the classics.” – The BookLife Prize

Susanne Dunlap… is both a superb storyteller and a rich historian of the period. Its customs and language, castles, troubadours, mountains, thick forests, villages, monasteries, and vineyards come vividly to life as Azemar and Azala find themselves drawn into a path that will shape history.- Stephanie Cowell, author of Claude and Camille: a novel of Monet

In its mix of page-turning thriller with well researched historical novel, it draws comparison to the finely crafted work of Kate Mosse and Ariana Franklin.- Nancy Bilyeau, author of The Blue and the Joanna Stafford trilogy

Susanne Dunlap sweeping saga captivates readers imaginations from the first page, plunging them back into the Languedoc region of France in the 13th Century. Her impeccable research allows her three spirited protagonists to live, love, fight and breathe life into the dangerous period of rebellion and inquisition, when the Cathars struggled to hold on to their culture and old faith against the power of the Pope. A compelling read for lovers of adventure and romance. -Anne Easter Smith, author of
A Rose for the Crown, Daughter of York, Royal Mistress

The fortitude and ingenuity of her characters helps them adapt to all manner of circumstances, and the result is an engaging tale of escape, secrets, and mental toughness. For those looking for a smartly written captivating read, I highly recommend this first book in the Orphans of Tolosa trilogy.- Amy Hawes, Book Club Babble

This is an intriguing and complex story with lots of secrets and lies interwoven within the characters personal stories, it is charming, exciting and mesmerising.- Chicks, Rogues, and Scandals

I love how vibrant the world is made, how danger really struck fear into my heart, how the pain felt real, everything is beautifully written and I thoroughly enjoyed this.- Clarissa Reads It All

Gwendalyn’s Books

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

5′ Star Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Spirit of Fire, by Susanne Dunlap, is the highly anticipated next book in the Orphans of Tolosa Trilogy.

Susanne Dunlap, expertise in blending historical elements with captivating fiction is impeccable, Dunlap writing flows seamlessly transporting you to the harrowing time of thirteenth century period in a region that will not become part of France until much later in the sixteenth century, which is called Occitanie. This riveting novel covering the years 1243-1244, pulling the reader into the horrific dark period in French History. The violence that the Cathars suffered as heretics, by the crusades carried out by the inquisition of Catholic Church is depicted within the pages of this compelling historical fiction.

The journey continues with The Spirt Of Fire, Azemar discovers after following the death of his patron Baron de Montpezat, that he has been named his heir.Azemar and Azalaïs leave behind Jordane and Johana, to their own fates. They travel swiftly and undetected, following cryptic message to retrieve a book and armed stone that was stolen from Azemar from the house that some of his belongs were stored.

Upon reaching the temple of monks at M’as Deu. Azemar all is not what it seems and Azemar struggles and survies brutal training for a treacherous purpose that would lead him to destroy those of what he longs to find and preserve.The lives of Jordane and Johana, continuous intertwines with that of Azemar and Azalaïs, creating unforgettable moving and in the end a heart wrenching novel.

Susanne Dunlap delivers an atmospheric, adventurous, engaging, and well-written read here with compelling and illustrious characters, it is a stunning storyline that unfolds perfectly. Richly detailed, the book is gripping and captures the struggles of the Cathars, an heretical Christian sect that flourished in Western Europe, who called themselves the true Christians. The Catholic Frenchs agenda was to eradicate them completely the is set the year before the final stand of the heretics against the French at Montsegur.

An enjoyable historical fiction that is brisk and unique, immensely entertaining, with well fleshed out characters. The authors ability to deftly create an immersive, and gripping tale, that takes the reader on an epic adventure. Dunlap is a gifted author, her narration is superb and brilliant. The plot line is complex and it grabbed me and I was completely immersed. Beautifully written, rich in historic detail, perfect for anyone who enjoys reading historical fiction.

About the Author

Susanne Dunlap is the author of six works of historical fiction. Two are for adults (Emilie’s Voice and Liszt’s Kiss, both published by Touchstone books of Simon & Schuster). Four are for young adults (The Musician’s Daughter, Anastasia’s Secret, In the Shadow of the Lamp, and The Academie, published by Bloomsbury). A graduate of Smith College with a PhD in Music History from Yale University, Susanne grew up in Buffalo, New York and has lived in London, Brooklyn and Northampton, MA. She now lives in Northampton with her long-time partner, Charles, has two grown daughters, three granddaughters, a grandson, a stepson and a stepdaughter, four step-grandsons and one step-granddaughter—that’s a total of four children and nine grandchildren!

In her spare time she cycles in the beautiful Pioneer Valley.

For more information, please visit The Orphans of Tolosa website. You can follow author Susanne Dunlap on Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, Instagram, Pinterest, and BookBub.

Blog Tour Schedule

Friday, December 6
Review at Nursebookie
Excerpt at The Book Junkie Reads

Monday, December 9
Feature at The Lit Bitch
Review at Gwendalyn’s Books
Review at Mama’s Reading Corner

Tuesday, December 10
Feature at What Is That Book About

Wednesday, December 11
Interview at The Writing Desk

Thursday, December 12
Review at Books and Zebras
Review at Chicks, Rogues and Scandals

Friday, December 13
Feature at Just One More Chapter

Sunday, December 15
Review at my.boys.mom

Monday, December 16
Interview at Jathan & Heather

Wednesday, December 18
Review at Passages to the Past

Thursday, December 19
Excerpt at Historical Fiction with Spirit

Friday, December 20
Review at Coffee and Ink

Giveaway

During the Blog Tour, we are giving away a set of Listen to the Wind & The Spirit of Fire by Susanne Dunlap! To enter, please use the Gleam form below.

Giveaway Rules

Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm EST on December 20th. 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.

Listen to the Wind
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